Recently Indian students in Australia protested in central Melbourne in opposition to a series of violent and racist attacks in recent months, during their protest, Indian students were punched in the head and stomped on the chest very badly by Australian cops. They were
threatened with capsicum spray. One was admitted to the hospital after his thumb was broken during the police attack.
This protest rally was organised by the Federation of Indian Students of Australia after a series of violent attacks on students which they claim are racially motivated. In this protest rally around 18 protesters were detained for breaching peace but where later released.
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd warned that attacks on Indian students in Australia threatened to damage relations between the nations, as he reassured the powerhouse Asian economy that its students were welcome here.
Mr Rudd said he had contacted his Indian counterpart, Manmohan Singh, to reassure him that Australians "deplore and condemn" attacks against Indians in Australia.
"These are senseless acts of violence," Mr Rudd told Parliament, adding that all would be done to ensure "the perpetrators of these acts are brought to justice".
"Australia is a country of great diversity, harmony and tolerance. We are a multicultural nation and we respect and embrace diversity - diversity which has enriched our nation,'' he said.
Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull told Parliament the attacks were an "absolute disgrace'' and "un-Australian''.
Police have released CCTV footage of the bashing of an Indian student hoping the public can help identify the perpetrators.
India says the High Commissioner in Canberra has rushed to Melbourne to ensure that the student who has been seriously injured receives the best possible treatment and that the authorities ensure that the culprits are brought to justice.
India's Foreign Minister, S M Krishna said that he was appalled by the attack on Indian students.
"We will impress upon Australian authorities that such attacks should not be permitted. It is Australia's responsibility to ensure security and well-being of students," he said.
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