Damage to INS Godavari
While carrying out anti-piracy patrol, Indian Naval Warship INS Godavari on coming close to MV Suez, which had earlier been hijacked, tried to establish communication for ascertaining the safety of the crew. In the meantime, Pakistani Warship PNS Babur closed INS Godavari at high speed from astern and carried out a manoeuvre in gross violation of the relevant regulations on navigational safety and in the process touched Godavari, thereby marginally damaging the extended safety net on the helicopter deck.
India lodged a protest with the Government of Pakistan through the High Commission of Pakistan, New Delhi against the violation of relevant regulations on navigational safety by PNS Babur.
This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Jose K. Mani in Lok Sabha today.
PK/NN