"It is not acceptable to us that he, who is responsible for the killing of lakhs of Tamils, is accorded a special welcome," Karunanidhi said.
The DMK’s fellow constituents of India’s ruling United Progressive Alliance coalition, the VCK, also criticised the plans.
“I will be meeting the Prime Minister or Minister of External Affairs in this connection, in a couple of days,” VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalan told reporters.
“The island nation is having cordial relations with China and Pakistan. However, India’s friendly gesture towards Sri Lanka remains unreciprocated,” he added.
Rajapaksa’s spokesperson meanwhile said the visit will go ahead as planned.
“Petty political parties will not deter the president from going ahead with his plans,” said Bandula Jayasekara.