R-Day event cancelled in Pakistan

A serious threat perception led to the cancellation of a reception planned to be held in the Pakistani capital by the Indian High Commission to mark the Republic Day, officials said today.

The event, scheduled to be held at a five-star hotel, was cancelled following reports last week of a serious threat perception, officials of the High Commission told PTI.

The High Commission had issued a statement last week saying that the reception had been cancelled due to "unavoidable circumstances", but did not give details.

Diplomatic sources said it had to be cancelled because no chances could be taken following reported security threats, in view of the heightened tension in the wake of the Mumbai terror attacks.