Chennai, Apr 21 (IANS): The Federation of Islamic Organisations and Political Parties of Tamil Nadu on Tuesday demanded the release of Muslims from foreign countries arrested on the grounds of indulging in religious preaching in Tamil Nadu.

In a statement issued here, the Federation, while condemning the arrest of Muslims who had come on spiritual tour to India from different countries, demanded their immediate release.

"There are about 130 foreign Muslims from countries like Indonesia, Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia, Ethiopia, France, Congo, Cameroon and Belgium who have been arrested and jailed in Tamil Nadu on the charges of indulging in religious preaching," MMK party leader M.H. Jawahirullah told IANS.

According to the statement, the Muslims -- men and women -- had come with proper visa and it is condemnable that the Tamil Nadu government is treating them like criminals.

They wondered if staying in a mosque and speaking to Muslims means religious preaching. The Federation also asked the Tamil Nadu government whether it has arrested and jailed the members of other religions who had come to the state.

The Federation requested the state government to release them immediately and treat them with dignity till they go back home.