SAARC LEADERS ARRIVE

SAARC leaders arrive


SAARC Leaders have begun arriving in Colombo following preliminary meetings of the respective Foreign Secretaries and Foreign Minister.
The Prime Minister of Nepal, Girija Prasad Koirala and the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Lyonpo Jigmi Thinley arrived at Colombo International Airport last night (July 31), while Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, the Chief Advisor to the Government of Bangladesh arrived this morning.

The President of Maldives, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom is due to arrive around 11.00 am. Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, Mr. Makhdoom Syed Raza Gilani, Prime Minister of Pakistan and Mr. Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan, are due to arrive in the afternoon.

Jayalalithaa fires salvo on Katchchathivu

Jayalalithaa fires salvo on Katchchathivu

Warns of court action if indian Government does not take back island

Tamil Nadu Opposition AIADMK leader Jayalalithaa Jeyaram yesterday threatened to challenge in the Indian Supreme Court the validity of the 1974 Indo-Sri Lanka pact handing over Katchchathivu Island to Sri Lanka if the UPA government failed to take action over the secession.
Quoting an Apex Court judgement in the Berubary union case on exchange of enclaves in Kutch with Pakistan, Ms. Jayalalithaa said according to the court ruling the ceding of Indian Territory to another country resulted in the “diminution of the territory of the union” and therefore should be endorsed by parliament through a constitutional amendment.
"Since no such step was taken by the Indira Gandhi government or any subsequent governments, the Dr Manmohan Singh government should seriously consider moving the Supreme Court to test the validity of conceding Katchchathiu to Sri Lanka. If the Prime Minister is not willing to do this, I will move the Supreme Court for a direction to the government of India to do so or pray that the Apex Court set aside the ceding of Kachchathivu to Sri Lanka by the Indira Gandhi Government', she said.
Ms. Jayalalithaa said her party had always held that the ceding of Katchchathivu, an uninhabited island, was a monumental blunder and had insisted that the attacks on Indian fishermen would cease only if the country got the islet back.
"But the Central Government has repeatedly turned a deaf ear to our many protests. It appears to care less about the problems of Tamil Nadu and the Tamil people," she lamented.
Meanwhile about 80 fishermen from Tamil Nadu were allegedly assaulted by Sri Lankan Navy personnel in the Palk Strait, near Katchchathivu island, early last morning, the Indian media reported, quoting officials in Rameshwaram.
However Sri Lanka Navy spokesman, Commander D.K.P. Dassanayake, denied allegations of Navy involvement in the incident, adding that they had not received reports of any such incident up to last evening.
“We did not receive any reports of incidents involving Indian fishermen within Sri Lankan territorial waters today. We don’t know if such an incident occurred outside Sri Lankan waters. If so, it could have been the work of the LTTE to tarnish the image of Sri Lanka during the SAARC Summit. The LTTE has done things like this before as well,” Commander Dassanayake said.
According to the Indian media, the incident occurred in the midst of protests staged by political parties in the Indian state – which have been going on for the past few weeks -- demanding that the Centre take up the issue of recurring incidents with the island nation and provide adequate security to Indian fishermen.
Quoting the fishermen, the officials said about 80 of them, sailing in 20 boats, were assaulted with clubs while they were fishing around Katchchathivu island, which was ceded to Sri Lanka by India in 1974.
Many fishermen had to abandon their boats and jump into the sea to escape the assault. They remained in the water for more than one hour, then got back into their boats and returned to shore.
The ruling DMK and many other political parties, including AIADMK, CPI and MDMK have held protests over similar incidents in the past.

Sri Lanka ranked in countries most hit by terror

SL ranked third in countries most hit by terror

Sri Lanka has been ranked third and Pakistan fourth in the list of countries most hit by terror in the second quarter of 2008, a report released by the Centre of Excellence - Defence Against Terrorism (COE-DAT), a Turkey based anti-terror organisation, has said.

According to the report based on a worldwide research, a total of 2396 terrorist incidents occurred across the world during the said period, thereby killing a total of 4204 people and injuring 7614.
According to it, the ten countries most hit by terrorism in the second quarter of the year include Iraq with 857 terror incidents, Afghanistan with 334, Sri Lanka with 327, Pakistan with 216, India with 195, Somalia with 112, Turkey with 71, Thailand with 55, Nepal with 44, and Israel with 31 terror incidents.

