The plea comes in the backdrop of the proposed visit of Lankan PM Ranil Wickremasinghe later this week.

In a letter to Modi on Tuesday, the DMK chief said “It is widely reported in the media that the USA is planning to bring a totally revised resolution in the United Nations Human Rights Council recommending a domestic mechanism to probe the war crimes and human rights violations, contrary to the earlier stand for an independent international inquiry, when Mahinda Rajapaksa was the President”.

He said “It is believed that Ranil has been mobilising support for the American Resolution and he may like India to support it. We and the diaspora Tamils are opposed to this sinister move. History will not forgive if India yields to this crafty design”.

“The DMK has been advocating a referendum to be conducted among the Lankan Tamils living all over the world, under the supervision of the UN, to enable them to choose a political solution, they desire,” Karunanidhi said adding that he would be grateful if the PM could arrive at a lasting solution to TN fishermen’s problems.

Further, he drew attention to the fact that President Sirisena’s victory at the hustings was due to the overwhelming support of Lankan Tamils. In their earnestness for peace, the Tamils relied on the promises made by Sirisena and his electoral alliance. The Tamils were convinced beyond doubt that the Army posted in the Tamil Areas would be withdrawn, lands and houses forcibly occupied by the army and the Sinhalese would be returned, Karunanidhi said.

“Though six months have passed since Sirisena assumed office, there is very little progress,” he added.

(newindianexpress.com)