30 November 2008

Sri Lanka resumes advance on rebel HQ

Sri Lankan security forces have resumed their offensive to capture the political capital of Tamil Tiger rebels after heavy monsoon rains began subsiding, the defence ministry said Sunday."The air sorties were made in support of the advancing 57th division infantry battalions," the ministry said.Flooding had stalled the military push on Kilinochchi and also left nearly half a million people homeless in the island's north.Tiger rebels have admitted that their mini-state has shrunk under the ongoing military onslaught but their leader, Velupillai Prabhakaran, has vowed to fight on.The guerrillas, who took up arms in 1972, are facing the Sri Lankan army's biggest ever offensive.

Masssive 11-hour search nets 117 in Batti

One hundred and seventeen suspects were apprehended during a massive combined search operation conducted by the Army, Police and the STF in 12 Police Divisions in the Batticaloa District yesterday. The operation conducted between 5a.m. and 6 p.m. was to arrest LTTE cadres who were reported to have infiltrated into the district.Police Spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara said the operation was completed successfully and swiftly, and without serious incidents. “It was carried out under a Police curfew imposed in the areas,” SSP Gunasekara said. “The arrested suspects have been detained for questioning and further action,” he added.An unspecified number of Police, Army and STF personnel took part in this operation where they combed houses, government and private sector offices and forest areas adjoining Batticaloa. “The operation was a success and we believe that this will minimise the unrest in the area,” Gunasekara said.In the last few days, over 20 assassinations were reported in the Batticaloa District and security sources believe that armed LTTE cadres have infiltrated even the Batticaloa town area.Last Thursday, a priest of the Siva Muttumari Amman Kovil, Subramanium Kamalraj was killed by an unidentified gunman and civil unrest was reported in the area.“Batticaloa Police is investigating the incident, but so far no one has been arrested,” said SSP Gunasekara.Meanwhile, troops of the 59th Division captured Othiyamalai village, which is situated 5km east of Nadunkerni in the Mullaitivu District yesterday. Military Spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara told The Nation that troops managed to breakthrough the LTTE defences in the area. “The terrorist fled with heavy casualties,” Nanayakkara said.He added that the village, which is located southwest of Tannimurippukulam is a key LTTE fortification. The loss of this strategically important village will adversely affect the LTTE forces at Nadunkerni, Nainamadu and Oddusudan and the defence of Mullaitivu.

Eastern Province killings conducted by Army, Chirmen says to the President via Pillaiyan

The Batticaloa district local government chairmen’s federation informed the President Mahinda Rajapakse via Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillaiyan that the Army was responsible for the spate of killing that took place in the villages of the district in the past few days.The Chief Minister phoned the President from Batticaloa this morning and asked to strengthen security and to stop killings.A communique issued on Friday (28) by the federation of local government chairmen stated that the Army should bear the responsibility of the spate of killing in the district in a context LTTE had been thrown out of the district. The communiqué pointed out that 13 killing were conducted in three days and 22 killings took place on 26 and 27 alone in Tamil areas.The local government chairmen ask who killed the people in Tamil villages like Ariyampaththu, Kadathawalai, Kalawachikudi, Erivil alongside Batticaloa - Kalmunai road that are under Army control.Batticaloa Municipal Council Chairman Sivageetha prabakaran handed over a copy of the chirmen’s communique to the Chief Minister Chandrakanthan on Friday (28) and the latter faxed it to the President on Saturday (29).

Eastern Province torn by factionalism, says bishop
 
The re-establishment of the Eastern Provincial Council after recent elections has created more terrorism and further violence, a top Bishop said.Batticaloa Bishop Rev Dr Kingsley Swampillai, told a media conference on Friday that elections in the Eastern Province came after the liberation of that province from the grip of the LTTE and all the communities were very happy that peace and normality would set in.However, he said, what really has happened was that the province had been taken away from one armed group and handed over to another armed group, adding that people are ‘ really frustrated at this situation’. He was responding to a question posed by a participant at the 40th anniversary celebrations of Caritas Sri Lanka, SEDEC held in Colombo.The bishop said violence, killings and abductions have already been set in and people are in the same mindset of fear psychosis as earlier. He said that in fact on that day on Friday, Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan (Pillayan), Chief Minister of the Eastern Provincial Council (EPC) and M L A M Hisbullah, Minister of Health, EPC were spearheading a hunger strike to agitate against the violence that has now set in in the Eastern Province.He said, “The Chief Minister and Minister Hisbullah have realized the present volatile situation and made public utterances about their inability to do anything positive in the province, because of lack of power. They are unable to do anything, because though devolution of power is provided in the Constitution it has not been implemented. I do not know what constituency Vinagamoorthy Muralitharan (Karuna) is representing in Parliament?”He said the present situation was all because of a split and misunderstanding between the Karuna and Pillayan factions.

Colombo's cluster bomb attack on civilians in Vanni challenges international norms

Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) bombers that attacked the hamlet of Internally Displaced Persons bordering Piramanthanaa'ru and Uzhavanoor in the early hours of Saturday have deployed Russian made ODAB-500 PM cluster bombs in their indiscriminate attack that killed three civilians, including a child, eyewitnesses told TamilNet's Vanni correspondent on Saturday. Seven children were among the wounded. Colombo's use of cluster bomb comes as more than 100 countries are scheduled to meet in Oslo on Wednesday to sign a treaty banning the use of cluster bombs. Cluster Bomb used by SLAF on civilian targetThe indiscriminate bombardment has destroyed more than 29 shelters of the IDPs within the 'secure zone' announced by Colombo government a few weeks ago. Cluster bombs release miniature bomblets and are used to spread damage over a wide area.On 28 May 2008 diplomats from more than 100 countries meeting in Dublin in Ireland agreed on a draft treaty outlawing cluster bombs. "Diplomats and politicians from around the world are about to deliver the kiss of death to one of the deadliest, indiscriminate non-nuclear weapons on the planet," writes Chris Cobb of Canwest News Service on the treaty banning the use of cluster bombs. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has said his government will stop using cluster bombs. However the United States opposed the ban. Israel, India, China and Pakistan did not participate in the meeting in Dublin. According to Jane's Air-Launched Weapons, the ODAB-500 PM bomb was developed by Russia to provide the Russian Air Force with a high-speed low-level attack fuel-air explosive weapon for use against troops and material in the field, minefield clearance, parked aircraft and other exposed soft targets. The ODAB-500 PM bomb is believed to have been cleared for carriage on MiG-21 'Fishbed', MiG-27 'Flogger' and MiG-29 'Fulcrum'.

Three-member committee to devolve power to East

President Mahinda Rajapaksa will shortly appoint a high level three-member committee to address the issue of devolution of powers to the Eastern Provincial Council in terms of the 13th Amendment, Minister of Social Service, Roads and IT Education of the Council M.L.A.M. Hisbullah told the Sunday Observer.President’s Secretary Lalith Weeratunga told the Sunday Observer that the process of appointing members to the high level committee to coordinate the process of vesting all stipulated powers to the Council has already begun and that the committee would be appointed in a few days.PC Minister Hisbullah said that several shortcomings and delays that were experienced by the Council, since its inception eight months ago, with regard to streamlining administrative powers were satisfactorily sorted out at a recent meeting in Colombo chaired by Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapaksa MP, he said.The meeting convened under the direction of the President was attended by several Cabinet Ministers, Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan, key ministers of the Eastern PC and high government officials, Hisbullah said. At the three-hour meeting discussions took place on a wide range of subjects, including administrative matters, recruitment and fund allocations for development work as well as resettlement of displaced people and important decisions were arrived at, he said. For the first time, a senior DIG (DIG Shankar) has been appointed in overall charge of the three districts of the province to work in coordination with the CM and the PC administration, the PC Minister said.Referring to the incidents of abductions, killings, threats and other forms of violence that have been taking place in the province in the recent weeks, he said, that ‘certain anti-social elements’ bent on destabilising civil administration and inciting communal conflicts were behind such incidents.The PC administration was mobilising all its resources and powers to identify and deal with such elements to restore normalcy in the province, he said.Outlining the development programs envisaged for the eastern province, Hisbullah said, “Primarily we want to focus on major irrigation projects to bring all uncultivated paddy lands under cultivation in an effort to double paddy production in the province. Hitherto 40,000 acres were under cultivation catering to 16 per cent of the total requirement of the country. We now want to bring 85,000 acres under paddy cultivation to provide 25 per cent of the national requirement of rice. Providing tractors free to the farmers ploughing paddy fields, manure and fertiliser at subsidised prices and other facilities, including distribution of seed paddy, would be extended.“Construction and renovation of roads and resettlement of people, displaced due to the war, will be the other major projects that will be launched in the near future.“We hope to achieve a marked economic progress in the next six months as a consequence of the many development programs that are to be implemented in the province.

Sri Lanka Army 4km away from Nedunkerni and 2kms away from Alampil

The Sri Lanka Army is now 4km away from Nedunkerni after having captured the strategic village of Othiyamalai. They are also 2kms away from Alampil, the strategic Sea Tiger base. The LTTE is putting up stiff resistance in all areas.23mm and 30mm Heavy Machine Guns, some of which was captured from the Navy's Dvora FACs years ago are being used extensively to keep the Army down. The high caliber rounds from the HMGs, coupled with the incessant rains are making things a bit difficult for the SLA at the moment. 23mm and 30mm rounds, even when off target, can still cause injury to troops.The shrapnel generated from these rounds can cover a wide area upon impact. This is not the first time the LTTE has used these tactics against the Army. Many years ago, tractor trailer mounted 23mm and 30mm HMGs were used at Elephant Pass and again, recently at Nachchikuda.Meanwhile resentment has started to set in in the rank and file of the LTTE following Prabhakaran's speech and the attacks in Mumbai. Although many cadres are unaware of the geopolitics or the actual attack in Mumbai, they were eagerly awaiting a cease-fire brokered by their friends in India. Radio communications monitored lately indicate that the rank and file have lost hope of an Indian involvement and a sad acknowledgement has set in that no one is there to rescue them.

KKS cement factory re-opening delayed

Plans to reopen the Kankesanthurai Cement Factory have been delayed by two months due to security reasons.Reliable sources told The Nation that due to the on-going offensive, the planned US$ 100 million project would be stalled till at least February. “There are concerns that it could become a target under the current circumstances,” sources said, adding that so far the existing factory was in good condition.Lanka Cement Ltd. under the Industrial Development Ministry was to begin renovations to the factory in December, and it was to be declared open by around March. However, these plans have been held back. It is estimated that Rs.10 million would be needed for the initial tune-ups needed for the machinery and personnel before it can commence production. Following this, the Ministry plans to sign a joint venture with a foreign company to produce cement. The project has already garnered cabinet approval.“We have been given proposals by several companies including Ramco of India, Italian Cement and Pakistan Cement. But we are still awaiting more proposals from other prospective investors. It is too early to comment on a possible investor, but we are looking for a company that would ideally funnel in around US$100 million for a full expansion,” he said. He added that a feasibility study has already been done by Lanka Cement.All prospective investors have been requested to present a feasibility study and officials are adamant that they would ensure correct procedure. “If a company wants to sell raw material or they have other plans, then they have been told to mention it in the feasibility study,” he remarked.Once the company is in full flow, it is expected to manufacture 3,200 tonnes of cement per day and employ a workforce of over 3,500 drawn mostly from cleared areas.

Company saves Rs. 20m in cement imports

The company has also started importing cement using its own ship saving the government around Rs. 20 million. The ship, which is the first such vessel to be privately owned by a local cement company, had been procured without a deposit using personal contacts.

Fowzie won't resign portfolio

Petroleum and Petroleum Resources Development Minister A.H.M. Fowzie will not resign from his cabinet portfolio following the Supreme Court order in the oil hedging case The Sunday Leader learns.A source close to Minister Fowzie said the President was free to remove the Minister but that he will not quit.Passing severe strictures on Minister Fowzie for his role in the controversial oil hedging deal and for justifying the conduct of Ceylon Petroleum Corporation Chairman Asantha De Mel, the Supreme Court on Friday called upon the President to take over the Petroleum Ministry and appoint a suitable minister in terms of Article 44 of the Constitution.Informed sources said Fowzie however will not resign but wait for the President to remove him and decide a course of action based on the President's decision." If the President does not remove Minister Fowzie he will continue in office," a source close to the Minister said adding it is an issue the President will have to resolve with the Supreme Court. The decision of Fowzie not to quit also followed earlier rumours in the political grapevine that Senior Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapakse was keen to take the portfolio away from Fowzie which the President was reluctant to do fearing serious political consequences." All this speculation will be laid to rest if the President does not remove Minister Fowzie," this source said.It is learned that Minister Fowzie will not accept any other portfolio but occupy the back bench if the President sacks him in terms of the Supreme Court order.

International media, human rights watchdogs lopsided - Jaffna MP

"The Colombo government is embarked upon a killing spree of children and women in refugee camps who are already victims of war, displacement, cyclone and floods. This act of 'state terrorism' is in what way less deplorable than the Mumbai killings, for failing to attract condemnation and action from the International Community," asks Padmini Sithamparanathan, Tamil National Alliance MP for Jaffna. "The so-called international media and human rights organizations are shameless in exhibiting their impotency they have acquired by becoming stooges to the lopsided agenda of the international politics of terrorism which is nothing but geopolitics," she added. Six days of torrential rains with intermittent gale have caused the death of more than ten, injured hundreds and have displaced hundreds of thousands in Jaffna and Vanni.The people of Vanni especially face untold sufferings, deprived of everything including a guarantee to live. The latest aerial bombing of the Sri Lanka Air Force has targeted a location well known as a refugee camp according to news reports. "This heinous act has resulted in the death and injury of many, most of them, children, women and elderly, who were already suffering the misfortunes of war and nature," the Jaffna MP said. "The international media, which jumps at the slightest occasion to blare about terrorism, is by its silence and biased news reporting encourages the genocidal agenda of state terrorism in Sri Lanka."The US based Human Rights Watch, while pressuring the Colombo government to allow aid groups to help cyclone victims in Vanni, has come out with an unwarranted statement that “the LTTE bears a heavy responsibility for the suffering of the civilian population in the Vanni, by refusing to allow civilians their basic rights to freedom of movement," she said. "What the Human Rights Watch needs to do is seeing that the people get immediate aid in the very place they live. It may not have the guts to do so by pressing the International Community, but this is not the time for it to abet the wishes of the government waging a genocidal war."In its press release the HRW concedes: " Human Rights Watch has previously reported that the Sri Lankan authorities have detained many displaced persons leaving the Vanni, holding them in closely guarded militarized camps near Mannar town. The government claims this is necessary for the safety of the detained civilians themselves, but the families detained in the camps have repeatedly stated their desire to leave; the government’s detention policy violates the rights of these displaced persons to freedom of movement."In such a helpless background what justification is there for the HRW to expect the people to come out of Vanni, the MP asks. "Many civilians are cold-bloodedly killed in the East and a large number of Tamils have been arrested in the South in the recent days. Thousands of Tamils are virtually kept as hostages for a long time in custody of the Colombo government. It is a shame to human rights that Hundreds of Tamils in Jaffna have to voluntarily go into custody to safe life. " The Human Rights Watch itself came out with a statement a few days ago on the escalation of human rights abuses in the so-called 'liberated' East. The human rights organisations privately agree that there is no better place of safety for the people of Vanni. What guarantee the human rights groups were been able to give the Tamils of the so-called liberated East, or in the other parts of the island outside of Vanni, to justify their call now for the freedom of movement of the people of Vanni, that too at a time when there is an utmost urgency for the aid to reach their doorsteps, asked the MP. It is high time that the International Community and the human rights organisations prevail upon the Sri Lanka government to stop the war, enter into peace negotiations and resolve the human crisis in the island, she said. In the meantime, Brad Adams, the Asia director of Human Rights Watch, while asking the Colombo government on Friday to lift restrictions on UN and other groups to operate in Vanni, has said: “If the humanitarian community can operate in conflict zones like eastern Congo, Somalia, and Iraq, they can operate in the Vanni as well. The government’s argument that the safety of humanitarian workers in the Vanni cannot be guaranteed comes across as more of an excuse to conduct military operations without scrutiny than a statement of concern.”

TMVP vows not to disarm

The TMVP last week said it will continue to carry arms as threats by the LTTE were still prevailing.The Tigers had recently attacked several offices and camps of the TMVP in Chenkalady and Vavunathivu.TMVP Spokesperson K. Iniyabharathi told The Sunday Leader that the recent incidents in the east would not create an impact on the TMVP's stance and said that the reason for the party to continue to be armed was due to the threats by the Tigers. "The recent incidents in the east are not the reasons for the TMVP to carry arms. The TMVP is carrying arms for its own security. The party is threatened by the LTTE. There are no other threats. Therefore, we will continue to carry arms until the LTTE lays down its arms or is completely destroyed," Iniyabharathi said."When we look at the recent incidents, the attacks have been carried out against the civilians. It is not clear as to who is carrying out the killings."The TMVP had continuously stated that the LTTE was present in the east. Though the party said that the LTTE was functioning in small groups within the jungles, it had reiterated that there was no chance for the TMVP to disarm.

Snr. DIG Lewke heads new anti-terror unit

An 800-member Special Operations Unit has been formed to combat terrorist acts and to enhance security in the Western Province under Senior DIG Nimal Lewke. It has already begun operating in Mundalama, Negombo, Wedamulla, Colombo, Maradana and Bambalapitiya through area offices. About 30 unauthorised lodges in Colombo have so far been raided by the SOU, including several in Kotahena and other areas that had been in operation by offering gratifications to Police to escape legal action.The Police officers providing protection to the two Kelani bridges were replaced by the officers of this unit last week. The nine main bridges leading to the city will be guarded by them. The personnel of the unit under Senior DIG Lewke, a pioneer officer of the STF, will receive commando type training and a distinctive uniform as well.Steps are now also being taken to reorganise the Police Narcotics Bureau coming under him and to carry out a study on preventing underworld activities and organised crimes.

Opening of Madhu Shrine in limbo

Opening of the holiest place of Sri Lanka Catholics – the Madhu Shrine is uncertain for the holy month of Christmas with no indication from either the government or the Catholic Church.Vicar General of Mannar, Rev. Fr. Victor Susai speaking to The Nation said that there has been no indication from the government and it was too late for the Catholic Church to request the government to open the shrine for pilgrims in time for the next feast, which falls on December 8.“I think it’s too late on our part to make a request to reopen. We wanted to celebrate the Feast of the Holy Assumption, which fell on August 15, but it was cancelled. Then we put it off for September 8 and again to October 4. Now it seems that it won’t be open for pilgrims even for Christmas or New Year masses. So, we are hopeful that it may be opened for the February 2 Feast,” Rev. Fr. Susai said.“Bishop Rayappu Joseph, along with the Catholic Bishops Conference requested that Madhu Shrine premises be declared a ‘No War Zone’ by both parties and an undertaking in writing to that effect be given. However, although fighting has ceased in surrounding areas, the pass system is still in force,” Fr. Susai added.“I heard that Senior Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapaksa has stated that electricity will be restored soon. However, we need to repair the houses, if the pilgrims were to stay there. Also, the bakery, boutiques and tea shops should open up for them to buy foodstuff and the wells need to be chlorinated and cleaned,” he said.“Only a limited number of persons are staying at the shrine premises. Forces are very strict about allowing lay persons in, due to security reasons. Even priests when travelling from Mannar to Madhu have to undergo a long procedure. A name list has to be sent and they are subject to inquiries by military and Police. Sometimes, clearance has to be sought from the Wanni headquarters,” Rev. Fr. Susai said.“The whole Madhu area up to Madawachchiya-Mannar Road (A14) is deserted. This includes about 40 to 50 villages and the villagers have moved up north towards Kilinochchi. We hear that they have been displaced yet again and moved towards Mullaitivu,” Rev. Fr. Susai added.

29 November 2008

Police curfew in Batticaoloa district

A Police curfew was imposed on Saturday with effect from 5:00 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening in twelve Police Divisions in the Sri Lanka's eastern Batticaloa district, to track down LTTE cadres in the area, in the aftermath of the killing of 15 civilians in the last few days.The police said that the purpose of the search operation is not only to apprehend LTTE suspects who have infiltrated into the district involved in unlawful activities but also to recover their weapons used in these activities.The Army, the Special Task Force (STF) and the Police have been engaged to conduct the operations in the district.During the past few days at least fifteen civilians were murdered by unidentified gunmen. The police suspected a group of LTTE cadres was behind these serial killings in the district.

Kungchupparanthan: first debacle of SLA in battle for Ki'linochchi

Several decomposed corpses of Sri Lanka Army (SLA) soldiers were still lying within the no-man area between the SLA and Liberation Tigers of Tamileelam (LTTE) frontiers in Kugnchukkulam no man zone, informed sources revealed on Friday. The SLA soldiers had maneuvered deep into LTTE trap, according to the source, which said it was the first debacle of the SLA in the battle for Ki'linochchi. At least 75 SLA soldiers were confirmed dead so far, the source said adding more than 160 of the soldiers, who managed to reach back to their barracks, had been injured. The LTTE, which earlier said 43 SLA soldiers were killed and 70 wounded, is yet to release further updates. The informed military source further said that the SLA soldiers had reported losing at least two PK-LMGs, two AK-LMGs, two RPGs, more than twenty-five T56 assault rifles, around twenty-thousand 7.62 mm rounds, RPG shells and grenades among the military hardware. In the meantime, Mangala Samaraweera, the leader of the Sri Lankan Freedom Party Mahajana wing (SLFP-M) on Thursday said that the fate of one officer and three soldiers, allegedly captured by the Tigers in Kungchupparanthan, was not known. He questioned the Sri Lankan government whether it had taken any step in informing the ICRC to check the whereabouts of the missing soldiers. 700 critically injured soldiers were admitted to Anuradhapura Military hospital, another 700 in SLA Hospital Colombo, 250 in Colombo National Hospital, 160 in Sri Jayawardhenapura Hospital, 90 in Ragama hospital and 65 in Kalubowila hospital, according to Mr. Mangala Samaraweera.

This Army Commander not suitable at least for Salvation Army, says Mangala

Defence Watch spokesman, Sri Lanka Freedom Party - People’s Wing leader Mangala Samaraweera says that Army Commander Sarath Fonseka is not suitable at least to command Salvation Army. He mad these remarks at a press briefing held on Thuresday morning (27) in Colombo by Defence Watch. Commenting on the Army Commander’s remark that the persons who sew women’s wear were not eligible for analyzing war, Samaraweera said that he did not know to sew clothes and he was the first Sri Lankan to be graduated with honors by the topmost art university of England. “Any Army Commander in the world never talks politics. They do not sling mud at politicians. The present Army Commander attacks even the Opposition Leader through newspapers. The main policy and the discipline of the Army is that the Army Commander and other officials not engaging in political dialogue,” said Mr. Samaraweera.Samaraweera said that the present Army Commander was coming after him during the period of 2004 and 2005 appealing him to be appointed to the Army Commander post. But he was not given it since he had no vision to hold the post.Samaraweera said that Sarath Fonseka who joined the Army n February 02, 1970 and commissioned in June 1971 had worked for 30 years under many Army Commanders who never awarded him with the 'Vishishta Seva Vibhushana.'These persons handle death squads on behalf of Rajapakses Samaraweera siad that as soon as Fonseka assumed duty as the Army Commander he recommended himself for the ‘Vishishta Seva Vibhushana.’MP Mangala Samaraweera said that this kind of people is the ones that handle death squads for Rajapakses.He pointed out that Sarath Fonseka was penalized on disciplinary grounds in 1975 when General Cyril Ranathunga was the Army Commander, challenging Fonseka to prove if this fact was wrong. Advising him to safeguard Army discipline, Samaraweera asked the Army Commander to appear on behalf of the Army personnel. He pointed out that the Army Commander had allocated for him at the cost of Rs. 45 million for a Benz car instead of providing facilities for the Army soldiers.

33,000 widows in the East - Ravaya

A research conducted by the Ministry of Nation Building has found that 33,000 women in the East under 30 years of age have been widowed due to the prevailing conflict, 'Ravaya' reports.Citing Minister of Nation Building, Susantha Punchinilame, it adds that the research conducted under the 'Negenahira Navodaya' programme, has also revealed that 95 per cent of these widows are mothers.Twenty pc of these mothers have three children, while the rest has between one and up to four children, it adds.Noting that these families are poverty stricken, minister Punchinilame said that discussions are being held with the Chief Minister of East Province to provide them with an income source.Meanwhile, the East Chief Minister has requested the Minister of Industrial Development to open an industrial zone in Batticaloa to provide them job opportunities.'Ravaya' says that according to the Minister of Industrial Development, Kumar Welgama, the possibility of implementing such a proposal is being considered at the present.

UPF urges for immediate ceasefire with LTTE
   
The Upcountry People’s Front (UPF), a coalition member of the ruling UPFA, yesterday urged the government in parliament to go for an immediate ceasefire agreement with the LTTE.“We urge the government to go for an immediate ceasefire and reach a political settlement”, UPF MP and Deputy Minister of Vocational and Technical Training P. Radakrishnan told parliament yesterday during the vote on the Plantations Ministry of the 2009 Budget debate.Mr. Radakrishnan said the Political Bureau of the UPF had agreed that   the government must sign a ceasefire agreement and reach a settlement to the national problem.The minister also urged the government to honour its agreement with the UPF and increase the wages of estate workers according to the cost of living index.“If the government fails to honour this agreement we will have to consider abstaining from voting at the third reading of the Budget,” Mr. Radakrishnan warned.He added that according to the rise of the cost of living index, an estate worker should be paid a minimum of Rs.500/= a day.

A Buddhist monk arrested for running a brothel of boy prostitutes

The Special Investigation Unit of Maradana police station arrested a Buddhist monk who allegedly ran a brothel of boy prostitutes in a flat in Maligawaththa together with associates and a stock of obscene video.The Buddhist monk, five boys under 15 years of age and the clients of the brothel including a police constable attaché to Maradana police station were among the arrested people.The police said that the monk had sold these boys at Rs. 300 each.

UN aid agencies bring relief to flood-hit northern Sri Lanka

Three United Nations agencies are offering relief to tens of thousands of Sri Lankans who have been displaced from their homes after floods struck at least five districts in the north of the island nation this week.Aid agencies held a coordination meeting in the town of Jaffna today to plan their response to the floods, which follow several days of heavy rains, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported.Sufficient stocks of relief items, including food and shelter materials, are available across the Jaffna peninsula to help affected families for the next few days. The region is already affected by the conflict between Government forces and the rebel Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is coordinating the distribution of non-food relief items and the UN World Food Programme (WFP) is providing dry rations at the request of local authorities. The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is assisting with water and sanitation services.OCHA reports that the floods are worst in five districts: Jaffna, Mannar, Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu in Northern province, and Trincomalee in Eastern province. Three reservoirs are at risk of overflowing, and vehicle movements across the north are being obstructed by flood waters and bad road conditions, thus hampering the progress of humanitarian convoys.