South Asian nations vow to jointly fight terrorism

South Asian nations vow to jointly fight terrorism

Eight South Asian countries, most of which are facing violent insurgencies, agreed Thursday to pool efforts to fight terrorism, a Sri Lankan government minister said.
The decision came ahead of a weekend summit in the Sri Lankan capital at which India and Afghanistan are expected to put pressure on Pakistan to do more to combat the militancy that has rattled all three nations.
Foreign ministers from the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation also approved draft agreements on Thursday on launching a regional development fund of US$307 million and a food bank amid skyrocketing food prices, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama told reporters.
Pakistan is grappling with restive tribal regions along its border with Afghanistan, where fighting between insurgents and government troops intensified this week. The government in Kabul is facing a resurgent Taliban-led militancy, and a spate of bombings has hit India in recent weeks.
But cooperation in combatting terrorism is likely to face roadblocks amid accusations from India and Afghanistan that Pakistan may be behind recent violence, including a huge bombing outside the Indian Embassy in Kabul on July 7.
Indian and Afghan officials say their information indicates Pakistani involvement in the attack, which killed some 60 people. Afghan officials have repeatedly said Pakistan is not doing enough to crack down on militants and even accused the country's intelligence agency of supporting the insurgency. Pakistan denies the charges.
Recent exchanges of fire between the Indian and Pakistani armies across the cease-fire line in the disputed Kashmir region have dampened relations between the two rivals.
The summit _ which represents one-fifth of the world's population and many of its most impoverished _ is comprised of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Founded in 1985, it was set up to promote economic cooperation, but progress in most areas has been slow _ mainly because of the rivalry between India and Pakistan _ and it has often been derided as little more than a talking shop.
Nearly 19,000 police and soldiers have poured into the streets of Colombo and its suburbs to prevent attacks from Tamil rebels during the conference. The city's already tight web of checkpoints has increased and several major roads have been sealed off for the duration of the gathering.

LTTE violates unilateral ceasefire - Army

LTTE violates unilateral ceasefire - Army

The Army says the LTTE violated the unilateral ceasefire announced to coincide with the SAARC Summit by firing at least 10 artillery rounds from Poonaryn to Muhamalai this morning injuring two soldiers.

SAARC foreign secretaries meet to prepare for Summit

SAARC foreign secretaries meet to prepare for Summit

The Standing Committee of the 15th SAARC summit constituting the Foreign Secretaries of the eight member states of SAARC will commence deliberations today on the key issues to be taken up at the main Summit to be held from August 2 to 3.
This is the 35th session of the SAARC Foreign Secretaries. The present chair of the Foreign Secretaries of SAARC nations, Indian Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon wills formally handover the chairmanship to Sri Lanka Foreign Secretary Dr. Palitha Kohona at the meeting. The Foreign Ministers' meeting is to be held on July 31st and August 1st. The SAARC leaders will meet on August 2nd and 3rd. Four agreements including the topic of eliminating terrorism from the region are expected to be signed at the leader's summi which will also see the launching of a SAARC Development Fund.
Members from seven non-SAARC countries will also take part at the summit as observers. They are, the USA, Japan, China, South Korea, Iran, Mauritius and European Union. Meanwhile, various functions including cultural shows have been organized in line with the SAARC Summit. Accordingly, a SAARC dancing show organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Heritage will commence from today to the 1st of August at thr Kularatne Hall in Ananda College, Colombo.

SAARC friendship Village Inauguration in nawalapitiya

SAARC Friendship Village Inauguration in - Nawalapitiya

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama ceremonially inaugurated the SAARC Friendship Village in Nawalapitiya yesterday at the invitation of the Minister of Power and Energy, Mahindananda Aluthgamage, to mark the holding of the 15th SAARC Summit by Sri Lanka. The picture shows from left to right : High Commissioner of Pakistan, Shahzad A Chaudhry , Ambassador of Nepal, Durga Prasad Bhattarai, Minister of Housing, Githanjana Gunawardena, Mrs. Deepthi Bogollagama, Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, Power and Energy, Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Foreign Secretary Dr. Palitha Kohona.

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama ceremonially inaugurated the SAARC Friendship Village in Nawalapitiya yesterday at the invitation of the Minister of Power and Energy, Mahindananda Aluthgamage, to mark the holding of the 15th SAARC Summit by Sri Lanka.

The picture shows Foreign Minister Bogollagama unveiling the plaque to mark the event, flanked by the Bangladesh High Commissioner Shahdat Hossain and the Ambassador of Nepal Durga Prasad Bhattarai

SAARC top agenda for regional terrorism,food,securty energy

SAARC Top Agenda for Regional Terrorism, food ,security, energy

The 15th SAARC Summit which got off the ground in Colombo yesterday is set to adopt a series of measures with the main focus on a joint approach to combating terrorism, maximising energy and water resources, food security, poverty alleviation in addition to several other key issues concerning the region.

