DMK, allies seek referendum in north and east Sri Lanka

, March 7:

and its allies in

on Thursday pushed for referendum in the north and east of

to find out the sort of political solution war-hit Sri Lankan Tamils want.

A seminar organised by DMK Chief M Karunanidhi-founded Tamil Eazham Supporters' Organisation (TESO) also pressed for urgent rehabilitation and resettlement of Sri Lankan Tamils displaced by war in the island nation.

The seminar asked the Centre to support a resolution to be moved by the US at the UNHRC meet against the island nation for its human rights "violations".

"Tamils require resettlement and rehabilitation very urgently. The world community should think of creating a credible, independent, international inquiry into all the events in Sri Lanka. A lasting solution lies in a referendum," DMK leader M K Stalin said.

Besides, leaders of DMK and its allies--Dravida Kazhakam (DK) and Viduthalai Chiruthaikal Katchi (VCK)--the seminar was attended by senior Congress leader and Union Minister GhulamNabi Azad and representatives of National Conference and NCP.

TESO had invited the parties including BJP, SP, BSP, TDP, Shiv Sena, RJD and JD(U) in the seminar. But they did not send their representatives, sources said.

Asked whether they have got any assurance from Mr Azad on the issue of supporting the UN resolution against Sri Lanka,Dravida Kazhakam leader K Veeramani said there is "significant progress" in India's stand on the issue.

Earlier, addressing the seminar, Stalin alleged Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa government was "responsible" for all the "shameful action and war-crimes, genocide and human rights violation" against ethnic Tamils.

Stalin's brother and Union Minister M K Alagiri was not present in the seminar. The seminar was attended by DMK MPs including Kanimozhi.

PTI