Patna, Chennai: As the Sri Lankan government launches its final offensive on the LTTE, there's pressure mounting on the Indian government from its key southern ally - the DMK to bring about a ceasefire.
As the deadline for Prabhakaran to surrender ended, M Karunanidhi shot off a telegram to Delhi. The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has insisted on the Centre giving an ultimatum to the Sri Lankan government to announce an immediate and permanent ceasefire to save lakhs of Tamils.
Just last week, Karunanidhi had asked the Centre to sever diplomatic ties with Sri Lanka, if India's demand for a ceasefire isn't met.
"We have already asked the Sri Lankan government to ensure safety of the civilians," said Pranab Mukherjee, External Affairs Minister.
In a recent exclusive interview to NDTV, the DMK Chief had also expressed concern for LTTE Chief Prabhakaran's safety:
NDTV: How would you feel if Prabhakaran was killed?
Karunanidhi: Will deeply regret it. I will attribute it to the lack of unity among Tamil groups.
The opposition in Tamil Nadu says Karunanidhi's moves on the Lankan issue are just a drama.
"Karunanidhi is anxious about Prabhakaran. That is why he talks of sorrow if he is harmed," said Vaiko, General Secretary, MDMK.
From setting themselves on fire to holding such fasts unto death, there's a growing mix of anger and concern in Tamil Nadu over the plight of Lankan Tamils.