Tamil businessmen of Indian origin take to the streets:

Hands off Lankan pilgrims

*Shuts down in protest

*Petitions handed over to Indian HC

*Attacks a disgrace

Chaminda PERERA

Members of the Tamil business community of Indian origin yesterday staged a massive protest opposite the Indian High Commission condemning the recent harassment of Sri Lankan pilgrims in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil businessmen in their thousands who thronged Galle Face green, called on the Tamil Nadu state government to stop attacks on Sri Lankan pilgrims visiting India.

They voiced their anger over pro LTTE elements in Tamil Nadu who have resorted to various manoeuvres to damage the centuries old ties between the two nations. They said this type of attack on Sri Lankan pilgrims is a disgrace to the Indian Tamil community living in Sri Lanka and urged the Indian central and state government to stop the attacks. Carrying placards denouncing the repeated attacks on Lankans visiting India, the protestors marched towards the Indian High Commission compelling the police to close the entire Galle Road from Galle Face to Kollupitiya junction for vehicular traffic.

A strong contingent of police officers prevented the protestors from entering the Indian High Commision by placing barriers at the Galle Face roundabout.

Five members of the Tamil business community led by Ranjanas Group of Companies chairman K. Doraisamy handed over a letter to the Indian High Commission counsellor N Achariya to be sent to Indian President Pranab Mukerjee, Prime Minister Manamohan Singh, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalitha and Opposition Leader M Karunanidhi. All their business places were kept closed in Pettah and Fort in protest at attacks on Sri Lankans visiting India.