Advani asks Centre to ensure safety of Indian students in Aus

Condemning the racist attacks on Indian students in Australia, senior BJP leader L K Advani on Monday demanded ''effective steps'' by the authorities of that country and asked the Centre to make ''diplomatic efforts'' to ensure safety and well-being of its students.

"I am appalled by, and strongly condemn, a series of racist attacks in recent weeks on Indian students studying in Australia," Advani said in a press statement.

About 95,000 Indian students study in Australia.

The senior leader said the responsibility of ensuring the safety of Indians in Australia rests squarely with the government of that country.

"BJP demands effective steps by the authorities in Australia, including quick and deterrent action against those involved in the attacks, to instill a feeling of safety among the students and immigrant Indians in the country," he said.

Advani urged the UPA government to make "sustained diplomatic efforts to ensure their safety, security and well-being".

Terming racism as a "blot on humanity", the BJP leader said, "It is unfortunate that this accursed relic of the past has been allowed to survive in Australia"