Stalin, DMK workers arrested for trying to picket SL Commission

CHENNAI: DMK leader M K Stalin and thousands of party workers were arrested today when they attempted to picket the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commission here, demanding a probe against the island government over alleged war crimes.

Along with Stalin, senior DMK leaders, Dravidar Kazhagam leader K Veeramani, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi leader Thol Thirumavalavan were also arrested when they marched from the Valluvar Kottam area to the Sri Lankan mission.

Thousands of party workers raised slogans against Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksha for alleged war crimes and asked the Indian government not to "betray" the Tamils.

Speaking to reporters, DMK chief M Karunanidhi hoped that the US-sponsored resolution at the UNHRC against Sri Lanka would be passed. "Our firm demand is that India should also cooperate on the issue", he said.

He said DMK-backed Tamil Eelam Supporters Organisation would continue to fight for rehabilitation of Lankan Tamils.

Yesterday, MDMK chief Vaiko along with hundreds of activists of several Tamil outfits had attempted to picket the Sri Lankan mission.

Political parties in the state have been pressing for action against Sri Lanka for alleged war crimes committed by its army during the last phase of the conflict with rebel LTTE.

The chorus in the state for India joining hands with the US grew stronger following the alleged cold-blooded killing of slain LTTE chief V Prabakaran's 12 year-old son Balachandran.