With the break down of the peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE on the initiatives of Norway, there prevails a war situation in Sri Lanka.

As a result, there is tension in the North-East inhabited largely by the Tamils. In order to save their lives, the Tamils flee from Sri Lankan army controlled areas and arrive in Tamil Nadu seeking refuge. This tragedy has been continuing since January this year. The number of Sri Lankan refugees in Mandapam camp has exceeded 10,000.

Every time the ethnic crisis intensifies in Sri Lanka, there is a response in Tamil Nadu. Several political parties including MDMK have staged protests against the Sri Lankan government and to ensure the safety of Sri Lankan Tamils.

Vaiko has requested the Indian premier not to extend any military assistance to Sri Lanka and has insisted that the central government come forward to ensure the security of Sri Lankan Tamils. The Indian Prime Minister has given an assurance that Indian Government will not give any such help to Sri Lanka.

The Indian government must not take up the position that it is adequate, if it accommodates Sri Lankan refugees. The Central Government must go further and make a contribution for a political settlement of the Sri Lankan ethnic problem.

The assistance rendered by the International Community as relief for Tsunami victims did not reach the Sri Lankan Tamil victims. Therefore, the Indian Government must ensure that the essential commodities sent to the affected Tamils in the North-East are distributed through International Organizations such as International Red Cross Society.

Tamil Nadu government has increased its allocation of funds for the Sri Lankan refugees. We hope the central government will also do likewise.

We reiterate that to solve the issue of Sri Lankan refugees in India is to strive for a Ceasefire between the warring parties and create a suitable atmosphere in Sri Lanka for talks.

An English translation of the editorial in Thinamani, a Tamil daily, based in Tamil Nadu

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