India's nuclear-capable Agni-III missile is seen before its third flight launch system at Wheeler Island
India: Applicant seeks nuclear launch codes through freedom of information law Reuters

An applicant has sought the launch codes for India's nuclear weapons through the Right to Information Act (RTI), the equivalent of Britain's Freedom of Information Act.

The applicant's name has not been revealed by Indian authorities to protect his/her identity.

Vivek Kumar, a senior official with the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) in New Delhi, confirmed receiving an RTI application enquiring about the launch codes.

Kumar, a deputy secretary, wrote: "For this asking, the RTI request is indeed real. Applicant has deposited the statutory fees of Rs 10 [10 pence]".

"I will not be revealing the identity of the applicant. It may be misusing someone's name. Also, I am better than that."

The launch codes for the nuclear weapons stay with the Indian prime minister. The procedures are explained to the premier by the country's national security advisor as and when he or she assumes office.

India has anywhere between 90 and 110 nuclear warheads and adheres to a strict "no first use" policy.

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