India denies send troops to Sri Lanka amid economic crisis

India on Tuesday said that it is "fully supportive" of the island nation's democracy, stability, and economic recovery.

India on Wednesday categorically denied that it is ending or has sent troops to strife-torn Sri Lanka.

The denial from the Indian mission came a day after it was refuted as “fake and blatantly false” local social media speculation that former prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his family members have fled to India.

The whereabouts of Mahinda Rajapaksa have been speculated since his resignation on Monday. It was reported that Mahinda had left his office-cum-official residence, Temple Trees.

In its first reaction to the situation in Sri Lanka, India on Tuesday said that it is “fully supportive” of the island nation’s democracy, stability, and economic recovery.

Mahinda (76) resigned as prime minister amid unprecedented economic turmoil in the country, hours after his supporters attacked anti-government protesters, prompting authorities to impose a nationwide curfew and deploy Army troops in the capital.

The attack triggered widespread violence against pro-Rajapaksa politicians.

At least 8 people have died while over 250 people have been injured in the clashes which also saw scores of properties belonging to ruling party politicians being set on fire.

The crisis is caused in part by a lack of foreign currency, which has meant that the country cannot afford to pay for imports of staple foods and fuel, leading to acute shortages and very high prices.

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