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Rediff.com  » News » 'What is the meaning of meeting Obama?'

'What is the meaning of meeting Obama?'

By Vicky Nanjappa
November 06, 2010 15:19 IST
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Vicky Nanjappa speaks to a 26/11 hero's father who was absent at the Obama tribute.

President Barack Obama meeting with 26/11 martyrs's families and heroes of the tragedy has not impressed the father of slain National Security Guard Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan.

Unnikrishnan, who is on a cycle tour between New Delhi and Mumbai in memory of the 26/11 martyrs, told Rediff.com from Indore that Obama is not doing anyone a favour by meeting with the martyrs's families.

"In fact, he should thank the Indians including my son who saved two American nationals during the attacks," he said.

Major Unnikrishnan was killed by the terrorists at the Taj Mahal hotel during the operation to clear the premises.

"It looks like meeting with the families was done on an invitational basis. It does not look good and appears to be more of a show to me," Unnikrishnan said.

"Even if I was invited, I would not have gone since I am not interested in being part of some show. I would readily meet with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh since he is our leader and his expressing solidarity means something to the nation."

"What is the meaning of a meeting with Obama?" Unnikrishnan asked. "The action which ought to be taken by him has not been taken and problems will not be solved with such meetings."

"Such meetings mean nothing to the families," he said. "Hence, I guess it is best avoided. I will reach Mumbai on November 26 and pay homage to those who lost their lives. The next day I will be at the Taj where my son laid down his life."

Obama in India: The best coverage, on Rediff.com

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