TMVP protest against killings
 
Regional political leaders led a protest in the eastern Sri Lankan city of Batticaloa against the continuous killings and abductions in the east.Batticaloa Mayor, Sivageetha Prabhakaran, provincial councillors and other members of the local bodies took part in the protest calling for democracy to be established in the province.A hunger strike was organised as part of the protest to condemn what they call "killings with impunity"."We can build roads, bridges but people cant benefit from development alone. Whom do we create democracy if people are getting killed? Is democracy for the dead bodies?," Batticaloa Mayor Ms. Prabhakaran questioned.

Government 'responsible'

Eastern province Chief Minister, Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan (Pillayan) who also attended the protest said himself and the government should take the responsibility. Two soldiers and a Hindu priest was killed and two civilians sustained injuries on Thursday in Batticaloa district.At least 19 people, including four soldiers, were killed in the district within the last week.Doctors suspended working in the north and the east after Dr. Palitha Padmakumara who worked in Batticaloa was shot dead on 17 November.The protest was organised by the Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Puligal (TMVP), headed by Vinayagamurthy Muralitharan (Karuna), MP, and chief minister Pillayan.The TMVP itself is accused by the UN and International human rights groups of killings, abductions and other rights violations.The Human Rights Watch last week accused the TMVP of involved in about thirty murders and thirty abductions during September and October.

Plan to assassinate Mangala by a claymore

The founder of Defense Watch, Sri Lanka Freedom Party - People’s Wing leader Mangala Samaraweera says that a conspiracy is hatched at the top levels of Defence Ministry to kill him by a claymore.He exposed this fact at a press briefing held on Thursday morning (27) in Colombo by Defence Watch. He said that he had information that the unofficial operators of white van squads last week discussed to kill him by a claymore. Samaraweera said that he would hand over a letter revealing this situation to his lawyers on Thursday (27).He further stated that he was preparing a document with details of conspiracy to assassinate him and it would be submitted to several states including US.

India not to remove ban on LTTE 

India has no intention of lifting the ban on Sri Lanka's Tamil Tigers, official sources said Friday.The sources were responding to a plea to this effect that Velupillai Prabhakaran, the founder leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), made Thursday evening as part of his annual speech.The sources, speaking to IANS on the condition of anonymity, said the question of acceding to the request did not arise since the ban, first imposed in 1992, had been extended for another two years only now.India was the first country to outlaw the LTTE, which is fighting for a separate homeland to be carved out of Sri Lanka's northeast, following the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. Since then, several countries have followed suit.In his Nov 27 address from an undisclosed destination, Prabhakaran said that he wanted to"build a constructive relationship" with India, which he described as a "superpower".

28 November 2008

TELO President Selvam Adaikalanathan MP condemns Mumbai killings

The deliberate and indiscriminate killing and injuring of hundreds of civilians and foreign tourists in Mumbai by armed men shocks the civilized world and is beyond all justification, said Selvam Adaikalanathan, TELO President and Tamil National Alliance MP for Vanni, on Thursday. At least ten locations including three luxury hotels, a crowded railway terminal, a cafe, a hospital, a cinema and a Jewish community centre in the commercial heart of Mumbai were targeted by heavily armed men on Wednesday night who fired people at random and held many as hostages. Even though claims have been made in the name Deccan Mujahudeen, the exact identity and the real motives of the attackers are yet to be revealed. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, strongly condemning the terror attacks in Mumbai, blamed that elements based outside India were behind the attacks.

Vaiko addresses 40,000 at London Remembrance Day event

Over 40,000 expatriate Tamils participated in the Remembrance Day ceremony in London on Thursday, a record turnout for the usually well-attended annual event. Vaiko, leader of the MDMK party in Tamil Nadu delivered the keynote address at the ExCel centre, London’s largest auditorium, whilst, earlier, the 2008 Heroes’ Day speech by LTTE leader Velupillai Pirapaharan was heard by attendees as it was broadcast live via satellite from Vanni to Diaspora centres around the world. Despite Thursday being a working day, the 25,000 seat ExCel centre in Southeast London remained packed to capacity from mid-day to early evening, with thousands of people paying their respects and leaving after some time so as to make way for those crowding outside, venue officials said. Joan Ryan MPThe day began with a silent tribute to the Tamils who had died in their people’s liberation struggle. Thereafter, the flame of altruism lit by Mrs Yoharani Manohararasa, mother of late LTTE Lt Col Vaikunthan.Then the lights dimmed for lighting of lamps by the attending people whilst the ‘Great Heroes' Resting Home’ song played in the background.Throughout the day families waited patiently in line with groups of teenagers and retirees to place flower petals before portraits of Tamils killed in the liberation struggle against Sinhala domination.It took an hour for those joining the queues to reach the petals, people said. Families of the fallen brought portraits of their loved ones to place on the dais, they added. As in recent years, large quantities of the Tamil national flower, the karthigaipoo (gloriosa lily) were among the petals piled up for attendees to pick and place, they said.Private bus companies plied from many of London’s boroughs (districts) to the cavernous venue in the glass fronted Docklands area. Thousands of people also travelled to London from locations across the British isles, from as far away as Edinburgh in Scotland and Cardiff in Wales to participate in the event.Whilst people waited to pay their respects of took their seats afterwards, dozens of Tamil expatriate arts groups staged dramas, traditional dance (bharathanatyam) and other cultural performances which were interspaced with speeches on the Tamils’ oppression in Sri Lanka and their struggle for freedom. Among those who addressed the event were British parliamentarians Edward Davey (LibDem, Kingston and Surbiton), Robert Evans (Labour, MEP) Siobhain McDonagh (Labour, Mitcham and Mordern), John McDonald (Labour, Hayes and Harlington), Andrew Pelling (Independent, Croydon Central), Joan Ryan (Labour, Enfield North) and Vireindra Sharma (Labour, Ealing and Southall). The Conservative candidate for Ilford South, Toby Boutle, also spoke.Mr. Sharma, chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Tamils (APPG-T) asked if the massive gathering of expatriate Tamils didn’t represent the sentiments of the Tamil people, what would? He said the APPG-T would continue to take up the Tamils’ cause.Mr. Pelling pointed out that the Sri Lankan government labels anyone who talks about the persecution of Tamils as terrorists. Those gathered at the venue are only voicing their support for the right to self determination of their people, he said. They certainly were not terrorists, they occupy an important place in British society he said. The keynote address was delivered in the evening by Mr. Vaiko, the general secretary of Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetta Kazhakam (MDMK). The renowned orator repeatedly drew applause during his 40 minute speech, which was broadcast on expatriate satellite channels. Revisiting aspects of a speech he had given Wednesday to a meeting at the British Parliament of the APPG-T, Mr. Vaiko said the Tamil struggle for independence was a direct consequence of Sinhala oppression.He pointed out that long before armed struggle erupted in Sri Lanka, Tamil leaders had despaired of trying to get the Sinhala state to treat Tamils as equals.The project of securing Tamil Eelam was first set out the Vaddokoddai Resolution (of 1976), he reminded the audience.Implacable Sinhala racism had rendered Tamil Eelam the only viable route for Tamils’ security and dignity he said.He pointed out that under British colonial rule, the Tamils had not faced violence and persecution on account of their race.Mr. Vaiko urged the Indian central government to help establish an independent Tamil Eelam, saying this was not a threat to India but in fact a vital form of security. Whilst the Tamils in Sri Lanka are allies of India, the Sinhalese are hostile to India, he said. A Sinhala-dominated Sri Lanka would certainly be a threat to India, he added.He dismissed Sri Lanka’s recent rhetoric about the 13th amendment as a ruse to fend off international pressure for the Sinhalese to share power with the Tamils.Speeches by another prominent Tamil Nadu political leader, P. Nedumaran, was broadcast. So was a speech by Indian cinema director Seeman.

Prabhakaran wants India to revoke ban on LTTE

Tamil Tiger leader Velupillai Prabhakaran praised the manifest support extended by the people of Tamil Nadu for the Tamil struggle in Sri Lanka; declared that the Sri Lankan Tamils were friends of India; and urged the Indian government to lift the ban on his organisation, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in his annual Great Hero’s Day oration on Thursday.“Our freedom movement, as well as our people, have always wished to maintain cordiality with the international community as well as neighbouring India... We wish to express our goodwill and are looking forward to the opportunity to build a constructive relationship,” the Tiger leader said.“Cordially, I invite those countries that have banned us, to understand our deep aspirations and friendly overtures of our people, and remove their ban on us and recognise our just struggle,” he added.In a special reference to Tamil Nadu and India, Prabhakaran said: “ Today, there are great changes taking place in India.The dormant voices in support of our struggle are re-emerging aloud again.” “The positive change in environment gives us courage, and we seek renewal of our relationship with the Indian super power... The racist Sinhala state conspired to bring enmity betweeb our freedom movement and the earlier Indian administration,” he said.“...However, at no point, did we consider India as an enemy force. Our people always consider India as their friend. They have great expectations that the Indian super power will take a positive stand on our national question,” Prabhakaran said.“Our struggle does not contravene the national interest, the geo-political interest or economic interest of any outside country,” he assured.“It may be noted that during our struggle, we have not conducted any act of aggression against any member of the international community,” the Tiger chieftain claimed.Focussing on the recent pro-Lankan Tamil upsurge in Tamil Nadu, the LTTE leader said: “I wish to express my love and gratitude at this juncture to the leaders and people of Tamil Nadu and the leaders of India, for the voice of support and love they have extended.” “I would cordially request them to raise their voices in favour of our struggle for a Tamil Eelam state and to take appropriate and positive measures to remove the ban which remains an impediment to an amicable relationship between India and our movement,” the LTTE chief said.Prabhakaran described the current military operations of the Sri Lankan forces as a “major war of genocide” and said that the Sri Lankan government was preventing the real news about it from reaching the outside world. It was using anti-Tamil armed groups to run a “ tyrannical military rule” in areas it had taken.‘Ofers of setlement fa ke’: The LTTE leader said that the Tamils would not take offers of settlement which would be made only after their military subjugation.“Does the Sinhala nation want to offer a solution only after the Tamils are suppressed and killed? Does it want to wipe out the true representatives of the Tamils and their bargaining power before offering a solution?” he asked.

Sri Lankan Air Force bombs rebels' communication facility

Sri Lankan Air Force jets Thursday evening bombed a communication facility of the Tamil Tiger rebels in the northern part of the country, the military said in a statement.The attack came shortly before the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leader Velupillai Prabakaran delivered his annual 'Hero's Day' speech at a different location. According to the defence ministry, Air Force jets pounded on the target at around 5 p.m. (1130 GMT). The extent of the damage has not been verified. The rebel leader in his speech said that despite the current military setbacks suffered by the group, the LTTE would continue its military pursuits on behalf of the Tamil minority in the country.He said the LTTE 'wish to stop the war and seek a peaceful resolution to the national question of our people'.The LTTE has been organising the 'Hero's Day' ceremony since 1989 to commemorate the death of one of their cadres on Nov 27, 1982 who became the first person to be killed in the decades old conflict.Prabakaran usually reserves the speech to announce important policy decisions of the rebel organisation.The Sri Lankan government said the rebels' campaign for a separate Tamil state has neared its end, after government troops dislodged the insurgents from its strongholds in the north.The LTTE has been fighting for an independent Tamil homeland in the northern and eastern part of the country claiming discrimination at the hands of the Sinhalese-dominated governments since mid-1980s. The decades old conflict has resulted in the death of more than 70,000 people.

27 November 2008

Army enters Kilinochchi as Tigers withdraw suddenly

In a sudden and dramatic development the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) withdrew from the heavily fortified northern town of Kilinochchi while soldiers of the Sri Lankan armed forces began moving in cautiously into the town area.The capture of Kilinochchi is likely to be announced officially by President Mahinda Rajapakse in an Island – wide address to the nation in Sinhala and Tamil on the evening of Thursday November 27th.Though Kilinochchi is virtually in the hands of the army at the moment the Government is delaying such announcement so that President Rajapakse derives maximum propaganda mileage by stating so personally on Nov 27th evening.The President is expected to address the nation at the same time that LTTE leader Velupillai Prabakharan is scheduled to deliver his annual “Maaveerar thinam” or Great Heroes day address on Nov 27th.According to authoritative sources the LTTE vacated Kilinochchi during the night of Tuesday November 25th. The army began moving in “slowly and steadily” during Wednesday Nov 26th.The news was not officially announced as the Government wanted President Rajapakse to “give out the good news” even as the tiger chief was making his speech.Specific instructions had been given to the armed forces to seize Kilinochchi before November 27th so that the announcement could be made on great heroes day itself.Posters have been printed in advance and will be plastered on walls after the President makes a formal announcement.Plans are also afoot to stage a grand ceremony in Kilinochchi where the national flag would be hoisted in the town even as the sacrificial flame is lit by Prabakharan at the great heroes day ceremony.A team of selected media personnel is to be taken to Kilinochchi this evening depending on weather conditions.Troops of 58 division and 57 division are currently moving into Kilinochchi cautiously.The sudden LTTE withdrawal has made the army suspicious of an ulterior motive . So troops are not rushing in but are treading warily.A possible counter – strike by the LTTE is also not ruled out.The LTTE lost “Col” Stanley who was in charge of tiger defences along the Paranthan – Pooneryn road in the fighting along with around 150 tiger cadres.Soldiers of the 58 and 57 divisions closed in on Kilinochchi from three directions and later spread out widely to seven positions on the outskirts.According to informed sources the army was getting ready for the long haul as they expected the LTTE to defend fiercely so as to prevent soldiers entering Kilinochchi before Nov 27th.They were in for a pleasant surprise on the dawn of tiger leader Prabakharan’s 54th birthday when the LTTE made an overnight withdrawal Why the LTTE withdrew instead of holding out for at least 48 hours more so that Nov 27th would pass remains a mystery but according to military circles the three days of torrential rain may have played a part as all tiger defensive positions have been flooded.Meanwhile Defence affairs spokesman and cabinet minister Keheliya Rambukwella told journalists in Colombo that the “fall of Kilinochchi was imminent”.

Vaiko urges British Parliament to restore Eezham Tamil sovereignty

Vaiko, the general secretary of Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetta Kazhakam (MDMK) from Tamil Nadu, while addressing British parliamentarians of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Tamils on Wednesday in the British Parliament, said that the British Parliament has a moral responsibility to rectify the historic injustice caused on to the Eezham Tamils during the colonial rule It was the British who statutorily put the Tamil and the Sinhala territories together in 1833, made Ceylon a unitary entity and refused to consider federalism in their constitutional reforms. When they left in 1948, they passed on the power to the Sinhala majoritarian rulers, he said. Sir Ivor Jennings, an International authority on constitutional Law and who was a party to the Soulbury constitution under which Ceylon became independent, regretted later for the injustice of the constitution when he saw the plight of the Tamils in the independent Ceylon, Mr. Vaiko, who goes by one name, told the cross party parliamentarians. Extending gratitude for the opportunity to address the parliamentarians of the cross party forum, Mr. Vaiko, who has been invited to the United Kingdom by the APPG, gave a historical walk-through on the background of the Tamil struggle for freedom in the island of Sri Lanka. Giving a detailed account of the major oppressive policies such as disenfranchisement, standardisation, colonisation, Sinhala only policy and the role of Buddhist extremism in determining the affairs in the island, Vaiko explained how Tamils fought for their rights through a non-violent struggle. Vaiko described how Bandaranaike - Chelvanayakam pact and all the other pacts, reached between the Tamil and Sinhala leaders, were abrogated by the same Sinhala leaders who were party to the agreements. He also narrated how the non-violent struggle was crushed and state-sponsored violence and genocidal pogroms against Tamils. Referring to a speech made by the then Prime Minister of India, late Madam Indira Gandhi, in the Indian Parliament on 16 August 1983, after Black July anti-Tamil pogrom, he said that Ms. Gandhi clearly termed what was going on in Sri Lanka against Tamils as a genocide. She also declared that the conflict in Sri Lanka was no longer an Internal affair of that island, but a matter of universal concern. 100,000 Tamils, including 22,000 young men and women, have sacrificed their lives for Tamil sovereignty, he said adding that all those who were concerned on the resolution of the conflict should pay attention to the historical ground realities. An independent Tamil Eelam is the only viable solution, he said. As in the case with Montenegro, East Timor and Kosovo, the Eezham Tamil people have long back overwhelmingly mandated their sovereignty and self-determination in the Vaddukkoaddai Resolution of 1976 and its endorsement in the 1977 elections, he explained. How could Tamils live together when the Sinhala leaders themselves reiterate their racial policy saying that Sri Lanka is a Sinhala state and there could be no question of Tamil homeland, he asked. On the current developments, he observed that a tremendous upsurge was sweeping through Tamil Nadu state with 65 million Tamils, who are agitated against the genocidal war that has been thrust upon the Tamils by the Colombo government. The upsurge has transcended the borders of Tamil Nadu as evidenced by the recent protest by students in New Delhi, he said. Thousands of students from 17 different states of India made it a demand in their protest in front of the Indian Parliament in New Delhi that there should be no military support and that the war should end. When the Jews were subjected to discrimination and genocide, the United Kingdom contributed to the creation of the Israel, Vaiko said. Having a peace loving and resourceful Tamil diaspora, which struggles for the freedom of its homeland, the UK has a moral obligation to see that Tamil Eelam is established, he said adding that it was also time for the International Community to force the Sri Lankan state, as the party which abrogated the Norwegian facilitated Ceasefire Agreement, to unilaterally declare a ceasefire. It was also time for the International Community to consider de-proscription of the Liberation Tigers of Tamileelam (LTTE), he said. Reflecting on the address by Mr. Vaiko, Stephen Pound, the Labour member of Parliament for the Ealing North constituency, said it was one of the best speeches that deserved a record in the British parliament as a passionate, emotional and historical record. Keith Vaz, MP for Leicester East and Virendra Sharma, MP for Ealing, Southall, also appreciated the address by Vaiko as an informative account on the history of the conflict in Sri Lanka. 

India's Day Of Infamy By B. Raman, Camp New Delhi

The war of civilisation between the Muslims and the infidels has begun in Indian territory.

2.  So said the first statement issued in the name of the so-called Indian Mujahideen (IM) in November, 2007, after the three orchestrated explosions in three towns of Uttar Pradesh outside local courts.

3.  We saw the latest round of this war in Mumbai on the night of November 26, 2008, as an unestimated number of terrorists----divided into small groups and wielding hand-held weapons and improvised explosive devices (IEDs)---  literally took control of Mumbai and targeted with frightening precision famous hotels preferred by the rich of the country and foreign tourists, railway stations, a hospital  and many other places scattered across this business capital of India.

4. It is not just 9/11. It is not just Madrid, March, 2004. It is not just London, 2006.

5.  It is --- I am using the present tense because the situation is still not under control at 5-30 AM despite the Army's assistance being sought--- an act of terrorism, the like of which the world has not seen before. Mind boggles as one tries to think and figure out how the terrorists could have planned and carried out terrorist strikes of such magnitude, territorial spread and ferocity without our intelligence and police having been able to get scent of it. Like what the Vietcong did during the Tet offensive.

6.  The iceberg of jihadi terrorism to which I have been drawing attention since November, 2007, in article after article, in interview after interview, in discussion after discussion has struck not only Mumbai, but the Indian State.

7. The iceberg moved from UP to Jaipur. From Jaipur to Bangalore. From Bangalore to Ahmedabad and Surat. From there to Delhi. From Delhi to Assam. From Assam to Mumbai now-----despite the claims made by the Mumbai Police some weeks ago of having discovered and crushed a plot of the IM to carry out strikes in Mumbai.

8.  The Government of Manmohan Singh reacted to the repeated warning signals of the moving iceberg since November 2007, in the same way as the Bush Administration reacted to reports about the plans of the Al Qaeda for an of aviation terrorism in the US; in the same way Megawati Sukarnoputri reacted to reports of the activities of the Jemmah Islamiyah; and in the same way Khalida Zia reacted to reports of the plans of the Jamiat-ul-Mujahideen .

9. Bovine. It just did no react. It was in a total denial mode.  I wrote and said again and again ----hand over all the investigation about the IM to a central investigating agency for a co-ordinated investigation instead of their being investigated by the police in a piecemeal manner in different States ruled by different political parties. No reaction.

10.  From a localised threat, jihadi terrorism has become a pan-Indian threat with a pan-Islamic ideology. Deal with it with a pan-Indian strategy, I said. No reaction.

11.  The terrorists arrested some weeks ago in Mumbai, three of whom were IT experts well-placed in trans-national companies, pose a new dimension of the threat. Seek the help of the US, I said. No reaction.

12.  I drew attention to an article of Hamid Mir, a journalist of Pakistan, which spoke of Indian Muslims going to Afghanistan to fight with the Taliban against the US and which also said that India is one of the routes being used by foreign jihadis going to Afghanistan.  No reaction just as Rajiv Gandhi did not react to repeated wake-up calls from the then Afghan President Najibullah that Muslims from Kashmir were being trained by the Afghan Mujahideen.

13.  In October, when I had come to Delhi for a seminar two diplomats from the EU countries sought an appointment with me for a discussion on the IM.  They expressed their surprise and concern over the fact that the Indian intelligence and police seemed to know so little about the IM despite their having arrested many perpetrators of the previous blasts and interrogated them.

14.  Is the IM the name of an organisation or of a movement? Is it one or many organisations in different States acting, like the International Islamic Front (IIF) of Osama bin Laden, as a united front-----autonomously where they can and unitedly where they should? Who constitute its command and control? Where are they? In India or outside? Nobody knows for certain.

15.  I could not sleep the whole of last night. One question, which kept bothering me again and again was: how safe are our nuclear establishments and material?

16. Till now, we were greeting with glee Pakistan's incompetence in dealing with terrorism. We can no longer do so. We have become as clueless as Pakistan.

17. I wanted to write much more, but my mind doesn't work.  As I watch on the TV what is happening in Mumbai, I shiver and sweat at the thought of what is waiting to happen tomorrow and where. 

Auspicious time to enter Kilinochchi - Keheliya Rambukelle

Government Defense Spokesman Keheliya Rambukelle stated at any second Sri Lanka forces would capture Kilinochchi. He gave such statement at a media briefing held today at the National Defense media center, while speaking about the present situation. No need of questioning how many kilometers are to capture Kilinocchchi he stated to the journalist. The time has come to chase the Tigers was pointed out by him. He did not given direct answer to the question asked by the journalist whether the forces had captured Kilinochchi town.. But he stated that to inform about the capture of Kilinochchi from the tigers there is an auspicious time and the confrontations are from three points to the Kilinochchi area was pointed out by him.

Waiting game begins

Fighting has become increasingly difficult in the Wanni due to the rain. Troops continue fighting even though they cannot even go down for cover from enemy fire due to flooding. Several feet of water is observed any all roads, patches of bush, paddy fields and open areas in the Wanni where the fighting is concentrated.Tank bunds have broken and paddy fields have transformed into mini tanks. A soldier went missing after a tank bund suddenly burst in Kilinochchi a few days ago. Several feet of water is observed along many of the roads. In some places T-55 tanks are the only means of transporting casualties.The Tigers have constructed an earth bund in the shape of an "L" from Pooneryn-Paranthan road all the way upto the outskirts of Kilinochchi town. The last fire fight along the Pooneryn-Paranthan road occurred with the SLA breaching this earth bund, which too is crumbling due to the incessant rain. SLA casualties in last Sunday's fight has risen to 18 killed (8 missing) and 72 WIA. LTTE's Pooneryn Commander 'Stanley' who left the Karuna group to rejoin the LTTE in April 2004 was killed by the 58 Division in the fight for the Pooneryn-Paranthan road on Sunday. Stanley was a platoon commander under Karuna during Karuna's Unceasing Waces against Jayasikurui. Stanley was promoted by Prabhakaran after a period of close observation and stationed until his death to lead the LTTE forces at Pooneryn and Paranthan general areas. He fought alongside peers like Jimkelley Thatha and Raabert who are also dead. His colleague Pillayan is now the Chief Minister for the East where Stanley was born and raised.Meanwhile troops from the 59 Division today killed 5 Tigers and captured a female LTTE cadre who was shot and injured in the backside. Special Forces teams have been deployed in many of these buffer zones to block LTTE infiltration teams with great success. With the LTTE's area of dominance fast shrinking and sudden civilian movements along many roads, LRRP operations have been withheld for the most part in the Wanni.

Over 100,000 families affected in northern Sri Lanka by heavy rains

Nearly 136,000 families have faced difficulties due to the torrential rains lashing for the past few days throughout the country. According to Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre (DMC), most number of families is affected in the northern part of the country. Jaffna is the most inundated district and over 100,000 families have been affected by the rains. According to the DMC over 25,000 families in Mannar district were severely affected. Meteorology Department of Sri Lanka expects more thunder showers to lash the northern part of the country in the coming days. Meanwhile two small scale landslides were reported form Nawalapitiya and Kotagala, in Sri Lanka’s hill country last night. However, there were no injuries reported, says Disaster Management Centre of Sri Lanka.

The enigma of Prabhakaran  By Alastair Lawson BBC
 
From a secret jungle base in the north-east of Sri Lanka, Velupillai Prabhakaran heads the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) or Tamil Tigers. He has a reputation as a fearless and ruthless guerrilla leader and under his leadership, the Tamil Tigers have become a highly-disciplined and highly-motivated guerrilla force fighting for a separate homeland in the north and east of the country. For much of the past three decades his organisation has shown no sign of being defeated militarily by the Sri Lankan army, even though it is vastly outnumbered. But recent advances by the army - including its capture of rebel-held eastern parts of the island in 2007 - have meant that Mr Prabhakaran is now under more military pressure than at any time.

