The Ministry of External Affairs has made it clear that the Australian authorities will look into the issue of attack on an Indian student “seriously”.
“It is our expectation that it will be looked at seriously and the action will be taken against the perpetrator,” MEA spokesman Arindam Bagchi told reporters here on Friday, days after an Indian national was stabbed multiple times in Sydney.
“Our information is that the victim is currently in the hospital, his treatment is going on. Our High Commission and Consulate in Sydney, are in close touch with local authorities there, and we are also in contact with their family here,” he said adding, some Indian officials also went to the hospital in Sydney and met him yesterday (Thursday).
“…we have also extended our consular services. We have come to know that there is a suspect who has just been detained, but Australian authorities will be able to tell you more details about it, on the investigation,” he said.
According to reports, the 28-year-old Indian student, identified as Shubham Garg, is currently in hospital
and is undergoing treatment.
“We have requested the Australian High Commission in Sydney to expedite travel documents or visas, so family members could urgently go. I’m happy to hear that it’s done,” Bagchi said.
To a question, he said, “You asked whether it is racial or not, see if I do not want to go into this speculation now. Our focus right now is that his treatment should happen, he should stay out of danger and whoever is a perpetrator should be caught, then it will be known what could have happened”.
“This is a shocking incident. And our consulate official was at the hospital, I think and has met the victim and we are also in touch with local authorities,” the MEA spokesman said.
On Indo-Pak and terrorism:
Answering the question, Mr Bagchi said India’s position on terrorism emanating from Pakistan has always been clear.
“And, of course, we want normal relations with Pakistan is a statement that we’ve always said, but it has to be in an atmosphere that’s conducive and free from terrorism. I think that part is pretty well known. I don’t need to really get into it in detail,” he said.
