India has expressed disappointment at Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf’s demand for evidence in his offer to help the Mumbai blasts probe. It said that it’s time Pakistan took definite action against terrorist outfits operating from its soil.

Sources said India feels that this is an opportune moment for the world to take note of Pakistan’s double standards on terrorism.

Reacting to Musharraf’s demand to provide evidence to show Pakistan’s involvement in the Mumbai blasts, India said it’s a ploy on the part of the Pakistan President. The evidence is in Pakistan itself with terrorists like, Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin and Maulana Masood Azar roaming free in Pakistan. ‘‘If they (Pakistan) really want to convince the people of India that they are willing to work together with India against terrorism then they have to take some action as soon as they can. For example, the self-styled chief of Hizbul Mujahideen Syed Salahuddin, who is freely roaming in Pakistan and POK and has appeared on the same stage as many ministers of the federal government of Pakistan, should be arrested and handed over to India,’’ MEA spokesperson Navtej Sarna said.

‘‘Instead of saying that the Jamaat-ul-Dava outfit is being kept under close watch, the organisation should be banned and its leaders should be arrested. Besides, Dawood Ibrahim, who has been listed by the UN Security Council’s 1267 Committee as an individual associated with Al Qaida, should be arrested and deported to India,’’ the spokesman added.

Reacting to the President’s reference to the blame game, top officials said it was Pakistan who often blames India for the troubles in Baluchisthan.

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