By: Harrish Thirukumaran

Eleven months after the COVID-19 disease became recognized as a global pandemic in March 2020, the number of Canadians diagnosed with the virus increased daily or have been in high figures. A multitude of factors have been blamed for this steady increase. Throughout this time, the health situation has led to many of us following a set of public health guidelines and orders as one of many efforts to control and combat the disease. These include physical distancing with individuals not part of your immediate household and staying at home as much as possible.

via https://www.mosaicinstitute.ca

More recently, however, attention has been focused on Canada’s South Asian community, in relation to high COVID-19 case numbers in the Greater Toronto Area and elsewhere in Canada. In Peel Region, where South Asians represent half of its total visible minority population (Statistics Canada, 2017), the community represents nearly half of all confirmed COVID-19 cases in the area. This is something that has affected me personally and generated my own curiosity as a Canadian who has South Asian ancestry, prompting me to write this article to understand this issue and to hopefully educate others on it.
Continue reading ‘Understanding and Tackling COVID-19 Misinformation in South Asian and other Diverse Communities in Canada’ »

By

D.B.S.Jeyaraj

Even as proceedings at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) continued in Geneva, the Sri Lankan Government headed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa , in a significant political move, backtracked from its rigid stance on permitting the burial of COVID -19 victims of the Islamic faith in Sri Lanka.

🕌 Mosque in Oddamaavady- pic via: FB KalkudahNation

While suspending on the one hand, its earlier order that COVID -19 victims should only be buried in the Iranaitheevu island on the Gulf of Mannar located ten KM away from the coast of Kilinochchi district, the Govt on the other hand gave permission and clearance for COVID -19 victims to be buried at a selected location in the Oddamaavaddy area of Batticaloa district.

After Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Colombo visit ,the Gotabaya Govt relaxed rules on the forced cremation of Muslim OVID victims. It gazetted provisions enabling the burial of COVID victims. Later the Govt issued guideline directives through the health ministry stipulating that burials could only be permitted in Iranaitheevu, home to over 165 Tamil Catholic families who had been displaced during the war. The Iranaitheevu community protested strongly against the unilateral decision of the Govt being taken without consulting the residents of the Island.

The move to permit burials in Iranaitheevu alone was firmly opposed by Muslim organizations and political parties who proposed that burials be allowed in selected places in Muslim populated areas in accordance with health ministry guidelines. Some alternative venues in Muslim areas were also suggested. Letters of concern were also sent to the global Organization of Islamic Cooperation(OIC) and the World Muslim Congress(WMC).

Sri Lanka Muslim Congress leader Rauff Hakeem MP encapsuled the feelings of the Muslim community over the enforced burial at Iranaitheevu through the following tweet “ Banish the bodies to Iranativu! They created the false narrative and wish to prove they were right all along. There is no end to their sadistic pleasure in harassing a hopelessly traumatized community. Pathetic racism prevails!

Continue reading ‘Gota Govt Suspends “Compulsory Burials in Iranaitheevu Only” Order; Burials of Muslim COVID Victims Allowed in Oddamaavady in Batticaloa district; 9 Buried in Land Donated by Muslim Businessman on March 5; Another 8 to be Buried on March 6th.’ »

By P.K.Balachandran

A Colombo-based Tamil hotelier of Indian Origin, Velusamy Muthuswamy, has announced the formation of a political party called Ilankai Bharatiya Janatha Katchi (IBJK) to further the socio-economic development of all Sri Lankans, especially the Tamils in the plantation areas and the war-torn Northern and Eastern provinces.

It will promote education, multiple language skills, sports and entrepreneurship, Muthuswamy said.

He made the announcement in Jaffna in Northern Sri Lanka on Saturday. Muthuswamy told the Jaffna media that that radio journalist M.Indrajith will be the party General Secretary and V.Dilan, a businessman, will be the Treasurer. The party would be known in English as Sri Lanka Bharathiya Janatha Party (SLBJP) and in Sinhala as Sri Lanka Bharathiya Janatha Paksaya (SLBJP).

Continue reading ‘Formation of a political party called Ilankai Bharatiya Janatha Katchi (IBJK) Announced in Jaffna by Colombo Based Tamil Businessman Velusamy Muthuswamy: New party would be known in English as Sri Lanka Bharathiya Janatha Party (SLBJP) and in Sinhala as Sri Lanka Bharathiya Janatha Paksaya (SLBJP).’ »

Eleven President’s Counsels and former Presidents of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) have expressed “serious concern” that the contents of the report of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into Political Victimization may “undermine the Rule of Law in this country, impair independence of the judiciary and erode impartial and efficient functioning of the Attorney General’s Department.”

The senior lawyers, have written to the Secretary of the BASL over news items carrying purported excerpts of the CoI’s proceedings. The lawyers include the incumbent President of the BASL, Mr. Kalinga Indatissa PC and the President-elect, Mr. Saliya Peiris PC.

Continue reading ‘Eleven President’s Counsels have expressed “serious concern” that the contents of the report of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into Political Victimization may “undermine the Rule of Law in this country, impair independence of the judiciary and erode impartial and efficient functioning of the Attorney General’s Dept.’ »

(Text of a media release issued on March 5th 2021 stating the Response of the Tamil National Alliance to the statement of Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena the Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka to the United Nations Human Rights Council)

Our attention has been drawn to the statement made by Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena at the High-Level Segment on 23rd February 2021, and at the Interactive Dialogue on the OHCHR Report on 24th February 2021 during the ongoing 46th session of the UN Human Rights Council.

Hon Dinesh Gunawardena says that the government of Sri Lanka withdrew from its co-sponsorship of resolutions HRC 30/1 and HRC 40/1, adopted in October 2015 and March 2019 respectively.

The State co-sponsored the above resolutions and another resolution HRC 34/1 in March 2017, at the different times they were adopted by the council.

Once adopted, the passage of the resolution is complete and there can be no question of withdrawal on behalf of the State by a following Government.

Continue reading ‘The Tamil National Alliance the largest Tamil Party representing the Tamil People of the North and East of Sri Lanka appeasl to the member States of the UN HUman Roghts Council “on behalf of our people” to ensure the passage of the HRC 46/1 at the UNHRC in Geneva’ »

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Friday described as ‘factually incorrect’ the Sri Lankan government’s claim that a proposal on Colombo Port’s Western Container Terminal has been approved by the Indian High Commission, and said it understands that the Lankan dispensation has engaged directly with investors on this project.

Sri Lanka announced on Tuesday that it has approved the proposal to develop the strategic Colombo Port’s Western Container Terminal (WCT) under a joint venture with India and Japan for a period of 35 years, weeks after it scrapped a trilateral deal with both the countries to develop another terminal at the same port.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan government’s claim that a proposal on Colombo Port’s Western Container Terminal has been approved by the Indian High Commission in Colombo is factually incorrect says Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava’ »

by

Ahimsa Wickrematunge

(Ahimsa Wickrematunge, a writer and activist, is the daughter of murdered Sri Lankan journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge)

In 2007, my father, Lasantha Wickrematunge, one of Sri Lanka’s most fiercely independent journalists, exposed an arms deal involving then-Secretary of Defense Gotabaya Rajapaksa embezzling over $10 million in government funds.

Rajapaksa took him to court, alleging defamation. Shortly thereafter, my father’s printing press at the Sunday Leader, where he was editor in chief, was stormed by a masked gang in the middle of the night. Two of his staff were assaulted, and the press itself was set on fire.

On Jan. 8, 2009, weeks before my father could testify about the corrupt arms deal, military intelligence officers ambushed him as he drove to work. They murdered him, tearing my family apart, ripping a hole in my soul and petrifying journalists across Sri Lanka.

Continue reading ‘“I hold Rajapaksa responsible — as I made plain when I moved to sue Rajapaksa in Los Angeles for his role in my father’s murder.it is high time for the world to draw a red line at the killing of journalists and ensure that murderous autocrats pay a price”’ »

The Government has demanded sweeping changes to the draft resolution on Sri Lanka at the UN Human Rights Council, including the deletion of the reference to forced cremations of coronavirus deceased during informal discussions on the draft text this week.

Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva C.A. Chandraprema insisted that the co-sponsors remove the reference to mandatory cremations, because it was “obsolete” after Government had reversed its policy.

The Government also demanded the removal of operative – or actionable – paragraphs 5, 6 and 7 of the draft resolution to Promote Reconciliation, Accountability and Human Rights in Sri Lanka that will be put to a vote at the 47-member UN Human Rights Council later this month.

The Sri Lankan Delegation participated in a virtual informal consultation on the draft resolution, on Monday (1) and Tuesday (2) on the sidelines of the Human Rights Council’s 46th Session.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan Envoy to UN in Geneva C.A. Chandraprema Demands sweeping changes to the draft resolution on Sri Lanka at the UNHRC including the deletion of the reference to forced cremations of coronavirus deceased and removal of operative clauses 5,6&7 during two informal discussions.’ »

By

JAMILA HUSAIN

A leading Muslim organisation in Sri Lanka will this week send an official letter of concern to the global Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the World Muslim Congress, seeking their intervention to urge the Sri Lankan government to allocate a decent land for the burial of Muslim COVID-19 victims.

The Daily Mirror learns that the Sri Lanka Islamic Centre, which is a member of the World Muslim Congress will raise serious concerns with the global bodies and will also send a letter to the World Muslim Congress office in Geneva urging for immediate intervention after the government announced that burials of the COVID-19 dead would take place on the Iranaithivu Island, in the Gulf of Mannar.

Senior Muslim officials said they were disappointed at the government’s decision to allocate the Iranaithivu Isle for the burials and instead urged the government to find a suitable land elsewhere in the country.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka Islamic Centre to write to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the World Muslim Congress urging immediate intervention and seeking redress after the govt announced that burials of the COVID-19 dead would take place only iin the Iranaithivu Islet’ »

.By
JAMILA HUSAIN

Muslims in Sri Lanka will make an urgent appeal to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, to find a suitable land for the burial of Muslim COVID-19 victims, instead of burying them in the island of Iranaitivu, in the Gulf of Mannar, stating it was not a practical solution to bury the victims there.

The Daily Mirror learns that the trustees of the Maradana mosque have written to the Director General of Health, Dr. Asela Gunawardena requesting the Kupiyawatta Muslim burial ground in Colombo to be utilized for the burial of COVID-19 dead as a ground water table test report was carried out recently by the Department of Geology, University of Peradeniya, where it was determined that the water table was detected at a depth of 2.5 to 3 meters which is suitable for COVID-19 deceased burials according to the Health Ministry’s expectations.

