“Mother Teresa was an Indian citizen and she is resting in her own country, her own land. The question (of returning her remains) does not arise at all. I believe that answers all your questions,” Vishnu Prakash, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, told The Indian Express over the phone.

Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha had said on Saturday that talks were on with the Indian government for the return of the mortal remains of the Mother, who had died in Kolkata in 1997 and was buried at the courtyard of the Missionaries of Charity she founded in 1950.

Berisha also said the efforts would be intensified as that country wanted the mortal remains on the eve of the birth centenary of the Mother.

Teresa was born to Albanian parents in Macedonia and she came to Kolkata in 1929 and dedicated her life to serve people from the lowest strata of society.

The state government also expressed satisfaction over the decision of the Central government.

“It was an excellent stand they have taken. They did not discuss the issue with us, but they must have thought it was not worth discussing at all,” said state Home Secretary Ardhendu Sen.

“We are extremely happy. Mother made India her home and I have seen when she went abroad and in case fell ill, she wanted to return to India. The government of India took a right decision,” said Sunita Kumar, a spokesperson for the Missionaries of Charity.