Full implementation of 13A discussed ‘umpteen times’ with Lanka, says Manmohan

Thursday, 3 October 2013 00:39 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

In a clear expression of frustration with Colombo on its intransigence on the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, Indian Premier Manmohan Singh told reporters on Tuesday that India had emphasised the need for full implementation “umpteen times”. “As far as the devolution of more powers for the Northern Province is concerned, our views are well known. On an umpteen number of occasions, we have discussed with the Sri Lankan President the need to implement the 13th Amendment,” the Indian Prime Minister said on his on-board briefing on his return to New Delhi from New York. “Therefore, our position is fully well known to the Government of Sri Lanka,” he said.Prime Minister Singh said that he was unable to meet with President Mahinda Rajapaksa because the available dates had not been convenient to him. “I came to New York only on the 27th and he asked for a meeting between the 24th and the 27th,” he explained. “I would have had no hesitation in meeting with him,” the Indian Prime Minister said.