Continue reading ‘Muslims Urge Govt to Allow Burials of COVID Victims in Kuppiyawatte Muslim Burial Grounds in Colombo Instead of the Iranaitheevu Island 10 KM away from the Kilinochchi district Coast in the Gulf of Mannar’ »

The Government yesterday expressed confidence that India would stand with Sri Lanka on the “right side” at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) sessions and support it to defeat the resolution that is set to be moved next week.

Cabinet spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella told the weekly Cabinet briefing that the Sri Lankan Government was confident of India’s support even though the country’s closest neighbour has remained noncommittal.

Continue reading ‘Despite India’s non -Committal on the Issue, Sri Lanka is ‘Confident India will stand on the right side’ and vote against Resolution on Sri Lanka at the UNHRC in Geneva’ »

By Uditha Jayasinghe

Cabinet has cleared the West Container Terminal (WCT) of the Colombo Port to be developed as a 35-year joint venture with India’s Adani Group and its local partner John Keells Holdings PLC as well as with investment from Japan, a top official said yesterday.

Cabinet Spokesman and Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella told reporters at the weekly Cabinet briefing that the decision was taken in accordance with policies outlined in the President’s manifesto ‘Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour’.

He acknowledged that the Government had also taken into consideration the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that was signed by the former administration with India and Japan for the East Container Terminal (ECT). The new venture will also include a stake for the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA).

Continue reading ‘Cabinet Spokesman Keheliya Rmbukwella denies that agreeing to foreign investment from India and Japan for the West Container Terminal was a deviation from the Government’s policy of not giving strategic assets to other countries’ »

By

Meera Srinivasan

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Sri Lanka on Tuesday said it will develop the West Container Terminal (WCT) at the Colombo Port along with India and Japan, in a near-360 degree policy turn from a month ago, when the two partners were ejected from a 2019 tripartite agreement to jointly develop the East Container Terminal (ECT), amid port unions’ resistance to “foreign involvement”.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan Cabinet Approves Decision to Grant Development of West Container Terminal of Colombo Harbour Project to Investors Nominated by India and Japan who will be Accorded a Higher Stake of 85%’ »

Chinese Permanent Representative in Geneva Ambassador CHEN Xu on Thursday extended China’s strong support to Sri Lanka in his official statement in the interactive dialogue on the OHCHR Report on Sri Lanka during the 46th Session of the Human Rights Council.

The full text of the statement is as follows:

“As a friendly neighbour of Sri Lanka, China sincerely hopes that Sri Lanka maintains political stability, ethnic solidarity and national unity, and wishes Sri Lanka greater achievements in its national development. We commend the Government of Sri Lanka for its efforts to actively promote and protect human rights, advance sustainable economic and social development, improve people’s living standard, protect the rights of vulnerable groups, advance national reconciliation and combat terrorism.

Continue reading ‘Chinese Permanent Representative in Geneva CHEN Xu extended China’s strong support to Sri Lanka in his official statement in the interactive dialogue on the OHCHR Report on Sri Lanka during the 46th Session of the UNHRC’ »

(Text of a Press Release Issued by the High Commission of India in Colombo)

The Sri Lanka Air Force is celebrating its 70th Anniversary on 02 Mar 21 and the presentation of President’s Colours to No. 5 Fighter Squadron and No. 6 Helicopter Squadron of the Sri Lanka Air Force. To commemorate this historical event, a Fly Past and an Aerobatic Display is also being organised for the first time in Sri Lanka at a grand scale at Galle Face from 03-05 Mar 21.

As a gesture of solidarity, and in keeping with years of close interaction and camaraderie between the two countries and their militaries, Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy will participate in the event with an Aerobatic Display by Sarang (Advance Light Helicopter), Surya Kiran (Hawks), Tejas Fighter Aircraft, Tejas Trainer and the Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft. A total of 23 aircraft of the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy would participate in the grand event.

The detachment for the Aerobatic Display arrived in Colombo on 27 Feb 21, with the support of C17 Globe Master and C130J transport aircrafts of Indian Air Force.

Continue reading ‘23 aircraft of the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy will participate in the Grand Fly past and Aerobatic Display at Galle Face to Celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Sri Lankan Air Force’ »

By

Meera Srinivasan

Seeking India’s “proactive” support at the UN Human Rights Council, where a resolution on Sri Lanka will be soon put to vote, the Secretary to Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “India cannot abandon us”.

“If the world is one family, as your Foreign Minister has said, then we are immediate family, isn’t it,” Admiral Jayanath Colombage (retired) said, citing External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s reference to ‘vasudhaiva kutumbakam’ in his recent address to the Council.

The Foreign Secretary, a former Navy Commander, spoke to The Hindu on Sri Lanka’s prospects at the ongoing session in Geneva, Indo-Lanka relations, Colombo’s broader foreign policy choices, and strategy for reconciliation from “within”, and regional cooperation.

Sri Lanka, Mr. Colombage said, would be “very uncomfortable” if countries in the region did not extend support in Geneva. He expressed hope that India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh — who are among members of the current Council — will back Sri Lanka, since the countries had similarities, “are battling COVID-19 and facing allegations of human rights violations”.

Continue reading ‘“We can’t do anything just because someone points a gun at our head and says, okay reconcile. It will never happen.” – Says Sri Lankan Foreign Secretary Adm.Jayanath Colambage in Interview with “The Hindu”’ »

By Sandun Jayawardana

The authorities failed to take adequate and effective steps to meet the threat from Islamic extremism in the critical build-up phase from 2016 to 2019 prior to the Easter Sunday terror attacks, the Commission of Inquiry (COI) that investigated the attacks has noted in its final report.

Volume 1 of the final report, a copy of which has been seen by the Sunday Times, describes in extensive detail how Zaharan Hashim, the ringleader of the terror cell that carried out the attack, had transformed over the years from a radical preacher to fully-fledged terrorist and how repeated warnings made to the authorities regarding his radicalisation fell on deaf ears.

It also notes how he travelled to various parts of the country, recruiting followers, giving sermons and conducting training camps where participants were given weapons training in addition to being indoctrinated in extremist ideology. Much of this took place despite Zaharan being well known to law enforcement authorities and despite him being sought after by authorities from March 2017.

The report also specifically identifies that it was from an Indian counterpart that the then Director of the State Intelligence Service (SIS) Nilantha Jayawardena had received an intelligence warning of an impending suicide attack by Zaharan and his followers.

Continue reading ‘Commission of Inquiry Probing Easter Sunday Bombings Discloses Much Information about Zahran Hashim the Ring Leader of the Group Responsible for the Attacks’ »

By Damith Wicremasekara

Cremation of people who die of COVID-19 will continue until modalities and guidelines for burial are worked out, a senior Health Ministry official said yesterday.

He said more time was required to prepare fresh guidelines and name designated places for burials.

He said locations for burial would need to be decided upon after consulting agencies which could provide an opinion about the possible pollution of ground water while taking into consideration the social impact as there could be opposition to burial in certain areas.

Continue reading ‘Despite Issuance of Gazette Allowing Burials of COVID Victims Health Ministry Officials Continue to Enforce Forced Cremation Saying Guidelines Have to be Prepared after consulting agencies about the possible pollution of ground water while taking into consideration the social impact as there could be opposition to burial in certain areas.’ »

Saliya Pieris, PC, was this week elected as 26th President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) for the year 2021-2022 with a thumping majority over his rival candidate Kuvera de Zoysa, PC.

Mr Pieris secured total of 5,178 votes while Mr de Zoysa polled 2,815–a difference of 2363 votes. In Colombo, Mr Pieris scored a massive 2,416 votes while Mr de Zoysa gained 1,146.

He also performed well in Kurunegala where he polled 192 to his rival’s 43; in Galle, where he counted 151 votes to 57; in Kuliyapitiya , where he won 84 votes over 14; and in Matara where he gained 176 to Mr de Zoysa’s 62. In Mt Lavinia Mr Peiris received 71 votes against 38 while in Vavuniya Mr Peiris received 28 against four.

Continue reading ‘Saliya Pieris, PC elected as 26th President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) for the year 2021-2022 with a thumping majority over his rival candidate Kuvera de Zoysa. PC.’ »

(Text of a Press Release Issued by Sri Lanka Muslim Congress Leader Rauff Hakeem MP)

We are relieved that the Government after a prolonged vacillation has finally restored the constitutionally protected fundamental the right for burial of COVID 19 victims and COVID-19 suspected victims.

In this regard it is quite obvious that if not for the inclusion of this matter in the report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the subsequent inclusion of the matter in the resolution on Sri Lanka tabled by the core group, the deliberate intransigence that resulted in
outrageously traumatizing a section of Sri Lankan people would not have been resolved.

The concern raised by the Secretary General of the OIC during the High-Level Segment and the overwhelming demonstration by almost all the Western States during the Interactive Dialogue on Sri Lanka yesterday (25 th February 2021) at the ongoing UNHRC sessions expedited the process.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka Muslim Congress is relieved that the Govet after prolonged vacillation has finally restored the constitutionally protected fundamental the right for burial of COVID 19 victims and COVID-19 suspected victims States Party Leader Rauff Hakeem’ »

By

Kelum Bandara

The international lobbying spree by the government gathered momentum today with 21 countries speaking in favour of Sri Lanka and 15 against during an Interactive Dialogue at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), the Daily Mirror learns.

A core group of countries led by the United Kingdom has proposed to move a resolution on Sri Lanka calling for action on alleged human rights and accountability issues during wartime. Sri Lanka has sought to thwart the adoption of such a resolution.

The Interactive Dia inlogue took place amidst intense campaigning for support.

Continue reading ‘21 Countries Including 10 Member States of the UN Human Rights Council Speak in Support of Sri Lanka During the Interactive Dialogue on Sri Lanka at Geneva UNHRC 46th Session While 15 Nations Speak Against SL’ »

By P.K.Balachandran

Late on Thursday, February 25, the Sri Lankan Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi issued a gazette extraordinary lifting the year-old ban on burying COVID-19 dead. The Gazette amended the earlier ordinance by putting the words “cremation or burial” in place of the single word “cremation”.

“In the case of burial, the corpse of such person shall be buried in accordance with the directions issued by the Director General of Health Services at a cemetery or place approved by the proper authority under the supervision of such authority,” the gazette said.

The government’s decision brought the curtains down on an issue which deeply agitated the minority Muslims for whom burial is mandated by Islam and therefore inviolable.

