"The global war against terrorism can only be won when it is pursued without double standards and terrorism is eradicated wherever it exists, without being influenced by short term political and other considerations," an External Affairs Ministry spokesman told reporters.

New Delhi's sharp rebuff came following the renewed call by the United States for the resumption of Indo-Pakistan dialogue.

"The combat against international terrorism is ill-served if threats in some cases are met with military means and in others with calls for restraint and dialogue," said the spokesman.

Though the spokesman chose not to name the United States, the reference was obvious.

"The clarity of the commitment of the international community to combat terrorism requires a coherent and principled approach," he stressed.

(Xinhua News Agency March 26, 2003)