You are here : Home Top News 'Tamilians Safe' CM writes to Karunanidhi

'Tamilians Safe' CM writes to Karunanidhi

(Text of the letter addressed to D.M.K Leader,  Dr. Kalaignar Karunanidhi by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on 30-12-2011)

          I understand that in the memorandum submitted to the Hon'ble Prime Minister, during his visit to Chennai, you have raised apprehensions about the safety of Tamils in Kerala including that of Sabarimala pilgrims from Tamil Nadu. I may clarify that these are inflated stories based on misinformation. I have consistently made it clear that Kerala values the cordial relationship with the Government and people of Tamil Nadu. Mullaperiyar issue should not be used to create any disaffection between the people of the two States. We have taken all precautions for the safety of people from Tamil Nadu living in and visiting Kerala. Large number of people from Tamil Nadu are working in our plantations and several people are employed in other sectors. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from Tamil Nadu have visited Sabarimala during this season. They will vouch for the peaceful atmosphere in which they completed the pilgrimage.

          While we are really concerned with the safety of the old Dam which has been recently threatened by a number of earthquakes, there is no feeling in Kerala against the Government or people of Tamil Nadu. It is unfortunate that stray incidents are blown out of proportion and telecast repeatedly on a few TV channels  to convey an erroneous impression.  In Kerala, we have asked the media to be fair and objective in reporting these matters.

          I would also like to point out that in Tamil Nadu there have been incidents of attacks on shops and other establishments of Keralites. Students from Kerala studying in various institutions in Tamil Nadu are feeling unsafe and many are coming back. There are anti-social elements who try to create difficulties to both the Governments. I am sure a responsible political party like the DMK, under your vision and leadership, will look at the situation in its totality and help to create a sense of confidence among our people.

          In the Memorandum you have dismissed the need for a new dam at Mullaperiyar. It is unfortunate that the safety concerns of Kerala have been completely ignored. When millions of our people are living in panic, we cannot wait endlessly. A new dam is the only permanent solution. The proposal for a new dam is not at all inconsistent with the need of Tamil Nadu for water. We have never contemplated a situation by which water would be denied to Tamil Nadu. On the other hand, a new dam will put an end to the uncertainties and disputes. I can once again assure you that Kerala will continue to provide the same quantity of water to Tamil Nadu from the new dam. Any apprehension on that score is unfounded. I shall be grateful if you will approach the whole issue with an understanding for our genuine concern for safety and our commitment to provide the same quantity of water to Tamil Nadu.

          I write this to assure you that people from Tamil Nadu are entirely safe in Kerala and the State Police has been given clear instructions to strongly deal with any stray incidents. I look forward to your adopting a statesmanlike approach befitting your political stature. I am sure we will be able to find a lasting solution to the Mullaperiyar issue by ensuring 'Safety to Kerala and Water to Tamil Nadu'.

(Issued by Director, Information and Public Relations Dept., Government of Kerala,  Thiruvananathapuram.)

 

Archives

whisleblower99

cj_new2