Cyanide capsule

There is now a strong possibility that the town of Kilinochchi may fall soon. Such a loss would be hugely significant, because the town is the rebels' de facto capital, with political offices, courts, a police headquarters and other administrative buildings. Mr Prabhakaran is reputed to wear a cyanide capsule around his neck, to be swallowed in the event of his capture. He expects the same dedication from his troops, many of whom the Sri Lankan government says are either women or children. He is also a man whom critics say is much more at ease fighting in the battlefield than he is sitting around a negotiating table. They argue that any peace process is doomed to failure with Mr Prabhakaran as leader of the Tigers and that even after a Norwegian brokered ceasefire was signed in 2002, the rebels used the lull in fighting to re-group and re-arm. Mr Prabhakaran's supporters argue that he fully embraced efforts to secure peace, pointing out that in 2002 he began de-commissioning arms, allowed a land route to be opened to the rebels' northern stronghold in the Jaffna peninsula and even gave support to his movement dropping its demand for a separate state. From 2002 to 2008 - when the government announced that it was formally withdrawing from the ceasefire - Mr Prabhakaran suffered a number of setbacks. In 2004 a renegade Tamil Tiger commander, known as Karuna, led a split in the rebel movement in the east - a huge breach of its much hailed discipline and unity. Two years later the Tigers' chief ideologue, Anton Balasingham, died of cancer in London. His demise was described as an "irreplaceable loss" to the movement. And in November 2007 the senior Tamil Tiger leader, SP Thamilselvan, was killed in a bombing raid by the military. He was the "public face" of the Tigers and the most senior rebel to be killed by troops in years. Mr Prabhakaran himself described his death as an "unparalleled loss". Mr Prabhakaran inspires conflicting emotions in Sri Lanka - which reflect the divisions between the Sinhala and Tamil communities. To his followers, he is a freedom fighter struggling for Tamil emancipation from Sinhala oppression. To his adversaries he is a megalomaniac with a brutal disregard for human life. The Tamil Tiger leader seldom gives interviews to journalists, who are in any case restricted by the government from going into areas controlled by his forces. However each November he does give a speech on what the Tamil Tigers refer to as Heroes' Day - to commemorate dead rebel fighters - and the message has over the years remained pretty much the same. "The uncompromising stance of Sinhala chauvinism has left us with no other option but an independent state for the people of Tamil Eelam," he said in November 2006. His movements between his various jungle hideouts are the subject of great secrecy, and he is reported to have narrowly avoided assassination or capture on numerous occasions.

Accused of killings

Born on 26 November 1954, in the northern coastal town of Velvettithurai, on the Jaffna peninsula, Velupillai Prabhakaran is the youngest of four children. He was an average student, shy and bookish. He said in one of his rare interviews that he was fascinated by Napoleon and Alexander the Great, devouring books on their lives. He was also influenced by the lives of two Indian leaders, Subhash Chandra Bose and Bhagat Singh, both of whom were involved in the armed struggle for independence from Britain. Angered as a teenager by what he saw as discrimination against Tamils in politics, employment and education, he began attending political meetings and practising martial arts. He soon became heavily involved in the Tamil protest movement, and in 1975 was accused of being responsible for the murder of the mayor of Jaffna. That assassination was one of the first killings carried out by the burgeoning Tamil nationalist movement. He was instrumental in the foundation of the Tamil Tigers around that time. The killing of the mayor is not the only high-profile murder for which Mr Prabhakaran is the prime suspect. He has also been accused by India of playing a key role in the murder of the former prime minister, Rajiv Gandhi, in 1991. Gandhi was killed by a suicide bomber who, the Indians say, was acting on orders from Mr Prabhakaran. It is alleged that Mr Prabhakaran wanted to avenge the Indian prime minister's decision in the mid-1980s to deploy Indian peacekeeping troops in Sri Lanka. Despite the conflicting views surrounding Mr Prabhakaran, there is one point on which both the Sinhala and Tamil communities agree: he is the dominating force in the rebel movement, and without his consent peace in Sri Lanka will never be attainable.

Main suspect arrested for rape of German woman

Sri Lanka police on wednesday evening arrested the main suspect of a gang who raped and robbed an elderly German woman recently.Police spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara said a special police team in Marawila made the arrest in a special raid conducted on a civilian tip. When the suspect was arrested police found some of the robbed gold jewellery, police spokesman added. Few days ago a gang raped the German woman in a guest house in Marawila and robbed nearly 30 million rupees worth of jewelries.

New system to obtain UK visa in Sri Lanka

The British government had implemented some changes to its immigration system with immediate effect. The British High Commission in Sri Lanka announced yesterday evening that they will start to issue identity cards to foreign nationals who apply to stay in UK as a student or based on marriage, effective from today (27). However, according to the press release issued by the British High Commission this new system is not applied to the Sri Lankans yet. "The identity card will be introduced gradually over the next three years for all those coming to the UK for more than six months or extending their stay in the UK,” it said. Additionally, the British government had decided to increase marriage visa age limit. From today both parties to a marriage will have to be at least 21 years old before a marriage visa can be issued. The Points Based System will be expanded with the launch of Tier 2 for skilled migrants with a job offer and Tier 5 for temporary workers and youth mobility. Also, the introduction of the new Business Visit Visa on November 27 will clarify the business activities that can be undertaken by holders of this visa.

26 November 2008

Karunanidhi to Delhi to push for ceasefire

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi will lead an all-party delegation to Delhi on December 4 to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to call for the central government’s intervention into the Sri Lankan Tamils issue and for an immediate ceasefire in the country.The decision was reached during an all party meeting convened by the Chief Minister yesterday. The meeting was attended by parties including the Congress and Paattali Makkal Katchi (PMK).The resolution also called upon the centre to press the Sri Lankan government to stop the war against the Tamils in the country.The parties which participated also decided that MPs from all political parties in Tamil Nadu would meet the Prime Minister on November 28 to reiterate their demand.The parties at the meeting had said that though the people were aware of the central government’s commitment in stopping the war, it had to move at a quicker pace than now.The meeting was boycotted by the main opposition AIADMK, its ally MDMK, CPM, CPI and DMDK.Opposition Leader and AIADMK General Secretary, Jayalalithaa Jeyaram had said that the all party meeting was unnecessary and challenged Karunanidhi to step down as Chief Minister for the failure of the central government to intervene into the Sri Lankan issue.The CPI, which had taken part in the all party meeting last month stated that it was not in a position to do so, as it had already organised protests in Tamil Nadu yesterday.CPI Secretary, D. Pandian had told the Indian media that the party had already arranged to hold protests in Tamil Nadu yesterday and that Karunanidhi’s announcement of the all-party meeting came in the eleventh hour.The all-party meeting on October 14 was also convened by Karunanidhi. It was decided at the meeting that the MPs would resign from the government if the centre failed to intervene into the Sri Lankan issue before October 28. A number of DMK MPs, including Karunanidhi’s daughter Kanimozhi and seven ministers at the centre had handed over their resignation letters to the Chief Minister. However, DMK decided to temporarily withdraw the demand following a discussion with Indian External Affairs Minister, Pranab Mukherjee on October 26.

Army capture Olumadu on A-34 road

MULLAITIVU: Army’s Task Force-3 operating on the Wanni front captured Olumadu, a major Tiger stronghold in the Mullaitivu district last afternoon.Olumadu is four kilometres northeast of Mankulam along the Mankulam-Mullaitivu A34 road via Oddusudan.The Task Force-3 which is engaged in a mission to liberate the Mullaitivu district had entered the Olumadu area last afternoon after a fierce battle that lasted several days, Military sources said.Olumadu is considered as a strategic location of the Tiger outfit. The Task Force-3 inflicted heavy damage on the LTTE cadres while marching forward facing stiff resistance.“Troops are marching forward to liberate the Wanni area amid inter-monsoonal rain. Task Force-3 that advanced to Olumadu area are consolidating their positions to dominate more uncleared areas,” sources added.An extensive search operation was launched by troops following their domination of the Olumadu area.Meanwhile, operations continued in Muhamalai, Kilaly and Nagarkovil yesterday.Troops of 53 and 55 Divisions were consolidating the areas captured. They have targeted LTTE reinforcements.Reports said that LTTE cadres were fleeing northward from their forward defense line at Omanthai.Another convoy carrying essentials for Wanni civilians left yesterday through Omanthai.It carried nearly 134 metric tons of sugar, flour, milk powder, soap, medicine and vegetable oil in eighteen lorries and 13,950 litres of kerosene in two bowsers for civilians in the Wanni.

Another story of refugees reached to Omanthai entry - exit point

Our Vavuniya reporter says that the internally displaced people that arrived in Omanthai recently were not the residents of Mullaithivu and Kilinochchi districts.Troops of the LTTE forward defense line at Omanthai withdrew after Army captured Mankulam. After that the residents of Kanakrayankulam and Puliyankulam villages located between Mankulam and Omanthai thus came to government territory. They came along Vavuniya - Mannar road and reached Omanthai from Puthukulam. They are now stationed at Settikulam and Menik Farm, says our reporter.The number of people came to government territory was 172.

Heavy fighting as troops fight on despite casualties

It rained incessantly for the fourth consecutive day today in the Wanni. Troops continued their operations despite the weather and heavy LTTE resistance.Heavy fighting erupted on Sunday after 58 Division troops broke through an LTTE earth bund along the Pooneryn-Paranthan road. The 58 was able to advance only 2km when heavy LTTE resistance forced them back. 90 casualties were reported to the 58, 12 of which were deaths.The 58 had 6km to advance along the Pooneryn-Paranthan road but these 6km is completely open terrain. Like in Sempankunduvillu, Tigers launched attacks from well defended positions. Field Commanders told DefenceWire that they will achieve their objective no matter what.On that day itself, total casualties to troops was 160, majority of whom were in the P3 and P4 categories. These included casualties from fighting in Kokavil, Murukandi and Weli Oya. This is an indicator of LTTE determination to resist, which is welcomed by the Army.

Colombo-Jaffna road project begins

Road from Colombo via Mannar and Pooneryn by Franklin R.SatyapalanThe construction of a new road to Jaffna from Colombo via Mannar through Pooneryn at an estimated to cost of Rs 2,500 million had commenced, Transport Minister T. B. Ekanayake said yesterday.President Mahinda Rajapaksa has instructed the Treasury to release funds immediately which would be subsequently reimbursed through fundings by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).Eighty kilometres of the new road are being demined. A 4-km stretch had already been de-mined by the security forces, Ekanayake said.He told The Island that the opening of the highway would be a boon not only to the security forces who have to undergo much difficulty in transporting troops and supplies by air or sea but also to civilians.This highway would also go a long way in building the North-South unity by helping build bridges between the communities, reopen industries, build infrastructure facilities, bring down the cost of goods on either sides and make businesses on both sides to flourish, the Minister said. "We were able to take eight local contractors from the South to Pooneryn and draw a plan for a four lane highway, which will have two lanes initially, Minister Ekanayake said."We told the contractors that we would divide the highway into eight sections with eight contractors assigned to construct those sections so that the road will be in operation before long" he said.Preparations are also underway to reconstruct 600 metres of the damaged Sangupiddy Jetty.The Chief Engineer of the Road Development Authority (RDA) of Jaffna district V. Sudhakar said that a team from his office had carried out an assessment of the damage to the 17-kilometre stretch of highway on this side of the Jaffna Peninsula from the Y. junction on the A-9 Kandy road upto Karaitivu Jetty.He said that the jetty which had been damaged and in disrepair had to be reconstructed to be used for the new land route which has been estimated to cost Rs 1.16 billion. The report had been forwarded to General Manager of the RDA K. Premasiri in Colombo, he said.

LTTE withdraws from Omanthai to Oddusudan

Army spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara says that the LTTE has moved their checkpoint at Omanthai to Oddusudan situated north of it.Oddusudan is situated in Mankulam - Kulathivu A-34 road. LTTE withdrawal took place several days ago. When Lanka-e-News asked from the Army spokesman if the Army is advancing beyond Omanthai, he said that no change will take place.

Sri Lanka's Western People's Front changes name

Sri Lanka Commissioner of Elections has approved a name change for the Western People's Front (WPF) led by Parliamentarian Mano Ganeshan. The new name will be Democratic People’s Front (DPF), party sources said. Contesting the Provincial Council election under United National Party (UNP) led coalition, the party won a seat in Sabaragamuwa Province as well raising the need of identity change for the party as a national front, a party spokesman said. WPF currently holds one parliamentary seat, four seats in the Colombo Municipal Council and one seat in the Western Provincial Council.

2 soldiers, 2 TMVP cadres killed in Batticaloa

The killing spree in the east continued yesterday with four murders reported from Batticaloa.A TMVP local government candidate, Sangiliyan and his assistant were shot dead by unidentified persons in Karavetti, Vavunathivu, TMVP sources said.In a separate incident, two soldiers were killed due to a claymore mine attack near the Kurumanweli jetty, on the Eruvil Road in Kaluwanchikudi while travelling on a motorbike.The Media Centre for National Security (MCNS) said that the attack had taken place around 7.15am yesterday.

Child abductions on the rise in Lanka

COLOMBO: A leading human rights group yesterday accused a pro-government militia in eastern Sri Lanka of being behind a worsening wave of killings and child abductions. Human Rights Watch accused the TMVP, made up of former members of the Tamil Tigers who switched sides in the bitter ethnic war, of at least 30 murders and 30 kidnappings in the east of the island in September and October. The rights watchdog said the TMVP, which emerged as dominant political force in the east after Tamil Tiger rebels were ejected from the region 18 months ago, was able to function with “total impunity”. “The Sri Lankan government says that the liberated’ east is an example of democracy in action and a model for areas recaptured from the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam),” said Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “But killings and abductions are rife and there is total impunity for horrific abuses,” Adams said. He called on Sri Lankan authorities to “take immediate steps to address the deteriorating human rights situation in the Eastern Province, where there has been an increase in killings and abductions in recent weeks”. The New York-based watchdog said it had documented 30 cases of extra-judicial killings in the east in September and October and 30 cases of the TMVP abducting children to use as child soldiers. “Far from being a reformed and responsible party ready for government, the TMVP is still actively involved in serious human rights abuses,” Adams said of the pro-government Tamil group. “Instead of holding the group accountable, the (President Mahinda) Rajapakse government has provided unqualified support.” “Many in the East believe that the government has given its blessing for these abuses,” said Adams. “It is important for the government to take action against perpetrators to demonstrate that this is not the case.” Following the military success in taking the east, government forces are currently engaged in a bid to dismantle what is left of a de facto mini state of the Tigers in the north of the island.

Satellite pictures reveal LTTE runways

London: Analysis of high-resolution commercially available satellite imagery from DigitalGlobe and GeoEye has allowed Jane’s Intelligence Review to verify that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) constructed two 1,000 m paved runways between 2002 and 2007. One of these runways is currently being extended to 2,000 m.According to a news release by Jane’s, these airstrips are unnecessarily long for the light aircraft that the LTTE uses for aerial attacks and are probably intended to handle larger cargo planes delivering weapon shipments. One such shipment of artillery shells remains stranded in a Central Asian country after Russian intervention to prevent its delivery to northern Sri Lanka.Christian LeMiere, Editor of Jane’s Intelligence Review, commented: “While the imagery does not confirm the airstrips are in use, the investment of significant resources suggests the LTTE has developed facilities that can serve air logistics needs at a critical time in its three-decade war with the Sri Lankan state. Jane’s can also confirm that the LTTE has made at least one attempt to arrange for a consignment of artillery rounds to be flown in.”The construction of a highly visible runway could be seen as part of the LTTE’s ambitions to develop the trappings of an independent political state, complete with an airport. There is no evidence of the airstrip being used to launch any of the nine missions flown by the LTTE’s Zlin-143 aircraft. Indeed, it quickly became apparent that the airstrip at Iranamadu was probably not being used in the attacks at all. It is highly visible to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) reconnaissance flights, vulnerable to air strikes, and unnecessarily long for the Z-143, which can take off and land in under 600 m, according to Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft.

We be happy when the war heroes kill Prabhakaran and bring his head, says Sri Lanka opposition party national organizer

Sri Lanka's major opposition United National Party (UNP) National Organizer S.B. Dissanayake says that he is ready to give the credit of defeating terrorism to the President, the Defense Secretary and the security forces. He said that the country should be happy when the war heroes kill Prabhakaran and bring his head.The former Samurdhi and Agriculture minister in the UNP government expressed these views at a meeting held in Kadugannawa. He has confirmed that he would contest for the Central Provincial Council election as the Chief Minister candidate. Dissanayake says that UNP will achieve 60% minority votes and will win future elections.

Protest condemning attack on Tamils in Sri Lanka

DHARMAPURI: Condemning the attack on Tamils in Sri Lanka by the military forces, cadres of the Pattali Makkal Katchi, Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Communist Party of India, Tamilar Desiya Iyakkam and Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam blocked Salem Road, near the Head Post Office, here on Tuesday.They raised slogans against the Sri Lankan Government, its President Mahinda Rajapaksa and also the Centre and demanded immediate ceasefire in Sri Lanka. Traffic on the road was affected for half-an-hour.About 200 workers of the parties participated. A police team led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Sundararajan and Deputy Superintendent of Police Vijayaraghavan arrested 115 workers including Dharmapuri MLA Ila Velusamy (PMK). They were released in the afternoon.CPI district secretary P. Ilamparuthi, MDMK district secretary V.S. Sampath, Dharmpuri MP R. Senthil, district panchayat chairman S.S. Venkateswaran and PMK State deputy general secretary A. Saravanan took part in the agitation.In Krishnagiri, the members of PMK, MDMK and Left parties staged a flash protest blocking traffic at the Five Road Junction.

Can the Army seize Kilinochchi by LTTE "Maaveerar" Day ? By D.B.S. Jeyaraj

Even as fierce fighting rages between the Government of Sri Lanka(GOSL) armed forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the North the multi – crore rupee question doing the rounds in politico – military circles is whether Kilinochchi town could fall or be taken by November 27th 2008? In short, could the army seize the former de-facto tiger administrative capital of Kilinochchi and raise the national flag on the LTTE’s “Maaveerar thinam” or Great Heroes day that falls on November 27th each year? These crucial questions have gained much significance against the backdrop of intense fighting going on in and around the general area of Kilinochchi between the armed forces and the tigers.

Symbolic Value

Kilinochchi town is not of great military value when compared to some other areas like Poonagary (Pooneryn) or Aanai Iravu (Elephant Pass). However it is of immense symbolic value as the LTTE had utilised it as a de – facto administrative capital locating most of its key offices and departments there.This made it a prize target for the Rajapakse regime that has been waging war against the tigers in the North – East as if invading an alien country.In that context the Government was keen on capturing Kilinochchi as a “trophy” and engaging in tremendous propaganda in the South.

Change of Plan

Though Kilinochchi was targeted many months ago with October 15th as D- day the deadline could not be met due to various factors such as massive LTTE resistance, adverse weather conditions, political turmoil in Tamil Nadu and strategic revision of objective priority by the GOSL.When Basil Rajapakse went to New Delhi as President Rajapakse’s special envoy “unofficial” advice was given in the Indian capital that the planned Kilinochchi offensive should be deferred or suspended.Consequent to the Basil Rajapakse mission there was a fresh military approach in Colombo. The new design was to refrain from a frontal assault on Kilinochchi and instead take control of key areas surrounding it.Thus the LTTE would find itself out – manoeuvred and encircled and would find itself forced to abandon Kilinochchi without the expected “mother of all battles” ever taking place.The expedited campaign to take control of the A – 32 highway or Mannar – Pooneryn – Navatkuli was seen as part of this strategy.

Fall of Pooneryn

After the capture of Pooneryn the armed forces embarked upon a mission to take Paranthan and Elephant Pass on the A – 9 or Jaffna – Kandy road.This resulted in the army venturing out from the Kilaly – Eluthumadduvaal – Nagar Kovil axis in the peninsula and taking the first line of LTTE defence at Muhamaalai.The army also progressed up to 15 km along the 26 km long Poonagary – Paranthan road officially classified as B357 by the road development authority though earlier maps refer to it as B69.Though the 55 and 58 divisions did achive military gains it was felt that it would require several more weeks at least before Elephant pass or Paranthan could be taken.

Prestige

There was some “impatience” in the corridors of power in Colombo about this delay.Moreover the Kilinochchi issue continued to be an irritant as the LTTE had gone to town in several media interviews that Kilinochchi would never fall.One journal in Tamil Nadu published a quote from LTTE supremo Velupillai Prabakharan that Kilinochchi will never be taken by the army.There was also a need to demonstrate to the South that the armed forces were right on top by capturing Kilinochchi deemed important in terms of prestige.With passions in Tamil Nadu being reduced it was felt that an attempt to take Kilinochchi would not cause much impact.With the LTTE’s “Maaveerar thinam” or great heroes day (GHD) drawing near there was renewed interest in taking Kilinochchi before that day.This was to prevent the tigers from using the deserted town as a venue for GHD celebrations and also to prove a point by raising the lion flag in the tiger capital.

Humiliating LTTE

Much propaganda mileage could be derived in the south from the spectacle of raising the flag in Kilinochchi on Maaveerar day.It was also another way of humiliating the LTTE and playing to the Sinhala chauvinist gallery.With these objectives in mind the armed forces have been tasked with the goal of seizing Kilinochchi by November 27th.Plans are afoot to hoist the lion flag in Kilinochchi at the same time that LTTE leader Prabakharan lights the sacrificial flame on Great heroes day.Already posters are being prepared to announce the capture of Kilinochchi on November 27th.

Two Operations

In order to achieve this objective by Nov 27th the armed forces have launched two major operations on Sunday November 23rd.In one operation soldiers of 58 division attempted to proceed along the axis of Paranthan – Poonagary road and move South – east towards Kilinochchi.The road is bi-sected at a place called Nalloor (not to be confused with Nallur in Jaffna) by the Kudamurutti river that falls into the Kilaly lagoon.Areas to the west of Kudamurutti are called Poonagary Nalloor and those to the east are called Paranthan Nalloor.The road also forks in this area with one branch going south –eastwards to Karadipokku junction close to Kilinochchi town and the main road going east reaching Paranthan at the 161st milepost on the A – 9.Paranthan lies four miles to the north of Kilinochchi.

Task Force One

The LTTE offered stiff resistance to the 58 division attempting to reach Karadipokku junction in the Uruthirapuram – Kunchuparanthan area.It is reported that fierce fighting occurred in the vicinity of the Uruthirapuram Sivan temple.Latest reports however indicate that troops of 58 division or task force one have moved further to reach the LTTE constructed earth bund at a point to the north of Adampan.(This adampan in the Akkrayan GS area of Karaichchi AGA division of Kilinochchi district is not to be confused with Adampan in Manthai West AGA division of Mannar district).The LTTE has constructed another 18 km long “L” shaped earth bund cum trench defence line in areas extending from South of Kilinochchi to South – west of Paranthan After bitter combat infantrymen of 17 Gemunu Watch (17GW) 12 Gajaba regiment (12GR) and 8 Sinha Regiment (8SR) have breached the tiger bund in there positions to the north of Adampan.

57 Division

Meanwhile the other operation on two fronts was also launched by personnel of 57 division in the early hours of morning on Sunday Nov 23rd.In a twin –pronged move troops from 12 Sinha Regiment (12SR) and 9 Gemunu Watch (9GW) broke out from the Akkarayankulam area and engaged the tigers in Puthumurippukulam to the South of Adampan.In a second manouever of the same operation troops of 8 and 10 Sri Lanka Light Infantry (SLLI) broke out of positions to the north of Kokavil and moved towards Thirumurugandy. Both Kokavil and Thirumurugandy are on the A – 9 highway but 57 division troops are moving parallel to it along the axis of an inner road.According to reports the 57 has gained about a km with much of the fighting being conducted in the “ Ariviyal nagar” colony area of Thirumurugandy.Both sides have given out some details of casualties and have predictably exaggerated figures for the opposite side while giving out low estimates about their own. These need to be taken with more than a pinch of salt.

Operation Riviresa

Nevertheless there is fierce fighting going on in the area as the LTTE is determined not to let Kilinochchi fall before the Great Heroes day.This to some extent is reminiscent of what happened in 1995 during”operation Rivireasa” in Jaffna. Then the soldiers were poised to take Jaffna town before November 27th on GHD.The LTTE that had decided to withdraw from the peninsula continued to resist as it’s notion of prestige did not permit the fall of Jaffna town before GHD .After Nov 27th passed the tigers began withdrawing and Anuruddha Ratwatte hoisted the national flag on December 5th 1995 at the Durayappa stadium.

Nov 27th D-day

Politico – military observers detect a similiarity now as the LTTE seems to be defending positions intensely so as to prevent Kilinochchi from falling before “Maaveerar Thinam” .Likewise the GOSL seems equally determined to smash tiger defences and take Kilinochchi so that the national flag could be raised on Nov 27th or great heroes day.Thus Kilinochchi town bereft of civilians is literally and metaphorically is caught in the crossfire as its D –day of destiny draws near on November 27th

4 LTTE killed in Horowpothana

Troops attacked a group of LTTE members at Ambagaswewa in Horowpothana, Anuradhapura around 2.30 pm today (Nov. 25th), said the Media Centre for National Security.In this confrontation, four LTTE cadres were killed, while the troops suffered no casualties, the website said.In a subsequent search operation, troops recovered the four bodies along with three claymore mines, four T-56 assault rifles, 20 anti- personnel mines and two remote control devices.Troops are conducting further search operations in the area.

TNA calls for talks

The government should not lay down pre-conditions before coming to the negotiating table for talks with the LTTE, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) said.TNA Parliamentarian Mavai Senadhiraja told The Morning Leader that the solution to the ethnic problem can be found only through negotiations and that no conditions should be put forward by the government for the LTTE to come to a negotiated settlement.The LTTE a few weeks back reiterated that it was ready for a negotiated settlement to the ethnic conflict. While clarifying that it was carrying out a defensive war, the LTTE had warned that it will fight back, ‘which would devastate the government forces within the next three months’ if the government continues with its military offensives in the north.The government however stated that it would not talk to the Tigers unless the outfit lays down arms."The government should not put forward such conditions to come for negotiations," Senadhiraja said. He added that a political solution was the only option considering the humanitarian situation in the country.Meanwhile, India last week had called upon the government to speak to the TNA on the Sri Lankan issue. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had called upon President Mahinda Rajapakse to talk to the TNA to finalise a political package to solve the ethnic conflict in the country. Singh had said that a political solution would not be effective without the participation of the representatives of the north and east.Senadhiraja however said India had not officially conveyed anything on this issue to the TNA so far."This call has been made through the media. India has not conveyed anything to the TNA officially. If this is the stance of India, then they should speak to us. We hope to meet Indian officials in the near future," Senadhiraja added.