Addl.Secretary to the Foreign Ministry cum Media spokesman for SAARC Prasad Kariyawasam addressing the media after the first day’s deliberations said that the intention of the programming committee meeting which is set to continue today as well was to prepare the groundwork for the upcoming Foreign Ministers and Heads of State meetings.

Kariyawasam added that the programming committee would mainly focus on the twin issues of evaluating progress made since the last summit and introducing new vistas accordingly and preparation of the SAARC Declaration.

The SAARC Declaration which would focus on the above mentioned issues in addition to several other key issues concerning the region is to be agreed and adopted by the leaders at the end of the Summit after careful deliberation.

15th SAARC summit begings in Colombo

15th SAARC summit

India approves document to ensure mutual cooperation in tackling crime
The stage is set for the eight nations SAARC Summit which begins in Colombo today with a two-day Programming Committee meeting and ending with a meeting of heads of State or governments on August 2 and 3.
The eight leaders will participate in the 15th Summit, the theme of which is "SAARC for Partnership for our People."
Besides, the member countries seven observer states- Japan, the United States, the European Union, China, South Korea, Iran and Mauritius will also attend the regional summit.
Meanwhile the Indian Cabinet on Thursday approved a document to ensure mutual cooperation among SAARC countries to deal with criminal matters. The approval for "brief for negotiation" to finalise the text of the SAARC convention was given at a Union Cabinet meet, Minister P R Dasmunsi said.
"The convention would provide a broad framework for SAARC member states to mutually cooperate and assist in the investigation and prosecution of crime and restraint and forfeiture of the proceeds and instruments of crime," he said.
The Cabinet also approved authorizing External Affairs Ministry to negotiate and finalize the text and for signing it during the SAARC summit in Colombo, he said.
Police on Thursday said 12,000 more police would be deployed to guard South Asian leaders, who will also have their own heavy securit during the summit.
Police deputy Inspector-General Nimal Mediwaka said the 12,000 men will reinforce soldiers, who will also deploy in strength ahead of the two-day SAARC leaders meeting starting on Aug 2.
“The heads of state will have their own security personnel to provide close protection,” said Mediwaka, who is responsible for security in the already tightly-guarded capital of 650,000 people. He said key roads in the city will be closed for normal traffic during the summit that will be attended by leaders of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
India is reported to be bringing in thousands of troops as part of security for its Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who will also travel within Sri Lanka in Indian military helicopters and bullet-proof cars.
New Delhi is sending war ships to anchor off Sri Lanka’s coast to evacuate its delegates in case of any closure of the island’s only international airport. The LTTE had announced a unilateral truce for the duration of the summit.

DAYAN TO REPRESENT ASIA ON UNHRC CONSULTATIVE GROUP

DAYAN TO REPRESENT ASIA ON UNHRC CONSULTATIVE GROUP

ImageDr.Dayan Jayatilleka, Sri Lanka's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, has been nominated as a member of the Consultative Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council, representing Asia.

Vidattaltivu Liberated; terrorists suffer fatal blow

Vidattaltivu Liberated; terrorists suffer fatal blow

Gallant soldiers of Army Task Force 1 and Commando Brigade operating on the Mannar warfront liberated the strategically important Vidattaltivu town this morning (July 16). Vidattaltivu is the largest town situated on the North- Western coast of the Island, 20 km North of Mannar and used by the terrorists as their main Sea-Tiger base cum logistic hub in the West.

Soldiers of Task Force 1 on Tuesday evening (July15) commenced their forward march from their initial locations at the Southern limits of Vidattaltivu town, i.e. few hundreds meters short of Vidattaltivu terror defence, located 2 Km South of the town. These troops were able to capture a 2.5km stretch of the LTTE Forward Defence by late in the evening.

Unable to withstand the military onslaught, terrorists started to flee further northwards towards and later suffered heavy damages during their withdrawal as the elite commandos flanking in the Northeastern boundaries of Vidattaltivu laid an ambush on them. The commandos confronted with a group of approximately 60 LTTE cadres around 1.45 p.m. As the terrorist started to withdraw towards Iluppaikkadaval, North of Vidattaltivu; commandos called in indirect fire. As a result, heavy artillery and multi barrel rocket fire were directed at the terrorists. Also, Air Force launched close air support missions to ground troops using MI 24 helicopter gunships. Ground troops claimed over 30 terrorists were killed due to artillery and air assault while the rest turned tail.
Read More.http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20080715_11

Karunanidhi demands Katchatheevu back from Sri Lanka

Karunanidhi demands Katchatheevu back from SL

At a fast in Tamil Nadu today against attacks on Indian fisherman allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi said the Indian Central government should help get back Katchatheevu from Sri Lanka.

