Minister calls them ‘linguistic terrorists’

Talking to media persons at Madurai, the Minister expressed concern over the unprecedented violence unleashed by certain sections in Karnataka. He condemned the attacks on Tamils and their properties in Bengaluru and on Karnataka pilgrims at Rameshwaram on Monday. 

Even as the migrant population in both states were peacefully living, ‘linguistic terrorits’ were inciting trouble he said and added that the onus of protecting the lives of people was on the state governments in the respective states. 

He compared the present situation in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, particularly in border areas, to the 1947 riots that broke out during the separation of India and Pakistan. Regarding the Cauvery issue two key factors have to be taken into account, one the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu as per the Supreme Court order and two the safety of Tamils living in Karnataka, which was the duty of the state government.

He thanked Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa for taking timely action to safeguard Kannadiga population in Tamil Nadu. 

The Minister further pointing to the statements of DMK chief Karunanidhi said it showed his maturity and responsibility as a seasoned leader. When asked about the stand of Bharatiya Janata Party, which is in power at the Centre, over the Cauvery row, the Minister did not give a clear picture, but maintained that his party would not take any stand that would be against the interests of Tamil Nadu farmers. 

Meanwhile in Tiruchi DMK Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi urged the Centre to find a permanent solution to the Cauvery issue and said that interlinking of rivers can only solve this dispute.

Chief Minister Jayalalithaa must urge PM to direct Karnataka government to pay compensation to affected Tamils — EVKS Elangovan, Former TNCC president

Karnataka government should abide by the Supreme Court order. The safety of the people in both the States should be ensured — MK Stalin, DMK Treasurer