As the attacks on Indians continues in Australia, India made a strong statement to Australia to take all possible steps for the safety of Indians. Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi in a statement today described that taking all steps to prevent assault on Indians in their country is Australia’s “primary responsibility”.

 “Australia needs to take all possible steps to ensure security of our citizens. They need to convince not only the government but also the people of the country about steps taken to ensure safety of our citizens,” Ravi told as reported by PTI.

 He asked that even though the Police know the elements behind these assaults, why cannot Australia identify these anti-social elements and arrest them.  “For India, every life of its citizen is precious”. “We want them to take certain strong action. I am not saying they are not taking action. But they need to take strong action”. He added.

 He expressed strong concern over the facts that, In spite of all the assurances by Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and his ministerial colleagues, attacks are taking place. He also added that some of the attacks are having had “racial overtones”,

 Meanwhile External Affairs Minister S M Krishna talked to Australian Foreign Minister and discussed about the issue conveying India’s concern over the safety of its citizens.

 “I spoke to the Foreign Minister of Australia. I have drawn his attention to the increasing assault, some of them fatal, on Indian students. And I have requested him to expedite the investigation so that the culprits can be brought to justice,” Krishna told the press.