India is not hysterical on the issue of Indian students: SM Krishna
merisarkar news service
New Delhi, January 07, 2010
SM Krishna
External Affairs Minister SM Krishna on Thursday dismissed Australian allegation that India's response to the murder of 21 year old Nitin Garg was 'hysterical'.
SM Krishna said, "None of us needs to be hysterical but all that we expect is that all Indians, whether they are students or otherwise, should be safe in the countries to which they go for pursuing their higher studies."
India's Foreign Ministry also said in a statement, "The Government of India have been seriously concerned at the series of attacks on Indian students over the past few years, especially at the increasing incidents of assaults since May 2009."
India also requested Australian government for early dispatch of bodies to their families in India and said it has directed Indian officials in that country in this regard and the government is willing to offer financial assistance for this.
Foreign Minister also advised Indian parents to be discreet while sending their children to study in Australia. He said they must gather some information about the place and the university where they are seeking admission.
Peter Verghese
In a related development, Australian High Commissioner in New Delhi Peter Verghese denied the reports that quoted Australia's acting foreign minister Simon Crean as having described the Indian reaction as hysterical.
Mr Verghese told India media, "He did no such thing."
