As there is already an undeclared war in Sri Lanka, the visit of President Rajapakse to India has created a political turmoil in Tamil Nadu. There had been different forms of demonstrations in India against Rajapakse’s visit.

One party staged a demonstration and a hunger strike in New Delhi. Another party had organized hoisting of black flags, demonstrations and a hunger strike in Tamil Nadu. The Mayors of Tamil Nadu have boycotted the conference in which the Rajapakse participated.

In the background of a determination by the LTTE that Tamil Eelam is the only solution, it must be at the back of Lankan President Rajapakse’s mind to expect some form of help from the Indian government. Following the danger of the war once again in Sri Lanka, the number of Lankan refugees can increase substantially.

The Tamils are unable to get even essential food provisions. These Tamils from areas including Jaffna suffer from diseases such as Chikungunya. Even the land route to Jaffna is closed by the government and Jaffna is cut off from the rest of the Island.

Although there is justification in the Central Government’s reluctance to interfere in the internal affairs of Sri Lanka, India can take two decisions and implement them. One is that India can refuse to extend any military help to Sri Lanka while the war is on. The other right step is to is to help the innocent starving people directly with food provisions.

It is the responsibility of the Central government to take these steps as a friendly neighbour in the context of a civil war in Sri Lanka in close proximity to our country.

Let us pray for the peace and solace of the Lankan Tamils.

An English translation of the Editorial in Kumudam,a Tamil Nadu weekly Journal

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