Centre's approach negative on Sri Lanka: DMK chief M Karunanidhi

CHENNAI: Charging the BJP-led Union government with pursuing a "negative approach" in dealing with Sri Lanka by supporting it, DMK chief M Karunanidhi today urged the Centre to adopt a stance protective of Tamils there.

Referring to a defence conference to be hosted by Sri Lanka, slated to be held between August 18 and 20, he quoted a Tamil proverb and said India's decision to participate in the meet was tantamount to betrayal.

Pointing to the alleged disruption and cancellation of a seminar for Tamil journalists in Sri Lanka and its condemnation by USA, the DMK leader said, "when a far away country like America has expressed its dissatisfaction, India's stance is painful."

Be it the defence meet next month or the 'muzzling' of Tamil journalists by that country, the Centre has adopted a negative approach, he said.