With both Dravidian parties DMK and AIADMK demanding the Government to strongly back the US resolution in UNHRC condemning the killing Sri lankan Tamils and institution of an independent inquiry, Minister for External Affairs Salman Khurshid on Friday said that India is still formulating its stand but emphasised the need for an “impartial, independent and transparent” probe into allegations of atrocities on Tamils.
In a statement made in the Rajya Sabha, Khurshid said the process for a decision on the resolution is underway and India has already started engaging with other countries to finalise its view on the resolution.
“Since anxiety has been expressed, the process for resolution is now underway. We are engaging with all member countries. We are absolutely committed. Whatever steps are necessary, will be taken by the Government,” he said adding “There must be ccountability and there must be a fair participation. A life of dignity must be ensured (to Tamils in Sri lanka). We are in pursuit of this objective.” He said that investigation must be “impartial, independent and transparent” and India remained committed to this cause.
Earlier, DMK leader Tiruchi Siva said in the Upper House that Tamil Nadu is burning as students are on agitation and the centre should support the UN resolution condemning war crimes and demanding institution of an independent inquiry. He asked the government to spell out the stand it will take in Geneva. Supporting the demand AIADMK leader V Maitreyan said students will intensify their agitation after March 22 and the government should strengthen the US resolution by condemning the genocide.
In the lok Sabha, DMK leader TR Baalu charged that voice of Tamils is not heard or considered properly by the Centre and demanded justice to Sri lankan Tamils. He urged the government to move a separate resolution in UNHRC against the human rights violations committed by Sri lanka. The demand was supported by AIADMK leader M Thambidurai also demanded a separate resolution on the issue.