European resolution on dalits lacked balance: India

New Delhi, Mar 15 (UNI) India has lodged a protest with the European Parliament for its resolution on dalits in the country, the Rajya Sabha was informed today.

In a written reply in the House, Minister for External Affairs Pranab Kumar Mukherjee said the resolution passed on February one this year lacked both balance and perspective.

The Resolution had said implementation of laws protecting the rights of dalits remain grossly inadequate, and that atrocities, untouchability, illiteracy, inequality of opportunity continued to blight their lives.

Nepal: Replying to another question, Mr Mukherjee said the Government had also taken up with the Government of Nepal the issue of ethinic conflict involving the people of Indian Origin.

He said that it was true that some of victims of the ethnic violence had to cross over to India.

However, the Nepal Government had assured India that it was taking all possible steps to redress the grievances of these people and ensure their safety, he said.

UN dues: The United Nations owes nearly 70 million US dollars to India for its expenses on peacekeeping operations, Mr Mukherjee said replying to another question.

He said the matter was being actively pursued by Indian officials with UN authorities and other Member states who had defaulted in their contribution causing delay in payment to others.

UNI