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Tuesday, Aug 01, 2006

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Lok Sabha for ceasefire in Lebanon

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: Condemning the Israeli bombings in Lebanon which killed several civilians, the Lok Sabha on Monday called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.

Adopting a unanimous resolution, the House expressed deep concern over the growing tension in India's extended neighbourhood of West Asia.

"It unequivocally condemns the large-scale and indiscriminate Israeli bombings of Lebanon that has been under way for many days, resulted in the killing and suffering of a large number of innocent civilians, including women and children, and caused widespread damage to civilian infrastructure," the resolution, read out by Speaker Somnath Chatterjee, said.

The House conveyed its condolence, sympathy and support of the people of India to the people of Lebanon and offered to make contributions in providing humanitarian relief to victims of the conflict.

Prevent more destruction

Conveying concern over the escalation of the conflict which affected India's security and other vital interests, the House called for an "immediate and unconditional ceasefire" so that further destruction of Lebanon would be prevented and humanitarian aid could reach the affected.

"We urge all parties to the conflict to eschew violence and return to the path of dialogue," the resolution said. It added that the House was of the view that lasting peace and security in the region was a matter of concern to not only countries in the region but also to the entire world. This, it said, could be achieved only through a negotiated solution that would take into account the legitimate interests and grievances of all parties concerned.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee, United Progressive Alliance chairperson Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Leader of the Opposition L.K. Advani were present in the House.

Earlier, Basudeb Acharia (CPI-M) raised the issue during zero hour and demanded that the Government suspend arms purchase from Israel, claiming that the money was being used to carry out the attacks.

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