Pakistan's border guard force has dismissed reports that Indian minister Jairam Ramesh had an unchecked stroll in Pakistani territory, saying he had gone back across the frontier after being warned by personnel.
A statement issued by the Pakistan Rangers said Ramesh, who inadvertently took three to four steps towards the Pakistani side during a visit with the Border Security Force and Customs officials to the check post at Wagah on January 18, was warned by the Ranger officer on duty at the spot.
"The minister immediately returned, saying sorry," the statement said.
The Rangers dismissed a media report, claiming Ramesh had an unchecked stroll in Pakistani territory, as incorrect.
The statement said Border Security Force authorities had been advised to brief visiting dignitaries about the exact demarcation of the zero line at Wagah.
Earlier, Pakistan had sought a report from its officials on Ramesh's 'stroll' into Pakistani territory at the Wagah border in alleged violation of rules and regulations, but the Minister of State for Commerce said he had taken only two steps.
Asked for his comments on the incident, Ramesh had told PTI in New Delhi, "I shook hands with the (Pakistani) rangers and took two steps."
"Everyone was in good mood," he added.