Continue reading ‘Gotabaya Govt Permits Muslims to Bury Persons Dying of COVID – 19 Due to Need to Prevent Islamic Nations Voting Against Sri Lanka at Crucial UNHRC Vote in Geneva and Because of Intense Lobbying by Pakistan’ »

by Jamila Husain

Continue reading ‘Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi issues fresh gazette notification allowing the burial of Covid-19 victims reversing an earlier decision that made cremation mandatory.’ »

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By P.K.Balachandran

The two-day visit of the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to Sri Lanka, which concluded on Wednesday, has put Pakistan-Sri Lanka relations on a higher footing. Besides the traditional defense and security ties, which will be enhanced, the relationship may acquire a strong economic basis, and Pakistan may become a factor in Lankan Muslim politics.

Imran’s intercession on the issue of the burial of the COVID-19 dead, might result in government’s lifting the ban on it, thus bringing the curtains down on the bitter conflict between the State and the Muslims, for whom burial is a mandated Islamic practice.

It is clear that from now on, Pakistan-Sri Lanka relations will have a major trade and investment component as both countries have pledged to increase two-way trade from the current US$ 460 million to US$ 1 billion. For the first time, Sri Lanka has been invited to join the China-funded China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to reach out to growing markets in Central Asia.

The China-factor in this matter was evident when Imran descried CPEC as the “flagship of the Belt and Road Initiative”, President Xi Jinping’s pet scheme with a global reach.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka-Pakistan ties on a new footing following Imran Khan’s visit;Besides Enhanced defense and security ties the relationship may acquire a strong economic basis with Pakistan becoming a factor in Lankan Muslim politics’ »

Issuing his statement on OHCHR report on Sri Lanka, Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey, Permanent Representative of India, said they believed that respecting the rights of the Tamil community, including through meaningful devolution, contributes directly to the unity and integrity of Sri Lanka.

Full statement is as follows,

We have taken note of the High Commissioner’s report on Sri Lanka and her oral remarks. The Council has adopted 7 Resolutions on the question of human rights in Sri Lanka since May 2009, when the three decades old conflict in that country ended.

India has been an active participant in the discussions on these Resolutions and has remained engaged with Sri Lanka as its close friend and immediate neighborIndia’s consistent position rests on two pillars:

i). Support for Sri Lanka’s unity and territorial integrity.

ii). Abiding commitment to aspirations of the Tamils of Sri Lanka for equality, justice, peace and dignity.

Continue reading ‘Support for Sri Lanka’s unity and territorial integrity and Abiding commitment to aspirations of the Tamils of Sri Lanka for equality, justice, peace and dignity are the Two Pillars of India’s Consistent Position on Sri Lanka Says Indian Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey at UNRC in Geneva’ »

(Text of Statement by Sri Lankan Minister of Foreign Relations Dinesh Gunawardena during the Interactive Dialogue on the OHCHR Report at the 46th sessions of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva).

Madam President,

Ladies and gentlemen,

The OHCHR Report which is presented today, emanates from the Resolution 30/1 and 40/1, from which the Government of Sri Lanka announced its withdrawal of co-sponsorship, at the 43rd Session of this Council last year.

Sri Lanka rejects the High Commissioner’s Report which has unjustifiably broadened its scope and mandate further, incorporating many issues of governance and matters that are essentially domestic for any self-respecting, sovereign country.

This is in complete violation of Article 2 (7) of the Charter of the UN that states: “Nothing contained in the present Charter shall authorize the United Nations to intervene in matters which are essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of any state…”

Continue reading ‘Text of Statement by Sri Lankan Minister of Foreign Relations Dinesh Gunawardena during the Interactive Dialogue on the OHCHR Report at the 46th sessions of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva’ »

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet has vowed to support judicial proceedings in other countries against perpetrators of grave human rights violations in Sri Lanka, after the Government had effectively closed the door to achieving justice locally for alleged war time abuses.

In her statement to the 46th Session of the UN Human Rights Council yesterday, High Commissioner Bachelet said her office would support judicial measures in outside jurisdictions because the Sri Lankan Government had “closed the door” to justice for grave rights abuses nationally.

“By repeatedly failing to advance accountability for past human rights violations committed, and by withdrawing its support for the Council’s resolution 30/1 and related measures, the Government has largely closed the door on the possibility of genuine progress to end impunity through a national process,” the UN Rights Chief told the 47-member Council.

Continue reading ‘UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michele Bachelet Tells 46th Session of the UN Human Rights Council that her office would support judicial measures Targeting Sri Lanka in jurisdictions of Countries Outside the Island because the Sri Lankan Government had “closed the door” to justice for grave rights abuses nationally.’ »

Sri Lanka rejected High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet’s report yesterday, saying it had “unjustifiably” broadened its scope and mandate, to include issues of governance that are essentially domestic for any sovereign country.

Responding as the country concerned to Bachelet’s oral statement on her report to the UNHRC on Sri Lanka’s progress on accountability and reconciliation, Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunewardena said the report emanates from UNHRC resolutions 30/1 and 40/1 from which the Government has announced its withdrawal of co-sponsorship.

Addressing the council virtually, Minister Gunewardena said the Government categorically rejected the conclusions and recommendations in the High Commissioner’s Report.

“The trajectory that has emerged about the recommendations and conclusions reflects the preconceived, politicised and prejudicial agenda which certain elements have relentlessly pursued against Sri Lanka. These recommendations are based on ill-founded allegations,” the Foreign Minister charged.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan Govt categorically rejects the conclusions and recommendations in the UN Human Rights High Commissioner’s Report and calls upon the members of the UNHRC to reject any resolution based upon this Report presented to the Council.’ »

By

Sriram Lakshman

The U.S. will seek re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Tuesday, as he “humbly” asked for the support of UN member states. ‘

This is the latest in a series of moves by the Biden administration to reverse a pattern of retreat from multilateralism that was characteristic of the Trump administration.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump had taken the U.S. out of the Council in 2018 saying it was biased against Israel and had members who were human rights abusers.

Continue reading ‘“The United States will seek election to the human rights council for the 2022 to 2024 term. We humbly ask for the support of all UN member States in our bid to return to a seat in this body” – US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’ »

Addressing the UN Human Rights Council for the first time since its exit in 2018, the US yesterday urged member states of the Council to back a resolution on Sri Lanka to address the lack of accountability for past atrocities in the island.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the 46th Session of the UNHRC currently underway that the US was “placing democracy and human rights at the centre” of its foreign policy.

Continue reading ‘US Urges UNHRC member states to support resolution on Sri Lanka:Secretary of State Blinken says resolution will address “lack of accountability for past atrocities”’ »

The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena has again asked members of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to reject the anti-Sri Lankan resolution presented to the Council on Wednesday.

He was participating in the Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR) entitled: ‘Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka’ (A/HRC/46/20).

Gunawardena said that the OHCHR report emanated from Resolutions 30/1 and 40/1. The Government of Sri Lanka had withdrawn co-sponsorship of these resolutions at the 43rd Session of this Council in 2020.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena participating in the Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR)again calls upon members of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to reject the anti-Sri Lankan resolution presented to the Council’ »

Former head of the Office of Missing Persons (OMP) Saliya Pieris, PC, yesterday won the BASL presidency with an overwhelming majority.

Pieris succeeded Kalinga Indatissa, PC.

Former BASL President Upul Jayasuriya, PC, last night told The Island that Pieris polled 5162 votes. His rival Kuvera de Zoysa secured 2807 votes.

Continue reading ‘Saliya Pieris PC Elected President of Bar association of Sri Lanka(BASL) With an Overwhelming Majority Obtaining 5127 Votes While Rival Kuvera de Zoysa PC Garners 2807 Votes’ »

The Core Group on Sri Lanka tabled the draft resolution at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, a UN spokesperson said, Resolution HRC_46_L.1 titled ‘promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka’ was tabled on Monday, UNHRC spokesman Rolando Gómez said.He said that this was the first resolution to be tabled at the ongoing 46th Session of the UNHRC in Geneva.

“This is the first of many that we expect to see to be tabled over the coming weeks,” he said.He said that all resolutions will be considered on March 22 and 23, the last two days of the 46th Session.Gómez also said that the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet will table a report on Sri Lanka on Wednesday Feb 24 at the Council following which the country concerned will respond.

The core group of countries comprise Canada, Germany, North Macedonia, Malawi, Montenegro and the United Kingdom

The full text of the draft resolution is as follows –

46th Session of the Human Rights Council

Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka

Human Rights Council 46 Resolution L.1

Preambular Paragraphs,

PP1: Guided by purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, reaffirming the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and recalling the International Covenants on Human Rights and other relevant instruments,

PP2: Recalling Human Rights Council resolutions 19/2, 22/1 25/1, 30/1, 34/1 and 40/1 on promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka,

PP3: Reaffirming its commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka,

PP4: Reaffirming also that it is the primary responsibility of each State respect, to promote and fulfill human rights as well as to ensure the full enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms of its entire population,

PP5: Deploring the acts of terrorism which occurred in Sri Lanka in April 2019 leading to high numbers of injuries and deaths,

PP6: Acknowledging the holding of free and transparent democratic elections in November 2019 and August 2020,

Continue reading ‘Full Text of the Draft Resolution on Sri Lanka Comprising 15 Preambular and 16 Operational Clauses Tabled by Core Group of Countries at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva’ »

By Chandani Kirinde

The Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) that probed the Easter Day terror attacks has found enough evidence to hold former President Maithripala Sirisena guilty of “criminal liability” for his part in the acts or omissions which resulted in the tragedy.

The PCoI recommended that the Attorney General (AG) consider instituting criminal proceedings against the former President under any suitable provision in the Penal Code.

The Commission also recommended that the AG consider initiating criminal proceedings against former IGP Pujith Jayasundera, former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando, Senior DIG Nandana Munasinghe and DIG Deshabandu Tennekoon.

A copy of the report was sent to Parliament yesterday and kept in the MPs library for perusal. The Daily FT saw extracts of the conclusions and recommendations of the five-member commission.

Continue reading ‘Presidential Commission of Inquiry probing Easter Day terror attacks finds former President Maithripala Sirisena guilty of “criminal liability” for his acts of omissions;recommends that Attorney-General Consider Criminal Proceedings Under the Penal Code Against Ex-president’ »

By P.K.Balachandran

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunwardena told the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Tuesday that his country, which is being pilloried by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) for alleged war crimes had actually acted in self-defense against the depredations of a ruthless terrorist and separatist group.

“Nonetheless, hegemonic forces colluded against Sri Lanka in bringing an unsubstantiated resolution against Sri Lanka which was defeated by the support of friendly nations who remain by Sri Lanka’s side even today,” Gunawardena said addressing the High Level Segment of the 46th Session of the UN Human Rights Council using the video conferencing facility.

He appealed to the members of the Council to reject a baseless anti-Sri Lankan resolution which the Core Group on Sri Lanka is planning to table.

