Question : HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATION IN SRI LANKA

(a) whether several Tamil groups including the Tamil Eelam Supporters’ Organization (TESO) have been demanding the Government to propose an international inquiry into the alleged genocide in the island nation in the coming UNHRC meeting in Geneva;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;

(c) whether the Government also proposes to support the United States resolution against Sri Lanka for the alleged genocide of Tamils; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a) to (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 380 REGARDING “HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATION IN SRI LANKA” FOR ANSWER ON 19.02.2014

(a) & (b) According to available information, the Tamil Eelam Supporters’ Organisation (TESO) passed a resolution on 1st February, 2014 which called for an independent international inquiry into alleged genocide in Sri Lanka in the forthcoming United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Session in Geneva.

(c) & (d) According to available information, the US has announced its intention to table a resolution in the upcoming March 2014 Session of the UNHRC in Geneva. India’s consistent policy is to advance our objective, namely, the achievement of a future for the Tamil community in Sri Lanka that is marked by equality, dignity, justice and self-respect.