India expresses concerns over casualties of Tamil civilians in Sri Lanka




(October 06, New Delhi, Sri Lanka Guardian) Indian National Security Adviser M K Naraynan summoned Sri Lankan Deputy High Commissioner here on Monday and expressed “grave concern” at the growing casualties of Tamil civilians and attacks on Indian fishermen.

He pointed out to Sri Lankan diplomat that the escalation of hostilities in the North and the resultant fall out was leading to a great deal of concern in India. As a result of military action, there was growing casualties of unarmed Tamil civilians, a press release issued by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said.

“It was pointed out that there was need for the Sri Lankan Government to act with greater restraint and address the growing feeling of insecurity among the minority community. To stem the deteriorating humanitarian situation, the need to revive the political process was highlighted. It was essential that vital supplies to the affected population were not disrupted in any manner,” the release said.

India also expressed serious concern at the continuing attacks on Indian fishermen, including the recent incident on September 27-28. He told Deputy High Commissioner that this was not in keeping with the spirit of the understanding reached between India and Sri Lanka and recently reiterated in meetings held at the highest levels.

India also asked Sri Lanka that its navy should cease such attacks and not lose sight of the humanitarian and livelihood dimensions of this issue.
- Sri Lanka Guardian