Tears of SARRC ....Colombo houses demolished ignoring Supreme Court order

Tears of SARRC

Sleepers on the rail track removed in protest

The officials of Urban Development Authority (UDA) assisted by a riot police squad demolished the houses of Glenny Passage in Slave Island(Colombo 2) ignoring the interim injunction of the Supreme Court issued yesterday morning (18).

The Supreme Court order was informed to UDA after eight houses were demolished but the temporarily stopped demolition was restarted with riot police guard using back haws later. UDA officials said they were not aware of a Supreme Court ruling.

UDA did not allow the the residents to remove their belongings and demolished the houses using back haws. The residents attempted to stop the action amidst riot police attacks of tear gas.

The angered residents removed the sleepers of the railway track in Slave Island in protest of demolishing their homes of almost five decades temporarily bringing the railway traffic to a halt temporarily. People were blaming the government and police and police were seen armed with batons and shields.

WHO 'S PROTECT US?

Daily Mirror reporter Yohann Perera who was there to report the incident was attacked by a UDA official and he has lodged a complaint in Slave Island police in this regard.

The displaced residents were cursing the authorities as their houses were demolished.
Photos: Houses are demolished by UDA back haws and the protests of the residents)






Pix:Before Demolition

New restrictions at duty free shops

New restrictions at duty free shops

Items like large TVs, fridges, air-conditioners, washing machines, etc will not be sold at Airport Duty Free shops from August under a new circular-Customs Chief

Sprinter Susanthika to lead Sri Lankan team for the Olympics

Sri Lanka's sprint queen Susanthika Jayasinghe, who was recently felicitated by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Most Outstanding Sportswoman of the Year, has been named as the leader of the Sri Lankan team travelling for the the Beijing Olympics on August 5th. Accordingly, she will be given the privilege of carrying the Sri Lankan flag at the opening ceremony of the Olympics. Susanthika shot to fame after winning a bronze at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and is the only Olympic medal winning female athlete in Sri Lanka. Her success was also the first Olympic medal for Sri Lanka in 52 years. Sri Lanka will field a team of eight for this year's Olympics.

Karuna to the Parliament?

Karuna to the Parliament?
Karuna Amman had told the media that he was not after the post of chief minister but would enter the Parliament soon. Hence, Pilleyan will continue to hold the post of chief minister in the Eastern PC. Meanwhile, Karuna Amman has asked the government to recruit 2000 trained and armed cadres of his party to Police Department and fill vacancies in the police service in the East.

After a special discussion held between Karuna Amman, and Pilleyan yesterday Karuna Amman has been re-appointed the leader of TMVP.

Another Strike will come soon

Three day strike in the offing - Lal Kantha

Lal Kantha warned a three day strike in the near future and said that they would begin to strengthen their support in work places from next Monday.

Passenger bus attacked; 3 civilians killed, 26 wounded

Passenger bus attacked; 3 civilians killed, 26 wounded


At least 3 civilians were killed and 26 others reported wounded when unknown group opened fire at a passenger bus plying from Monaragala towards Katharagama, at the 149th mile post along the Buttala-Katharagama main road, today (11), at around 10:30 a.m.

The injured civilians were initially rushed to the hospital at Katharagama and after words 19 persons injured seriously were transferred to the General hospital in Hambantota.

Hakeem sworn in

Hakeem sworn in

SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem was sworn in as a parliamentarian in front of the speaker a short while ago.

Hakeem resigns Eastern Province Provincial Council seat

Hakeem resigns Eastern Province Provincial Council seat

SLMC Leader Rauff Hakeem resigned from his post as opposition leader and member of the Eastern Provincial Council (EPC) yesterday to return to Parliament. Accordingly, he will be sworn in as an MP before Speaker W.J.M. Lokubandara.

The SLMC leader resigned from Parliament in April to contest the EP-PC elections on the UNP ticket. He was elected to the council, securing the highest number of preferential votes in the Trincomalee district. Along with him, MPs Hassan Ali and Basheer Segudawood also resigned from their parliamentary seats to the contest the polls. Mr. Ali is also expected to resign from the council and re-enter Parliament. It is believed that Mr. Segudawood will then be appointed as the EPC’s opposition leader.

Mr. Razik Fareed of Mutur, who is next in line by way of preferential votes, in the UNP-SLMC Trincomalee district list, is expected to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Mr. Hakeem.

