Tamil Nadu asked to act against pro-LTTE leaders

Expressing concern over reports of increasing activities of the LTTE in Tamil Nadu, Congress leader and Union Minister E. V. K. S. Elangovan asked the State Government to be vigilant and take action against political leaders expressing support to the banned outfit.

Referring to the reported speech of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal (VC) President Thol Tirumavalavan, an ally of the ruling DMK, in support of the LTTE, he told reporters that the Government should take action against him if there was prima facie evidence.

He also recalled the State DGP’s notice last month, announcing a ban on taking out processions, holding public meetings or condolence meetings in support of the LTTE.

Citing reports about the recent arrest of two LTTE cadres in the state, Elangovan said the State Government should be on high alert and take measures to check the activities of the banned outfit.

Pointing out to the release of VC leader Vanniyarasu on bail the same day he was arrested on the charge of supplying computer spare parts to the LTTE, Elangovan cautioned that such incidents would disturb peace in Tamil Nadu.

Earlier, speaking at a diploma awarding ceremony for Sri Lankan journalists, organised by the city-based SRM university, Elangovan said the ethnic crisis in Sri Lanka could be amicably resolved, but some people in Tamil Nadu were politicising the issue.

He exhorted Sri Lankan journalists to play a major role in resolving the decades-old ethnic crisis. “The Centre was firm on the view that it was against the violent activities of the LTTE,” he added. Press Trust of India.