Jaya announces pulling out AIADMK MP from delegation

Jayalalithaa slammed the "anti-Tamil" approach of Sri Lanka as regards rehabilitation of internally displaced Tamils, the Sri Lankan navy's attacks on Tamil Nadu fishermen and Colombo's recent objection to Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant on grounds  of radiation. The Chief Minister did not want the visit to be a "mere eye-wash like the previous one".

 "According to itinerary sent by the external affairs ministry, there are no opportunities to interact with war-affected persons and know about their difficulties while the priority is placed on feasts with President Mahinda Rajapakse and Lankan authorities," she said in an official statement.

The Chief Minister said that the visit seemed more like a "formality," and was prepared by Sri Lankan government to favour itself. She pointed out the absence of journalists and independent monitors in the delegation and quipped that it "further strengthens my apprehensions".

 "A lack of enough opportunities to interact with the affected persons is disappointing. I wish to inform that rthe AIADMK is withdrawing from the delegation and its member Bernard will not participate (in its functions)," she said.