Moscow to screen movie on LTTE suicide cadres

The Moscow Film Festival has turned down a request to cancel the screening of a documentary

on female suicide bombers of Sri Lanka.

The movie ‘My Daughter the Terrorist’ by Norwegian director Beate Arnestad’s was to be screened last evening. Sri Lankan embassy representatives have alleged that the movie glorified suicide attacks.

UN urged to protect Lanka press

UN urged to protect Lanka press

Stop the War on Journalists in Sri Lanka

IFJ Letter to UN Secretary-General - Danger for Sri Lankan Journalists

21 watchdogs representing Europe, Asia, Africa and many other countries including Venezuela, Paraguay, Somalia, Ukraine and Moldova have signed the letter UNSG, Ban Ki Moon



Media watchdogs all over the world have urged United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon, to persuade Sri Lanka government to withdraw statements threatening media freedom.

Thirty one media press freedom organisations representing Twenty one countries have informed Mr. Moon of the 'alarming situation' is Sri Lanka with regard to the freedom of expression.

Defence Ministry statement

The recent statements by the Defence Ministry and Sri Lanka army commander, Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka, the letter says, have put journalists in 'grave danger'.

We seek your support in urging all United Nations member states to respect Resolution 1738 in letter and in spirit, and specifically request your help in persuading the government of Sri Lanka to withdraw these statements and immediately stop all actions which undermine the independence and safety of the news community

For Full Story see this webs http://www.ifj.org/en/tags/256/contents
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sinhala/news/story/2008/06/080622_moon_press.shtml

http://www.freemediasrilanka.org/English/news.php?id=979&section=news

The Feast of St.Anthony’s Kochchikade church

The Feast of St.Anthony’s Kochchikade, Colombo will be celebrated today. The statue of St. Anthony is scheduled to be taken in procession at 6.00 p.m. after the celebration of Holy Masses in all three languages. The first Mass, in Tamil is scheduled for 8.00 a.m. the second in Sinhala at 10.00 a.m. and the third in English at 12 noon. This picture of the illuminated Church was taken Wednesday night (.pix by Joseph Ranmuthgugala from island)

Chandrika,Ranil and Mangala call for new alliance

Aubowan, we are good friends

UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe greets former president Chandrika Kumaratunga while Mangala Samaraweera looks, on at the inaugural convention of the SLFP (M) Group at the New Town Hall yesterday. (Pic By Pradeep Pathirana-Daily mirror)


Former president, Chandrika Kumaratunga, addressing the SLFP (M) Group’s inaugural convention said that the nation should be spared from being rapidly drawn into extremism and authoritarianism, and that that could be done by all sections getting together.

She said that it would take a massive alliance, comprising all political parties that respect democracy, freedom of expression and human rights, to overcome the present political, social, economic and military crisis within the country.
“I am saying this without enmity towards or envy of anyone. I have attained all the high offices that a person in this country could attain. Although I am no longer the president, I still experience the love and kindness of our people,” she said.

She added that she received lot of harassment and death threats after she left office and that lies were spread about her.

“It is unbearable and very sorrowful for me to see the country that we restored with much effort falling apart. I ask everyone to discard personal animosities and greed for power and money and come forward to rebuild the country,” she said.

She added that the freedom of the people was curtailed, affecting creativity and the ability of the people to work with responsibility. She said that the economy would face a crisis if the government did not come up with a correct, efficient and suitable economic programme.

When there is corruption within the ruling system of a country it creates income disparities which result in the deterioration of human rights and discipline in the country, she said.

Opposition Leader Ranil Wichremesinghe speaking at the occasion asserted that the government should not suppress persons who hold different opinions from the government.

He said that the people should unite to protect Media Freedom before anything else and that the media had the right to question battle strategies which helped to assess the success and the failure of plans made by the head of state which could result in death of soldiers and civilians.

“The soldiers will also question the suitability of battle plans on which their lives depend.” he said.

Meanwhile SLFP (M) Group leader Mangala Samaraweera said that the ‘Rajapaksa Clan’ was responsible for the economic, social and political crisis within the country.

He reiterated the need for a massive alliance with the participation of other political parties to topple the government.

Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation chairman's speeches condemned

Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation chairman's speeches condemned

Five media organizations have condemned an alleged threatening speeches by the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC),Mr. Hudson Samarsinghe.

The speeches leveled against Secretary General of the Sri Lanka Working Journalists Association (SWJA), Poddala Jayantha and BBC Sandesaya Correspondent, Elmo Fernando were broadcast over the private radio channel, ‘Isira’ of the TNL media group.

