NEW DELHI, July 30: Expressing hope that the ongoing peace process would not be disturbed by the spurt in “militant activities” in Kashmir, Indian Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday ruled out any reduction of forces along the Indo-Pakistan border.

“When have I said that there would be reduction of forces? Neither prime minister, nor me and nor home minister have said so..,” he told newsmen in Kolkata.

“Militant attacks have never stopped. But both India and Pakistan should not fall into their trap. They want to derail the peace process,” the minister said. Observing that “we shall have to be extra cautious”, the minister said that it was difficult to stop suicide attacks, according to a news report received here. “If anyone wants to die, can we prevent them,” he asked, adding: “With Aug 15 nearing and parliament session on, terrorists will try to draw attention of the people by launching attacks.” —APP