Pak clueless on what to say, or not, when it comes to Kasab

Islamabad, Feb.18 (ANI): There seems to be a lack of communication between Pakistani authorities as demands and denials for the handing over Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone surviving Mumbai terrorist, from India were made almost simultaneously during the last 24 hours.

Contradictory statements first came-in when the Deputy Attorney General of Pakistan, Sardar Muhammad Ghazi, claimed that Islamabad has formally requested the Indian Government to hand over Kasab so that it could initiate trials of the suspects it has captured.

"If India did not hand over Kasab, who is prime suspect in the case, it would be difficult for the government of Pakistan to proceed with the trial of the other suspects that it had detained in connection with the attacks," The Daily Times quoted Ghazi, as saying.

Minutes after Ghazi's claims, Pakistan's Information and Broadcasting Minister Sherry Rehman denied any such demand being made by Islamabad.

A Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesman also denied claims that Pakistan had made a request for Kasab's repatriation.

"Pakistan has made no formal request to India as yet," the spokesperson said.

Later, when Ghazi was asked about the government's stand over the issue he said: "I will not talk. I am not authorised to speak to you." (ANI)