“Nonetheless, hegemonic forces colluded against Sri Lanka in bringing an unsubstantiated resolution against Sri Lanka which was defeated by the support of friendly nations who remain by Sri Lanka’s side even today,” Gunawardena said addressing the High Level Segment of the 46th Session of the UN Human Rights Council using the video conferencing facility.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena appeals to members of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva to reject a baseless anti-Sri Lankan resolution which the Core Group of Countries on Sri Lanka has tabled at the 46th Session of the UNHRC’ »

By

Meera Srinivasan

A Chinese firm, which had won the bid to execute a renewable energy project in Sri Lanka’s northern islands, has objected to “outrageous interference” by a “third party”, apparently referring to India voicing concern recently.

In a statement issued on Monday, Sinosoar-Etechwin Joint Venture said it learned from media reports that “a third party” had protested against Sri Lanka’s Cabinet decision clearing the project, on grounds of “so-called self-security”. “We firmly oppose any outrageous interference by any third party without legal and factual basis,” the firm said.

Continue reading ‘Chinese Firm Which Won Bid to Execute Renweable Energy Project in Delft, Nainatheevu and Analai Theevu Lashes Out at India for Protesting on Grounds of Security and Offering Outright Grant by Saying “We firmly oppose any outrageous interference by any third party without legal and factual basis.’ »

Attorneys-at-Law for prominent lawyer Hejaaz Hizbullah on Friday told the Fort Magistrate’s Court that the entire case against Hizbullah was “one big lie”.

“It’s a pure fabrication. They coerced children to make statements and even those statements they failed to get their facts right,” they said.

This was after Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris informed court that the Attorney General had decided to charge Hizbullah and the Principal of the Madrasa School under Section 2 (1) (h) of the Prevention of Terrorism Act and Section 3 (1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Peiris said that there was evidence that Zahran Hashim and the entire set of suicide bombers had visited the Madrasa, according to the statements made by children.

Continue reading ‘Counsel Niran Anketell Appearing on behalf of Attorney at Law Hejaaz Hizbullah Tells the Fort Magistrate’s Court that the entire case against the Prominent Lawyer was “one big lie”.’ »

The legacy and closure of Sri Lanka’s brutal civil war and the country’s complicated human rights record will take centre-stage as the 46th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) kicks off in Geneva today.(Feb 22)

Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunewardane will address the 46th Session of the Council during the ‘high-level segment’ on Wednesday between 1.30-4.30 p.m. local time via video conference, with coronavirus pandemic protocols put in place for the meeting.

Soon after the high-level segment, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet will deliver her oral report on Sri Lanka, followed by an interactive dialogue where Member States of the Council will weigh in on her appraisal.

Bachelet’s oral statement will be based on her scathing 17-page update on Sri Lanka’s compliance with previous UNHRC resolutions that urged the country to make good on post-war justice and reconciliation commitments.

The Council is likely to adopt a resolution on Sri Lanka at the conclusion of its month-long session which will end on 19 March. Calls are mounting internationally for the UNHRC to take decisive action on Sri Lanka, by way of a strong resolution at the end of the 46th Session.

In her report to the Council, High Commissioner Bachelet issued an early warning that Sri Lanka’s current trajectory sets the scene for a recurrence of grave human rights violations.

The UN Rights Chief has urged Member States of the UN to take swift preventative action on Sri Lanka to prevent a human rights calamity in the country, including the options of travel bans, targeted sanctions and asset freezes against alleged perpetrators of grave violations and atrocities.

Global human rights watchdogs have also sounded the alarm.

Continue reading ‘46th Session of UN Human Rights Council Commences in Geneva on Feb 22 with Resolution on Sri Lanka being Very Likely to be Adopted by Sessions End on March 19; Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardene to Address High Level Segment on Feb 24 After Which UN Human Rights Commissioner will Present Oral Report on Sri Lanka Followed by Interactive Dialogue on Lanka’ »

By

Meera Srinivasan

A day after Sri Lanka’s Minister of Energy remarked that the government would “re-acquire” World War-era oil tanks in the eastern city of Trincomalee — which were leased out to an Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) subsidiary in 2003 — India said the bilateral understanding on jointly developing and operating the tank farm stood.

“The two governments have consulted each other to explore mutually acceptable modalities for jointly developing and operating the facility in accordance with existing bilateral understandings, including the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of 2017,” a statement from the Indian mission here said, denying reports in “sections of media” that the old deal was “scrapped”.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan Energy Minister Says Govt would “re-acquire” oil tanks in Trincomalee leased out to an Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) subsidiary but India says the bilateral understanding on jointly developing and operating the tank farm sill stands.’ »

Attorney-at-Law Hejaaz Hizbullah and the Principal of Madrasa School Mohammed Shakeel were remanded till 3 March by Colombo Fort Magistrate Priyantha Liyanage yesterday.

The two were produced before the Magistrate on the directive of the Attorney General to face charges under the PTA and the ICCPR Act.

Deputy Solicitor General Dileep Peiris informed the Magistrate that the suspects were involved in imparting extremist teachings at a religious school in Puttalam and this school had links to those involved in the Easter Sunday terror attacks.

Continue reading ‘Attorney-at-Law Hejaaz Hizbullah and Madrasa School Principal Mohammed Shakeel remanded till 3 March by Colombo Fort Magistrate Priyantha Liyanage; face charges under section 2 (1) (h) of the PTA, section 3(1) of the ICCPR Act and Section 102 and 113 (a) of the Penal Code.’ »

By Chandani Kirinde

Attorney General Dappula de Livera yesterday directed the CID to name detained attorney Hejaaz Omar Hizbullah as a suspect and produce him before a Magistrate to face charges under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the ICCPR Act, as well as charges of conspiracy under the Penal Code.

Hizbullah will face charges under section 2 (1) (h) of the PTA, section 3(1) of the ICCPR Act and Section 102 and 113 (a) of the Penal Code, Coordinating officer to the AG State Counsel Nishara Jayaratne said.

She said that the AG’s directive came after perusal of the investigation reports submitted by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to the AG.

Continue reading ‘Attorney- General Dappula de Livera Directs CID to name detained attorney Hejaaz Omar Hizbullah as a suspect and produce him in Courts to face charges under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the ICCPR Act, as well as charges of conspiracy under the Penal Code.’ »

By Uditha Jayasinghe

The Government yesterday said talks with India on development of the Upper Oil Tank Farm in Trincomalee had concluded with both sides agreeing to manage them via a partnership between Lanka IOC and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), with the latter being the majority shareholder.

Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila speaking at an event at the CPC’s Kolonnawa storage terminal, praised India for being flexible on the stipulations put forward by the Sri Lankan Government and agreeing to a joint venture that would see Sri Lanka regaining the tanks that were given to Lanka IOC nearly two decades ago.

The talks on the oil tanks, which closely followed Sri Lanka’s controversial decision on the East Container Terminal (ECT), were held with Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay. Minister Gammanpila said Baglay’s stance was praiseworthy, as India was willing to venture beyond the terms outlined in an agreement with the former Government in 2017.

“The talks concluded last Sunday and they were to Sri Lanka’s advantage. We will soon re-acquire the Trincomalee oil tanks and they will be managed and developed under a company jointly held by the CPC and Lanka IOC. The CPC will be the majority shareholder. We will work very cordially with Lanka IOC on this venture,” Gammanpila told the gathering.

Continue reading ‘Energy Minister Gammanpila Says New Joint Venture Project Will Enable Sri Lanka to Regain Trincomalee Oil Tanks Given to India two Decades Ago but Indian High Commission Spokesma in Colombo is Cautiously Non – Committal about A any Agreement Being Reached’ »

By Shamindra Ferdinando

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s Office yesterday (15) strongly denied a claim by former US Ambassador for War Crimes and Global Criminal Justice Stephen Rapp (2009-2015) that wartime Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa had admitted to killing LTTE leaders following their surrender to the Army in 2009. Rapp claimed Rajapaksa had told him so when he met the latter in Colombo.

There was absolutely no basis for Rapp’s claim, the President’s Office said when The Island sought President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s response to the former Ambassador’s accusation. The President’s Office questioned the former US official’s motive to make such a statement seven years after leaving office.

The allegation was made on Friday (12) at an online panel discussion organised by a group of organizations targeting Sri Lanka led by the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) on Justice and rule of law in the run-up to the 46th sessions of the Geneva-based United Nations Human Rights Council. Rapp recalled a conversation with the then Defence Secretary and now President Gotabaya Rajapaksa regarding LTTE leaders who surrendered to the army. Rapp said the government “hated the LTTE”.

“I remember raising this issue with defence secretary Gotabaya, now President Rajapaksa when I was there,” Rapp said at the webinar.

“I remember the defence secretary saying, “Oh, trials, trials, you know they go on so long and people get off”. And then he said, “I killed them, I killed them, I killed them,” Rapp recalled.

Continue reading ‘President Rajapaksa’s Office Strongly Denies Allegation by Ex- US Ambassador for War Crimes and Global Criminal Justice Stephen Rapp that Gotabaya as Def Secy had admitted to Killing LTTE Surrendees saying ““I killed them, I killed them, I killed them,”’ »

The UN’s failure to act on Sri Lanka could spur a global pandemic of impunity, former top UN officials and human rights experts warned during a widely publicised webinar last week, ahead of a key Human Rights Council session in Geneva.

A webinar titled Sri Lanka: Quest for Justice, Rule of Law and Democratic Rights was held on 12 February. It was co-hosted by the Global Tamil Forum, the Centre for Human Rights and Global Justice of the New York University, the Sri Lanka Campaign for Peace and Justice and the Canadian Tamil Congress. In addition to Sri Lankan activists and politicians, the webinar featured pre-eminent global experts on human rights and transitional justice including the former UN Special Rapporteur on transitional justice, Pablo de Greiff.

All of the international experts cautioned against pinning hope on the United Nations to achieve justice and reconciliation in Sri Lanka and advocated for systems and institutional structures to be put in place that would foster a reckoning with Sri Lanka’s legacy of war, and prevent a recurrence of violence.

Continue reading ‘UN’s failure to act on Sri Lanka could spur a global pandemic of impunity Warn Former Top UN and US Officials During 150 Minute Webinar titled Sri Lanka: Quest for Justice, Rule of Law and Democratic Rights Watched World -Wide on 12 February.’ »

(The Following remarks are Extracted from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech in Chennai on 14 February 2021.He was speaking at the inauguration/handing over/laying of Foundation Stone of various projects of Chennai.)

Friends,

Our Government has always taken care of the welfare and aspirations of our Tamil brothers and sisters in Sri Lanka.It is my honour to have been the only Indian PM to visit Jaffna.

