India on Friday summoned Australian High Commissioner John McCarthy to the External Affairs Ministry to lodge an official concern about the recent spate of racial attacks on Indian students studying in Australia.

"The Ministry asked McCarthy to ensure the safety of Indian students in Australia. McCarthy assured India that Australia would take steps to prevent such incidents from recurring," a senior Indian External Affairs Ministry official said, on condition of anonymity.

Later, External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna told the media, "We are worried about the safety of Indian citizens, particularly the students. The Indian government is in constant touch with the Australian authorities with a view to addressing issues concerning the well-being and physical safety of our students."

Speaking to the media after the meeting, McCarthy said, "I was asked to come to the Ministry of External Affairs to discuss the recent attacks on Indian students in Australia. Secretary Mr. N. Ravi conveyed Indian concerns very clearly and urged that we take steps to ensure that these sorts of incidents do not occur."

At least four Indian students became victims of "racial" attacks in Australia, with one currently in a serious condition after being stabbed in Melbourne, according to earlier media reports.

Source:Xinhua