For more... ..http://www.bbc.co.uk/sinhala/news/story/2008/06/080612_hudson.shtml

European Commission warns of aid package

European Commission warns of aid package

The European Commission has expressed serious concerns over Sri Lanka's human rights record.A senior official - Joao Aguiar Machado - said the EU might withhold an aid package worth a hundred million dollars if the situation did not improve

.Human rights groups have accused the government of failing to control killings and disappearances since hostilities with the Tamil Tiger rebels intensified in 2005.

The government said the human rights situation had improved, but admitted there had been concerns about rights violations in the past. EU logo

The commission said the package was dependent on Sri Lanka removing barriers to humanitarian assistance, including resolving visa issues for Red Cross and U.N. workers in the country.

"We expressed our serious concerns with the human rights situation in Sri Lanka, as indicated by a range of sources including reports from United Nations rapporteurs," Deputy Director General for External Relations of the European Commission Joao Machado said in a statement.

"If you look at 2007, the situation of disappearances and other incidences are better than 2006," said Rajiva Wijesinghe, an official at the Ministry of Human Rights.

Protest as president in London

Protest as president in London

The Amnesty International AI says the world is 'watching' Sri Lanka's rights violationsThe Amnesty International (AI) has expressed hope that Sri Lanka president would take measures to protect human rights as international concern increases on rights violations

South Asia director of the Amnesty International , Sam Zarifi, said the government should understand that Sri Lanka is ‘not forgotten’ by the international community.

The Amnesty International organised a demonstration in front of Commonwealth Secretariat in London protesting human rights violations in Sri Lanka.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa is attending a Commonwealth leaders meeting in London.

The protest highlighted the growing number of media workers being killed, assaulted and detained in Sri Lanka.The protest highlighted attacks on media in Sri Lanka


A journalist in Jaffna, P Devakumarana, was killed and a senior journalist, Keith Noyahr, was brutally assaulted during the past few weeks.

Sunday Times columnist JS Tissanayagam remains in custody since 07 March.

“Certainly the situation in Sri Lanka has been the source of the increasing concern around the world because the deterioration has been rapid,” Sam Zarifi told BBC Sandeshaya.

The government is not seen to be willing, he said, to respond to the concerns by human rights watchdogs and the international community.

The AI insists that the Tamil Tigers are also accused of gross human rights violations including launching attacks on civilians.

“We hope President Rapaksaksa understands that this is not a forgotten conflict,” Mr. Zafiri added.

No support to the government hereafter, says JVP

No support to the government hereafter, says JVP

JVP Propaganda Secretary Vijitha Herath said that the JVP would not support the government in future and it supported the government in the past to defeat the Vanni Tigers and not to suppress media and democracy.

Addressing a press conference held in Colombo Library and Documentation Service Center yesterday morning to comment on the dissolving of North Central and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councils and about the aftermath of the Eastern Provincial Council election, MP Herath challenged the government to show cause, if there is any, for dissolving the Provincial Councils. He asked how security would be provided during an election in a time civilian defense is questionable and people are terrified in repeated bomb explosions in buses and trains.

MP Vijitha Herath said that military actions would be impeded due to deployment of police and Army for election duty.

All Govt. schools closed for two days

All Govt. schools closed for two days

All government schools will be closed tomorrow and day after owing to the threatened teacher trade union action, the Education Minister Susil Premajayantha said moments ago.

JVP to go to Supreme courts against dissolve two provincial councils

JVP to go to courts against dissolve two provincial councils

The JVP is to go to the Supreme Court against the government’s decision to dissolve the North Central and Sabaragamuwa Provincial councils and against the negligence of police regarding the Arrachchikattuwa attack on participants of two protests organized by the party.

JVP MP Vijitha Herath today charged the government for directly and knowingly supporting the LTTE by arousing continuous racism and racial riots and also holding unwanted elections.

President met UK opposition leader

President met UK opposition leader


Britiain's Opposition Leader, David Cameron, said that his country appreciates the challenges Sri Lanka is facing and the efforts being made as a democracy confronted with terrorism and is keen to understand the related problems and look at how to best assist. Mr. Cameron expressed these views when he met President Mahinda Rajapaksa in London, where the latter is attending a mini summit of Commonwealth Heads of State to discuss among other matters the reform of multilateral institutions such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.

President Rajapaksa explained to Mr. Cameron the efforts his government had made to restore democracy in the Eastern province and to launch an ambitious development programme that would help empower the people of all communities who had been affected by the conflict.

