The Prime Minister has described the media report of army troops being moved to Delhi as alarmist, saying it should not be taken at face value. Talking to media persons on the sidelines of the Padma Awards function at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi yesterday, Dr. Manmohan Singh said that the Defence Ministery has already clarified the position on the issue in the same news paper which published the report. He asserted that the Army Chief's office is an exalted office and nothing should be done to lower its dignity and respect in the public.

Talking to newsmen on the sidelines of a function in Vishakhapattnam, the Defence Minister, Mr. A.K. Antony described the report as rubbish and warned anyone doubting the patriotism, honesty and integrity of the armed forces. Calling the media reports absolutely baseless, he said that the movement of the forces on the said day was a routine and natural activity. Mr Antony asserted that he was proud of Indian forces and they will not do anything to undermine patriotism.

Mr Antony emphatically reiterated that there is no communication gap between Defence Ministry and armed forces . The Defence Minister said, he enjoyed the cordial and faithful relationship with the Service Chiefs.