Concerned about attacks on Indian students in Aus: Govt

Government today said it was deeply concerned about spate of attacks on Indian students in Australia and asked the authorities there to take appropriate steps to ensure that such incidents cease forthwith. Replying to a question in the Lok Sabha, external affairs minister SM Krishna said it was the responsibility of the Australian government to ensure well being and security of the Indian students in the country. "The issue has been taken up at the highest level in the Australian government, emphasising that such attacks should not be allowed to recur and that it is the responsibility of the Australian authorities to ensure well being and security of our students," he said."Though there has been no such acknowledgement from the government of Australia, it has been conceded that some of these attacks could have racial overtones," he said. Over 100 Indians, mostly students, have been attacked in Australia since last year and one of the attacks has been fatal.