Trial of attackers on Indian students in OZ to begin this mo

The trial of those found involved in attacks on Indian students in Australia will begin this month and the attackers, if found guilty, faced a sentence of 2-25 years, Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Chris Evans, said here. Speaking on Australia and India : A people-based Partnership at a seminar at the Observer Research Foundation, a public policy think tank, the Minister said that in relation to the six assaults and robbery that occurred between March and mid-June this year in Melbourne, the Victorian police had arrested 11 people who were now facing trial. The trials would begin this month, and the adults convicted of assault, faced a sentence of 2 to 25 years, he added. He said Australia had taken many steps to check attacks on Indian students which he described as crimes. The Minister said Australia valued its relationship with India and continued to build strong links for its strategic partnership. ‘I have been struck by the real and deep concern about the safety of your students in Australia. The Australian Government is absolutely committed to supporting students to have a positive and fulfilling educational, social and cultural experience in Australia,’ he said.