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Respect human rights, PM asks Sri Lanka

NEW DELHI: Even as Tamil Nadu political parties set a two-week deadline for the Centre to protect Sri Lankan Tamils from the Sri Lankan army, or face resignation by all MPs from the State, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has expressed “serious concern” over the developments in the island nation and urged Colombo to find a negotiated settlement rather than look for a “military victory.”

Sri Lanka must respect the human rights of ethnic Tamils, Dr. Singh told journalists here on Wednesday. India already conveyed its views to Colombo, including at the time National Security Adviser M.K. Narayanan summoned Sri Lankan Deputy High Commissioner G.G.A.D. Palithagenegoda here last week, he said.

Dr. Singh said the Centre was concerned at the escalating hostilities, losses suffered by civilians and increasing number of displaced persons. “We always believe that the situation in Sri Lanka does not call for military victory. It calls for a negotiated, political settlement which respects the unity and integrity of Sri Lanka and at the same time respects the essential human rights of minorities, particularly Tamil minorities.”

The Prime Minister also expressed concern over harassment and killing of Indian fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy personnel. “We have made representations to the Sri Lankan government,” he said and referred to Mr. Narayanan summoning Mr. Palithagenegoda last week to “let [him] know of India’s intentions.”

According to authoritative sources, the Centre is not averse to using diplomatic devices to convey India’s concerns anew.