25 November 2008

‘LTTE must disarm’

The final report of the European Union delegation which visited Sri Lanka recently is to be presented to the EU parliament later this week, a top EU official said. The report calls upon the LTTE to lay down arms and enter the negotiating process and immediately stop its forcible recruitment of local NGO workers and children to its terrorist organization. It also called upon the Sri Lankan government to abandon its military activities and enter the political process as the LTTE, even if defeated could continue to attack areas such as the Wanni  and elsewhere. “The Sri Lanka government seems to have chosen an all-war strategy and has abandoned any idea of peace talks before a complete military victory. The Delegation accepts that to a very large extent, the government was forced to take this option by the LTTE itself. It should be borne in mind that military authorities have nonetheless admitted that even a defeated LTTE will be a sort of nuisance carrying on with terrorist attacks in the Vanni and elsewhere. This underlines the necessity for a twin-track process,” the report said.It said due to the ongoing conflict, considering a percentage of the total population, Sri Lanka, along with Sudan, Iraq and Colombia, was a country with one of the highest displaced populations in the world, and is in real need of international assistance. The report said that since the resumption of the conflict in Sri Lanka, on an average, five people are killed or disappear every day and it was alarming that, according to the reports received by the Delegation in the first semester of 2008, the abduction is less in Colombo itself, but increasing elsewhere in the country. “The motives for abductions, allegedly committed by paramilitary factions, are not always political – sometimes the aim is just extortion (although even in the cases of ransoms being paid, the victims sometimes re-surface in mass graves). What seems to be clear, however, is that despite daily incidents, extremely few cases have ever been investigated by the security forces - they are just systematically attributed to "unknown gunmen",” the report said. The EU delegation led by EU MP Robert Evans visited Sri Lanka in July this year.The report has been forwarded to the EU Delegation for Relations with South Asia; The EU Committee on Foreign Affairs; Human Rights, Common Security and Defence Policy and the Human Rights Sub-Committee; The Committee on Petitions and The Committee on Development and the Committee on International Trade for a further assessment.

Sri Lanka loses a billion rupees in just seven weeks 

As Sri Lanka's economic crisis plunged into an ever deepening precipice, outlandish and illogical decisions made by the government over the recent weeks has led to the country losing a whopping 1000 million rupees in foreign reserves during the last seven weeks alone.According to Lead Economist at LIRNEasia, Dr. Harsha De Silva, the government is facing a huge foreign exchange crisis, due to the serious drain on external reserves which has dropped from 3.4 billion US dollars to 2.4 billion US dollars in just seven weeks."We have lost more than 25 percent in reserves amounting to a billion dollars, which amounts to 1000 million Sri Lankan rupees," De Silva disclosed.Citing reasons for the growing financial predicament, the senior economist pointed out that those who invested in the hedge funds, in government bonds, treasury bills are now going back."And the government in its mistaken notion that holding the rupee at 107 was the prudent thing to do, sold hundreds of millions of foreign reserves that were held by the Central Bank to try and hold the rupee," he claimed."Even though the big talking Central Bank Governor, Ajith Cabraal said all necessary measures has been taken and Sri Lankan has completely being excluded from the fallout of the global meltdown, I'm sorry to say he has been proved absolutely wrong. With crashing tea, rubber prices and the falling demand for our exports around the world and the massive outflow of capital by hedge funds and other foreigner who invested in Sri Lanka dollar bonds and treasury bills which Cabraal himself opened last year and this year, are now going back," he said.Thus, he pointed out, the government which is now in a terrible fix, is trying to stop the outflow of foreign exchange by imposing ridiculously large taxes on imports even on items such as sarongs and sarees which are worn by low and middle class Sri Lankans.

Tamil Tiger chief to issue rallying call as fiefdom crumbles

The reclusive leader of Sri Lanka's Tamil Tigers is to deliver his annual policy address this week from a besieged jungle hideout that could soon be totally overrun by government troops.With his northern fiefdom shrinking fast in the face of a massive onslaught, Velupillai Prabhakaran is expected to use Thursday's address to rally his forces for a do-or-die battle for survival.The last 18 months have been disastrous for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), who want to carve out an ethnic homeland in the north and east of the Sinhalese-majority island.The rebels were ejected from the east in July 2007 and lost their political chief in a government air raid, while much of their flotilla of ships used to smuggle in black market weapons has been reported sunk.The LTTE's political capital of Kilinochchi appears to be on the brink of falling into government hands. The Tigers have lost control of the entire northwest coast, while the key northeastern coastal base of Mullaitivu is also being squeezed."He will vow to hit back. He might even say that they are pulling out so that the army will spread out thinly for him to attack them later," said Dharmalingam Sithadthan, a former Tamil guerrilla-turned-politician.But a year ago Prabhakaran issued a similar threat against what he branded a "genocidal" government, only to see his northern mini-state shrink even further.The hawkish and extremely confident Sri Lankan government pulled out of a Norwegian-brokered ceasefire in January. With his troops advancing, President Mahinda Rajapakse says he will accept nothing less from the LTTE than their surrender.Analysts say Prabhakaran has been left with little room for manoeuvre."I think he may still have the capacity to carry out one or two big attacks, but that won't be enough to restore the military balance of power we see now," Sithadthan said.Prabhakaran's speech is an annual event marking "Heroes' week", when the LTTE commemorates the estimated 22,000 Tamils -- many of them women and children -- who have died during the 36-year-long war.The speech is usually pre-recorded in a jungle bunker somewhere in the northeast, and broadcast by the Voice of Tigers radio station. The station's previous headquarters was flattened by government jets a year ago.The event also coincides with Prabhakaran's birthday -- he turns 54 on Wednesday -- although retired army brigadier general Vipul Boteju said the rotund rebel chief will have little to celebrate."He has to make a face-saving speech on Thursday," Boteju said."We will see the usual rhetoric about revenge, but his ability to deliver seems to be greatly diminished."The annual speech is also aimed at the Tamil diaspora in countries like Canada, Australia and Switzerland, who help keep the LTTE's coffers full.But on the home front, he also has to raise morale among an estimated 200,000 Tamil civilians displaced by the government advance. Aid agencies say the humanitarian situation in the north is desperate.Still, Prabhakaran and his hardened guerrilla force have managed to turn the tables on security forces in the past.Military officials say the Tigers can still deploy large numbers of suicide bombers known as "Black Tigers".Six months after he lost his northern stronghold of Jaffna to the army in December 1995, he overran an army base in the northeast, slaughtering over 1,000 soldiers and causing a dip in public support for the war in the south.And in November 1999, the Tigers reversed military gains of 19 months in a matter of five days. That counter-attack helped push the Colombo government into a peace process.

Indian aid 'still in storage'
 
The International committee of Red Cross (ICRC) says that the humanitarian aid consignment donated by the Indian government is yet to be delivered to the Internally Displaced People (IDPs) in the Wanni region.ICRC spokesperson in Colombo, Alexandra Matijevic, told BBC Sandeshaya that the consignment reached Sri Lanka on 15 November and the ICRC took charge of the consignment five days later."Currently discussions are ongoing and the planning process is underway to prepare the distribution which should start in the coming weeks," she said.Ms. Matijevic said the aid consignment is remaining in the ICRC warehouse in Colombo and discussions are currently being held between the Indian and the Sri Lankan governments to work out modalities for the distribution."This is a very open dialogue and we are discussing different possibilities," she told BBC Sinhala service.The spokesperson added that the ICRC team in Vanni is currently distributing essential items for the displaced as the monsoon rains are being experienced there.

Karunanidhi calls all party meet on Sri Lanka situation

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Monday called for a meeting of all state party leaders Tuesday to discuss 'the worsening situation of minority Tamils in Sri Lanka'.'Two members from each party that is represented in the assembly, including the leader and the head of its legislature, have been requested to attend. The meeting has been called following personal discussions with PMK leader S. Ramadoss,' Karunanidhi told reporters here.Invitations have been sent to leaders of all parties, including MDMK head Vaiko. This urgent meeting has been called to discuss the 'worsening situation of suffering Tamils of Sri Lanka', he added.The PMK and MDMK have been demanding that Sri Lanka ensure that no member of the minority Tamil community in the country is killed during military action against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).PMK sources told IANS that Ramadoss had agreed to attend the meeting.This is the second meeting of political parties called by Karunanidhi. The earlier meeting in October, demanding proactive action by India to force Colombo to halt military operations against Tamils and stop military aid to Sri Lanka, had resulted in a unanimous resolution by all political parties represented in parliament to resign from their seats by Oct 29.Though all the MPs of the ruling DMK in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha had handed in their post-dated resignations to the chief minister, they were not forwarded to the relevant authorities following a meeting between Karunanidhi and External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Oct 26.Admitting that India supplied non-lethal military hardware to Sri Lanka which had the dual use of safeguarding Indian defence assets in southern Tamil Nadu, Mukherjee had said India believed in the solution of the Tamil problem in Sri Lanka through political negotiations.Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited New Delhi earlier this month and ruled out cessation of the war against LTTE but promised to avoid killing of Tamil civilians and safeguard their interests.

SL Toronto Consulate a manufacturer of news - Mano Ganesan

Colombo district Western Province People's Front (WPPF) MP Mano Ganesan, says the Sri Lankan Counsel General in Toronto is a fabricator of news.The Sri Lankan Counsel General in Toronto, Bandula Jayasekara, a former correspondent of the 'The Island' news paper, had alleged that Mr. Mano Ganesan was invited to Canada by the LTTE to attend a meeting "to give boost to LTTE fund raising" a story he had planted in the Sri Lankan Defence Ministry website."The fallacious tale says that I was to attend a LTTE sponsored meeting at University of Oshawa in Toronto on 18 November Tuesday when I was actually at meetings with Canadian Federal Foreign Ministry officials and Hamilton East-Stoney Parliamentarian Hon. Wayne Marston, miles away in Ottawa on the identical day," Mr. Ganesan says in a press release issued from Colombo on Monday, after his return from Canada.Jayasekara's story also said that a ‘large number of Lankan Tamils living in Canada’ sent emails to Oshawa University and got this ‘meeting' cancelled, says MP Ganesan."This is laughable when the only repeated complaints to me in Canada was that I did not stay longer" Mano Ganesan said."The meetings arranged by the Canadian Forum for Peace and Justice in Sri Lanka and discussions arranged by Canadian Tamil Congress were very successful," he added.

Karunanidhi should resign over Sri Lankan Tamil issue: Jayalalitha

AIADMK chief J. Jayalalitha Monday said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi should resign if he is serious about alleviating the sufferings of the Sri Lankan Tamils.'...he (Karunanidhi) should resign from chief ministership in Tamil Nadu as a matter of protest against what he calls the centre's inaction and seek a fresh mandate,' she said here Monday.The AIADMK and the Communist Party of India (CPI) will not be attending the meeting of all state party leaders Tuesday called by Karunanidhi to discuss 'the worsening situation of minority Tamils in Sri Lanka'.'Two members from each party that is represented in the assembly, including the leader and the head of its legislature, have been requested to attend. The meeting has been called following personal discussions with the PMK leader S. Ramadoss,' Karunanidhi told reporters here.PMK sources told IANS that Ramadoss had agreed to attend the meeting.Following differences on the Sri Lankan issue between the DMK and the Congress party, Karunanidhi is trying to build bridges with the PMK.In the house of 235 members, DMK has 95 and is propped up by 35 Congress MLAs. The PMK has 18 members in the assembly.Invitations for the meeting have been sent to leaders of all parties, including MDMK head Vaiko.The PMK and MDMK have been demanding that Sri Lanka ensure that no member of the minority Tamil community in the country is killed during military action against the LTTE.This is the second meeting of political parties called by Karunanidhi. The earlier meeting in October, demanding proactive action by India to force Colombo to halt military operations against Tamils and stop military aid to Sri Lanka, had resulted in a unanimous resolution by all political parties represented in parliament to resign from their seats by Oct 29.Though all the MPs of the ruling DMK in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha had handed in their post-dated resignations to the chief minister, these were not forwarded to the relevant authorities following a meeting between Karunanidhi and External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Oct 26.Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited New Delhi earlier this month and ruled out cessation of the war against the LTTE but promised to avoid killing of Tamil civilians and safeguard their interests.

Safety fears hit eastern doctors
 
The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) says that doctors in the north and the east will resume work only if the security situation improved.The doctors went in to protest action by stopping working in the north and the east hospitals after the gunning down of a colleague, Dr. Palitha Padmakumara in Batticaloa on the night of 17 November.The spokesman for the GMOA, Dr. Upul Gunasekara told BBC Sandeshaya that they had handed over a letter describing their fears with demands aimed at redress to the health ministry.A meeting scheduled to discuss the issue with the Health Secretary, Dr, Athula Kahandaliyanage, did not take place on Monday.

Armed groups in east

Noting that the health authorities were unaware of the real security situation prevailing in the north and east, Dr. Gunasekara said doctors will resume work in Vavuniya, Mannar, Jaffna and Kalmunai if the security situation improved.A doctor attached to the Batticaloa hospital told BBC Sandeshaya that armed groups were constantly threatening the medical workers inside the hospital."Although we were threatened at gun point to go with them to treat the patients, we never thought we will be killed," the doctor who wished to remain anonymous said.Armed groups are regularly present in Batticaloa town, he said, while security service personnel look on. "Ministers and directors do not even know whether Batticaloa is black or white".He did not wish to identify the groups but said the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Police Special Task Force (STF) and the Sri Lanka Army (SLA) all knew who the groups are."Whenever a member of these groups is admitted to hospital, four armed members stand guard beside the person's bed. Even when the consultant comes for the rounds they do not go away," the doctor said."We have not received any security assurances since Dr Padmakumara was killed," he told BBC's Elmo Fernando.

Political Wing of Pak ISI disbanded

The political wing of Pakistan's powerful Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, which allegedly used to spy on politicians and rig elections, has been disbanded and it will now focus only on internal security issues.The Indian political observers perceive the ISI as the intelligence organ that manipulates and supports terror activities outside the Pak borders and had qualms about the ISI involvement in the Kabul bomb blast in front of the Indian HC.India also keeps close watch over Pakistani military support to Sri Lankan government and is cautious about cultural exchanges that could allow Islamic fundamentalists to move into Sri Lanka as it believes the ISI and its political wing works in tandem with armed Mujahidin groups.A top unnamed ISI official was quoted by Dawn News as saying that the agency had shifted its focus to internal security. The ISI would focus on the war against terrorism, which is the most serious security challenge facing Pakistan, the official said.The ISI official also said the agency would no longer "spy" on politicians and their activities. The agency has completely disassociated itself from making or breaking political parties and alliances, the official said.The ISI will also stop giving security clearance for politicians. The decision to wind up the agency's political wing has been conveyed to the political leadership, the official said.Several former ISI officials who served in the agency during the regime of former President Pervez Musharraf have recently admitted in media interviews that the organisation played a key role in rigging elections in recent years.The ISI also played a major role in forming the PML-Q party that supported Musharraf after he came to power through a military coup in 1999.

JHU agrees to a cease fire on Indian guarantee

The JHU says if India could guarantee a ceasefire with LTTE the government could consider the issue.JHU propaganda secretary Nishantha Sri Warnasinghe stressed this point to 'Lanka Dissent' when asked for a comment on media reports that the government has agreed for a truce with the LTTE."The central Indian government is under intense pressure today over the war in northern Sri Lanka. India will have a general election early next year. To gain political mileage, various parties have included Sri Lanka in their agendas," he said.The JHU spokesman noted that previously only pro-Tiger TN parties had pressurized New Delhi, while now the CPI has entered and changed the situation qualitatively."We should accept that reality. The pressure on the Indian centre has increased."The Indian High Commission had called the entire politburo of the JHU a few days ago, and reports confirm that the JHU till then had vehemently opposed any talk on a ceasefire with the LTTE.The issue of an Indian guarantee for a cease fire for the government to consider it, is thus the first apparent change on the issue on the JHU side.

Govt eases fishing curbs in Jaffna

COLOMBO: The Government has eased fishing restrictions in Jaffna in the aftermath of the regaining of Pooneryn, Military Spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said yesterday.With the entire North Western seaboard now controlled by the Security Forces, the Security Forces have lifted restrictions on fishing hours and perimeters in the Jaffna seas, Brigadier Nanayakkara said.Jaffna fishermen can now sail any distance on a daily basis between 6.30 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. exceeding the three kilometre limit earlier in force.Earlier, security concerns prevented fishermen in Gurunagar, Pasivur and Columbuthurai areas in Jaffna from going into deep waters for fishing beyond the radius of three kilometres. They also had to return before 3.00 p.m. with their catch.“Those restrictions adversely affected the fishermen, but the Forces had to enforce them due to the presence and activities of Tigers only a few kilometres away in Pooneryn,” he said.According to the Security Forces, the relaxed measures have enabled the fishermen to net a bigger catch and increase their incomes substantially as they have already been in effect for a couple of days.There are 1,217 registered fishermen using 215 fishing boats in and around Jaffna. Their catch includes tuna, prawns, mullet, crabs, seer and other varieties.The fishermen have told the troops that they are now able to catch at least 8,000 - 10,000 kgs of fish daily due to the relaxation of fishing restrictions.Meanwhile, at least 120 terrorists have been killed in Muhamalai, Adampan to the south of Paranthan-Pooneryn road and in Kumulamunai over the weekend, defence sources said. They said more than 80 Tigers have been seriously injured.The Tigers were killed in heavy fighting with the Forces advancing towards Kilinochchi spearheaded by 57 Division and Task Force I troops. The soldiers regained a stretch of more than 1 km towards Therumurukkandy junction by Sunday (23) afternoon. Fighting in Pudumurippukulam saw an area of about 2 sq km fall into Army hands.Task Force I, advancing from a different direction towards north of Adampan smashed several LTTE strong points on an earth-bund built by the LTTE. In Muhamalai, 53 and 55 Division troops captured the LTTE’s first Forward Defence Line (FDL) on Thursday. Twenty seven soldiers have made the supreme sacrifice in these clashes on several fronts. Heavy clashes are continuing along the Kilinochchi outskirts as the Army infantrymen are steadily advancing on to the remaining LTTE defences in the area.

24 November 2008

Tiger rebels claim killing 43 Sri Lankan soldiers

Tamil Tiger rebels fought an intense battle with government forces advancing into their territory in northern Sri Lanka and killed at least 43 soldiers, a pro-rebel website reported Monday.Members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) resisted a military push at Nallur in the northern mainland on Sunday, the Tamilnet.com website said.They said the Tigers recovered the bodies of eight soldiers, but did not give their own casualties.However, the guerrillas for the first time admitted that security forces had taken the strategically important town of Pooneryn and that heavy fighting was taking place on the outskirts of their political capital Kilinochchi.There was no immediate comment from Sri Lankan military authorities on casualties from the latest fighting, but the defence ministry on Sunday said that troops were marching on Kilinochchi from three directions.Sri Lanka's government has vowed to take the Tiger political capital and dismantle the LTTE's mini-state.Sri Lankan troops have been engaged in a massive offensive against the Tigers since the government pulled out of a Norwegian-brokered truce at the start of the year.Authorities in Sri Lanka have restricted access to the embattled areas for journalists as well as most aid workers, meaning that claims by either side in the decades-old conflict are normally impossible to independently verify.Tens of thousands of people have died in the LTTE's campaign for a separate homeland for the island's minority Tamils.

More civilians move into cleared areas

As troops made headway into LTTE held areas in Kilinochchci and Mullaitivu, civilians in uncleared areas have begun seeking protection in government held areas by large numbers. “Day by day the arrival of civilians trapped in unlceared areas to the cleared areas are increasing,” Military Spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara told the Daily Mirror adding that “during yesterday 130 civilians in three groups arrived at the Omanthai entry/exit point, Vavuniya using the A-9 Road”. He said these civilians had undergone hardships on their way to cleared areas in order to escape from the LTTE. “We expect a large number of civilians to seek military protection in the coming days as the people have now realised that they could not stay under terrorist control anymore,” the spokesman said. Speaking about yesterday’s arrival, he said the first group of 71 civilians including 43 males and 28 females from 15 families, and six other individuals had escaped from Kanagarayankulam, Kanagarayankulam South and Sinna Adampan at about 7.45 a.m. Hours later ten more civilians belonging to two families from the same areas arrived in a second group. Among them were six males and four females. Later in the evening, another group of 50 civilians arrived at the military check point using the A-9 route. “They have travelled across Wanni and had later used the A-9 Road,” he said.He said since last Friday a total of 299 civilians had sought military protection. The first group of civilians to escape the LTTE grip via land routes came to Omanthai on Friday consisting of 39 civilians. On Saturday 41 civilians in two groups have arrived at the Omanthai roadblock seeking protection with security forces. Yesterday a total of 130 civilians had come through the A-9 Road to Omanthai. Since January to October a total of 935 (except the latest) civilians had fled the uncleared areas using sea routes and arrived in the cleared areas in Jaffna, Welioya and Mannar and sought military protection. The spokesman said the Army had made necessary arrangements to provide all facilities to these people who had escaped from the LTTE. Meanwhile, LTTE’s entry/exit point at Omanthai was captured by the military by Friday and cleared the areas. “The domination over Omanthai will enable the Army to further extend the defence lines linking Mankulam-Oddussudan- Kumulamunai. There were confirmed reports of some 40 odd terrorists remaining scattered in the area south of Mankulam, following the defeat and the induction of small group military operations in the terrain have driven off the terrorists further east,” the defence ministry said. Meanwhile, the army yesterday captured a key LTTE training camp at Andankulam in the LTTE held Mullaitivu while troops in Kilinochchi breached another earth bund of the LTTE near Paranthan junction, as they were marching towards the Kilinochchi build-up in three frontiers. On Saturday troops captured an LTTE training facility consisting four bunkers and eight tents at Andankulam in Mullaitivu. The troops had captured the camp after days of fierce fighting. Army Task Force I and 57 Divisions, heading to Paranthan have launched attacks at the LTTE held earth bund built around the Kilinochchi outskirts. Military sources said heavy battles were going on in the North of Adampan, South of Adampan and Thirumurikandi areas since early yesterday. Army Task Force I had launched a pre-dawn offensive targeting LTTE defences in the North of Adampan area. Army 57 Division troops were now in the vicinity of the LTTE-held earth bund in the Adampan area. In the North of Kokkavil, troops were fighting in close proximity to the LTTE-held earth bund built across the A-9 Road in the Thirumurukandi area, the military sources said.

High ranking US diplomatic team meets Army Commander

A special US diplomatic team headed by Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for South and Southeast Asia James Clad called on Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka at his office at Army Headquarters on Saturday.The US diplomatic officials and the Army Commander had talks matters of bilateral interests. Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka briefed the progress of humanitarian operations being conducted to liberate Wanni area and its people from LTTE terrorism.Dr. Amer Lathif, Principal Director of Southeast Asia, US Ambassador in Sri Lanka Robert O Blake and Lieutenant Colonel Lawrence A. Smith, Defence Attache of the US Embassy were also present.

Anbazhagan calls for urgent action to help Sri Lankan Tamils

CHENNAI: Urgent action needs to be taken to help out the Sri Lankan Tamils, who have been caught in the conflict, Finance Minister K. Anbazhagan said on Sunday.The Tamils everywhere had to transcend their differences and come together to fight for the issues that concerned all Tamils. Only with a deep-rooted sense of the Tamil identity could Tamil Nadu continue to rise, he said, speaking at the 110th birth anniversary celebration of K.A.P. Viswanathan, first secretary of the Justice Party, organised by the K.A.P. Viswanathan Memorial Trust here.Mr. Anbazhagan said Mr. Viswanathan had stressed the importance of a unifying Tamil identity. Referring to an incident when Jawaharlal Nehru was the Prime Minister, he said that when representatives of different States were rendering songs before the Prime Minister, only the Tamil Nadu representative sang in Telugu.This, he said, demonstrated how weak the Tamil identity had been. Mr. Anbazhagan lauded Viswanathan for being one of the prime forces behind the Tamil Isai Iyakkam, as he understood the need for the arts to stress the Tamil identity. Viswanathan, a Tamil scholar, had the capacity to take complex thoughts to the public through lucid speech and writing.He was also a great proponent of Siddha medicine.A biopic on Viswanathan, directed by S.P. Muthraman and produced by V.G.P., was released. An audio CD containing Viswanathan’s speech on Thirukkural and the new edition of a book on his works in Tamil were also released.

Madhu Church open to public from Dec. 8: Basil assures
 
The Government has given assurances that the Madhu church will be open to the public from December 8 onwards, well in time for Christmas.This assurance was given by Senior Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapaksa when a group of officials from Caritas Sri Lanka - the social service arm of the Catholic Bishops Conference - met him over the weekend.Caritas Sri Lanka Director Fr. Damian Fernando and Public Relations Officer S. P. Anthoneymuttu also participated in the meeting which lasted for around one and a half hours. Sources from Caritas told the Daily Mirror that Mr. Rajapaksa had given instructions to the Health authorities to disinfect the area which is currently facing a mosquito menace.The delegation also told the Presidential Advisor that some areas near Madhu had still not been de-mined and a large number of cattle had been killed in the recent past as a result.Meanwhile a visit has been arranged for a delegation from the Legion of Mary - a Catholic Association - to the Madhu church on December 8. Mannar Bishop, Rt. Rev. Rayappu Joseph has been informed of this visit and a request has been made to make necessary arrangements. Mr. Rajapaksa also assured that electricity would be provided to 100 houses built by Caritas and its partners in Batticaloa. The Lanka Electricity Company also agreed to provide electricity to these houses.Caritas Sri Lanka also discussed the celebration of its 40th anniversary on December 3 with the Senior Presidential Advisor, when products of persons affected by the tsunami and those affected by the war will be showcased at an exhibition to be held at the Viharamahadevi Park.Caritas Sri Lanka thanked the Senior Presidential Advisor and the government for its positive response to its.

Writers observe fast for Lankan Tamils

Writers and other literary workers, under the aegis of Coimbatore District Federations for Tamil Literary Organisations, observed a fast in the city here on Saturday demanding that the Sri Lankan army and end ethnic cleansing in the island nation allow peaceful coexistence of Tamils.Federation president R C Ramasamy led the protest while Arumugam, trustee chairman of Vellingiri Temple, Poondi spoke about the sufferings of Tamils in Sri Lanka.Tamil enthusiasts including writers, poets, publishers and lawyers came down heavily on the Sri Lankan government for its lackadaisical attitude in ending the killings.The day-long fast ended with Pulavar Senthalai N Gowthaman giving fruit juice to the agitators.Resolutions, which included demanding both the Centre and the state to intervene and bring in a solution to the Tamils issue by pressurising the Sri Lankan government, were passed at the meeting. It also sought for stopping supply of arms and modern equipment to Sri Lankan government.Both the Centre and state should extend medical help on humanitarian ground to those affected in the island nation, the meet demanded.

Indian police search for injured Tigers
   
The Indian police have launched a massive search operation at a refugee camp after there were reports that a group of injured LTTE cadres may have entered the Ramanathapuram area by boats. The ‘Q’ Branch police launched an intensive combing operation to apprehend those who may have entered Dhanuskodi by a boat with bullet marks and blood stains two days ago, Express News Service reported yesterday.Though the boat had telltale marks that it had come from Sri Lanka, no one had seen those who had used it to come to Dhanushkodi.‘Q’ Branch officials expressed surprise as to how the boats with unidentified persons had entered Indian shores, in spite of defence personnel, including Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard and Coastal Security Police, keeping a close watch.The officials have now launched intensive search operations in all hospitals, lodges and coastal villages to trace the missing persons.They were conducting an inquiry with the refugees who had reached here during the last 10 days at Mandapam.Suspecting the persons who came by these boats may be cadres of Sea Tigers, officials are also planning to conduct inquiries with inmates of other camps in the State, Express News added.Meanwhile the Tamil Nadu government yesterday said the Central Government has not issued any directive asking the Sri Lankan Tamil refugees to return to the island nation following expiry of the permitted duration as reported by a section of media. “There is no such announcement (from the Centre). The report is not only a false one, but could also create fear in the minds of the refugees," the Press Trust of India quoted an official press release as saying. Terming the report "attributed to a political leader" as false, the state government said the refugees staying in 115 camps in Tamil Nadu would continue to receive aid from it and the Centre, the release added.