The President highlighted that the new Chief Minister of the Eastern province, Mr. Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, was previously a frontline member of the LTTE who had renounced terrorism and entered the democratic process along with his cadres. He stated that the victory of Mr. Chandrakanthan's party was a clear indication that the people of the Eastern province had endorsed the transition to democratic governance as a result of the development work the government had undertaken during the past year which had been appreciated by the Tamil community.

North Central, Sabaragamuwa PCs dissolved

North Central, Sabaragamuwa PCs dissolved


The Government dissolved the North Central and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councils with effect from midnight yesterday through two special gazette notifications issued by the Governors of the two provinces.

The dates for the elections in the two provinces will be announced shortly by the Elections Commissioner who will also announce the dates for calling nominations for these two Provincial Councils.

According to the former North Central Province Chief Minister Berty Premalal Dissanayake difficulties had been encountered in performing administrative functions of the two Provincial Councils due to obstructions by the UNP and JVP.

"We had to face various difficulties to implement development projects in these two provinces as the UNP and JVP when combined had majority power in the two councils. When we try to pass some resolutions, various allegations and interruptions are made by these two parties. Therefore we agreed to the dissolution of the two Provincial Councils," he said.

President meets Deputy Malaysian PM

President meets Deputy Malaysian PM

President Mahinda Rajapaksa met Deputy Malaysian Prime Minister and Defence Minister Dato Najib Tun Razak on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Summit for the Re-structure and Reformation of International and UN institutions, in London yesterday.

The talks between President Rajapaksa and the Deputy Premier had been cordial and centred on bilateral relations between the two countries.

President Rajapaksa was also expected to meet British Opposition Leader David Camron later yesterday.

British PM warmly welcomes President Rajapaksa

British PM warmly welcomes President Rajapaksa

Visiting Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa was cordially welcomed by the Prime Minister of Britain Gordon Brown when the two leaders met at the British Prime Minister’s official residence at No.10 Downing Street,London yesterday (09).

President Rajapaksa arrived at the official residence of the British Prime Minister accompanied by Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama.

The meeting of the Commonwealth heads of States on “Reform on International Institutions” was held at the Cabinet room at 10 Downing Street.

Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh

Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh

Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh (1-0) in a South Asian Football Federation Championship first round match at Sugathadasa Stadium .

Troops surround LTTE's strategic 'One Four Base'

Troops surround LTTE's strategic 'One Four Base'

The security forces have gained control of five LTTE strong points surrounding the LTTE's strategic 'One Four Base', defence sources from the Wanni front confirmed. It is reported that at least 17 terrorists were killed and more than 35 wounded during clashes that erupted on Sunday (08) as Army infantry and armour battalions forced into LTTE bunker positions located north of Janakapura and Kiriibbanwewa at Welioya during a multi-pronged offensive launched in the morning. Meanwhile 7 soldiers are reported to have laid their lives during the confrontation while 19 others were reported wounded, Military Spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said. One soldier is also reported missing, the Media Centre for National Security (MCNS) said.

The War Heroes Day -June 7

The War Heroes Day -June 7



The War Heroes Day to pay tribute to brave soldiers of the Security Forces who continue to defend the motherland at the expense of their lives, was celebrated in Colombo under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Sri Jayawardenapura Parliament grounds yesterday. The Army band provided the melody to the theme song on war heroes after the President unveiled the plaque that speaks of the bravery of the Security Forces and the Police. The climax of the occasion followed with the opening of the Ranaviru Monument where names of all war heroes, who fought for the country remain inscribed.

Sri Lanka beat Bhutan in football

Sri Lanka beat Bhutan in football

Sri Lanka beat Bhutan 2-0 in a South Asian Football Federation championship first round match at Sugathadasa stadium today evening. The scorers were Chathura Gunaratne and skipper Chathura Maduranga.

UK and France condemn bus blast

UK and France condemn bus blast

While condemning the bus blast in Colombo, British Foreign Office Minister Lord Malloch-Brown said a sustainable solution to Sri Lanka's conflict can only emerge through a just political process involving all communities and stressed that this cannot come from violence. In a statement Lord Brown expressed the necessity to “end the senseless loss of lives caused by such acts of violence and for all parties to the conflict in Sri Lanka to take responsibility for the protection and safety of the civilian population.”“My thoughts and condolences are with the victims and their families. There is no justification for practices which target civilians or puts them in danger,” he added.Meanwhile, France in a statement also said that it was appalled to learn of the attack on a bus in Colombo. A Foreign ministry Spokesperson for France said, “We offer our condolences to the victims’ families. France strongly condemns this heinous attack and assures the Sri Lankan authorities of its solidarity.”