Through development works we are ensuring welfare of Sri Lanka’s Tamil community.

The resources given by our Government for Tamils have been much more than in the past.

Continue reading ‘Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Speaking in the Tamil Nadu State Capital Chennai Reiterates that India is always committed to ensuring that the Tamils in Sri Lanka live with equality, justice peace and dignity’ »

By Damith Wickremasekara

Sri Lanka will next week sign an agreement with China’s Central Bank — the People’s Bank of China — for a swap arrangement amounting to US$ 1.5 billion.

The move came as the Government is looking at measures to bridge the gap of another US$ 1 billion. The Sri Lankan Central bank was expecting this from India, but it is now unlikely, a senior Central Bank official said.

Under the swap arrangement with China, the funds are expected to be made use of to maintain the foreign reserves and for imports from China, the official said.

The money is to be paid back within three and half years.

A currency swap is a transaction in which two parties exchange an equivalent amount of money with each other but in different currencies. The parties are essentially loaning each other money and will repay the amounts at a specified date and exchange rate.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka will next week sign an agreement with China for a Currency swap arrangement amounting to US$ 1.5 billion to be paid back within three and half years..’ »

By The “Sunday Times” Political Editor

Sri Lanka has hit back at the United Nations Human Rights High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet’s latest report calling for targeted sanctions, saying it is based on “speculative, presumptive and unsubstantiated opinions.”

It came in a 30-page response to her report which called for targeted sanctions — asset freezes, travel bans and the reference to International Criminal Court of those responsible for violating human rights and international human rights laws. For this purpose, the UN agency wants governments to use “extraterritorial or universal jurisdiction.” There is not a semblance of evidence, it asserted.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka hits back at United Nations Human Rights High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet’s 17 page report with a 30 page Response saying UN Human Rights Chief’s is based on “speculative, presumptive and unsubstantiated opinions.”’ »

By Sandun Jayawardana

Not often does a Government make a complete fool of its own leaders but the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) did that in spectacularly farcical fashion this week by embarrassing Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa over the controversial “cremation only” policy for COVID-19 dead.

The bizarre saga unfolded in Parliament after Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Colombo District MP S.M. Marikkar raised a point of order on Wednesday to draw the House’s attention to an answer given by COVID Control State Minister Sudarshini Fernandopulle the day before. Mr Marikkar reminded that the State Minister had stated that there was no evidence that COVID-19 was transmitted through groundwater. If that was the case, Mr. Marikkar wanted to know whether the Government would allow the burial of COVID-19 victims.

The Government has repeatedly cited fears of groundwater pollution as the main reason why it does not permit the burial of those who die of COVID-19.

Continue reading ‘Ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna Embarrasses Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa over the controversial “Cremation Only” policy for COVID-19 dead issue’ »

By

Yohan Perera

Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith today said he will be compelled to call for a probe by an international court over the Easter Sunday attacks, if justice is not meted out to victims of the mayhem and their families.

Cardinal Ranjith told a press conference that he is not satisfied with the investigations carried out by some, including the CID.

Continue reading ‘Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith Warns he will be Compelled to Call for a Probe by an International Court if Justice is not Meted out to the Victims of The Easter Bombing Carnage; Catholic Prelate Says he is not satisfied with the investigations carried out by some, including the CID.’ »

There was confusion in Parliament yesterday over the Government’s position regarding its policy on mandatory cremation of COVID-19 victims after State Minister of Primary Health Services, Pandemics and COVID Prevention Sudharshini Fernandopulle, said that the decision on the matter would be made by a technical committee that comes under the Ministry of Health.

“The Health Ministry does not take personal decisions on policy matter, but it is done through a technical committee. We have to present this to the technical committee, and we will have to act according to their decision,” Fernandopulle said, a day after Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa told the House that the Government would allow burials. The State Minister made the remark after SJB MP Mujibur Rahuman asked when the government was planning to issue the Gazette notification revoking its cremation-only policy.

Following Fernandopulle’s comments SJB MP Rauff Hakeem questioned as to who in the “so-called” expert committee was blocking this.

Continue reading ‘Though Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa Stated Burials of COVID Victims Will be Permitted, State Minister Dr. Sudharshini Fernandopulle Says the decision on the matter would be made by a technical committee that comes under the Ministry of Health.’ »

By Saman Indrajith

Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena yesterday announced that TNA parliamentarian M. A. Sumanthiran’s complaint that he had been wrongly accused of evading sessions of the Presidential Commission of inquiry into political victimisation would be referred to the Parliamentary Committee on Ethics and Privileges.

The Speaker said that a motion could be permitted to refer to the privilege matter raised by MP Sumanthiran on Nov 28, 2020.

Continue reading ‘“It is wrong to describe our attempt to restore security of MP Sumanthiran as an attempt to give security to a terrorist. Then what about the security accorded to Karuna Amman and Pillayan? Who is Pillayan? Sumanthiran was always against terrorism. It is unfair for you to lump him with the terrorists.”- Field Marshall Sarath Fonseka’ »

By Uditha Jayasinghe

The Wages Board yesterday approved the Rs. 1,000 daily wage for the plantation sector, ending nearly two years of dragging discussions between Regional Plantation Companies (RPCs) and trade unions, clearing the way for the Labour Minister to gazette the salary increase within a week.

Labour Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva speaking to reporters on Monday afternoon hailed the breakthrough, which came after a marathon discussion lasting several hours between the RPCs and unions. He also said steps would be taken to gazette the decision before next Monday.

Since the issue could not be resolved amicably during the Wages Board meeting, Labour Commissioner General Prabath Chandrakeerthi had called for a vote and the salary increase had carried, receiving 11 votes in favour from Wages Board members with nine against.

Continue reading ‘Wages Board Takes Historic Decision with 11 to 9 Majority Vote to Approve Rupees 1000 Daily Wage for Plantation Workers Consisting of Rs 900 Basic Salary and Rs 100 Budgetary Allowance.’ »

By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan

The STF personnel providing security for TNA MP M.A. Sumanthiran had been withdrawn last Sunday (7) evening.

Sumanthiran said, no reasons have been given to him prior to the move. He claimed, the security officers informed him they have been recalled from duty.

The MP participated in the four-day ‘Pottuvil to Polikandy’ protest parade with several other Tamil politicians and civil society members.

Continue reading ‘Special Task Force Personnel Providing Security to TNA Jaffna District Parliamentarian MA Sumanthiran Withdrawn rom February 7th 2021 Without Prior Notice Being Given’ »

The Biden administration is set to announce this week that it will reengage with the much-maligned U.N. Human Rights Council that former President Donald Trump withdrew from almost three years ago, U.S. officials said Sunday. The decision reverses another Trump-era move away from multilateral organizations and agreements.

U..S. officials say Secretary of State Antony Blinken and a senior U.S. diplomat in Geneva will announce on Monday that Washington will return to the Geneva-based body as an observer with an eye toward seeking election as a full member. The decision is likely to draw criticism from conservative lawmakers and many in the pro-Israel community.

Continue reading ‘USA Under President Joe Biden will Re-engage with the Geneva based UN Human Rights Council as an Observer now and Re-enter UNHRC as a Full Member in Due Course’ »

By

PADMA RAO SUNDARJI

The row has intensified and diplomatic relations have frayed ever since Sri Lanka unilaterally cancelled an agreement with India and Japan over the East Container Terminal (ECT) of Colombo port.

Now, a Sri Lankan minister has added a new twist to the controversy by claiming that the main Indian investor, the Adani Group, has itself indicated that it would be willing to put its money in the West Container Terminal (WCT), since it could be a better commercial prospect.

“We were on the verge of a national crisis because trade unions were threatening a national strike, if the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the ECT is not cancelled,” said Nalaka Godahewa, state minister for urban development.

“We asked them (Adani Group and its local partner John Keells) for other options. They themselves asked us whether we could look at WCT, but, with the same equity ratio (85%:15%) that was given to China to develop the Colombo Cargo Container Terminal (CCIT) of the port. Commercially, it would be a better option, they said.”

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan minister Godahewa says Adani Group offered to invest in West Container Terminal, as a ‘commercially better option’, but with the same equity ratio (85%/15%) given to China at CCIT.’ »

(Text of Editorial Appearing in “The Hindu” of February 6th 2021 under the Heading “Terminal declined: On Sri Lanka reneging on Colombo East Container Terminal”)

India and Japan are important donors, and Sri Lanka must try and salvage the ECT deal

The Rajapaksa government’s decision to overturn Sri Lanka’s tripartite agreement to develop Colombo’s East Container Terminal is a setback to India and Japan. The project, worth an estimated $500-$700 million, was a key marker for infrastructure investment in the island nation where Chinese projects are most prominent. More than two-thirds of trans-shipment at this port is tied to India, making it an important trade and connectivity link.

Continue reading ‘It is primarily in Colombo’s Interest to find a compromise formula to salvage The East Coast Terminal deal With India and Japan that has far-reaching consequences for the region-“The Hindu”’ »

By

Meera Srinivasan

The site’s proximity to the Indian coastline can be a cause for concern
Sri Lanka’s recent decision to pull out of the East Container Terminal (ECT) deal with India and Japan is not the only challenge to New Delhi’s interests emerging this year.

“Hybrid A week before reneging on the 2019 Colombo Port terminal agreement, Sri Lanka cleared a Chinese energy project in three islands off Jaffna peninsula that are barely 50 km from the Tamil Nadu coast.

On January 18, the Cabinet approved a proposal to involve Sinosoar-Etechw in Joint Venture in China to install ‘hybrid renewable energy systems’ in Nainativu, Delft or Neduntheevu, and Analaitivu, located in the Palk Bay. The islands are connected to the Jaffna peninsula by a limited ferry service, managed mostly by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Continue reading ‘“Concerns Raised”By India Over Sri Lankan Govt Approving Proposal to install “Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems” in Joint Venture With “Sinosoar-Etechw”of China in Three Northern Islands Located 50 Km Away From Tamil Nadu Coast’ »

By S. Rubatheesan

India has lodged a strong protest with Sri Lanka on the award of a tender to a Chinese company to set up three renewable energy projects in outlying islands off the Jaffna peninsula.

The protest, the Sunday Times learnt, came even before the Cabinet of Ministers decided not to give India and Japan the East Container Terminal in the Colombo Port. This also provoked a strong protest from India.

The protest was triggered by the Department of Information releasing the decisions of the Cabinet. The renewable energy project was approved by the Cabinet on January 18.

