Taking strong exception to contradictory statements by Australia over the issue of recent attacks on Indian students, Congress on Monday asked that country to provide security to them instead of resorting to conflicting remarks.
"The Australian High Commissioner in India says that the attacks have taken place because the students live in poor areas of the city, work in hotels and drive taxis...The Victoria Police Commissioner advises not to exhibit jewellery," party spokesman Manish Tewari told reporters pointing to the inherent contradictions between the two. He said, "the Australian government should decide whether its High Commissioner is right or the Police Commissioner of Victoria".
Describing such statements as "negative", Tewari said, "Australia should provide security and apprehend those guilty of attacks". Expressing concern over the attacks, he said the pain is felt more due to such logic given by the authorities.
He said India respected Australia and considered it as a responsible democratic country which has made it the second most attractive destination for Indian students after the United States.
"In 2007-08, Indian students pumped 200 crore dollars or around Rs 8000 crore in the Australian economy," Tewari said, noting that it was the responsibility of the government there to provide security as the students go there on visa and are not illegal migrants.
Victorian police chief Simon Overland had yesterday said Indian students in Australia should keep a low profile and "try to look as poor as you can" to avoid attacks, while Australian High Commissioner in India had said they are attacked as they live in poor areas of the city. PTI
