Step up vigil to curb arms smuggling to Lanka: CPI(M)

Madurai, Feb 25 (UNI) Tamil Nadu Communist Party of India (Marxist) Tamil Nadu Secretary N Varadarajan today demanded stepping up vigil to prevent smuggling of arms and ammunition from the state to Sri Lanka.

Talking to newspersons here, he called for effective monitoring of clandestine manufacture of arms in the wake of the recent seizure of explosives in the coastal districts.

Stating that reports of illegal transport of explosives was a matter of serious concern, he welcomed Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's clarification that solidarity for the cause of Sri Lankan Tamils should not be taken as a license for arms smuggling.

On the ethnic issue, Mr Varadarajan said CPI(M), reiterating the need for more autonomy and devolution of powers to the regions, predominantly inhabited by the Tamils, advocated a political settlement to resolve the decades-old problem.

Further, he sought an immediate cessation of hostilities and genocidal attacks so that the ethnic Tamils could live in peace.

Expressing concern over the sufferings of the Lankan Tamils, he regretted the increase in the flow of refugees from the island nation.

On the inter-state river water disputes like Cauvery, Periyar and Palar, Mr Varadarajan warned against certain forces instigating the people and creating enmity between the neighbouring states.

On setting up a separate Railway Division for Salem, the CPI(M) leader pleaded for considering and resolving the objections of Kerala in a peaceful manner. The proposed bandh at Salem, besides being unnecessary, would only vitiate the atmosphere, he added.

He expressed concern over the Tamil Nadu State Women Commission and said the government would accord more power to the panel and make it more effective.

UNI