Sri Lankan refugees keep pouring in

The intensifying war in Sri Lanka has resulted in an increase in the number of refugees along the Tamil Nadu coastal line. 

“There has been an increase in the number of refugees since 2006 after the talks (between Sri Lankan government and LTTE) failed. The numbers have gone up further with the Lankan government heightening the offensive,” Tamil Nadu DGP KP Jain told DNA on Tuesday. But “the issue is being taken care of. We have a system in place to accommodate the refugees,” Jain said. 

Jain however, refused to comment on the coastal security. “I can’t comment on the (coastal security) issue as it is being jointly organised by the Navy and Coast Guards,” he said.

According to sources in the rehabilitation commissioner’s office, there are at least 73,563 Sri Lankan refugees in 115 camps across Tamil Nadu. Mandapam in Ramnad district, which is the vulnerable entry point for refugees from Sri Lanka, accommodates 3,265 refugees, the office of the special deputy collector (rehabilitation) said.

Meanwhile, Jain felicitated TN’s police for their achievements like nabbing criminals, among others, at a function there. He also praised the traffic personnel for their exemplary attitude in helping an aged person after he met with a “serious” accident.

“The year has started off well with no major untoward incidents in the state,” Jain said.