Continue reading ‘India Lodges Strong Protest Raising Security Concerns Over Three Renewable Energy Projects in the Northern Islands of Neduntheevu(Delft), Nainatheevu and Analaitheevu Being Given to Chinese Company by Sri Lanka Despite their Proximity to the Indian Coast’ »

By

Meera Srinivasan

In a flurry of meetings a day after Sri Lanka backed out of an agreement with India and Japan, to develop the East Container Terminal (ECT) at the Colombo Port, Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay met President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on Tuesday, official sources told The Hindu.

The thrust of the Indian envoy’s message to the Sri Lankan leadership, sources said, was that Colombo must adhere to its commitments in the tripartite agreement of May 2019, to jointly develop the strategic terminal with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) holding 51 % stakes, and India and Japan, holding 49 % together. The Adani Group from India, along with Japanese companies, was to invest in the project expected to cost upto $700 million, as per official estimates.

Continue reading ‘Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay in successive Meetings with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena Urges Sri Lanka to Adhere to its Commitments Stipulated in the Tripartite Agreement of May 2019 Between Sri Lanka, India and Japan’ »

By

Suhasini Haidar and Meera Srinivasan

Two days after Sri Lanka decided to scrap a 2019 agreement with India and Japan for operating the East Coast Terminal (ECT), Japan says the decision was “unilateral and regrettable.” Japan’s Ambassador Akira Sugiyama also met with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena to discuss the issue on Wednesday, after a flurry of meetings between the Indian High Commissioner to Colombo Gopal Baglay and the top leadership of Sri Lanka, including Mr. Gunawardena, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa to protest the decision. The ECT project was expected to showcase India-Japan cooperation in a part of South Asia, where Chinese infrastructure projects have been prominent.

In Delhi, an official of the Japanese Embassy said the Japanese government was “looking into the details” of the announcement made by Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa after a Cabinet meeting on Monday.

Continue reading ‘Japan says the decision by Sri Lanka to scrap a 2019 agreement with India and Japan for operating the East Coast Terminal (ECT),is “unilateral and regrettable”’ »

On the heels of an unprecedented appeal filed in the Supreme Court, lawyers for SJB MP Ranjan Ramanayake filed an application in the Court of Appeal on Monday (1) seeking a Writ of Prohibition against the Secretary General of Parliament, to prevent the official from filling his seat in the legislature.

Ramanayake is also seeking interim relief from the Court of Appeal restraining the Secretary General of Parliament from filling his parliamentary seat until a hearing and final determination is made on his petition before court.

Continue reading ‘Lawyers for SJB MP Ranjan Ramanayake file an application in the Court of Appeal seeking a Writ of Prohibition against the Secretary General of Parliament to prevent the official from filling his seat in the legislature until a hearing and final determination is made on his petition before the Supreme court..’ »

Convicted actor-politician Ranjan Ramanayake’s lawyers have filed a historic appeal in the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka using provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)that guarantee every person convicted of a crime, the right to appeal.

The appeal filed on Monday (1) cites the petitioner in Ramanayake’s contempt case Ranawaka Sunil Perera as ‘petitioner respondent’ and makes the Attorney General a respondent.

Ramanayake’s appeal before the Supreme Court hinges on a provision in the ICCPR Act No. 56 enacted by Parliament in 2007, which stipulates that every person convicted of a criminal offence is entitled to an appeal against his conviction in a higher court.

Continue reading ‘Convicted actor-politician Ranjan Ramanayake’s lawyers have filed a historic appeal in the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka Seeking a Review of the Decision by a Three-Judge Bench of the Supreme Court by a Larger Divisional Bench of the Apex Court’ »

By

Meera Srinivasan

Reneging on a 2019 agreement with India and Japan, Sri Lanka has decided to develop the strategic East Container Terminal (ECT) at the Colombo Port on its own.

The Sri Lankan government would instead offer the West Container Terminal to India for possible investments, a senior government source told The Hindu.

The decision was taken at Monday’s Cabinet meeting helmed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, when members “unanimously” agreed to proposals submitted by the Minister of Ports and Shipping, the source said.

It comes amid mounting pressure from Port union workers against any foreign role or investment in the ECT project, where nearly 70% of the transhipment business is linked to India.

Asked about the development, a senior Indian source said: “We would hope that Sri Lanka does not unilaterally decide on this matter, as there is a tripartite agreement on it.”

For New Delhi, the strategic ECT project in Colombo has been high on priority.

It has figured in talks at the highest levels, including when External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited in January. A week after his visit, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa told agitating Port worker unions that the Adani Group – Government of India’s nominee – would invest in the terminal, and that the Terminal would not be “sold or leased” to any foreign entity, signalling that his government was taking forward the 2019 Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC).

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan Cabinet Unanimously Decides to Abrogate Tripartite Agreement With India and Japan on the Strategic Sri Lankan Harbour East Coast Terminal Development Project Despite Nearly 70% of Port’s Transhiment Business Being Linked to India.’ »

The Sri Lankan Envoy to the United Nations in New York unprecedently raised the country’s human rights issues at the UN General Assembly last Thursday (28 January), charging that defeated terrorists were using international rights mechanisms to unleash a different kind of terrorism, a serious broadside to the Geneva-based Human Rights Council.

In his maiden address to the General Assembly, Pieris, a former controversial Chief Justice, appeared to question whether a recent report on Sri Lanka by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet was an “exercise in regime change”.

“It appears today that vanquished terror groups and terrorism is making use of very civilised mechanisms to unleash a different kind of terrorism. To walk themselves into the very mechanism that protects a civilised world,” Ambassador Pieris said, alluding to the United Nations and its instruments, such as the Human Rights Council based in Geneva.

“Should our mandates extend to interfering with local processes such as perhaps an exercise in a change of regime which is being critiqued in a recent report from the human rights council?” Ambassador Pieris asked the General Assembly.

Continue reading ‘UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Rebukes Sri Lankas UN Envoy Mohan Pieris at UN interactive Session in New York saying “If the(Sri Lankan) Govt and its people took the need for reconciliation and accountability seriously, it would reduce the interest of other entities to directly involve themselves in those issues’ »

By

Rebecca Ratcliffe South-east Asia correspondent, and Guardian staff in Yangon

Myanmar’s army has taken control of the country in an apparent coup and declared a state of emergency, hours after it detained Aung San Suu Kyi and other senior figures from the ruling party.

Phone and mobile internet services in Yangon were down on Monday morning and military trucks, one carrying barbed-wire barriers, were parked outside City Hall. State-run MRTV television said it had been unable to broadcast.
Military television later reported that the army had taken control of the country for one year, with power handed to commander-in-chief General Min Aung Hlaing. It said the army had detained senior government leaders in response to fraud during last year’s general election.

The military’s actions brought swift condemnation from leaders and human rights experts around the world.

US president Joe Biden’s press secretary, Jen Psaki, said in a statement: “The United States opposes any attempt to alter the outcome of recent elections or impede Myanmar’s democratic transition, and will take action against those responsible if these steps are not reversed.”

US secretary of state Antony Blinken called for the release Aung San Suu Kyi and other detainees, and said the US expressed “grave concern and alarm” over reports of the detention of government officials and civil society leaders.

Continue reading ‘Military Seizes Control of Myanmar(Burma)in Coup Alleging Fraud in Last Year’s Elections;Aung Sa Sun Kyi and Other Senior Ruling Party Leaders Detained; Power Transferred to Army Commander-in-chief Min Aung Hlaing; Emergency Declared’ »

By Nisthar Cassim

Dissent over the deal on East Container Terminal (ECT) in the Colombo Port has erupted, triggering likely economic, political and diplomatic fallout for Sri Lanka as the Government and officials were busy devising an amicable way out of the crisis.

Trade unions have refused to give up their demand that the Government must abandon the tripartite governments-to-governments deal involving Sri Lanka, India and Japan. Politically, the members of the Government too are divided whilst the private sector and shipping industry though mere bystanders are watching the under currents over ECT with serious concern.

As per the Memorandum of Cooperation signed by the three countries in mid-2018, the agreement was to develop ECT via Terminal Operations Company consisting of operators/investors from the three countries on the basis of 51% owned by Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) and the rest by private sector from the three countries.

Following competitive bidding conducted during the Yahapalanaya Government, the consortium of Adani, India’s largest private sector operator of Port terminals, its local partner John Keells Holdings (JKH) and Japanese investors were selected.

Following the election of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his Government on the promise among others that no State asset would be sold to foreigners, the SLPA in October last year rushed to operationalise, a partly completed ECT with an investment of around $ 80-100 million.

However with Indo-Lanka ties gathering new momentum in tandem with China’s own sustained vigour, the tripartite deal on ECT resurfaced sparking protest from trade unions.

Continue reading ‘Crisis Caused by Opposition to tripartite govts-to-govts deal involving Sri Lanka, India and Japan Regarding East Container Terminal (ECT) in the Colombo Port is likely to result in economic, political and diplomatic fallout for Sri Lanka’ »

(Excerpts from the Political Column By the Political Editor in the “Sunday Times” of January 31st 2021)

A head-on confrontation between the Government and the UN system has become inevitable, judging from the latest report of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The UNHRC Report calls upon member states to refer the situation in Sri Lanka to the International Criminal Court (ICC), resort to; “actively pursue extraterritorial or universal jurisdiction” and “prosecute “international crimes committed by all parties in Sri Lanka”. It has also called for “targeted sanctions, such as asset freezes and travel ban against State officials and other actors credibly alleged to have committed or be responsible for grave human rights violations or abuses.”

Hard on the heels of the Report on Sri Lanka, making matters worse for the Government, is that the UN High Commissioner’s Office has resorted to sensitising the world (on the Report) through a video campaign. It seems to be a new manner in publicising a country situation report. It is based on visuals of the separatist war, highlights the “suffering” of civilians and calls for support to enforce human rights. Does one need to say anything more that the odds are being stacked against Sri Lanka?

Continue reading ‘President Rajapaksa Angered by “Unprecedented and Unconventional” Report on Sri Lanka by UN Human Rights High Commissioner: Strong Reply Sent to UNHRC Through Envoy in Geneva C.A. Chandraprema;Gota to Personally Speak to Leaders of 47 UNHRC Member States and Explain Position.’ »

The first consignment of 500,000 doses of COVID–19 vaccines donated by the Government of India was officially received by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa yesterday, marking a breakthrough in the country’s fight against the pandemic that has gripped the world.

The handover, following the arrival of the air freighted vaccine at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), was by the Indian High Commissioner Dr. Gopal Baglay, reflecting sound bonds of neighbourly ties and goodwill between India and Sri Lanka.

The vaccine doses were donated to Sri Lanka following a request made by the President to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to use among frontline health workers. India branded the donation as ‘VaccineMaitri.’