Time running out for LTTE runways

With the army steadily advancing on the remaining LTTE strongholds east of A9 and north of the Mankulam-Mullaitivu road, three runways located in this area will never be able to be used at least once, to bring in an arms load.The runways will come within artillery and mortar range as the area under LTTE controls shrinks. But the SLAF is not taking any chances. "We are mindful of the possibility," SLAF Chief Air Marshal Roshan Goonetileke told The Island.He said that the LTTE could make a desperate attempt to bring in an ammunition load but even if it succeeded, it wouldn’t make a difference. Asserting that the LTTE couldn’t alter the course of the war, the SLAF chief emphasised the importance of thwarting a possible attempt to introduce a new weapon which hadn’t been hitherto used in Sri Lanka.Of the two runways located in the Iranamadu area, the one situated east of the Iranamadu tank is believed to have been abandoned. The third one is located at Mulliyawalai close to Mullaitivu. The abandoned airstrip is within artillery range.The Island in an exclusive front-page report on August 15 revealed SLAF attacks on the runway at Mulliyawalai. The SLAF launched attacks against the backdrop of reconnaissance carried out by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) which revealed an attempt to expand the runaway. Goonetileke acknowledged that the runways located on the eastern flank had been built especially to accommodate aircraft brining in supplies, as they were needlessly long for fixed wing aircraft used in attacks. Since the first attack launched on the Katunayake air base on March 26 last year, the LTTE targeted Palaly (April 24, 2007), the Oil refinery at Kolonnawa and a storage complex at Muthurajawela (April 29, 2007), the Anuradhapura air base (October 22, 2007), Weli Oya army command (April 26, 2008), Eastern naval area headquarters (August 26, 2008), Vavuniya air base (September 9, 2008) and Kelanitissa power plant (October 28, 2008).Although the 59 Division deployed on the eastern flank hadn’t so far come across any airstrip, the army on the western flank located two. The 57 Division on September 29 captured an airstrip at Panikkankulam, about seven kilometres north-west of Mankulam. Army Chief, Lt. General Sarath Fonseka told The Island that the over 500 metre long airstrip could have been used by small fixed wing aircraft. The Task Force I pushing towards Paranthan along Pooneryn-Paranthan road on November 20 located an indigenous attempt to use a section of the road between 15th and 18 kilometre posts.The LTTE wouldn’t have been forced even to think of brining in supplies by air, had it survived a series of operations executed by the navy on the high seas under Vice Admiral Wasantha Karannagoda’s leadership. The Jane’s, in an article headlined Fight and flight-The LTTE’s air cargo ambitions released on November 13, 2008, mentioned the SLN’s proven ability to identify, intercept and sink rogue ships, combined with the growing difficulties in landing their cargoes, may well have encouraged a shift towards air deliveries.The navy chief told The Island that adequate assets had been deployed to thwart attempts to land supplies between Nayaru and Nagarkovil, the only available coastal landing sites. Expressing confidence that the navy could meet the challenge, he said that LTTE access to the sea had been reduced to about 44 nautical miles on the eastern coast.With the LTTE losing assess to coastal landing sites along the north-western coast due to the recently concluded offensive to regain Pooneryn, it wouldn’t be able to use the Gulf of Mannar supply route. Karannagoda said that they were mindful of the LTTE attempts to circumvent security forces siege on their remaining strongholds.

23 November 2008

India wants Mahinda to talk to TNA

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has called on President Mahinda Rajapakse to commence talks with the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and finalise a political package to resolve the ethnic conflict as a matter of priority, The Sunday Leader learns. Singh had told President Rajapakse that if he is reluctant to open a dialogue with the LTTE or its Leader Velupillai Pirapaharan, then the least he could do was to open talks with the TNA and arrive at a settlement.  The Indian Prime Minister had expressed his opinion that no political solution would be of any effect if the representatives of the north and east were not part of it. Singh' s proposals to Rajapakse were revealed by Congress Party President in Tamil Nadu and Lok Sabah Member V. Thangabalu in an interview with The Sunday Leader in Chennai last week. Thangabalu said that he also believed that if the Sri Lankan government was genuine in finding a political solution to the ethnic crisis, then the TNA could play a vital role.Thangabalu met with the Prime Minister to discuss the Sri Lankan crisis before Singh met with President Rajapakse the previous week in New Delhi.The President, it is learned had informed the Indian Premier an invitation was extended to the TNA for talks but that the party had not attended the meeting. It is learned the President informed the Indian Premier he would once again invite the TNA for talks shortly.  Thangabalu told The Sunday Leader the Congress Government wanted the Sri Lankan Government to submit a political package, which was an improvement on the 13th Amendment. He also, said the Congress Party could never forgive LTTE Leader Velupillai Pirapaharan for the murder of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. However, he said the Government must go for a ceasefire to ensure Tamil civilians are not affected by the on going military operations. Thangabalu also said he reflected the official position of the Congress Party of India. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe too at his meeting with the President urged him to open a dialogue with the TNA to arrive at a settlement. Wickremesinghe had also said the time was not opportune to go for a ceasefire with the LTTE.  Wickremasinghe told Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukurjee during his visit to New Delhi last week that given the ground situation, no guarantees could be placed on a ceasefire and that a political solution needed to be formalised urgently. Wickremasinghe also said that as a minimum the government should commence a dialogue with the TNA. However JVP defector Wimal Weerawansa has urged President Rajapakse to isolate the 'Tiger proxies' by dissolving Parliament and going for early elections.

Indian aid: Govt. and ICRC cross swords
 
A new row has broken out between the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Commissioner General of Essential Services over the distribution of Indian food and relief supplies to civilians in the Wanni – with both insisting they should carry out the task.The ICRC Regional head Francois Stamm said in a statement from New Delhi that his organization “will be distributing the aid provided by the Indian government directly to the displaced people and residents affected by the conflict in the Wanni. We will do so in accordance with our own independent assessment of people’s needs.” The move drew an angry response from Essential Services Commissioner General S. B. Divaratne. “The ICRC has no ethical right or the capacity to distribute food in the Wanni,” he told The Sunday Times yesterday.“The food items taken to the ICRC warehouse in Puthukudiyiruppu will be distributed by the Government Agent. We have not changed the position. It is the Government which has the mechanism to distribute food. We need to ensure that the food and relief items do not go to the LTTE. We have a mechanism in place for that purpose,” the commissioner said.However, it is not clear how the LTTE will be prevented from drawing food stocks sent to the Wanni. In the past, it is known that the LTTE has interfered with distribution of state food supplies.Mr. Divaratne said the distribution of food in the Wanni was carried out in what he called a proper manner by the Government Agents. The World Food Programme and the GAs had issued a card to each family and only these families would be entitled to the assistance.“Even for the Indian relief aid, the same procedure will be followed. It is only the government which can carry out the distribution,” Mr. Divaratne added. India last week sent 1,700 tons of rice, soap and clothes. Since arrival in Sri Lanka, they have been packed in 80,000 sachets. They were screened for security reasons before being sent to the Wanni.The ICRC’s Colombo Co-ordinator Aleksandra Matijevic told The Sunday Times that Indian aid packs would be transported by the ICRC and distributed through its own network.The Indian relief supplies were sent to Sri Lanka following talks between special presidential envoy Basil Rajapaksa and Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee in New Delhi. A Joint Statement issued after the visit said, “Government of Sri Lanka will facilitate the delivery” of Indian aid.

Heavy fighting outside Tiger political HQ in Sri Lanka

Helicopter gunships attacked Tamil Tiger rebel positions in northern Sri Lanka as ground troops on Sunday moved closer to the rebels' political capital from three fronts, the defence ministry said.Helicopters were deployed to pound rebel bunkers that make up the western defences of the town of Kilinochchi, the political headquarters of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), the ministry said."Sri Lanka army offensive divisions... are now marching towards the Kilinochchi built up in three frontiers," the ministry said. "Pitched battles are going on."The ministry said the guerrillas had built an earth barrier around Kilinochchi to block the military advance."The air raids were launched on Saturday evening in support of troops of the 57th division advancing towards Kilinochchi," a defence ministry official said.The latest thrust came as Tigers marked their "Heroes' Week."The Tigers launched their separatist drive in 1972, while the first Tiger cadre was killed by government forces 10 years later on November 27, 1982.The Tigers end the "Heroes' Week" commemorations on Thursday with a speech by their supremo Velupillai Prabhakaran, who turns 54 on Wednesday.The defence ministry has stopped releasing details of casualties among its own troops, but it is reporting heavy fighting in the north of the island with the guerrillas said to be offering stiff resistance.Sri Lanka's government has vowed to take the Tiger political capital and dismantle the LTTE's mini-state.Sri Lankan troops have been engaged in a massive offensive against the Tigers since the government pulled out of a Norwegian-brokered truce at the start of the year.Sri Lankan authorities have restricted access to the embattled areas for journalists as well as for most aid workers, meaning that claims by either side in the decades-old conflict are normally impossible to independently verify.Tens of thousands of people have died in the LTTE's campaign for a separate homeland for the island's minority Tamils.

1,974 Tigers killed this year says LTTE

One thousand nine hundred and seventy four Tigers have been killed this year, a pro-Tiger website quoting the LTTE said.This is the highest number of Tigers killed that has been recorded since 1997 (2,112 killed) and 2000 (1,983 killed). The number of Tigers killed this year includes 1,398 male and 576 female cadres.During the same period, the government has officially claimed a little over 1,300 security forces personnel were killed in action.At least 1,000 LTTE cadres have been killed since 2006. According to the statistics, 4,180 Tigers in all have been killed since 2006.The website also stated that 22,114 including 17,305 male and 4,809 female Tigers had been killed between November 27, 1982 to October 30, 2008.In addition, a total of 372 Black Tigers (268 males and 164 females), 281 civilian auxiliary force members (276 males and five females) and 50 Tiger police personnel (47 males and three females) have been killed since 1982.According to Government statistics, over 9000 Tigers have been killed in 2008.

TMVP HAND IN DOCTOR DEATHS

Police investigations have revealed that the killing of Dr. S.W. Palitha Padmakumara, who was serving at the Nawakkadu government hospital in Vavunathivu, Batticaloa, had been carried out on the orders of “Varnan” who is a TMVP area leader.Varnan is the TMVP leader in charge of the party’s office in Manikkadu, Vavunathivu, sources said.This high ranking officer revealed that currently, the Pillayan faction has 21 offices in the East, while the Karuna faction had 27 .A six member gang led by “Varnan” had stormed the hospital premises on the 16th and four of them have been identified as TMVP members who were with “Varnan” at the party office.“Varnan” and the four TMVP members had shot dead two other TMVP members inside the office during the night of the 10th and escaped with the T 56 and RPG weapons which were inside the office. This office had formerly belonged to the Pillayan faction.It was afterwards that they stormed the Nawakkadu government hospital and killed the doctor on the 16th. Witnesses who saw the attackers had told police that all the killers were armed with T 56 and RPG weapons. Police sources reveal that the lives of Sinhalese serving in Batticaloa were under serious threat now. These threats are from unidentified armed groups. These groups earlier shot dead three Sinhala youth who were serving at a road development project in Batticaloa on 21st October. The next day, they launched a hand grenade attack on a group of Sinhalese workers from the Water Supply and Drainage Board in Vavunathivu. Five workers were injured in this attack.Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa held extensive discussions with the GMOA on the 18th regarding the security of doctors. Accordingly, special security arrangements have been made for doctors serving in the northern and eastern provinces. An SSP has been appointed to co-ordinate these security arrangements.

Tamils should sink differences to seek an end to war in Sri Lanka: Pandian

VELLORE: The Tamils in the State should sink their differences and unite in their demand for stopping the “war against the Tamils in Sri Lanka,” D. Pandian, State secretary of the Communist Party of India, said on Saturday.Addressing the protestors, who observed a fast by the Vellore Tamil Sangam to urge the Centre to force Sri Lanka to halt the war, Mr. Pandian said the CPI had always expressed itself against war wherever it took place. “It is a humanitarian demand.”Referring to the view that demanding that the Sri Lankan government stop the war amounted to violation of the island nation’s sovereignty and interference in its internal affairs, he said the United Nations had made it clear that sovereignty ended where violation of human rights began.Mr. Pandian urged the Centre not to send arms to Sri Lanka, since the Sri Lankan government was using them in the “war against the Tamils.”He also demanded that the Centre should not go ahead with its proposal to send back the Sri Lankan refugees, who had been staying in different camps in Tamil Nadu for the past 20 years. Three days ago, the Centre sent letters to the refugees, asking them to return to Sri Lanka, and that ships were ready to take them back. Since the letters were in Tamil, the State government, too, should be aware of them, and it should ask the Centre to withdraw the move, for it would pave the way for the refugees to be drafted into the Sri Lankan army to give the impression that the Sri Lankan Tamils themselves were fighting the LTTE, he said.G. Viswanathan, Chancellor of VIT University and president of the Vellore Tamil Sangam, who presided over the fast, wanted all parties to be united in their call for the Centre to ask Sri Lanka to stop the war. The Tamils “are fighting for equal rights. How can the Sri Lankan government deny it?” he asked. Heeding the pleas of the Bengalis in West Bengal, India had intervened in the internal affairs of Pakistan and helped in the creation of Bangladesh. Film director Barathi Raja regretted that the Centre had not persuaded Sri Lanka to stop the war, despite several agitations in Tami Nadu.R.K. Selvamani, another film director, faulted the Union government for having done little to protest the killing of Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy. No action had been taken to secure the release of 20 fishermen who were arrested three days ago by the Sri Lankan Navy, he said.

We will not vote in support of budget, warns Sri Lanka's Upcountry People's Front

Sri Lanka's Upcountry People's Front (UPF) leader P. Chandrasekaran has written to the President Mahinda Rajapaksa that the party MPs will not vote in support of the budget at the third reading if the government fails to provide a salary increase to the estate workers. Chandrasekaran has pointed out in his letter that the estate laborers are protesting him since the government did not propose any salary increase for the estate workers from the budget 2009. UPF that represents the Indian origin upcountry Tamils of Sri Lanka has two parliamentary seats and the party is a partner of the coalition government. MP Chandrasekaran recently expressed his support to the recent protest campaign launched by the Tamil Nadu government in India against the Sri Lankan government’s offensive in the North to eradicate the Tiger terrorists.

Two Police officers killed in Eastern Sri Lanka

Two officers of Sri Lanka police were shot and killed by unknown gunmen at two locations in the Eastern Province, said the police media spokesman Senior Superintendent of Police Ranjith Gunasekara. The killings took place at Eravur and Kalawanchikudi in the Batticaloa district. The police officer shot and killed at Kalawanchikudi is a Police Inspector who was returning from duty.

Man swims from Pooneryn to Jaffna

An unidentified man swam across the Kilali lagoon and reached Jaffna just four days before troops gained control of the strategic town, a UN situation update said last week. "On November 11, a man swam from Pooneryn to Jaffna across the Jaffna Lagoon. He was arrested by the Security Forces while he was swimming and was sent to court," the Inter Agency Standing Committee (IASC) said in its latest situation report. "The court ordered him to go to the welfare centre."IASC is an umbrella organization of the UN and other international agencies working in Sri Lanka. Troops reached Pooneryn after an absence of 15 years on November 15, morning. The shallow Kilali lagoon that separates Pooneryn and Jaffna was traditionally navigated by small boats and a cause-way. The Tigers used to run a clandestine boat service till 1995 when they lost Jaffna. The day before the man made his daring swim 15 more had reached Jaffna from the Vanni using boats, IASC said."On November 10, 15 people including eight females and two children reached Thanankilappu, Jaffna by boat from the Wanni. They have been placed in the Kayeetha School (an abandoned school in Jaffna Town) which is being used as a temporary accommodation centre along with the 47 people who arrived previously. This brings the total number of IDPs reaching Jaffna by boat from the Wanni to 62 people." The Army saidthat on November 21,  39 civilians had reached Omanthai using the A9 road.

LTTE SOS TO JOIN BATTLE

State intelligence agencies have received information that the LTTE had called up its operatives in foreign countries to immediately come to battle.Intelligence agencies say that the LTTE is calling up its members from overseas as they are unable to find the necessary manpower to attack targets in Colombo and the suburbs.A senior intelligence officer said that many LTTE operatives who resided in Colombo and the suburbs had fled the country in the past few years in fear of search operations and the sudden disappearances which have been taking place of late in Colombo. It is these operatives who have now been recalled.The goal of these Tiger operatives is to cause explosions and launch attacks in Colombo and the suburbs in order to disrupt the daily routines of people. The intelligence officer said that a majority of these LTTE members have already been identified and were being apprehended.

Moragoda to return to UNP, Sri Lanka media speculate

Sri Lanka Minister of Tourism Milinda Moragoda has reportedly requested from United National Party (UNP) to name him as the Chief Minister candidate for the Western Provincial Council. Moragoda crossed over to the government two years ago and still holds a cabinet portfolio. UNP sources said that a number of crossed over UNP MPs like Moragoda had dialogue with the party aiming to return. Meanwhile, UNP sources said that former Mrs. World Rosy Senanayaka's name has also been proposed for the UNP Chief Minister candidature of the Western Provincial Council.

LTTE attempt on Air Force commander’s life foiled

Investigators have uncovered a plot by the LTTE to assassinate Air Force Commander Roshan Goonetileka and other senior officers of the Air Force. The plot centered around an attack on a function which was to be held at Air Force headquarters.Investigators were also able to arrest three suspects of a four member elite Black Tiger suicide team which had been positioned in Colombo to carry out the attack. The suspects were planning to blow themselves up at the Air Force headquarters.On interrogation, the suspects said they planned to first set off a suicide bombing at the entrance of the headquarters and then drive an explosives laden truck into the compound. The truck was planned to then ram the building attended by the Air Force top command. This is the first time where the LTTE had planned to use double suicide bombings at the same location.The alleged leader of this Black Tiger suicide team had been staying at a house at Sri Maha Bodhi Road, Dehiwala. A couple had rented this house last January from its Sinhalese owner. They are residents of Vavuniya. The couple has been identified as Thurairasa Krishna Raj and Krishna Raj Wathsala.The leader of the Black Tiger suicide team had moved into the house recently. He had been sent to the house in Colombo by the mother of Thurairasa’s wife.On orders from high ranking officers, a special police team from the Western Province Intelligence Bureau immediately surrounded the house at Sri Maha Bodhi Road, Dehiwala. The police team was able to recover a micro pistol hidden in the ceiling of the house.On further investigations, they were able to find two passports and a mobile phone hidden inside the settee covers in the living room. It was later revealed that a SIM card used by the suspects had been purchased under the name of a Sinhalese man.The police team was also able to find two cyanide capsules hidden inside the pocket of a pair of trousers. The capsules were wrapped in a 10 rupee note. After searching a house in Wellawatte, the Police were able to arrest the mother of Krishna Wathsala. Police officers also recovered a suspicious national identity card in her handbag. This identity card bore the photograph of the leader of the Black Tiger suicide team but had a Muslim name. It was later revealed that this national identity card had been made for him so as to make it easier for the Tiger cadre to travel around Colombo.The investigators are also on the look out for the explosives laden truck. Officers of the state intelligence service were also able to locate a Black Tiger suicide cadre, along with an explosives laden motorcycle which was to be used in this attack. This Black Tiger suicide cadre had been arrested in Wellawatta. He committed suicide by swallowing a cyanide capsule at the time of his arrest.According to information uncovered, the Black Tiger suicide cadre had planned to use this explosives laden motorcycle to launch an attack on the air force commander’s convoy in as it traveled along Thummulla.

A fearful end to Sri Lanka's war?  -BBC

Sri Lanka's government says it is nearing victory in its 25-year conflict with the Tamil Tigers, but as Roland Buerk explains the war will leave a bitter legacy. The Sri Lanka Air Force helicopter flew fast and low out of Anuradhapura, heading north. The white domes of the ancient city's Buddhist temples stood high over the green canopy of the treetops. Flares thumped out of tubes on the helicopter's side, bright red sparks trailed thick white smoke into the jungle just below, a defence against being shot down. We were being flown to meet soldiers taking part in the military's offensive against the Tamil Tigers. Not too close to the battlefields though: Sri Lanka's government carefully controls access by journalists.

Stronghold seized

But it was still a chance to meet commanders on the ground. Lt Col KNS Kotuwegoda said the fighting was like Vietnam, bunkers and booby traps in the jungles. Only a day or so before, one of his men lost a leg when he stepped on a landmine. But the Lt Col said morale was high and the troops were confident of inflicting a final crushing defeat on the Tamil Tigers, and soon. For supporters of Sri Lanka's ethnic majority Sinhalese-led government these are the best of times. They scent victory after a generation of bloodshed and loss. The news from the battlefields of the north, or certainly the version given by the Ministry of Defence, has been relentlessly upbeat. In recent months soldiers have driven the Tigers, who want a separate state for the ethnic Tamil minority, from the entire north-western coast. They now seem poised to capture Kilinochchi from which the separatist rebels have administered areas under their control. The fall of the town would be a hugely symbolic moment, although it would not mean the end of the war, not yet.

Guns glut

The government has pursued victory against the Tigers hard since fighting resumed in mid 2006 after a ceasefire failed. Perhaps too hard. There are allegations of human rights abuses, abductions, killings and disappearances, especially in the east. There are an awful lot of guns there for a province that was, to quote the government, "liberated", from the Tamil Tigers last year. As we drove down the main A15 road that runs parallel with the coast, but just inland, we were flagged down every few minutes by heavily armed soldiers and police officers at checkpoints. They looked at our identity documents and sometimes poked around in the back of the van. In Sri Lanka's Eastern Province we passed police stations and small army camps that had been turned into mini fortresses with earth embankments, look out towers made of old railway sleepers and ammunition boxes, and roll after roll of razor wire. And then there were the offices of the party now in power with the support of the government in Colombo, the TMVP. They were also heavily guarded.

Abduction claims

A breakaway faction of the Tamil Tigers, they still have guns too. We could see the barrels of assault rifles poking over the top of their look out towers. Sometimes their men, wearing check shirts and rubber sandals, and a gun slung casually over the shoulder, would stand openly in the street. The TMVP's defection weakened the Tigers, who are themselves accused of serious human rights abuses, and helped government forces to drive the rebels from the east. And even though they were still armed, the TMVP were allowed to run on a government ticket in provincial elections earlier this year. They won, and a former Tamil Tiger child soldier is now Chief Minister of the East, but they have been accused of carrying out abductions and killings. The woman we went to meet in her small bare concrete house outside the town of Batticaloa did not care much about politics, she just wanted her son back.

'Mothers of the disappeared'

As did the mothers of two boys who were taken with him, who we also met. Mangy stray dogs leapt up, barking, from their dozing places under the trees of the otherwise bare sandy garden as we approached, before the lady of the house saw them off with a few well aimed stones. The Tamil Tigers were driven from the east, and are losing the north  The women complained that a year ago their boys, in their late teens and early 20s, were taken away on suspicion of being involved with the Tamil Tigers. One mother went to the local TMVP camp to ask for her son's release, and saw him with his hands tied and bearing marks of a beating. But she was sent away after being told the young men would be released in the morning. However they were not and the women described going back fruitlessly again and again, as the days turned to weeks, then months, with no word on their fate. Human rights groups say there have been hundreds of such cases reported in Sri Lanka in recent years, blamed on paramilitaries and elements of the security forces. The government insists almost all are fabrications intended to discredit it and its new found allies, that alleged victims did not disappear at all, but have gone abroad, or eloped. So Sri Lanka's war may be drawing slowly to a close but it seems bound at least to leave in its wake a legacy of fear and deep distrust.

I don't have any powers, says Sri Lanka's Eastern Province Chief Minister

Sri Lanka's Eastern Provincial Council Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan says that since he took office in May this year not a single person has been recruited to the Council. "I don’t have any powers to implement the 13th Amendment. We have asked the central government to give us the powers vested in the 13th Amendment," says Chandrakanthan in an interview with a Sri Lankan weekend newspaper. He also accuses that Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna, the leader of his party, Tamil People's Liberation Tigers (TMVP) who is with the government is now convincing the government not to give powers to him. Chandrakanthan laments that only a few cabinet ministers in the district are directly involved in the ongoing development projects in the province. TMVP broke away from Tamil Tigers in 2003 and supported the state security forces to wipe out Tiger powers in the Eastern Province.

EPC has no powers, says Pillayan Interviewed by Chandani Kirinde

Eastern Province Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan conceded that his relationship with Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna had deteriorated in the recent past. Pillayan in an interview with The Sunday Times, while pointing out that police powers–that he says would ensure freedom of movement–were more important than concentrating on development, also complained that the Provincial Council was not being consulted on any of the projects that have been launched so far.
 
Excerpts:

What is the relationship between you and Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna?

There is tension over Karuna’s demand for restructuring the party. He wants to bring his men to the Executive Committee. I registered this party when the government decided to hold local and provincial elections in the east early this year. Karuna was out of the country at that time. Because we wanted to prepare for elections we registered as the TMVP. There is no necessity to make any changes now.

Why is Karuna demanding a restructure of the party and registering it under a different name ?

I understand he is trying to grab political power from us. He does not have any official status in the TMVP. Since he returned he has been trying to forcibly occupy our offices in the Batticaloa district. I have shifted my office to a new building due to this problem.

Karuna didn’t want you to contest as the Chief Ministerial candidate but instead he wanted the Batticaloa Mayor, Sivageetha Prabhakaran to contest for the post. Is this correct ?

We decided she was suitable for the Mayor’s post because of her political experience within the district. The Chief Minister’s post is an important one and it would have been difficult for her to handle the work as there is a lot of pressure. Therefore, I decided to contest for the post.

What are the main obstacles you are facing to develop the province making use of the powers vested in the Provincial Council under the 13th amendment?

To tell you frankly, since I took office in May this year not a single person has been recruited to the Council. I don’t have any powers to implement the 13th Amendment. We have asked the central government to give us the powers vested in the 13th Amendment, but Karuna who is with the government is now convincing the government not to give powers to me.

We see a lot of development activities including building of new roads, bridges, providing electricity and telephone facilities to the newly liberated areas. Have you been consulted on these projects ?

