Panaji, March 28 (IANS): The defence ministry has asked the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to provide all assistance to a former navy officer arrested in Balochistan, Pakistan, on charges of alleged spying.

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said here on Monday that the defence ministry has asked that the former naval officer, identified as Kulbushan Yadav, be given "all assistance required".

Asked about the arrest, Parrikar said: "He is an ex-navy officer, other than paying him OROP (One Rank One Pension) pension, I cannot do anything."

"We have indicated to the MEA that the ex-officer must be given all assistance required," the defence minister said. 

"Sushma-ji (External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj) has been working vigorously to help Indians abroad who are in problem. In this case, since the other country has made allegations, it may take a longer time," he said.

Yadav was arrested in Pakistan last week on charges of spying. The Indian government has denied any links with him.