New Delhi, Sept 15: Voicing concern over the
plight of civilians caught in the Sri Lankan Army offensive
against the LTTE in rebel-held areas, India has asked Colombo
to ensure their safety and security.
"We have already expressed our concern to the Lankan
authorities," Defence Minister A K Antony told reporters while
replying to question on the situation in the island country.
"While taking action against the LTTE, steps should
also be taken to protect the civilian Tamils in Sri Lanka and
ensure their safety and security," Antony said.
After Colombo scrapped a tattered 2002 ceasefire with
the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in January, the Sri
Lankan Army has intensified its offensive against the Tamil
Tigers and has frequently bombed rebel strongholds.
Bureau Report
