Vijayakant, supporters observe fast for Sri Lankan Tamils

Actor-turned-politician and DMDK chief Vijayakant and his supporters observed a day-long hunger strike in New Delhi today demanding "full freedom" for Sri Lankan Tamils in the island nation and protection for Indian fishermen against attacks by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Actor-turned-politician and DMDK chief Vijayakant and his supporters observed a day-long hunger strike in New Delhi on Tuesday demanding "full freedom" for Sri Lankan Tamils in the island nation and protection for Indian fishermen against attacks by the Sri Lankan Navy.

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Hundreds of DMDK cadres travelled to Delhi from different parts of Tamil Nadu to participate in the strike that began at 9 am and concluded at 4 pm at Jantar Mantar.

Addressing his supporters, Vijayakant said Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse is the modern-day "Ravan" - the demon king in Hindu mythology - and the Indian government has become a "mute spectator to the killings of Sri Lankan Tamils under his rule".

He also condemned the alleged killing of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy in the sea.

Accusing Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi of doing nothing for the welfare of the sons of soil, Vijayakant said the DMK leader was interested only in protecting his children's interest.