Air Force attacks LTTE leaders' meeting place - Puthukkudiyiruppu

Air Force attacks LTTE leaders' meeting place - Puthukkudiyiruppu

Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets bombed an LTTE leaders' gathering place located in the Puthukkudiyiruppu area around 1.20 this afternoon (June 7). Air Force spokesman Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara speaking to defence.lk said that the targeted location was an identified command centre of the LTTE located 3km North East of the Puthukkudiyiruppu .

He further said that the Air Force had received reliable information that a meeting of LTTE leaders was taking place at the command centre at the time of the attack. The exact damage caused to the enemy is yet to be ascertained, he added.

The President condemns LTTE bomb attack

The President condemns LTTE bomb attack

Statement by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the bomb explosion carried out by the LTTE at Katubedda in Moratuwa, today (June 06, 08).

Today's explosion at Katubedda once again shows the LTTE's brutality and lack of respect for human life.

I extend my sympathies to the families of those killed, and offer the blessings of the Noble Triple Gem and all deities for the speedy recovery of all injured.

While unreservedly condemning this repeated act of outrageous brutality by the LTTE, in its cowardly strategy of targeting innocent civilians, I note that this is further proof of the LTTE's frenzy at its major military setbacks in the North, and the loss its hold in the Eastern Province.

In the past weeks alert members of the public have shown commendable courage and responsibility in spotting bombs in vehicles and public places, helping to seize hidden explosives, and arrest persons believed to be associated with the LTTE's programme of terror.

The continued targeting of innocent civilians by the LTTE must earn the outrage and opprobrium of all civilized societies, who can now see the reality of the LTTE's unvarying commitment to violence and terror to achieve its narrow objectives.

This once again brings into focus the continuing battle Sri Lanka faces with the forces of terror in our efforts to safeguard democracy and civilized life.

This brutality also shows the efforts of the LTTE to provoke a backlash against the Tamil people, from which it hopes to gain, although the Tamil people themselves are held in thrall by the terror of its so-called liberator.

I call on the people to remain calm and not give in to deliberate provocations aimed at fanning communal hatred and violence, remain vigilant against the forces of terror, and continue to assist the Police and Security Forces in the task of eradicating terrorism from our country.

Policy Research & Information Presidential Secretariat Colombo

Nation Salutes Our Liberators on War Heroes Day

Nation Salutes Our Liberators on War Heroes Day

PAST MEMORIES of the ancient grandeur were recalled with respect, as beats of Ranabera (drums) rent the air when the Nation stood in silence at the dawn of Saturday (7th June), the much-revered "War Heroes Day". The national event was exclusively meant to pay tribute to brave soldiers of the tri-services (Army, Navy & Air Force) and the Police who continue to defend their motherland at the expense of their own lives.

The D-Day is also dedicated to the memory of thousands of War Heroes who have laid their lives while in action or gone missing. This year's main ceremony was to get underway at the Sri Jayawardenapura Parliament Ground this evening (7) where a special permanent War Hero monument, erected on behalf of them, was to be unveiled by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. for more details http//:www.defence.lk

Respect civilian life – AI tells LTTE

Respect civilian life – AI tells LTTE

The London based human rights group Amnesty International (AI) is calling on the LTTE and other armed groups to comply with the rules of international law and to respect civilian life. An Amnesty International statement said: "At least 23 people have been killed and many others injured in two bomb attacks in Sri Lanka. According to press reports, one bomb exploded on a busy commuter bus at Katubedda, near Colombo, on 6 June, killing 21 civilians, injuring at least 60 others. The second attack targeted a bus in the central Kandy district. Eyewitnesses at the scenes of carnage spoke of the growing fear of travelling just two days after another bomb in Colombo. The recent spate of attacks marks a pattern of deliberate and indiscriminate attacks in the south, as conflict intensifies in the north. The authorities blamed the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for the attacks. While no group has publicly admitted responsibility for the attacks, they bear the hallmarks of LTTE attacks. Amnesty International has repeatedly condemned abuses by the LTTE, including killings of civilians, hostage-taking, torture and other abuses, and has called for an end to such abuses and for those responsible to be brought to justice in conformity with international law. As the conflict intensifies in the north, Amnesty International is calling on the Sri Lankan government to ensure that its security forces comply with Sri Lanka’s obligations under international human rights and humanitarian law, and in particular to ensure that the civilian population are protected at all times. Amnesty International is also calling on the LTTE and other armed groups to comply with the rules of international law and to respect civilian life. Amnesty International calls for an immediate end to attacks on civilians".

23 killed katubeda bomb blast

23 killed katubeda bomb blast

Now incress the dead toll for Katubedda bomb blast. 23 people died now.