No. Only a few cabinet ministers in the district are directly involved in these projects. This is not what we need at the moment. We first need freedom of movement to travel within the district and outside.

We saw that some of the TMVP offices opened by cadres loyal to you, now being closed down. Why is this ?

In the recent past there have been some incidents in these camps located in the mainland as well as in the newly liberated areas. The offices have been closed down to prevent more attacks taking place among the Tamil brotherhood.

There is information that former LTTE cadres whom you have de-listed have returned to the TMVP, stating that their lives are in danger. How serious is the problem of infiltration?

Quite serious. We are trying to identify these people and send some of them back. If they lead a normal life we will leave them alone. Otherwise they will be dealt with according to the law. After the eastern province was cleared, we were aware that a handful of LTTE cadres had returned to the districts of Batticaloa and Ampara. We are currently helping the security forces to track them down.

You are demanding police powers, but in contrast Karuna has said that such powers are not necessary. Your reactions?

If police powers are devolved to the provincial council I can protect all our members. They can also be absorbed into the police force so that they get official recogntion. They will be disciplined and any action could be taken against those persons who act against the law.

What impact has the killing of your private Secretary Krishnaswamy Nandagopan alias Ragu had overall?

His slaying is not only a great loss to me personally but also to the Tamil community on the whole. He was truly concerned about the people of the east. Money and positions were of little importance to him. He was also a knowledgable person. He was born in Batticaloa and based in Trincomalee and therefore had a good knowledge about the problems in the Eastern Province and could have done good service.

You said the killing of Ragu was not the work of the LTTE. But Karuna blames the LTTE?

I will say it again. It was not the work of the LTTE. This was definitely the work of a group who does not like to see the province developing. Very soon I will prove it. We have vital clues. Nobody knew where Ragu and I were staying in Athurugiriya, the day prior to the killing. No one knew of our movements too, except the one other person who was with us.

There are allegations from the Muslim community in Kathankudy, that TMVP cadres are moving into the area and intimidating and threatening them. A few Muslim civilians were shot dead too. How do you hope to foster ethnic harmony in this kind of environment?

Yes, in the past there were some incidents in Kathankudy. We have punished some of our members who were involved in such incidents. Now we have established a good rapport with the Muslims.

There is a strong belief that after Karuna returned he has been having the upper hand by using his powers and influence with the government to sideline you. What is your reaction?

The people in Batticaloa district are aware about Karuna’s behaviour and how he betrayed his community by leaving them and trying to lead a life of luxury in a western country. That itself clearly brings out his selfishness. I am the one who helped the government forces to liberate the people of Mutur and Sampoor. Some of our cadres were even killed in the operation, but Karuna did not even express his condolences to the families of these cadres. Because of these incidents the people have lost confidence in him. I challenge him, that if has a support base in the east to come forward and contest the next parliamentary elections.

I have confidence in the Chief Minister-Karuna

Playing down the reported rift between himself and Pillayan, UPFA parliamentarian Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna said police powers to the Eastern Province were not an urgent need and priority should be given to developing the province. In an interview with The Sunday Times he said he was concerned about LTTE cadres infiltrating the TMVP.
 
Excerpts:

There are reports about clashes between Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan and yourself. Any comment?

We have no major problems. Some of our political opponents and the LTTE are trying to create problems between us. Some media are also involved. There are some minor problems. We are a democratic party and there are bound to be arguments and disagreements, but they are not serious.

Who are these political opponents?

I don’t want to say who they are individually, but the TNA is one such group.

Pillayan says that your interest in restructuring the party is to get your members into the Executive committee. What is your response?

Even before I returned to the country, I advised Pillayan to call for a Central Committee meeting and restructure the party by including senior cadres of the TMVP. Presently I am in consultation with some intellectuals to reorganize the party. We will drop the name Puligal (Tigers).

How serious is the threat of LTTE infiltration in the East ?

After 22 years of fighting we cannot bring every thing under control in one year. There are small pockets of the LTTE operating there. They killed a university student and now a doctor. That doctor was loved by all the people of the area. One lady called me and said the doctor was like her son. The people have clearly rejected the LTTE, but their intelligence operatives are carrying out such brutal attacks to destabilise the east.

But, what about the infiltration into the TMVP?

We are concerned about the infiltration. We have started a screening process with the help of the security forces. We are not going to enlist any ex-LTTE cadres to the TMVP. We are also carrying out search operations.

How did your acquaintance with the Chief Minister begin ?

When I broke away from the LTTE and formed the TMVP, he was one of the people who joined me. In my absence, I appointed Kannan as the leader but, he was killed by the LTTE, then I appointed my brother Reji, but he too was killed by the LTTE. Thereafter, I appointed Pillayan to the position.

Do you have confidence in the Chief Minister ?

Yes I am happy with him. Also it is important that a Tamil person be the Chief Minister of the east. It has proved that the LTTE’s opinion that in a de-merged north –east the Tamils will have no representation is wrong. Under him, all the communities are working to build up a civil administration.

Pillayan says that his private secretary Krishnaswamy Nandagopan alias Ragu was not killed by the LTTE.

Clearly the killing was carried out by the LTTE. In the past two months, 17 TMVP cadres have been killed by the LTTE. They have tried to infiltrate the TMVP for some time, but have failed. He (Pillayan) made a mistake by saying the killing was not carried out by the LTTE. I regret that statement.

While Pillayan says powers to the province must be devolved under the PC system to the Eastern Provincial Council, you have been holding a different opinion.

We have a lot of work to do in the east. There has been a war in the east for the past 22 years. While Muslims in the area managed to send their representatives to parliament, the Tamil people have been largely without representation. But now we have a chance. We have the Provincial Council administration and our priority is development work. But police powers are not an urgent need. In the past too, the mistake we made was making the same demands over and over again. But now we have to do things differently. We must develop education, sports and entertainment.

Have you discussed the law and order situation in the east with the Government ?

I have spoken to the Defence Secretary and for now we have Deputy Inspector General of Police Shankar appointed as the co-ordinator for the three districts in the east. The Defence Secretary told me there are about 1000 police vacancies to be filled in the east and Tamil youth are needed to be recruited. I have already informed the people. We must now give priority to development.

22 November 2008

White van armed men abduct TELO district organizer in Vavuniyaa

Vavuniyaa district organizer of the Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization (TELO), Rex Ganeshalingam, was abducted Thursday early morning around 4:30 from his house by armed persons arrived a white van, according to complaints lodged with the Vavuniyaa Police by his wife. Armed men who identified themselves as police officers took Ganeshalingam at gunpoint, according to the complaint.The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) parliamentarian and TELO leader Selvam Adaikalanathan has sent a fax message to Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa about the abduction of his district organizer and requested him to take immediate steps to release him.

Sri Lanka: Troops capture LTTE training camp

Sri Lankan soldiers captured a Tamil Tiger rebel training camp, while air force helicopters bombed two rebel groups in the north, the military said Saturday.Troops seized the training camp in Andankulam village in the rebel stronghold of Mullaitivu on Friday, the military said in a statement.Military helicopters also bombed two rebel groups in Kilinochchi district on the same day, the statement said without giving casualty details.Separately, the decomposed bodies of three rebels were found after recent fierce fighting along the northern Jaffna and Kilinochchi fronts, the military said. It was not clear when they died, it said.It was not possible to contact rebel officials for comment because most communication lines to the north have been cut. Independent verification of the battlefield accounts is not possible because most reporters are banned from the war zone.According to military reports, Sri Lankan troops have made rapid progress on the battlefield in recent months, clearing the island's entire west of rebels and forcing them to retreat into a shrinking territory in the northeast.Authorities have vowed to crush the guerrillas and end their decades-old separatist campaign. The Tamil Tigers have fought since 1983 to create an independent homeland for ethnic minority Tamils who have suffered marginalization by successive governments controlled by ethnic Sinhalese.More than 70,000 people have been killed in the violence.

Over 200 bodies of the soldiers brought to undertakers, reveals Mangala

Sri Lanka Freedom Party -People's Wing (SLFP-PW) leader Mangala Samaraweera said that the bodies of over 200 war heroes fallen in north had been brought to Jayarathna Florists last Tuesday (18).Addressing a press briefing held in Colombo on Thursday(20), he further said that 710 soldiers were injured, 235 of them were admitted to Colombo National Hospital, 85 were admitted to Kalubovila hospital, 90 were admitted to Jayawardhanapura hospital and 200 were admitted to Army hospital. At the press briefing themed 'Three years for Chinthanaya; country finished", Samaraweera said that the government is hiding these figures. Pointing out that the country would be devastated by this war; he said that the government was issuing breaking news since yesterday stating that a junction somewhere had been captured. He said that the government is getting ready for an election prior to the economy getting worse and not to bring democracy to the north or to defeat LTTE. MP Samaraweera said that Sri Lanka would feel the world economic decline by March or April next year and the economy of the country would become worse than that of Zimbabwe. Before that, the government is trying to dissolve the parliament n December 09 to go to an election, he said.He further said that the President had promised India to go to a ceasefire after a brief glitter as a hero. Samaraweera said that he was not against a ceasefire and an acceptable political solution should be followed to make a ceasefire permanent. MP Samaraweera said that a new political alliance will come forward to defeat this treacherous rule through an alternative election.He said that hoardings designed in one place were displayed in many places indicating like the President himself captured Punarin although the real felicitation should go to the fallen ones and the other soldiers who fought to capture it. "Punarin was captured 15 years ago as well on November 15, 1993, it was again captured after sacrificing another generation. But war cannot be won," said MP Samaraweera questioning if the government is getting ready to bestow the war to the present day babies after 18 more years.

Ranil drives into black flag protests

Opposition leader Ranil Wickramasinghe was mobbed by groups carrying black flags in Tiruvarur, say reports from TN, India.Mr. Wickramasinghe on his way back to Colombo after meeting with Indian leaders including Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee in Delhi on Wednesday, stopped over in Chennai on Thursday (Nov 20) to visit ‘Pongu Saneeswarar’ Temple in Thirukollikadu village in the Tiruvarur district. Although security had been tightened in the area for Mr. Wickramasinghe's visit, about 20 cadres belonging to the Communist Party of India (CPI) had mobbed Mr. Wickremesinghe's convoy waving black flags as he was passing through Tiruvarur town. Reports say the protesters were whisked away by the police immediately.Another group of CPI protesters with black flags, who attempted to block his convoy at Needamangalam, were also arrested and later released, say reports from the area.Speaking to the media earlier, Mr. Wickramasinghe had said he was very much satisfied with the Indian government's relief support to the Tamil people in the Wanni.“Before coming to India, I had a discussion with Rajapaksa on the need to render all assistance, including food, medicine and shelter, to the Tamils of the Wanni region, who fled their homes fearing an attack from the Lankan Army,” Wickremasinghe had told the media.He had said the Sri Lankan Government should address the problems of Tamils in the country more seriously, but had refrained from mentioning anything about a cease fire, say reports in Chennai. Mr. Wickramasinghe had said he wants the Rajapaksa Government to convene an all-party meet including the TNA and the Muslim Congress to   find a solution to the long standing conflict in the country.

Vanni civilians protest supplies restriction - Tamilnet

People in Vanni marched in thousands in four locations yesterday (Nov. 21st) protesting against Sri Lanka Government's restrictions on food and essential supplies, 'Tamilnet' reports.They blamed Colombo for using humanitarian supplies as a tool of war to force civilians to flee against their will into the hands of Sri Lanka Army, said the website.Velamalikithan, a representative of Wanni Peoples Welfare Organisation has said the supplies were reduced from 600 lorries per month in 2007 to 250 lorries per month in 2008.He was addressing more than 5,000 protesters in front of Kilinochchi District Secretary's office at Dharmapuram, according to the website.Only 54 lorries had been allowed to cross into Wanni in the recent days, he has said.The VPWO also held protests in front of the DS office in Mullaitivu and the Divisional Secretaries offices at Pudukudiruppu and Oddusudan.VPWOs General Secretary Vethavanam expressed gratitude to the solidarity shown by the people of Tamil Nadu towards Wanni Tamils."The Sri Lankan government is using food as a tool of war against civilians to force them to act against their will," said S. Thuraisingam, its president, addressing participants at Dharmpuram."But, we have a democratic right to urge the global community and also Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa at the same time, to allow unhindered access to humanitarian supplies," he said.

Troops on the “outskirts” of Kilinochchi

COLOMBO: The Sri Lankan military on Friday claimed to have reached the “outskirts” of Kilinochchi town, the administrative headquarters of the LTTE. The Defence Ministry said troops had reached the northern boundaries of the Kilinochchi built up and started pounding the LTTE strongholds in the Adampan area. It said three LTTE bunkers and a battle trench were destroyed.The Ministry said the Air Force gunships carried out strikes at two LTTE gatherings near Akkarayankulam tank in Kilinochchi. Air Force spokesperson Janka Nanayakkara said the attacks had been carried out in support of Army 57 division troops at 3 p.m. and maintained that the targets had been effectively engaged.“The iron grip of terrorism that suppressed Tamil civilians in Wanni for decades is fast loosening and civilians have now started escaping the terror clutches in large numbers.“39 civilians in two groups have arrived at the Omanthai roadblock seeking protection with armed forces. The first group comprising 15 males and 10 females arrived at the roadblock at 7.50 a.m. The refugees told the officials that they were from Puthukulam and Semaduwa. The second group has arrived at 10.30 a.m. with 7 males and 7 females,” said the Ministry. The pro-LTTE TamilNet charged that the Army in Omanthai, while allowing 56 lorries carrying humanitarian supplies to enter Wanni, denied entry to more than 200 people including Kilinochchi Regional Director of Health Services, Zonal Education Directors of Kilinochchi and Mullathivu, 15 school principals of both districts and Peoples’ Bank manager of Mullathivu.It further alleged that four ambulances carrying 50 patients who were discharged from Vavuniyaa hospital after treatment to enter Wanni were also denied entry. “When the officials stranded at the Omanthai checkpoint inquired from the SLA [Army] on why the entry is denied they were informed that ‘today is a day that there is no civilian movement to Wanni”, the web site said.

Amnesty criticised

Separately, the government accused the Amnesty International (AI) of failing to present an “objective analysis of the challenges and successes” of the government in addressing the needs of Sri Lankan persons affected by the conflict.“It’s account is littered with misleading innuendo compounded by outright falsehood and, upon a holistic reading of their report, it becomes clear that the intent of the report is to present a skewed picture unfavourable to the lawfully elected and popularly mandated Government of Sri Lanka,” it said in its response to the AI report of November 19.With regard to the Amnesty’s demand for international monitoring, the government said the organisation was unaware or was wilfully disregarding the presence of international personnel who have accompanied the consignments of food to uncleared areas.

Sri Lanka may win LTTE, not the Tamils' problem: India

Even as Sri Lankan army is close to LTTE headquarters Killinochi, India feels a military "victory" would not solve the problem being faced by the island nation and the side-effects in the form of terrorism could be "dangerous".New Delhi believes that the Sri Lankan government would have to address the problem politically by giving enough space to all sections of the society there to feel comfortable."There is no military solution to the problem. Even if they (Lankan military) take control of Killinochi, the Tamil tigers may spread out to other parts of the country and continue terrorism," sources said here."Even if Killonichi is seized, it does not solve the problem. It will be a victory but not the solution. The side effects could be dangerous," they said.The Indian government wants Colombo to implement the power devolution package as part of settling the issue politically.New Delhi, however, is clear that LTTE is a terrorist organisation which was behind the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and that it is not the representative of ethnic Tamils in Sri Lanka.And at the same time, the Tamils in the island nation are a divided lot, often killing each other.India is concerned over the humanitarian aspect of the conflict as about 2 lakh people are said to have been affected by the war.The Sri Lankan government has assured India that steps would be taken to ensure that civilians are not affected during the war.Relief material has been sent by India through the Red Cross for them and it will be reaching them soon, sources said.Another pitfall of the conflict is the impact on Indian fishermen who are often caught or killed when they inadvertently cross into the Sri Lankan waters.A mechanism has recently been evolved under which the fishermen are given I-cards and the system is working well for past few weeks, the sources said.India asserts that it has not given any military aid to the Sri Lankan government but is only helping them in defensive aspects.

Malaysian Tamils Protests in front of the U.N Office

KL - Hundreds of Malaysian Tamils gathered in front of the United Nations office and protested in supports of Eelam Tamils and urged the International community to stop the genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka. The Protest march was organized by the Jana Sakthi Weekly news paper reader club members and enthusiastic people.They condemned the Sri Lanka’s continued killing of innocent Eelam Tamils since 1975 and said Sri Lanka only determined to continue with much vigor to kill more Tamils without addressing the genuine grievances of Eelam Tamils. It must be stopped by the international community. They said the International community cannot be a mute spectator of the worst form of genocide which is taking place against Tamils by Sri Lanka. U.N should get involved and bring the warring parties to the negoatiating table to find an acceptable solution to the Eelam Tamils.Over 300,000 Eelam Tamils including 40,000 children are internally displaced and living in subhuman conditions, with no or limited access to food, medicines, sanitary conditions, and drinking water. This is a great human crisis and UN should assist to avert the catastrophic situations in Vanni for Eelam Tamils.In the end of the protest, the protesters submitted petition to the United Nation office and urged them stop the war in Sri Lanka, find a meaningful negotiated solution and force Sri Lanka to allow the international aid agencies in the war ravaged area to assist the needy Tamils.

Prabhakaran will flee, says Sri Lanka Army Commander

Sri Lanka Army Commander Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka says that Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE) now have around 3,000 fighters with 2,000 of them forcibly recruited, and would die as the security forces close in on Visvamadu close to the heart of rebel stronghold Kilinochchi. Participating in an interview with the state owned Sinhala daily Dinamina, he said that at this juncture Prabhakaran would decide to flee from the country as some others would surrender. The Army Commander said that there would be a chance for the Tiger leader to flee in a dinghy boat or in a low lying fast aircraft. He added that the Navy and the Air Force should take measures to prevent him fleeing the country.The Army Commander also said that Prabhakaran is now injured according to verified evidence and he is a patient running from bunker to bunker without medicine. However, a recently released report by the University Teachers for Human Rights (Jaffna) quoting sources from the Vanni says since early September the LTTE has conscripted 9,000 ‘very young’ persons who are now under training.

TN Disabled People Protests in support of Eelam Tamils

Chennai - Thousands of Tamil Nadu (TN) disabled people are protesting all over TN state to condemn Sri Lanka the killings of Tamils in Eelam and Sri Lanka?s military operations against them in Eelam and urge the Center and the international community to allow the international aid groups into Vanni area to alleviate the sufferings of over 300,000 internally displaced people including over 40,000 children who are living in subhuman conditions due to the relentless military operations in Vanni. Tamil Nadu Disabled Persons Association?s coordinator, T. Praghashkumar said, there will be a huge rally will be taking place in support of Eelam Tamils on November 29 in Chennai, where all the association representing TN disabled persons, and Southern Region Disabled persons will be taking part to urge our Central government to Stop the War in Sri Lanka against Eelam Tamils and allow the aid agencies into Vanni to provide much needed assistances to them.Tamil Nadu masses are going beyond their party affiliation took part in the State wide famine protests and urged Center to stop the genocides of Eelam Tamils by Sri Lanka. The famine protest also well attended by past and present leaders of the lawyers associations.Meanwhile, in Viruthasalam, Palakarai area people imitated the Eelam Tamil victims due to the air, land, sea attacks by the Sri Lankan forces in Vanni and protested to condemn Sri Lanka for committing Genocide against Tamils in Sri Lanka and urged Center to send immediate aid to Eelam Tamils. DMK, Periyar Dravidar, Dravidar Kazhakam, VCK and many other Tamil Nadu party leaders and members also took part in the protest. Another, awareness meeting has taken place in Nellai, TN, where Thamilar Thesiaya Kalakam President, P. Nedumaran spoke at the event said, there are vested interested parties in TN are trying to change the course of the Eelam struggle and TN people have to be vigilant about this. The awareness meeting took place under the heading of "India & Eelam Tamils Plights"Meanwhile, Puthicheri, all-party meeting was convened and taken the decision to put the shutters down in support of Eelam Tamils on November 25. Party leaders and members will be conducting awareness campaign among the Puthicheri people on November 23 and November 24.CPI, MDMK, PMK, VCK, Periyar DK, National Congress, Rajija Janatha Thalam, Fishermen Viduthalai Sangam, Pakujan Samasaga Kadzi, and many other Tamil Nadu Parties took part in the meeting.

Harrow Tamils demonstrate over violence in Sri Lanka
   
Harrow Tamils joined a demonstration outside Parliament yesterday in protest over violence in Sri Lanka. Thousands of people gathered at Parliament Square, in central London to lobby MPs over what some claim is an attempted genocide of Tamils by the Sri Lankan Government. Councillor Thaya Idaikkadar, (Lab/Roxeth) who went to the demonstration, said people were getting “carried away with emotions”. He said: “What's happening there is absolutely terrible. We have compared it to the holocaust. People keep despairing every day, they are sending food and medical aid to everyone. “A lot of people think the two sides should go back to the negotiating table.” The LTTE, better known as the Tamil Tigers, is listed as a terrorist organization in many countries and has been engaged in war with the Sri Lankan Government for decades. The group wants a homeland and some say they are the only people protecting Tamils from the Government. The protesters called on the British Foreign office to intervene in the conflict and recognize what they describe as the Tamil right to self determination. Cllr Idaikkadar said the Downing Street is giving aid and claims to be putting behind the scenes pressure on the Sri Lankans. He said: “That's all very well and good but when every day people are dying when is  the pressure going to work? And how do I know they're putting pressure behind the scenes.” Amnesty International yesterday accused the Sri Lankan Government of having a policy of blocking humanitarian aid destined for around 300,000 people displaced during the fighting. Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in a statement, said: “The laying down of their arms and surrendering is the greatest service the LTTE could do to the people in the areas of armed conflict and all peoples of Sri Lanka.”

21 November 2008

Forces capture Muhamalai first defence lines

Muhamalai: The troops of the 53 Division and 55 Division operating in the Jaffna Forward Defence Lines in Muhamalai and Kilali yesterday took full control of the heavily fortified LTTE’s first defence lines north and south of the A-9 road after five days of fighting and inflicting heavy damage to the LTTE, Military officials told the media yesterday.Troops of the 53 Division under the command of Brigadier Kamal Gunaratne and 55 Division troops under the command of Brigadier Prasanna Silva have advanced some 500 to 800 meters from the original defence line of the Security Forces to hit the first defence line of the LTTE. They consolidated their positions amidst Tiger counter attacks to recapture it, by early hours of yesterday.The LTTE withdrew to this defence line after the Security Forces captured their original first defence line after fighting broke out on August 11, 2006.“The troops of the 53 Division and the 55 Division are now controlling the eight Kilometres long Tiger first Defence line from Kadolana area north of A-9 road to Kilali, south of the A-9 road,” a senior Army official told the media. “Troops are still facing counter attacks by the LTTE as they are trying their best to recapture this defence line bringing reinforcements to the area,” the official added.According to military sources the troops are now confronting the LTTE cadres who had withdrawn to their second defence line located some 600 meters away from the first defence line and third defence line located nearly one kilo metre south of the first defence line.“They have created huge earth bunds to stop the advance of the troops into their defences and heavily mined the area to make it inaccessible for the infantry troops,” he added.“Initially there was stiff resistance by the LTTE but by yesterday the resistance subsided to a certain degree,” the official added.According to military sources more than 50 Tiger dead bodies were seen scattered ahead of the Tiger FDL and they believe more than 75 Tiger cadres perished in the ensuing battles in Muhamalai and Kilali.Intercepted radio transmission reports revealed a heavy toll of deaths and casualties to the LTTE during these clashes.The Army confirmed the destruction of four improvised mortar guns of the LTTE known as “Pasilan” and “Baba” mortars. LTTE leaders, Theepan, Muhundan and Jerry were heard making unsuccessful calls for their forward elements to hold their positions.The Army also suffered a number of deaths and casualties in the ensuing battle within the first few days due to heavy volumes of artillery and mortar attacks coming from Soranpattu area in the South of Muhamalai. “Troops also suffered casualties due to traps set by the LTTE once troops were moving into trenches and bunker lines of the LTTE,” the official added.With the full consolidation of the Tiger FDLs troops are poised to advance further southwards to link up with the troops now heading towards Paranthan after the capture of Pooneryn, sources added.

Now Army wants to shift Omanthai entry exit point

With the Army deployed west of the A9 road gradually pushing eastwards towards the road, the operation of Omanthai entry exit was likely to be affected, authoritative military sources said. The sources said that the gate would have to be shifted to a point along the Mankulam-Mullaitivu road, most probably at Oddusudan. The recent capture of Mankulam also influenced this move, the sources said. Security forces didn’t operate the Omanthai entry/exit point on Wednesday.

3 yrs. of Chinthana & 79 Mahinda's relatives in top jobs

As President Mahinda Rajapaksa celebrated his third year in office, 79 of his closest relatives hold top government positions, including as ministry secretaries, parliamentarians, presidential advisors, diplomats and chairmen of corporations, said leader of SLFP Mahajana Wing Mangala Samaraweera.Mr. Samaraweera was speaking at a media briefing titled "Three years for Chinthana: Country is lost" in Colombo today (Nov. 20th).He said, "Upon being elected President on November 19th, 2005 Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa, on November 23rd, had got his salary increased four-fold, a proportion unseen from the time of President J.R. Jayawardene. This is mentioned on page 1,210 of the Hanzard."As President -- J.R. Jayewardene, Ranasinghe Premadasa, D.B. Wijetunga and Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga -- all received Rs. 25,000 as their salary."Commenting on the capture of Pooneryn, Mr. Samaraweera said, "The government has been saying in the past couple of days that our security forces have captured Pooneryn area. On most occasions, it was painted as an achievement of the President himself. We must pay out tribute to the heroic soldiers who fought and laid down their lives to recapture Pooneryn area.""But, 15 years ago, we similarly celebrated the taking of Pooneryn. This is mentioned in Dinamina. It is an irony of fate that it was captured on 15th November 1993 when D.B. Wijetunga was president, with Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister.""That day too, we captured Pooneryn at the cost of a large number of lives in the security forces. Today as well, we have gained it by sacrificing members of the security forces of yet another generation. We may feel happy that Pooneryn has been captured from time to time, but we still cannot provide a solution to the national conflict.""This is an endless war. Newspapers do not publish these things. You will not be allowed to publish these either. I know that by last Tuesday, 235 injured soldiers were brought to Colombo National Hospital. It was reported that 85 were brought to Kalubowila, 90 to Jayawardenepura and more than 300 to Military Hospital. Also, the bodies of more than 200 brave sons of this country were brought to Jayaratne Funeral Directors. This government is preparing to sacrifice any number of lives to hide all these and cover up its inabilities."The SLFP (M) leader also commented on the state of the economy. "The IMF and the World Bank held a joint meeting in Washington on October 10th to discuss the collapse of the global economy. At that meeting, they released a report on 160 countries. Of those 160 countries, Sri Lanka is among the 28 weakest of economies. The other countries include Eritrea, Ethiopia, Tajikistan, Madagascar, Rwanda, Malawi and Haiti. Three years of Mahinda Chinthana, and our country has fallen to the level of these countries. I am not saying this. It is the World Bank report that says so.""We have not yet felt the effect of the global economic collapse. At present, we are feeling the economic crisis brought about by the waste, corruption and fraud of the Rajapaksas. It is only when we prepare to celebrate New Year in April that we will feel the burden of the world economic crisis. The Central Bank governor recently admitted that foreign reserves had declined by 30 per cent within three months. We will have to take money in suitcases to buy goods for Sinhala New Year. By that time, the value of the Rupee will be depreciated that much."

