(a) whether there has been a sudden influx of refugees from Sri Lanka to India recently, as reported in the Hindustan Times dated January 17, 2006;
(b) if so, the number of Sri Lankan refugees recently crossed over to India; and
(c) the reaction of the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI MANIKRAO HODLYA GAVIT)
(a): Yes, Sir.
(b): 497 persons (337 adults and 160 children) have arrived at Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu from 12th January 2006 to 26th February 2006.
(c): Government of India`s approach is to discourage their movement but if any refugees do come, they are granted relief on humanitarian grounds (with the ultimate object of repatriation back to Sri Lanka). The refugees are screened by the State Government`s `Q` Branch officials and Revenue officials. They are photographed and issued identity cards. They are accommodated in the transit camp at Mandapam, Ramanathapuram District, for a period of one month. In due course they are shifted to regular camps. Militants, if any, identified, are segregated and lodged in special camps.