Continue reading ‘President Gotabaya Rajapaksa receives first batch of the 500,000 doses of Oxford-AstraZeneca COVISHELD vaccine donated by India from Indian High Commissioner Dr.Gopal Baglay in “VaccineMaithri” Handover Ceremony at Katunayake airport’ »

(Text of Press Release Issued by the Human Rights Watch on January 29, 2021)

The United Nations Human Rights Council, at its upcoming session, should act on the recommendations of the UN high commissioner for human rights, Human Rights Watch said today. The council should adopt a new resolution to enhance scrutiny of Sri Lanka’s deteriorating human rights situation and pursue accountability for past and recent violations.

In her report released on January 27, 2021, High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said she was “alarmed” by Sri Lanka’s deteriorating human rights situation and set out steps that the Human Rights Council should take to confront the growing risk of future violations. Since the government of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has withdrawn its support for the 2015 consensus resolution seeking justice and reconciliation, and shown general disregard for upholding basic human rights, the council should act to protect those most at risk and advance accountability for grave international crimes, Human Rights Watch said.

“The UN high commissioner’s report highlights Sri Lanka’s egregious record of complete impunity for appalling crimes, and very disturbing developments under the Rajapaksa administration,” said John Fisher, Geneva director at Human Rights Watch. “The Human Rights Council has given Sri Lanka every opportunity to address these issues over many years, and now greater international involvement is needed to help protect vulnerable groups and hold those responsible for grave international crimes to account.”

Continue reading ‘“The UN High Commissioner’s report highlights Sri Lanka’s egregious record of complete impunity for appalling crimes, and very disturbing developments under the Rajapaksa administration” -Human Rights Watch’ »

(Text of a Press Release Issued by the Canadian Tamil Congress on January 2(th 2021)

The Canadian Tamil Congress (CTC) strongly welcomes the report by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on Sri Lanka and calls for immediate and effective actions from the Canadian government to address its recommendations.

This highly critical report lists Sri Lanka’s litany of failures – both related to the current human rights situation, as well as the commitments made by Sri Lanka to address serious international crimes committed during the war that ended in 2009.

Continue reading ‘Canadian Tamil Congress welcomes the OHCHR Report on Sri Lanka and calls for timely response from the Canadian Government.’ »

(Text of Press Release Issued by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on January 27th Regarding the UN Report on Sri Lanka by UN Human Rights High Commissioner Ms. Michele Bachelet Titled “Sri Lanka on alarming path towards recurrence of grave human rights violations”)

A new UN report published on Wednesday warns that the failure of Sri Lanka to address past violations has significantly heightened the risk of human rights violations being repeated. It highlights worrying trends over the past year, such as deepening impunity, increasing militarization of governmental functions, ethno-nationalist rhetoric, and intimidation of civil society.

Nearly 12 years after the armed conflict in Sri Lanka ended, impunity for grave human rights violations and abuses by all sides is more entrenched than ever, with the current Government proactively obstructing investigations and trials, and reversing the limited progress that had been previously made, states the report, mandated by UN Human Rights Council resolution 40/1.
The report urges enhanced monitoring and strong preventive action by the international community, warning that “Sri Lanka’s current trajectory sets the scene for the recurrence of the policies and practices that gave rise to grave human rights violations.”

Among the early warning signals the report highlights are: the accelerating militarization of civilian governmental functions, reversal of important constitutional safeguards, political obstruction of accountability, exclusionary rhetoric, intimidation of civil society, and the use of anti-terrorism laws.

Continue reading ‘“Given the demonstrated inability and unwillingness of the (Sri Lankan) Government to advance accountability at the national level, it is time for international action to ensure justice for international crimes” States UN Human Rights High Commissioner Michele Bachelet in UN Report on Sri Lanka Released to Public’ »

By

Kelum Bandara

U.S. Ambassador Alaina B. Teplitz, who commented on the development of the East Container Terminal of Colombo Port, said the involvement of an Indian company in this exercise was essential for Sri Lanka’s maritime future, obviously with India being the beneficiary of Sri Lanka’s port facilities or rather transshipment activities.

She said it was important to have the private sector involvement in this case, and Sri Lanka could look for the best in its economic arrangement.

She made these remarks during a virtual round-table discussion with a group of journalists.

Continue reading ‘US Ambassador Alaina B.Teplitz Urges Sri Lankan Govt to Come Up come up with a meaningful plan at the next session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)’ »

(Text of a Press Release Issued by the International Human Rights Organization Amnesty International)

The UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) must take urgent steps to address the worsening human rights situation in Sri Lanka Amnesty International said today, following the release of a damning UN report on the country’s efforts to ensure accountability for crimes committed during the civil conflict.

Almost 12 years on from the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war, the report, from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), warns that the Sri Lanka’s persistent failure to address historic crimes is giving way to ‘clear early warning signs of a deteriorating human rights situation and a significantly heightened risk of future violations.’

Continue reading ‘Amnesty International Wants UK to Take Lead in Getting the UNHRC to Pass a Strong Resolution Against Sri Lanka Urging Full Implementation of Key Proposals in UN Human Rights Commissioner Michele Bachelet’s Report’ »

By Asiri Fernando

A level playing field and working with diverse partners could see more beneficial foreign investment come in to Sri Lanka, US Ambassador for Sri Lanka and Maldives Alaina B. Teplitz said yesterday.

The US Ambassador made the comments at a roundtable discussion held online, the first such discussion since the Biden administration took office in Washington. Teplitz said that in spite of change in administration in Washington, the US remains committed to enduring polices on democratic values, free and open navigation of the Indo-Pacific and economic progress.

Continue reading ‘“The US believes partnerships between countries should be open, transparent and mutually beneficial. And, if this is what embodies Sri Lanka’s relationship with China, we continue to encourage it,” – US Ambassador Alaina B. Teplitz’ »

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet has expressed strong criticism of the prevailing human rights situation in Sri Lanka and urged member states of the United Nations Human Rights Council to consider imposing punitive measures on the country including a referral to the International Criminal Court.

The UN Human Rights Commissioner has also suggested that member states of the 47 member UN Human Rights Council could actively pursue investigation and prosecution of international crimes committed by all parties in Sri Lanka before their own national courts, including under the principles of extraterritorial or universal jurisdiction.

The UN Human Rights Chief has further recommended targeted sanctions by member states such as asset freezes and travel bans against State officials and other actors credibly alleged to have committed or be responsible for grave human rights violations or abuses in Sri Lanka.

The Human Rights Commissioner has outlined these proposed measures in a 17 page report prepared ahead of the forty-sixth session of the UNHRC from February 22 to March 19, 2021. Copies have been sent to the Sri Lankan Govt which is expected to make its response on or after January 27th 2021.

Continue reading ‘UN Human Rights Chief Michelle Bachelet Comes Down Hard on Sri Lanka in Report to the UNHRC; Proposes Referral to International Criminal Court, Invocation of Universal Jurisdiction for Crimes and Targeted Sanctions Such as Asset Freezes and Travel Bans Against Alleged Human Rights Violators’ »

(Text of Press Statement issued on January 21st 2021 in New Delhi by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs Regarding the incident involving loss of lives of Indian fishermen)

We are shocked at the unfortunate loss of lives of three Indian fishermen and one Sri Lankan national following a collision between their vessel and a Sri Lankan naval craft.

Continue reading ‘Four Persons Aboard Indian Fishing Boat Killed in Mid Sea Collision with Sri Lankan Navy Vessel: Strong Demarche Issued by External Affairs Ministry to Sri Lankan Acting High Commissioner in New Delhi; Indian Envoy Lodges Strong Protest to Sri Lankan Foreign Minister in Colombo’ »

The apolitical National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) Chairman Karu Jayasuriya said yesterday that the failure on the part of the Government to explain the massive fraud of Rs. 10 billion that had allegedly taken place due to the cut in the sugar tax was a serious blow to the confidence that the people of this country had in the President.

Addressing a press conference, Jayasuriya said the Chairman of a Government institution who resigned recently was suspected of being either involved in or aiding such a massive fraud but he still continued to head another institution which comes under the purview of the President.

Continue reading ‘Allegations About a Massive 10 Billion Rupee Sugar Tax Cut Fraud and the Govt’s Failure to Offer an Explanation Could Tarnish the Reputation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Says Former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya’ »

By Chandani Kirinde

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has appointed a three-member commission to identify the findings of the preceding Commissions and Committees that probed human rights violations and what progress has been made in the implementation of their recommendations in terms of the existing law and what further steps need to be taken in line with the present Government policy.

The Commission is headed by Supreme Court Justice A.H.M.D. Nawaz and its other members are Retired Inspector General of Police Chandra Fernando and Retired District Secretary Nimal Abeysiri.

The Gazette notification appointing the Commission was issued last night under the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) Act by Secretary to the President P.B. Jayasundera.

Continue reading ‘President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Appoints three-member commission to Probe findings of the preceding Commissions and Committees that probed human rights violations and identify what progress has been made in the implementation of their recommendations in terms of the existing law.’ »

(Text of Inaugural Address by US President Joe R Biden on January 20th 2021)

Chief Justice Roberts, Vice-President Harris, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer, Leader McConnell, Vice-President Pence. My distinguished guests, my fellow Americans.

This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope, of renewal and resolve. Through a crucible for the ages, America has been tested a new and America has risen to the challenge. Today we celebrate the triumph not of a candidate but of a cause, a cause of democracy. The people – the will of the people – has been heard, and the will of the people has been heeded.

We’ve learned again that democracy is precious, democracy is fragile and, at this hour my friends, democracy has prevailed. So now on this hallowed ground where just a few days ago violence sought to shake the Capitol’s very foundations, we come together as one nation under God – indivisible – to carry out the peaceful transfer of power as we have for more than two centuries.
As we look ahead in our uniquely American way, restless, bold, optimistic, and set our sights on a nation we know we can be and must be, I thank my predecessors of both parties. I thank them from the bottom of my heart. And I know the resilience of our Constitution and the strength, the strength of our nation, as does President Carter, who I spoke with last night who cannot be with us today, but who we salute for his lifetime of service.

I’ve just taken a sacred oath each of those patriots have taken. The oath first sworn by George Washington. But the American story depends not on any one of us, not on some of us, but on all of us. On we the people who seek a more perfect union. This is a great nation, we are good people. And over the centuries through storm and strife in peace and in war we’ve come so far. But we still have far to go.

Continue reading ‘“And I pledge this to you. I will be a President for all Americans, all Americans. And I promise you I will fight for those who did not support me as for those who did.”-46th US President Joe R. Biden jnr’ »

(Text of Intervention made in Parliament by TNA Jaffna District Parliamentarian MA Sumanthiran regarding Ranjan Ramanayake MP)

……..I want to flag one or two issues concerning the responsibility of the parliament in this regard. But before I do that I am bound by law and tradition to disclose my interest in the matter.

