Chennai: Hours after passing a resolution seeking Centre’s nod for extending humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also wrote to PM Modi urging to provide permission to facilitate the shipment of food and essential goods. 


In a letter, Stalin urged Modi to immediately issue directions to the Ministry of External Affairs to facilitate early shipment of food, essential goods and lifesaving medicines from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka.


The Chief Minister said, “During the deliberations that preceded the passing of the resolution in the House, all the political parties represented in the Assembly voiced their deep concern over the Sri Lankan situation and also the need for extending a helping hand in time without further delay.”


“I wish to share and convey the collective sentiments of the people of Tamil Nadu as reflected by the unanimous resolution passed today (Friday),” he said. 


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The CM said, “With a sense of urgency and concern, I urge you to immediately leave the necessary directions to the Ministry of External Affairs to process and facilitate early movement of food, essential goods and life-saving medicines from Tamil Nadu to the people of Sri Lanka.” 


The CM also endorsed a copy of the resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly for the perusal of the PM.


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In the resolution piloted by Stalin, the government said there has been no "clear reply" from the Centre on Tamil Nadu's proposal to send the aid to Sri Lanka. "Hence, the House resolves to urge the central government to positively consider the request of the Tamil Nadu government immediately to send food and other essential commodities including lifesaving medicines from Tamil Nadu to the people of Sri Lanka, who are facing severe hardships," the resolution said.

(With PTI inputs)