Minister of state for Home Mullappalli Ramachandran today said that the claim of Italian authorities that the murder of two Indian fishermen took place in the international waters off Kerala coast is incorrect and unacceptable to India. Interacting with media persons in Thiruvananthapuram he said the Centre shares the stand and concern of Kerala government in the issue.

AIR correspondent reports, reiterating India's stand that on the Italian marines accused of murdering two hapeless Indian fishermen, Mullapply Ramachandran said that the ticklish issue needs to be sorted out keeping in mind the friendly bilateral relations between India and Italy. He said that Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna will be further emphasising India's position when his Italian counterpart calls on him in New Delhi today.

Meanwhile, the Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Staffan de Mistura today visited the two Italian naval personnel, arrested in connection with the killing of the fishermen off the Kerala coast a week ago. The meeting took place at the CISF Guest House at Wellington Island in Kochi, where the duo are kept in police custody. Speaking to media persons, Mr Mistura expressed satisfaction over the arrangements provided by the Indian authorities. He said Italy will cooperate with the investigation and reiterated his country's stand that the firing took place in international waters.

Meanwhile, the two Italian Naval personnel whose remand period in police custody ends today, will be taken to Kollam First Class Judicial Magistrate's court this afternoon. The police are likely to seek extension of the custody of the marines, as the investigation in the case is not yet over.