I am the counsel who appeared for Hon. Ranjan Ramanayake in the supreme court, I was privileged to appear for a clean, honest politician in a court and I am proud of that, nevertheless he has been convicted and sentenced.

Continue reading ‘“I am the counsel who appeared for Hon. Ranjan Ramanayake in the supreme court.I was privileged to appear for a clean, honest politician in a court and I am proud of that”- M. A. Sumanthiran MP’ »

(Text of Press Release Issued by the High Commission of India in Colombo on January 19th 2021)

1. The Government of India has received several requests for the supply of Indian manufactured vaccines from neighbouring and key partner countries. In response to these requests, and in keeping with India’s stated commitment to use India’s vaccine production and delivery capacity to help all of humanity fight the Covid pandemic, supplies under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar and Seychelles will begin from 20 January 2021. In respect of Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Mauritius, we are awaiting their confirmation of necessary regulatory clearances.

Continue reading ‘India to Begin Supplying COVID-19 Vaccines from Jan 20th to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar and Seychelles While Awaiting Confirmation of Necessary Regulatory Clearances to do so from Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Mauritius.’ »

(Text of Letter sent to all heads of missions of 47 Member states represented in the United Nations Human Rights Council(UNHRC) by leaders of Tamil national political parties, members of the Tamil victim communities and Tamil civil society organizations)

15 January 2021

Heads of Missions
Missions of the 47 Member States represented in the UN Human Rights Council

Your Excellencies,

Call for decisive action at the 46th Session of the UNHRC

We, the elected representatives of the Tamil people in Sri Lanka, leaders of Tamil national political parties, members of the Tamil victim communities and Tamil civil society organizations write this letter in the lead up to the 46th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) when the situation in Sri Lanka is to be evaluated.

We note that within a week of the end of the armed ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka, a joint communiqué by the Government of Sri Lanka and the United Nations was issued at the conclusion of UN Secretary-General’s visit to Sri Lanka on 23 May 2009 with the following:

“Sri Lanka reiterated its strongest commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, in keeping with international human rights standards and Sri Lanka’s international obligations. The Secretary-General underlined the importance of an accountability process for addressing violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. The Government will take measures to address those grievances”

Continue reading ‘Tamil political parties, members of the Tamil victim communities and Tamil civil society organizations write Joint Letter to 47 Member States of UN Human Rights Council Requesting a new Course of Action Regarding Sri Lanka Including the setting up of an International Independent Investigatory Mechanism’ »

(Text of Press Release Issued by Amnesty International on 13 January 2021)

Responding to the acquittal today of MP Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan and four others in the 2005 assassination of Tamil MP Joseph Pararajasingham, following an announcement by the Attorney General’s Office that it would be dropping the charges against the suspects, David Griffiths, Director of the Office of the Secretary General at Amnesty International, said:

“The collapse of this case marks yet another sorry milestone in the Sri Lankan authorities’ continued failure to ensure justice for crimes committed during the armed conflict. The Attorney General’s Office has not indicated any interest in re-opening the investigation into the murder.Without accountability, Sri Lanka will never be able to turn the page on this dark chapter ”

Continue reading ‘“Collapse of Joseph Pararajasingham murder case is a failure of justice in Sri Lanka” States Amnesty International.’ »

(Text of Chapter about Sri Lanka in Country Reports Section titled “Sri Lanka:Events of 2020″in the annual “Human Rights Watch” 2021 World Report 2021)

Fundamental human rights protections in Sri Lanka came under serious jeopardy following Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s election as president in November 2019. In February 2020, Sri Lanka withdrew its commitments to truth seeking, accountability, and reconciliation made at the United Nations Human Rights Council in 2015.

Human rights defenders, victims of past abuses, lawyers, and journalists, faced intimidation and surveillance from government security forces. Muslims and Tamils faced discrimination and threats.

President Rajapaksa transferred responsibility for large areas of civil administration to the Ministry of Defense, including the government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Following his party’s victory in parliamentary elections on August 5, the government passed a constitutional amendment that removes constraints on presidential power.

After postponing parliamentary elections twice during the coronavirus pandemic, Sri Lanka in August, Sri Lanka successfully held polls with Covid-19 protection guidelines and reported a 71 percent turnout.

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka’s Human Rights Situation has Seriously Deteriorated under the Administration of President Gotabaya Rajapaks States “Human Rights Watch” in its World Report 2021.’ »

By Thulasi Muttulingam

The Tamil month of Thai was ushered in on Monday Jan 14. It marks the end of the harvesting season of rice for the Tamil farmers who will be celebrating that harvest with their famous festival of Thai Pongal.

Pongal means ‘boiling over’. To signify that they have had a bountiful harvest, the people allow the milk in which they pour the rice to boil over – as a pot bubbling over with its fare is a sign of abundance.
Continue reading ‘Evolution of Agriculture and the ‘Thaipongal’ Tamil Harvest Festival’ »

(Text of a Statement issued by Jaffna District MP and Tamil National Alliance Spokesperson Mathiaparanan Abraham Sumanthiran PC on the demolition of the memorial monument at the University of Jaffna )

The demolition of the memorial monument in the University of Jaffna is an act of savagery that cannot be condoned by any right thinking person. To say that it is an unauthorised structure and therefore ought to have been broken down, is to further accentuate this barbarism. War memorials do not need local authority permission. Or else all the war memorials that have been constructed in the North-East by the military must be brought down. There are numerous such structures in Kilinochchi, Elephant Pass, Puthukudiyirupu and several more in Mullaitivu. It is true that a few thousand soldiers were killed in this war and they must be remembered; but what about the scores of innocent civilians who died? Then there is the other side. What about remembering them too?

Continue reading ‘” We insist that all those responsible for the destruction of the monument apologize unreservedly and that it be reconstructed immediately.”- M.A.Sumanthiran MP’ »

By P. Krishnaswamy

After the Christmas and New Year festivities, the focus is now on the Pongal harvest festival, popularly known as Thai Pongal, celebrated in the first four days of the month of Thai in the Tamil-Hindu calendar.

Traditionally, it is the festival of farmers who depend on Mother Earth, the sun, rain, other natural elements and cows and buffaloes for a bountiful harvest of their staple food, rice.
Continue reading ‘‘Thai Pongal’ the Harvest Festival of Tamils’ »

A three-member bench of the Supreme Court yesterday sentenced Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Gampaha District MP Ranjan Ramanayake to four years rigorous imprisonment after finding him guilty to a charge of contempt of court.

The Bench comprised Justice Sisira J. de Abrew, Vijith K. Malagoda and Padman Surasena.

“We convict him for the offence of contempt of court punishable under Article 105(3) of the Constitution and sentence him to a term of four (4) years rigorous imprisonment,” the Court said in its judgment and directed the Registrar of the Court to issue a warrant committing Ramanayake to prison to a term of four years rigorous imprisonment.

The case stems from remarks made to the media by Ramanayake on 21 August 2017 after a parliamentary group where he alleged that the majority of Sri Lankan judges and lawyers were corrupt and these comments were telecast over a private television station.

Continue reading ‘Three-member bench of the Supreme Court Sentences Samagi Jana Balawegaya Gampaha District MP Ranjan Ramanayake to four years rigorous imprisonment Finding him guilty to a charge of contempt of court.’ »

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has appointed an eight-member Presidential Task Force for National Deployment and Vaccination Plan for COVID-19 vaccine which will be headed by Principal Adviser to the President Lalith Weeratunga.

Its other members are Secretary, Health Ministry Secretary Major General Dr. Sanjeewa Munasinghe, State Ministry of Primary Health Care, Epidemics and COVID Disease Control Secretary Dr. Amal Harsha de Silva, State Ministry of Production, Supply and Regulation of Pharmaceuticals Secretary K.R. Uduwawala , Sri Lanka Army Commander and COVID-19 Task Force head Major General Shavendra Silva, State Pharmaceuticals Corporation Chairman Dr. Prasanna Gunasena, Government Medical Officers’ Association President Dr. Anuruddha Padeniya and Health Services Director General Dr. Asela Gunawardena.

Continue reading ‘President Rajapaksa Appoints eight-member Presidential Task Force Headed by Presidential adviser Lalith Weeratunga to Implement the National Deployment and Vaccination Plan for COVID-19 vaccine .’ »

(Text of Press Release No 21-29 Issued by the US Department of Justice,Office of Public Affairs on January 8th 2021)

The Justice Department announced today that three Sri Lankan citizens have been charged with terrorism offenses, including conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (ISIS). The men were part of a group of ISIS supporters which called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka.”

That group is responsible for the 2019 Easter attacks in the South Asian nation of Sri Lanka, which killed 268 people, including five U.S. citizens, and injured over 500 others, according to a federal criminal complaint unsealed today.

The complaint outlines the defendants’ roles in the conspiracy and the events that led to near-simultaneous suicide bombings in the Sri Lankan cities of Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa on April 21, 2019. One of the U.S. citizens killed was a Department of Commerce employee who had traveled to Sri Lanka on official business.

Two days after the attacks, ISIS claimed credit for the terrorist acts, attributing the murders to “Islamic State fighters.” In late April 2019, the then-leader of ISIS praised the attackers for what he called a retaliation against “the West” for defeating ISIS the prior month in Baghuz, Syria.

Continue reading ‘US Justice Dept Charges Three Sri Lankan Nationals With Suspected ISIS Links For Alleged Involvement in Terrorist Attacks on April 21st 2019 that Killed 268 Persons Including 5 US Citizens and Injured Over 500.’ »

(Text of Press Release issued by the Center for Jutice and Accountability on January 8, 2021)

The Center for Justice and Accountability (CJA) and Debevoise & Plimpton LLP—acting on behalf of Ahimsa Wickrematunge, the daughter of acclaimed Sri Lankan journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge—filed a complaint today against the Government of Sri Lanka with the United Nations Human Rights Committee, seeking accountability for the Government’s role in Mr. Wickrematunge’s 2009 assassination.

Twelve years ago today, Mr. Wickrematunge was brazenly killed by a group of military assassins on the streets of Sri Lanka’s capital, as part of a systematic attack on the free press by government and pro-government groups. Over the past year, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s government has overseen a concerted resurgence in the persecution of journalists.

Continue reading ‘Ahimsa ,Daughter of Slain Sri Lankan Journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge Files Complaint against the Government of Sri Lanka with the United Nations Human Rights Committee on 12th Anniversary of her Father’s Assassination’ »