MDMK general secretary Vaiko demanded appropriate action in the case. (File photo)
MDMK general secretary Vaiko and PMK chief S Ramadoss today hit out at the Tamil Nadu government over the suicide of a Tamil Sri Lankan refugee in Madurai district and demanded appropriate action in the case.
"S Ravindran has committed suicide only after intimidation crossed all limits," Mr Vaiko said.
Stating that US and European nations treated Tamil refugees with respect, he alleged, "It is only in Tamil Nadu that they are treated like extremists and terrorists and threatened and intimidated."
Mr Ravindran, who lived at the Uchampatti refugee camp in Madurai district, committed suicide yesterday by holding an electric overhead cable after climbing a high-rise power transmission tower.
He ended his life after an argument with a retired revenue inspector, also the camp incharge (on contract basis).
Demanding appropriate action against the official, Mr Vaiko alleged that the incident had brought bad reputation for Tamil Nadu and demanded solatium for Mr Ravindran's kin.
Stressing that refugees should be treated with respect, Mr Ramadoss alleged, "Inhumane approach of Tamil Nadu's rulers and some officials" was the reason for the suicide.
Stating that camp occupants were "unable to bear the harassment," he said only due to such factors some of them undertake dangerous boat trips to countries like Australia and end up getting killed.