Troops capture an LTTE airstrip in Pooneryn

Troops of Task Force 1 now advancing towards Paranthan following the victory in Pooneryn have captured one of LTTE airstrips located in the Nivil area, Pooneryn yesterday afternoon, the military said. Defense Ministry said that according to the sources in the filed, the airstrip is about 200m in length and made by demarcating a strip of the B-69 Pooneryn-Paranthan main road.Sources say the strip is believed to be used as an emergency landing strip by the LTTE.Meanwhile troops have established their forward boundaries about 14 km west from Paranthan and engaged in clearing operations at present, defense sources said.

India aid sends all clear for Sri Lanka war-analysts

India handed over aid for Sri Lanka's war refugees on Thursday in what analysts say is the clearest sign yet New Delhi will not interfere with Colombo's plan to end Asia's oldest insurgency militarily.India's ambassador to Sri Lanka handed over at a ceremony more than 1,680 tonnes of relief items to the International Committee of the Red Cross, which will deliver it to an estimated 200,000 people displaced by the war in northern Sri Lanka.It is a far cry from a 1987 airdrop of aid by the Indian air force which signalled the start of India's 3-year direct intervention in a war that has always roiled politics there and kept Sri Lankan leaders mindful of their giant neighbour.Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa's government has made the most battlefield progress against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) of any since the war began in 1983.That has fuelled talk he will call an early election to capitalise on the military success to consolidate his power, especially with the economy under pressure from the cost of the war, expensive debt and declining prices for major exports.Facing an election at home before May and pressure from Tamil political partners in his coalition over the war, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh last month criticised the escalation of the war and urged a political solution to Tamil grievances.That set off a flurry of shuttle diplomacy resulting in the aid shipment and a statement in which India agreed the LTTE -- on U.S., Europe and Indian terrorism lists -- must be dealt with militarily, and Sri Lanka promised to push political negotiations.The aid shipment shows how India's dual policy of wanting the Tigers destroyed as a military threat while ensuring innocent Tamils are treated fairly is still on track, said Reva Bhalla, an analyst with U.S. private intelligence firm Stratfor."They have been managing this rather adroitly by emphasising the fact they support a campaign against terrorism while focusing on the humanitarian nature of the conflict with public appeals to Colombo to avoid innocent civilian deaths," she said.

NO DEADLINES

And she said Singh's Congress party can argue the terrorism case well at home because it is led by the wife of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, killed by a Tiger suicide bomber in 1991 after India's peacekeeping intervention ended disastrously."India has backed the military campaign. That was implicit in their joint statement," defence analyst Iqbal Athas said.Although Tamil parties allied with Singh backed off a threat to resign from parliament, they have continued to speak out against the war and supported an LTTE offer of a ceasefire last week that Sri Lanka flatly refused as a ruse."They surely understand our commitment and concern about the Tamil people and know that the government is doing all it can to protect them by providing relief and regularly talking to the government of Sri Lanka," Veerappa Moily, a senior Congress Party leader and adviser, said of Tamil political allies.Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama said on Wednesday that India had not given Sri Lanka a deadline to finish the war before May elections in India."The timeframe is in terms of what we are trying to do. Defeat of the LTTE as a terrorist organisation will create a better environment to restore normalcy and bring about far-reaching political development," he said.Bhalla said although the political process to address longstanding Tamil complaints of marginalisation by governments led by the Sinhalese ethnic majority has not really taken off, it should soon."Now that Colombo has the upper hand militarily, we can start taking the rhetoric of political integration much more seriously, and that fits nicely into India's own campaign to push for Tamil rights and condemn the terrorists," she said.

Mangala hypocritical - Keheliya 
 
The government has dismissed claims of using war propaganda to cover up an economic down turn by Parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera.Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said that parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera is using casualty figures of soldiers to ‘climb out of a political dustbin”which he has fallen in to.“We give out all casualty figures to the Parliament” said Minister Rambukwella.He said that if MP Samarweera is getting some satisfaction by mentioning casualty figures that it’s his problem and not a problem for the government.“Samaraweera has failed to mention the gains we have made. With the capture of Poonarin and A32 route we have a direct land line from Mannar to Jaffna," said Rambukwella.Commenting on the inevitable economic down turn mentioned by Parliamentarian Samaraweera Minister Rambukwella said that it's" hypocritical to talk of an economic downturn without reference to the global financial crisis ".“We have been to maintain stability in comparison to many other economies” said Minister Rambukwalla.

TRO lashes out for freezing funds
   
Tamil Rehabilitation Organization yesterday condemned the move by the Government to forfeit funds of the TRO which were frozen earlier. In a statement issued, the TRO stated that they wish to “remind the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) that 75% of the “forfeited” funds in TRO’s accounts were donated by the United Nations, international NGOs, foreign governments and the GoSL itself”.In the statement TRO denied the allegations by the GoSL that the funds were used for terrorism related activities, but adds that the funds were granted for providing humanitarian assistance to people who were living in the North and the East. The organization states that the GoSL should return these funds to the international NGOs, UN  and other bodies instead of forfeiting the funds.TRO states that they have met or exceeded international standards of accountability and transparency regarding project reporting and accounting, and that their accounts and programmes were monitored by various UN bodies, the UK Charity Council and European Commission’s Humanitarian Aid Office. Funds exceeding Rs. 70 million were forfeited to the state on Tuesday, which were frozen in 2006. The TRO however, claim the amount to be much higher, in the range of Rs. 80 million.

Aid distribution: Red Cross, India differ with Sri Lanka

COLOMBO: India on Thursday formally handed over 1,680 tonnes of relief material to the International Red Cross Committee (ICRC) for distribution to civilians in northern Sri Lanka.A brief ceremony at the ICRC warehouse here was marked by contradictory statements by India and ICRC on the one hand and Sri Lanka on the other. Colombo insisted the relief would be distributed by “government agents” in LTTE-occupied areas, under the supervision of ICRC. Sri Lanka’s Commissioner General of Essential Services, S. B. Divaratne, said the government had the machinery to ensure distribution in the warzone.“The ICRC would be involved in a supervisory capacity and the actual distribution would be done by the Government Agents,” he said.Indian High Commissioner Alok Prasad, who handed over the relief material, said the consignment has been sent as a follow up to the October 26 India-Sri Lanka joint statement, in which both sides decided India will provide humanitarian relief assistance in Sri Lanka.“I am happy to note that this substantial consignment has arrived in Colombo within three weeks of that decision. It is a combined effort of the Government of India and donations received from the people of Tamil Nadu. It is a gesture of goodwill and intended to bring some relief to civilians in the conflict areas,” he said. The consignment consists of food, clothing, and personal hygiene items in 80,000 family packs. Mr. Prasad thanked Sri Lanka for facilitating the arrival and despatch of these items.He thanked the ICRC for its role.Foreign Secretary Palitha Kohana said there was no estimate of the displaced in the conflict zone as a census has not been conducted.“We believe the figure of 2,30,000 to 3,00,000 estimated displaced by various agencies is grossly exaggerated. The government’s own assessment is that the figure could be around 1,00,000. I also take the opportunity to remind the world that the government was doing its best to reach out to the displaced and it was the LTTE which was holding them as human shield,” he said. Sri Lanka head of the ICRC, Paul Castella, said the relief material would be distributed directly by ICRC teams working in Wanni. “This is the first time that, through the ICRC, the Government of India has assisted in conflict-affected population of Sri Lanka and I would like to underline how much we appreciate the trust the Indian authorities have shown in us and their recognition of the ICRC’s work in Sri Lanka to date,” he said.

Leaflets accuse Karuna over Raghu murder

A leaflet charging Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna for being responsible for the killing of Kumaraswarmy Nandagopan alias Raghu,  private secretary of East Chief Minister Sivanesthurai Chandrakanthan has been distributed in Batticaloa, provincial reports say.Titled ‘Are you following Prabhakaran’s orders?’, the leaflets accuse Karuna and question the reason for the killing of Raghu, who was the right hand of the East CM Chandrakanthan.Presenting the 2009 budget of the provincial council on November 18th, the CM said it was a shame that his party members who have entered the democratic mainstream were being killed one by one.The murder of Mr. Kumaraswarmy Nandagopan should be strongly condemned, he added.

NGO worker abducted in white van

The white van abductions had yet another victim yesterday (Nov. 19th) in a menace that has become a continuous concern for society. This time, it was a girl serving at an NGO, who was kidnapped in Serunuwara.In Colombo on the same day, a youth was taken by a group in clothing similar to military fatigues.The abduction around 12.45 pm had taken place at Beira Road, Kesewatte, Mattakkuliya, said police spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara.The abductee has been identified as 28-year-old Rasika Deshapriya.White van abductions is one topic that has been heating up the House, with Chief Opposition Whip Joseph Michael Perera recently claiming the threat, which had raised its head in Colombo, has spread to Puttalam by now.He condemned the government for having failed to arrest a single suspect over these abductions  and said it should take full responsibility.Countering the allegation, Leader of the House Nimal Siripala de Silva said white van abductions were only in the imagination of the opposition.He said an investigation could be held if a list of the alleged abductees was presented.

British Tamils demonstrate at Parliament Square

Thousands of British Tamils demonstrated at the Parliament Square in London on Wednesday between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., urging the British Parliament to demand the Government of Sri Lanka to stop the genocide unleashed on Eezham Tamils. The Diaspora Tamils also carried banners seeking the British Parliament to recognise Tamils' right to self-determination in their homeland. The gathering also expressed gratitude to the people of Tamil Nadu for their solidarity with Eezham Tamils. Diaspora Tamil activists carried banners that read: Stop the genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka, impose economic sanctions and arms embargo against Sri Lanka, recognise Tamils right to Self-Determination and Thank you Tamil Nadu. Eight British Parliamentarians from different political parties addressed the participants of the demonstration.The day was chosen as it is the Prime Minister’s Question (PMQ) day, on Wednesday to have the attention of the maximum number of Members of Parliament, the organisers of the British Tamils Forum (BTF) said. The BTF was set-up in 2006 with the support 88 British Tamil community organisations in UK with the aim of alleviating the sufferings of the Tamils community in the Island of Sri Lanka and to further their right to self determination within a democratic frame work underpinned by the the international law, its covenants and conventions.

No trains beyond A’pura

Commencing Wednesday train services on the Northern line were terminated at Anuradhapura until further notice. According to Railway Department sources this had been decided upon following intelligence reports that the LTTE could resort to sabotage beyond Anuradhapura in view of the Heroes Day it prepares to celebrate on November 27.The LTTE has planned a week-long celebration commencing today (21) to commemorate what it calls ‘Maveerar Day’ and Prabhakaran’s 54th birthday which falls on November 26.Northern line trains were operated up to Vavuniya and subsequently terminated at Medawachchiya to curb LTTE from the North travelling to the South by boarding trains at Vavuniya.Security forces have strengthened security at the Medwachchiya and Irataperiyakulam checkpoint, in Vavuniya and only genuine travelers would be allowed to pass, security sources said The termination of the Northern train services at Anuradhapura is only a temporary arrangement, the Railway said.

We are India's true friends - EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW - B. NADESAN, LTTE POLITICAL CHIEF By Kavitha Muralidharan

With the Sri Lankan army closing in on Kilinochchi, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam headquarters, army officers are confident of decisive victory in the civil war. But LTTE political chief B. Nadesan does not agree. Recently, the Sri Lankan government dismissed Nadesan's statement that the LTTE "had always wanted ceasefire" and was "fighting a defensive war" as a trap and demanded that the Tigers lay down their weapons before coming forward for any talks.In an email interview with THE WEEK from Kilinochchi, Nadesan says the LTTE is far from being defeated. Excerpts:

How is the situation in the Tamil eelam?

The Sri Lankan government does not allow journalists-local or international-and human rights activists into our area. As a result, the massacre of Tamils by the Sri Lankan military does not reach the outside world. Aerial bombing and artillery shelling on Tamil civilians are continually taking place. Our homeland has been subjected to a severe economic blockade for many years. The current military action has displaced Tamils and many are living in forests.The government is intent on brutally oppressing a group of people who are waging a struggle for their rights. Sadly, the media does not bring this out. I view this as a great human tragedy of the 21st century. The government and military chiefs insist on a military solution while we have been saying that a solution can be reached only through ceasefire and peace talks. The government unilaterally pulled out of the ceasefire. The world must understand this reality and recognise our struggle.

Is the 30-year-old struggle weakening?

This is a view propagated by the Sri Lankan government and military. They have the habit of making such victory declarations. During all these years, every government that came to power claimed that it was going to defeat the LTTE, but ended up facing humiliating defeats at our hands. During their Riviresa operation in 1995 and the Jeyasikuru operation in 1998 they said that 90 per cent of the LTTE strength had been wiped out. In reality, after Riviresa, we defeated the Mullaithivu military camp in a conventional war with the support of our people; and a few days after Jeyasikuru, we won back the land they took 18 months to capture.Even now, they say that we have been weakened. The Sri Lankan military is facing heavy losses at the forward defence lines. To make up for the losses, they are bringing in men from other districts to areas surrounding Kilinochchi. Many army men are deserting their camps. A new military division, 61st Brigade, is being created with the captured deserters.Responding to concerns raised by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the Sri Lankan government said it was attacking extremists, not innocent Tamils.This is not true. Children and old people have been killed and injured in large numbers by aerial bombings and artillery shelling. The economic blockade has left our people without adequate food and medicine. We have sent news of attacks on civilians to the media with ample evidence. The expatriate representatives of the international agencies in our areas know about this situation. Now, even they have been expelled from our area by the government. This shows that the government has taken steps to block news of attacks on innocent people reaching the outside world.

How do you feel about the support rendered by the people, including the film fraternity, in Tamil Nadu?

The genocide in Tamil eelam through indiscriminate attacks and the eviction of Tamils from their homes are the reasons for the rising support in Tamil Nadu. Whenever the people of Tamil eelam faced great miseries at the hands of the Sri Lankan military, people of Tamil Nadu have expressed their support, beyond their political differences.

Has this increased the confidence in your struggle?

The oppressive action of the government has enraged not only the people of Tamil Nadu but also the Tamil diaspora. Sinhala political leaders, military chiefs and even Buddhist monks are emphasising a military solution. If the government continues to believe that an ethnic issue in a country can be solved by a military solution alone, it will only lead to the oppressed ethnic people achieving their aspirations with help from other countries.

The chief minister of Tamil Nadu says it is fratricidal war that has weakened the Tamil eelam struggle. Do you agree?

He is saying this with good intentions. We, too, wish to bring Tamils together and wage our struggle as a strong force. Sadly, one or two Tamils have become traitors for trivial perks offered by the Lankan government.

Is it true that India is giving military aid to Sri Lanka?

The Sri Lankan government and military chiefs have openly claimed that the Indian government has been giving them military assistance. The Indian government is silent over this comment. This is indeed an issue that saddens the Tamils, people in Tamil Nadu, and Tamils all over the world.

What help do you expect from the Indian government?

It must stop all military assistance given to Sri Lanka, remove the ban on our movement and recognise our struggle. I like to point out that our movement and our people are true friends of India.

How do you react to comments by Sri Lankan army chief Sarath Fonseka about V. Prabhakaran's health? He said Prabhakaran would not live long.

Our leader is in excellent health and is leading the current war. This comment is an expression of the hatred he has for the Tamil people and our movement. Recently, he said the island belongs to Sinhala Buddhists. This shows that he is an irresponsible and immature military chief.

20 November 2008

Thousands trapped in Wanni need urgent shelters - AI
   
The Sri Lankan Government must immediately end its policy of blocking humanitarian aid needed to reach an estimated 300,000 displaced people in the Wanni region of northern Sri Lanka, Amnesty International (AI) said yesterday. Thousands of people displaced by the conflict between the LTTE and Government forces are currently in desperate need of shelter, food and sanitation.  As the north-east monsoon season approaches, only 2,100 temporary shelters for 4,000 families have been provided, leaving at least 20,000 families in need of protection from the elements, AI said. Amnesty International is calling on the Sri Lankan Government and the LTTE to allow international monitors to assess the needs of the thousands of people trapped in the Wanni and to ensure proper distribution of food and other resources. “More than 300,000 people face the next few months crowded together in temporary shelters, surrounded by mud, with no promise of regular access to food or adequate sanitation. Our information indicates that the situation in Wanni is rapidly becoming critical, despite the Government’s statements that it is coping,” said Amnesty International’s Asia Pacific Director Sam Zarifi. The Sri Lankan Government states that it is distributing aid to displaced families but Amnesty International believes that the Government lacks the capacity to uphold international human rights standards and ensure support is provided to protect the lives of thousands of people. Amnesty International has testimony and visual evidence which highlight the problems in the Wanni, including:  

Shelters - Government forces refused to allow a United Nations convoy with shelter kits into the region on November 3 despite reports of thousands of families in need of shelter, according to Government agents for Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu. Accurate figures are not possible because of lack of independent monitoring.

Sanitation – ninety five per cent of the displaced in the Wanni do not have proper latrine facilities, and local authorities have estimated 5,230 temporary toilets are needed.

A Government-enforced blockade on cement is further preventing the construction of proper toilet facilities.

This shortage - combined with acute shortage of safe drinking water – is creating a high risk of outbreak of water-borne ailments, including diarrhoea.

Food - a food convoy was allowed into the Wanni region on November 3 but photos taken when the aid agencies pulled out and subsequently provided to Amnesty International, show that people are already facing malnutrition and the threat of disease.

According to an analysis of the World Food Programme (WFP) data, displaced people in the Wanni are receiving an average of  1,000 calories each per day. This is less than half the 2,100 calories required daily, as recommended by the WFP. These figures are based on weekly convoys of 438 tonnes of food aid provided for an UN-estimated 230,000 displaced people. Lactating mothers and infants are especially vulnerable as they are not receiving adequate supplementary food to meet their specific needs.  

Mr. Zarifi said:  “There is a huge gap between what the Government is saying and how the situation seems to be developing on the ground. Sri Lanka’s leaders must ensure that there is international involvement in the distribution of aid without discrimination, wherever people are in need.

“Without independent monitors or international agencies on the ground, there is no opportunity to conduct a meaningful needs assessment of displaced families. Before the evacuation of international staff, UN agencies co-ordinated and supervised support in the region. There is now no way of verifying Government claims about aid reaching these families in need and our evidence strongly suggests that not enough is being done.”

Amnesty International calls on the Government of Sri Lanka to give assurances to international agencies of unimpeded humanitarian access and aid distribution. The organization also calls on the LTTE to ensure freedom of movement for civilians and stop preventing people from moving to safer places. “The abuses carried out by the LTTE make our call for international monitors to be allowed to visit conflict-affected areas even more pressing. These families must not be forgotten and left to suffer in a war zone,” said Mr. Zarifi.

Troops advance in Kokavil area

Kokavil: Troops attached to the 574 Brigade advancing in the general area of Kokavil to the south of Kilinochchi by yesterday afternoon closed in on the Kokavil town centre perimeter where the famous Kokavil SLRC (Sri Lanka Rupavahini Cooperation) transmission tower stands.The area fell to the LTTE hands in November 1990 after the terrorists launched an attack on the Army detachment at the SLRC tower.During that fateful military thrust, the Army detachment remained isolated after it was cut off from the rest of the deployments in the area.The imminent fall of the entire Kokavil into the Army hands at any moment deprives the terrorists of using this site in the future.Officer Commanding at Kokavil Army camp, Lieutenant S.U Aladeniya was posthumously awarded the highest valour in combat, the gallantry medal “Parama Weera Vibushana” (PWV) for his fight against LTTE valiantly without reinforcements until his camp was destroyed by the terrorists on 11th July 1990.He received orders to abandon the camp, but he refused to do so as the majority of his troops were injured by then and completely immobile.He was the first to be nominated for this prestigious PWV upon his supreme sacrifice.

I am facing the same fate as Varathraja Perumal  –Pilleyan

Eastern Provincial Council Chief Minister Sivanesathirai Chanrakanthan says that a plan is underway to annihilate the Provincial Council in the same way the Northeast Provincial Council under Chief Minister Varathraja Perumal was demolished in late 1990s.He made these comments participating in the budget debate of the Provincial Council.Commenting on the killing of his personal secretary Raghu, he said that it was not an LTTE act. Extending his sorrow to the family of Raghu's family, Mr. Chandrakanthan said that his assassination was a threat to the democratic victory of the people of the province.Pointing out that all Sinhala doctors left the province after the killing of medical officer Palitha Padmakumara, he said that these acts were plots against democracy and the killing would not be the answers to the problems.

PC polls for five provinces

COLOMBO: The Government will hold Provincial Council elections in the five provinces possibly on one day, Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena said yesterday.Ruling out reports that the Government was getting ready for a snap General Election, the Minister said there was no need to have a General Election at this juncture as the Government enjoys an overwhelming majority in Parliament.“The Government has over 42 majority votes in Parliament whereas the People’s Alliance Government led by former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga had only one majority vote,” he said.The Minister said a survey by an independent group in five provinces other than Sabaragamuwa, North Central and Eastern provinces where the election was held early this year indicated that the Government can get over a 60 per cent majority vote.According to this survey, the Government’s victory is inevitable, he said.The people were not certain whether the budget would be passed in Parliament last year. But this year, the people are confident of the Government’s victory, Minister Abeywardena said. The Government during the past three years gave priority to security, welfare and development.“Priority was also given to national security and we were able to gain more victories in the battlefield defeating terrorists,” he said.The election will be held in the backdrop of a series of victories gained by Armed Forces in the war front.The Government has not in any way neglected the development of the country though a war is on.When the President came into power three years ago, the country’s future was at stake at the hands of the LTTE who had defacto control over the Eastern and Nothern Provinces, he said.“President Mahinda Rajapaksa managed to flush out terrorists from the entire Eastern province and ensure that democracy prevails in the province by holding Local Government and Provincial Council elections.Most areas in the Northern province are under Government control.This is a historic achievement which was tried and tested by successive Government without success,” the Minister said.

BJP vows to end Lankan Tamils’ plight
   
In its first poll promise to the people of Tamil Nadu, the BJP said it would solve the problems of Sri Lankan Tamils, within six months, if the party was elected to power at the Centre.The issue would be dealt with thoroughly in the party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections, state BJP president Mr. L. Ganesan told reporters here. “Despite, India's opposition to a military solution, Sri Lankan president had announced that he would continue the war against Tamils, who are Hindus. Sri Lanka's refusal to stop the war is an insult to the Indian government. “This shows that the UPA government is not respected by other countries and the prestige and influence of India have come down, after Manmohan Singh took over as Prime Minister,” he said.“When Vajpayee was the Prime Minister, India commanded respect at the international forum and Sri Lanka used to consult India about the Sri Lankan Tamils issue. “Now, Dr Manmohan Singh's request is not respected by Sri Lanka,” he said. “India has every right to interfere in the Sri Lankan Tamils issue. Announcing a solution after ending the war is not acceptable. The island government should announce a solution immediately and India should monitor whether the solution is implemented, since the Sri Lankan government lacks credibility. Successive Sri Lankan governments have not considered Tamils as their own citizens and resorted to aerial bombardment on the people, he said. They had not respected any agreement, including international agreements, providing equal rights for Tamils, he said.“The island government is claiming that it has conquered the land of Tamils.  What it should conquer is the hearts of Tamils and not their land”, he said. “We are not supporting the Tigers.  However, we are not supporting the Sri Lankan government like some of the parties,” he said, in an indirect attack on the Congress.He said the Union government had provided Rs. 150 crore to the island nation, which had bought weapons from Pakistan and the influence of Pakistan was increasing in the region, he said. The BJP leader said “When the Union government decided to interfere in the conflict by providing military and economic support, it should have ensured equal rights for Tamils. 

Vaiko observes a day-long fast to protest against alleged killing of Tamils in Sri Lanka

Prominent political leader of Tamil Nadu Vaiko observed a day- long fast on Wednesday to protest against the alleged killing of Tamils in Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa's inability in calling off the oppression.The protest in Chennai today was organised to demonstrate solidarity with the Sri Lankan Tamils being allegedly targeted by the Island nation's Defence Forces.Vaiko, also known by the name of V. Gopalswamy, accused the Central Government of betraying Tamils."Indian government is responsible for the attacks on Tamils in Sri Lanka. The Manmohan Singh government is betraying the Tamils. Therefore, we are making this peaceful agitation to accuse the Manmohan Singh Government of fully supporting the genocidal attack of the Sri Lankan Government on Tamils," said Vaiko.The founder of the Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) also asked the federal government to clear its stand on the Sri Lankan crisis.The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) supporters in India say the government gives weapons to Sri Lanka, but New Delhi says it only provides non-lethal equipment.Diplomats say it also provides intelligence that has helped Sri Lanka to intercept Tiger boats.Sri Lanakan President Mahinda Rajapakse on November 13 in New Delhi ruled out any possibility of ceasefire till the rebels laid down Arms.The Tigers say they are fighting to establish a separate homeland for Sri Lanka's Tamil minority, which has complained of marginalisation by successive governments led by the Sinhalese majority since independence from Britain in 1948.But the Sri Lankan government says the rebels must be destroyed, because they are on a host of terrorism lists including those from the United States, India and Europe, and adds that it is increasingly confident of defeating them soon.India's Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee has ruled out any Indian involvement in solving the conflict, which the government says must be solved through dialogue.

ICRC negotiating safe passage.
 
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has stressed that movement for safe passage need to be negotiated with the government and the LTTE.The ICRC says that it is discussing new crossing-point arrangements in the north with the government and the LTTE."Finding an arrangement for movement between government and LTTE-controlled territory is essential for the safe passage of civilians, ambulances and food convoys, and for the return of bodies of fallen fighters," said Paul Castella, the ICRC's head of delegation in Sri Lanka.All arrangements concerning crossing-point procedures, including location and opening hours, must be agreed to by both the government and the LTTE, ICRC said.The ICRC's presence at the Omanthai crossing point has been temporarily suspended since 18 November, as the organization could not obtain all necessary guarantees for the safe passage of civilians and goods.

