Date:24/02/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/02/24/stories/2007022415430100.htm

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Sri Lankan issue: Government won't overlook national interest

Special Correspondent

Karunanidhi appeals to Centre to protect Tamils of the island nation

Reference to The Hindu editorial Jayalalithaa's charge denied

CHENNAI: Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi on Friday made it clear that the Tamil Nadu Government would not overlook the national interest and security issues even as it appealed to the Government of India to protect Sri Lankan Tamils.

Replying to a set of questions, he said none should be under the illusion that the State Government would intervene in the Sri Lankan [Tamils] issue neglecting the national interest and defence of the country or ignoring the steps taken by the Centre to safeguard them.

Referring to the editorial in The Hindu on Thursday, "Tamil Nadu and LTTE menace," he said the Government was aware of the difference between the demand voiced by political parties, including the DMK to the Government of India to protect the innocent Tamils of Sri Lanka who had been harassed or massacred by the island's Army and allowing Tamil Nadu to be exploited by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as a supply base. Those who had indulged in such activities had been arrested and brought under surveillance. Boats carrying weapons had been confiscated and the smuggled arms and ammunition destroyed, he said. The State Government also gave instructions to unearth the secret links of Tamil Nadu politicians [with the LTTE] and take stern action without fear or favour as per law against such a network, Mr. Karunanidhi said.

Nobody should resort to actions under the surmise that the appeals made and actions taken by the people and the Government to the Centre seeking steps to restore peace amounted to approval of such activities, he said.