The DMK appears to have softened its stand on the BJP government at the Centre over the Sri Lankan Tamils issue, at least for now. Reposing faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi to find a solution to the problem, DMK president M. Karunanidhi said a united struggle would secure the Tamils true freedom and self-respect.
‘Modi can’
Addressing a demonstration-cum-rally under the auspices of the Tamil Eelam Supporters Organisation (TESO) here on Wednesday, he said everyone felt that India had a Prime Minister capable of achieving what his predecessors could not.
“We also have the same faith, and the team of Sri Lankan Tamil MPs representing the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) were also optimistic after their meeting with Mr. Modi. We hope the government’s attitude towards the issue would reflect the hope,” said Mr. Karunanidhi who is also the TESO chairperson.
He said the Tamil groups and the political parties coming together to fight for the Tamil cause would help the Sri Lankan Tamils win true freedom and self-respect.
Vociferous efforts
Stressing the need for organising a continuous struggle, he said only such vociferous efforts would make Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa sit up and take notice of the Tamils’ plight.
“We are following non-violent methods. But Mr. Rajapaksa is adopting violent methods. If we cannot succeed in our effort, we are able to see a silver lining in the horizon,” he said, citing Tamil nationalist poet Subrahmanya Bharathi’s lines that fear could not overcome the protesters.
DMK treasurer M.K. Stalin, Dravidar Kazhagam president K. Veeramani and Viduthalai Chiruthikal Katchi leader Thol. Thirumavalavan were among those who participated at the rally which urged that Mr Rajapaksa not be allowed to address the United Nation’s General Assembly.