Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 7 (IANS): Former defence minister AK Antony today said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should break his silence on the terror attack at the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot in Punjab.

"There was a serious lapse and there were enough hints... but no action has been taken. Hence, Modi should tell the country as to what happened," Mr Antony said at a public meeting in Thiruvananthapuram.

It was the first public appearance of the senior Congress leader after his visit to the US for a medical check-up.

"The attack occurred after Modi visited Pakistan. The country wants to know how this attack occurred. It is a serious matter. The prime minister cannot remain silent anymore and has to speak up and tell the country what happened," Mr Antony added.

Seven security personnel were killed in the attack early Saturday morning on the Pathankot Air Force Station by six terrorists who crossed over from Pakistan. All the six terrorists were killed by security forces later.