A member of the Indian governing coalition who's been charged under anti-terrorism laws with expressing support for Tamil Tiger rebels, has said he is willing to face any eventuality when he returns from a visit to the United States.

The politician, Vaiko, is based in the southern state of Tamil Nadu and leads the MDMK party.

He said in a statement that he had only voiced support at a public meeting for the fight for the rights of Tamils who he said were being oppressed in Sri Lanka.

The Tamil Tigers are outlawed in India and in Sri Lanka.

Vaiko said he had never involved himself in violent activities and the charges were politically motivated. Eight other members of his party who attended the meeting at the end of last month have also been charged.

Police say they will decide whether to arrest Vaiko after he returns from a visit to the United States.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service

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