We have noted with concern the recent incidents involving Sri Lankan citizens in Tamil Nadu. The Government of India, in consultation with the concerned state governments, has taken and will continue to take all measures to ensure the safety, security and well-being of Sri Lankan visitors to India, including to Tamil Nadu. The state government of Tamil Nadu has taken immediate action to identify and prosecute the miscreants, in respect of the recent incidents.

These isolated incidents do not reflect the strong people-to-people bonds that have been an integral part of the close historical, cultural and civilisational ties between India and Sri Lanka. Both countries consider these age-old bonds and affinities as strengths in our relations. India has been the leading source of tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka. Similarly, over 250,000 Sri Lankans visited India last year. It is this perspective that guides all our actions on such matters.