Date:04/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/07/04/stories/2006070407231000.htm

National

Indian democratic model can solve crisis: TULF leader

Special Correspondent

International communities would welcome plan if India presented it

LTTE blamed for increased influx of Sri Lankan refugees into Tamil Nadu

CHENNAI: Tamil United Liberation Front president V. Anandasangaree has suggested the Indian model of democracy as a solution to the ethnic problem in Sri Lanka. As India and Sri Lanka have many things in common, a Constitution like the one in India would help solve the "vexatious issue." The model would satisfy even those opposed to both the federal and unitary type of Constitution, Mr. Anandasangaree told newsmen here on Monday.

He claimed there was widespread acceptance for this proposal among the Tamils, the Sinhalese and also senior Buddhist monks. If at all there was any opposition, it would be only from the LTTE who would not accept any solution. But if India presented it then it would be welcomed by international communities and the LTTE and other parties would have to accept it.

Welcoming an Indian delegation to Sri Lanka, he wanted the team to visit LTTE-controlled areas to know the ground realities. He described them as iron curtains behind which no one had access. It was unfortunate that Tamils were living under subjugation in their own land. On the other hand Tamils in Sinhalese-dominated areas were enjoying all democratic rights.

Mr. Anandasangaree regretted that not a day passed without `LTTE-instigated' violence in the island.