Ad hoc passage

Despite this on 19 November, the ICRC staff managed to facilitate the ad-hoc passage of 24 patients from the Vanni seeking treatment in Vavuniya General Hospital and the transfer of 18 bodies of fallen fighters It said."Until a clear arrangement is found, the ICRC will continue to approach both parties to the conflict on a case-by-case basis to facilitate the movement of ambulances and the transfer of dead bodies of security-force and LTTE fighters." added Mr. Castella.ICRC protection and assistance activities in the Vanni have not been affected by the closure of the Omanthai crossing point, ICRC added.

Sri Lankan air force launch air sorties on LTTE bastions

Sri Lankan air force supersonic fighter jets on Wednesday carried out air sorties targeting LTTE bases in the embattled north while ground forces advanced further into the tiger strongholds of Kilinochchi and Jaffna, causing heavy casualties in the rebel camps.Fighter jets pounded LTTE hideouts in Thirappuwadduwan, 10 Km northeast of Oddusuddan last night, accurately hitting their target, the air force said. The Air Force also conducted an air sortie on an LTTE training base, about 6 km south of Puthukuduyirippu in Mullaithivu last night, the military said, claiming that the aerial attack caused severe damages to the identified target.Meanwhile, running gun battles between government troops and the LTTE in the restive northern Sri Lanka resulted in heavy casualties to the rebels.At Vavuniya, troops recovered a skeleton believed to be that of an slain LTTE fighter in a bunker, the Media Centre for National Security (MCNS) said.Troops of 57 Division operating in Kilinochchi battle front had heavy confrontations with LTTE militants on Tuesday, the defence ministry said.According to the defence sources, troops stepped up further into LTTE terrain despite the rebel resistance in general area north east of Akkarayankulam and north of Therumurukanddi in the tiger stronghold.

Sri Lanka: An Analysis of Military Situation –By Col R Hariharan

Operational situation

As expected Task Force-I of the Sri Lanka security forces captured Pooneryn on November 15 freeing A32 highway from the control of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). But the security forces used the continued spell of fine weather and the newly raised Task Force-3 to capture of Mankulam, a key junction on the A9 Kandy-Jaffna lifeline on November 17. On the eastern seaboard of Mullaitivu district, 59 Division captured Mulliyavalai village, 10 km from Mullaitivu, the key coastal town of the area.These developments in three different axes substantively increase the strategic options available to the security forces. All of them will also add to the pressure on the LTTE already beleaguered in its last footholds in Kilinochchi-Elephant Pass on the arterial road of A9. Once, A9 road is opened up under the security forces control, the hold of the LTTE on the jugular of Jaffna’s normal life will be lost. As a corollary it will also lose its relevance to the peninsular population. The opening of the A32 Mannar-Pooneryn route will substantively reduce the logistic burden on the security forces, easing pressure on their limited airlift capability. Task Force-I can provide flank support to 57 Divison’s thrust on Kilinochchi from the southwest.  Its artillery and possibly machine guns can also interdict the escape routes of LTTE cadres through the lagoon waters when 53 Division strikes along the northern axis of Muhamalai-Elephant Pass. The capture Mankulam provides two options for the Task Force-III to progress operations along A9 axis in support of 53 Division offensive from the north, and or support from Mankulam side the 57 Division offensive on Kilionchchi-Elephant Pass from southwest. But the more likely course of the Task Force-III will be to develop a threat to the heartland of the LTTE from Mankulam to the east along road Mankulam-Oddusuddan-Mullaitivu. This would prevent any LTTE counter stroke developing on the Kilinochchi offensive, and also tie down the LTTE when 59 Division launches offensive from area Mulliyavalai where a number of roads converge increasing offensive options. Thus with some quick successes the security forces have built up a five division strong threat against the LTTE with adequate reserves to hold the ground freed from the control of the insurgents. 

In my analysis on the failure of the security forces' half-hearted divisional offensive along axis Muhamalai-Elephant Pass in April 2008 (SAAG Note No 447 of May 29, 2008 “Sri Lanka: An analysis of military operations – Update No. 141” available at http://www.southasiaanalysis.org/notes5/note447.html ), I had said 

“The strong defences of LTTE in Muhamalai axis to Kilinochchi show that it is not going to allow easy passage through. Strategically, the security forces will have to probably consider coordinating the Jaffna offensive along A9 with offensive along A32-Pooneryn to enhance the threat to Kilinochichi and weaken the LTTE defences. Whether the security forces have the wherewithal to carry out such a complex operation is the question only the Army commander can answer best.” The security forces appear to have done just that after seven months, during which three divisions have been inducted into battle to increase the force level and thrust lines. And now the security forces goal would be not merely to capture Paranthan and Kilinochchi on A9 highway but to launch multiple offensives on the Muhamalai-Elephant Pass-Kilinochchi complex to restore normal life in Northern Province. And when that materializes, President Rajapaksa may give form to media speculations of a general election.   

LTTE’s limited options

As the LTTE had been fighting mainly delaying actions the security forces casualties in the operation would be maximized if only the LTTE decides on a do-or-die stand at Kilinochchi. In the past, the LTTE tactics had always been to pull back after fighting delaying actions and build up a strong counterstroke. This had kindled widespread expectations of such a LTTE strike which is yet to come. While this had succeeded in the earlier war, this time around the security forces appear to be ready to prevent a replay of the same script. There are three reasons for this: the security forces are not carrying through the offensive with the same troops holding static positions; they have multiple axes as well as substantive strength to deflate a counter stroke and lastly, the offensive capability of the Sea Tigers who provided vital support has been substantively eliminated on both the western and eastern coasts. (In fact, the security forces have neutralized repeated efforts of the Sea Tigers to take any initiative in the sea along the eastern coast north of Mullaitivu from Champianpattu to Nayaru where the LTTE still has some freedom to operate.) With A32 road in the hands of security forces and with 59 Division along the east coast (and probably 55 Division too from Nagarkovil southwards) and the navy denying the LTTE access to sea routes of overseas supply to sustain the war, the LTTE’s options appear very limited. Strategically the LTTE would probably be better off to consolidate its armed strength after fighting a delaying action than defend Kilinochchi strongly and further deplete its dwindling strength. But that would be a decision based on military logic and reasoning rather than on the convoluted logic of an insurgent force operating on a  different plane. So strictly speaking it is difficult to read Prabhakaran’s mind. It would be overambitious to expect him to again pull a rabbit out of the hat with a masterful counter stroke at this belated stage as some of his overseas supporters expect him to do. 

Political implications of military success

Undoubtedly, military successes one after the other have strengthened the hands of President Rajapaksa and the hawks in Sri Lanka politics. Thus even the consideration of any peace move would be shelved till military success is taken to its logical conclusion of making the LTTE irrelevant. This has been amply made clear by the President in his statements on a number of occasions. The military successes have also strengthened President’s resolve to pursue the war. They have also exposed the limitations of India’s ability to influence the course of events.The delicate pulls and pressures of coalition politics on the central government and the Tamil Nadu government so close to the parliamentary elections have prevented the emergence of any substantive Indian political initiative on Sri Lanka. In Tamil Nadu there is widespread dismay at the plight of lakhs of Tamils deprived of their homes, livelihood, and shelter caught in the wilderness of battle zones. It is easy to dismiss the snowballing public protests and hunger strikes organized in Tamil Nadu asking for a ceasefire in Sri Lanka as part of Prabhakaran’s strategy or as political gimmick of local parties. However that would be ignoring the mindset of large sections of people in the state who abhor his style of mindless killings while feeling genuinely distressed over the plight of internally displaced Tamils in Sri Lanka. The Tamil and Sinhala polity in Sri Lanka have not been able to work out a political strategy for evolving a win-win formula either among themselves or collectively to foster a feeling of security and trust among Tamil population. Some sections of them, particularly Tamil leaders, expect India and everyone other than themselves to undertake this delicate task. No external force including India on their own can generate security and trust among the population. Ultimately Sri Lanka has to come to terms with the issues and evolve a process by which a suitable environment for lasting peace is created and this will not be helped by military victories alone. Till then the military options avidly pursued by both sides for achieving short term ends will dominate the national scene And even if the Fourth Eelam War is won by the Sri Lankan government, ultimately the loser would be the nation as a section of the people would  not to trust their rulers or feel secure under them. And that might sow the seeds of the next round of war.  

19 November 2008

Bring TNA into APRC - Ranil 
 
Opposition leader Ranil Wickremasinghe says Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has to be brought in to the deliberations of the All Party Representative Conference (APRC). Wickremasinghe who is in India meeting Indian leaders to apprise them of the current political situation in Sri Lanka has met India's main opposition the Bharathiya Janatha Party's top leaders including former Foreign Ministers of India, Jaswant Singh and Yashwant Sinha.Following his talks with Jaswant Sing, he told journalists that the government and the United National Party (UNP) should both have discussions with the TNA towards achieving peace in the country.He also says that he already had discussions with the President in this regard in finding out a political solution duly involving the Tamil National Alliance parliamentarians.Wickremasinghe said that Mr.Singh wanted some information from him on the latest situation in Srilanka which he did, and had discussions based on improving Indo-Lanka relations.The government should immediately take care of the people who are being displaced in the war Ranil emphasised in NewDelhi.All Party Representative Conference (APRC) has been conducting deliberations well over two years but the main opposition, United National Party (UNP) led by Ranil Wickremasinghe withdrew from it last year.

Sri Lankan military says it sinks 2 rebel boats

Sri Lankan naval forces backed by helicopter gunships attacked a group of rebel boats early Tuesday, sinking two and killing six Tamil Tiger sailors, the military said.The sea battle came as the military pushed ahead with its multi-pronged offensive against the rebels' de facto state in the north.The battle erupted in Nayaru Lagoon on Sri Lanka's northeast coast, just south of the rebel stronghold of Mullaitivu, when navy forces attacked seven Tamil Tiger boats, the military said in a statement.The navy sank two rebel boats and severely damaged a third, killing six rebel sailors, the military said.As the remaining rebel boats fled to shore to be hauled out of the water, attack helicopters pounded them with airstrikes, it said.The military also launched airstrikes in other parts of the north, sending helicopters to attack a rebel gathering point in Kilinochchi district early Tuesday, the military said.It was not possible to contact rebel officials for comment because most communication lines with the north have been severed. Independent accounts are difficult to obtain from the battlefield because most journalists are barred from the war zone.Meanwhile, ground battles continued across the war front, with troops attacking Tamil Tiger fighters in the Jaffna, Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi fronts and destroying several rebel bunkers, the military said.The rebel-affiliated Web site TamilNet said the military targeted the town of Paranthan with an artillery barrage Monday, killing a civilian — a 24-year-old man — and wounding six others, including two elderly men.In recent months, the government has pushed the rebels out of large swathes of territory they once held in the north and vowed to crush the group and end the island nation's civil war.The Tamil Tigers have fought since 1983 to create an independent state for the country's ethnic minority Tamils, who have suffered marginalization by ethnic Sinhalese-controlled governments. More than 70,000 people have been killed in the violence.

36 SLA killed, 90 wounded in Mukamaalai Front - LTTE

Liberation Tigers of Tamileelam (LTTE) in Jaffna put up stiff resistance against the Sri Lanka Army (SLA) that attempted to advance across Liberation Tigers of Tamileelam (LTTE) Forward Defence Line four times between Monday noon till Tuesday 10:00 a.m. Heavy clashes erupted on multiple locations along the FDL on each attempt, the Tigers said. At least 36 SLA soldiers were killed and 90 wounded, the Tigers said. Meanwhile sources in Jaffna said Jaffna Palaali Road remained closed for public traffic several times within the last four days to transport the SLA casualties to Palaali military hospital. According to the Tigers, the SLA has attempted to break the LTTE FDL three times on Monday and once in the morning of Tuesday. All the attempts were thwarted the Tigers said. The SLA continued artillery and Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) fire towards Vadamaraadchi East, Iyakkachchi, Paranthan, Kugnchup-Paranthan, Kumarapuram and the suburbs of Ki'linochchi throughout the morning. In the meantime, an informed Sri Lankan military source Monday evening said the SLA Command in Jaffna had lost contact with two battalions. There was no further updates from the source on the missing battalions on Tuesday.

IT professionals wear T-shirts inscribed with pro-Sri Lankan Tamils slogans

CHENNAI: Hundreds of IT professionals in the city on Monday wore white T-shirts with slogans printed on them to mark the launch of a series of non-violent campaigns to protest against the killing of Tamils in Sri Lanka.The T-shirts were printed in Tamil with strong social expressions such as, ‘Stop war,’ and ‘Guns are heartless.’Most of the participants were employees of Tata Consultancy Services, Cognizant, Infosys, HCL, Ramco Systems and Wipro.The employees, irrespective of the language they spoke, gathered near Tidel Park and formed a human chain on the Rajiv Gandhi Road and expressed their solidarity with Sri Lankan Tamils.“We will wear the T-shirts wherever we go and spread the message of peace,” said T.Senthilkumar, one of the participants.Actors Suriya and Karthi participated in the campaign wearing the T-shirts.“We will also organise a campaign for propagating the message of peace in Sri Lanka. We will mobilise public opinion through emails,” said one of the organisers.

Release Loshan - RSF 
 
Reporters Without Borders urge the Sri Lankan authorities to release the manager of a Tamil radio A. R. V. Loshan arrested at his home in Colombo. The senior radio presenter and current manager of FM Vettri was picked up by Terrorist Investigation Department (TID) agents on Sunday.The worldwide press freedom organisation said that TID allegations against him of having "links with terrorists" and "aiding terrorist activities" should be based on evidence and not on simple conjecture."The growing number of arrests by the authorities of Tamil journalists under the anti-terror law gives currency to the common rumour that many of them are Tamil Tiger agents, but also undermines the anti-terror law itself", the organisation added.A colleague of the journalist told Reporters Without Borders that his mother had been allowed to visit him. He is in good health and hopes to be quickly released.Police questioned another journalist on Vettri FM before arresting the director. The 32-year-old with more than 10 years radio experience has worked for five years for the station, which is owned by the ABC press group.Reporters Without Borders pointed out that two other Tamil journalists - J. S. Tissainayagam and Vettivel Jasikaran - are already being held under the anti-terror law. The fiancée of the second of them, Valarmathi Jasikaran, has also been imprisoned in Colombo in very harsh conditions.

Investigations

Police Spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekera said that investigations are being conducted on links Loshan is alleged to have with the LTTE.Police also has found that he was trying to leave the country and had obtained visa to go to Malaysia, Gunasekera ad

SLA artillery kills civilian, 6 wounded - Tamilnet

The Sri Lanka Army launched an intensive artillery barrage targeting all roads from Paranthan Junction from 2:35 pm on November 16th, killing a 24-year-old youth in front of Paranthan St. Antony's Church, Tamilnet reports.Six others, including two elderly men, have been injured in the attacks, said the website.Two sisters were severely wounded and were admitted at the Intensive Care Unit of the Dharmapuram hospital.More than 750 civilians including school children, government employees, cooperative workers, traders and customers sought refuge on the ground during the attack, Tamilnet said.Many houses and shops were destroyed in the barrage that also hit the grounds of the Paranthan Hindu College.Many civilians were seen moving from the town in the evening, said the website.The SLA has intensified artillery attacks on the suburbs of Paranthan town during the last 3 days, it added.

Sri Lankan Tamils in Canada ravaged by war in homeland

The picture of a fallen top commander of Sri Lanka's Tamil Tiger rebels is neatly plastered on the wall of a shopping center.Not far away, a food outlet peddles a crispy savory pancake, "dosa," named after Tamil Eelam, the independent state aspired by the Tigers.No, you are not in the stronghold of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in northern Sri Lanka but in Scarborough, the eastern part of Toronto.This largest Canadian city is home to about 250,000 ethnic Tamils who left Sri Lanka for Canada to escape the country's 25-year civil war.They make up the largest diaspora from the South Asian country, with Toronto itself reportedly home to the biggest number of Sri Lankan Tamils in the world.Though actively involved in the business, academic, political and social fields in their new home, many are still sympathetic to the Tigers' cause for an independent Tamil state in Sri Lanka.Some display their support openly despite the group being labeled terrorists by the Canadian government, which earlier this year for the first time charged a man with terrorism financing for soliciting cash for the Tigers.Many of the Tamils in Canada have families and relatives in the north and east of Sri Lanka, where the Tigers were experiencing one of their worst setbacks since waging an armed struggle in 1972 to carve out a homeland for minority Tamils in the majority-Sinhalese nation."We are psychologically devastated and traumatized by the war because it is in our homeland and there is genocide going on there," charged Canadian Tamil Usha Sri-Skanda-Rajah, the owner of a real estate firm in Scarborough."We want the international community to help bring about a settlement to the conflict so that our statehood is recognized," said Usha, 57, who is among an informal group of "concerned" women attempting to highlight to the Canadian authorities what she called "humanitarian catastrophe" in northern Sri Lanka.Several members in her group have parents and other family members displaced by the fighting and their whereabouts remain uncertain, she said. Usha's husband, a retired senior banking executive, went on a six-day fast recently to draw attention to the plight of tens of thousands of civilians displaced by the fighting in Sri Lanka.The Canadian Tamils grasp at any opportunity to highlight the bloody ethnic strife in Sri Lanka.Recently, when Sri Lanka played Pakistan in a cricket match in Toronto, Tamil groups hired a plane carrying a banner "Stop the genocides in Sri Lanka" to circle the cricket grounds in an aerial propaganda blitz.Sri Lankan Tamils are "one of the largest growing visible minorities" in Canada, said David Poopalapillai, spokesman for the Canadian Tamil Congress, touted as the largest Tamil group in Canada.Catering to the bustling community, which has a municipal councillor as its first elected representative, are three 24-hour Tamil cable television networks and about half a dozen radio stations, he said.The Tamils are aspiring for higher elected offices."We consider ourselves as part and parcel of the Canadian fabric and always encourge our people to actively perform their civic duty," Poopalapillai said.For some however their assimilation in Canada will not be at the expense of foregoing the elusive dream of a Tamil homeland in Sri Lanka.

Forces attack fleeing Tiger vehicles

Mankulam: Two Tiger area leaders are believed to have received serious injuries in Security Forces’ attacks on two LTTE vehicles in Andankulam and Mankulam.The Forces have recovered these armour-plated vehicles.The driver of one vehicle was killed in the Forces’ attack.The Tiger cadres have taken their injured leaders and fled the scene.Several weapons were recovered from the vehicles abandoned by the Tiger cadres.

TRO Funds forfeited to the State
   
A sum of approximately Rs.71million which was lying to the credit of the Tamil Rehabilitation Organization (TRO) at the time the funds of the TRO were frozen, have now been forfeited to the State  the Central Bank announced.The TRO accounts were suspended in Sri Lanka in terms of the provisions of the Financial Transactions Reporting Act and the Convention on the Suppression of Terrorist Financing Act in August 2006. Such suspension was carried out on the grounds that the large sums of money received by the TRO from time to time from international non-governmental organizations, individuals, foreign entities and TRO branches in several foreign locations, purporting to be funds for humanitarian projects in Sri Lanka, were, according to intelligence reports, mainly used to finance terrorist activities, and that the  money, securities or credits which were lying to its credit were  being used or intended to be used for such purposes. Investigations are yet in progress to trace and forfeit any further funds and assets belonging to the TRO.  Accordingly, the general public is cautioned that they should not have any financial transactions or any other links with the TRO, or with any of its officers, since any involvement including any financial connection with a proscribed organization, is a criminal offence.

Ouster of Oluvil Muslims enrages SLMC

Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) is up in arms against a sudden decision taken by the government to transfer Muslim employees out of the Oluvil Ports Authority.A delegation, led by SLMC General Secretary and Parliamentarian Hasan Ali, will visit Oluvil to further investigate this new development on Sunday 23.According to SLMC sources, the Muslim employees are being replaced by Sinhalese employees from the south.The SLMC, it is learnt is planning to inform President Mahinda Rajapaksa of this latest development.

Don’t celebrate my birthday: Rajini tells fans  
   
Tamil 'superstar' Rajinikanth yesterday asked fans not to celebrate his 58th birthday which falls on December 12, as a way of expressing solidarity with Sri Lankan Tamils who were ''suffering'' in the ongoing war between the Lankan army and the LTTE. ''Everyone is deeply hurt by the sufferings of Tamils in neighbouring Sri Lanka. Hence, we have chosen not to celebrate Rajinikanth's birthday on December 12''. Rajinikanth Fans Welfare Association head Sudhakar said,Earlier, over the Lankan Tamil issue, actor Kamal Hassan decided not to celebrate his birthday on November 7. Mr. Hassan said it would be good if his birthday could be used to leverage public opinion in favour of Sri Lankan Tamils.

Indian aid to be handed over to ICRC tomorrow

Indian officials yesterday said that 1,680 tonnes of aid from Chennai will be officially handed over to the ICRC warehouses in Peliyagoda tomorrow (20).“We’re organising a ceremony to mark the occasion,” Indian High Commission Counsellor for Press, Information and Culture, Dinkar Astana told The Bottom Line.“The consignment comprises of packs of 27 kgs each, and one will be opened for the public to see,” he said. “Each pack contains clothing such as a sari, dhoti (sarong), nightie and food items such as rice, dhal, condiments and various hygiene products.”This is the first consignment of aid sent by the Indian Government, but Asthana said that discussions are taking place with the Government of Sri Lanka on the provisions that are of short supply. “We haven’t decided on a timeline for any further shipments, however,” he added.India’s aid consignment to the IDPs in the Wanni region arrived in Sri Lanka on Saturday (15). The Indian Government, keeping its promise made through the India-Sri Lanka Joint Statement of 26 October, 2008, sent a ship from Chennai carrying 1,680 tonnes of humanitarian assistance comprising food, clothing and hygiene products. The consignment comprising close to 100 containers have been unloaded at the Colombo Port and Indian High Commission Officials are in the process of clearing and moving the relief items along with the Customs and Port authorities.The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has been given the responsibility of transporting these relief supplies to the IDPs in the conflict stricken areas of the Wanni. “We will commence our distribution as soon as we receive the supplies,” ICRC Communication Officer Sarasi Wijeratne said.

Relations with India sound says FM

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama told parliament yesterday that the government enjoyed 'extremely cordial' bilateral relations with neighbouring India and the government dealt with India as an entirety and not as the south and north.Speaking during the votes on the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment Promotion and Welfare and Labour Relations and Welfare yesterday, the Foreign Minister told parliament that Sri Lanka did not wish to deal with India by bisecting the great nation. He challenged UNP Parliamentarian Lakshman Kiriella to accompany him (Bogollagama) to Chennai the next day to get a first hand account on the cordiality of relations maintained by the UPFA government with South India. He alleged that the government had to undo the immense damage caused by the Ranil Wickremesinghe administration through a truce that equated a terrorist organisation to a legitimately elected government, and added that the then administration had granted parity of status to a terrorist organisation undermining territorial integrity and sovereignty which the incumbent government had made its business to undo through many efforts. Bogollagama told parliament that the government positioned itself in such a way that it placed countering terrorism significantly important in order to pave the way for democracy to prevail and to lead towards a political solution."In Mahinda Chinthanaya, counter terror is not referred to as a political solution. This government believes in a political solution but the strong defence that we are putting forward is to pave the way for a dialogue process," he said. He noted that terrorism had to be wiped out and claimed the government had the courage to call terrorists as such. This was the reason, when not perceived in the same light, the government has to battle it out at different fora, he said.Speaking on bilateral relations with India, he said the government considered it most important and said the present developments have not soured the government's relationship with India. "We are an open country. There should be a rule of law. When that is breached, we react strongly, for it is our duty to maintain law, order and democracy. The best example is the number of state visits to Colombo since 2005 - 10 in all which is the highest. This means, dealing with India as an entirety."At this point, UNP MP Lakshman Kiriella intervened to question whether that was the reason for a worried President Rajapakse to invite Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M. Karunanidhi to visit Colombo.Bogollagama then responded that the government had invited not just Karunanidhi but also Narendra Modi among other dignitaries. "That's your answer to your own question. If we had any worry, why invite Karunanidhi?" he demanded.He said that the Foreign Ministry monitored the situation in South India closely at which point Kiriella intervened to comment that the Sri Lankan mission in Chennai was recently stoned owing to Colombo's crooked foreign policy."It is easy to stone the mission. After all there are elements sympathetic to the LTTE. What's stoning a place when compared to the LTTE's ability to strike at will and even kill an Indian prime minister," he said.Rejecting opposition claims that the Foreign Ministry was a lavish spender that had exhausted the annual allocation in a matter of months, he said that over Rs.1 billion allocated for the Ministry last year was still available which proved the financial discipline.

18 November 2008

LTTE ban a possibility: PM
   
Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake yesterday hinted the government ‘may proscribe the LTTE even before there was overwhelming public demand for it.’“The government may proscribe the LTTE even before the public ask for a ban on the LTTE,” the Prime Minister’s Office said quoting the Premier.He said according to the country’s constitution, no citizen could make any demand for a separate land. “In order to stop terrorism in the country, the public gave us a chance to govern the country,” the Premier said adding that “following the people’s request, we commenced our humanitarian operation starting from Mavil Aru and will continue until the final victory.”Meanwhile, at a separate meeting on Sunday in Agalawatta, the Prime Minister said despite continuous setback in the battle field the LTTE leadership was not working in a responsible manner.“If he continues to act in this manner, the government may proscribe this LTTE  group as a terrorist outfit in the country according to the 6th paragraph of the constitution,” the Premier said.He also said many were claiming that the government’s military operations were successfully continuing. “But we are not at war, how can we fight against our own people, we never announced a war. what this government doing is simply liberating the people from the terrorists’ clutches,” the Prime Minister’s office said quoting Mr. Wickremanayake.Earlier the Constitutional Affairs Minister D.E.W. Gunasekara told the Daily Mirror, a Tiger ban was not discussed or considered as the country was not officially at war.

Mankulam, Kumulamunai in Forces’ hands 58 Division troops heading to Paranthan

MANKULAM: The Security Forces engaged in the Wanni liberation operation in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts yesterday captured the strategically important Kumulamunai village south of Mullaitivu and the key junction town Mankulam on the A-9 road.These achievements were made by the 59 Division and the Task Force III troops respectively.Military sources told the Daily News yesterday Kumulamunai, 10 Km south of Mullaitivu was captured by troops in the early hours of yesterday under the command of Brigadier Nandana Udawatta.The 7 Gemunu Watch battalion under the command of Lt. Colonel Chaminda Lamahewa and 11 Gemunu Watch Battalion under the command of Lt.Colonel Priyanka Fernando of the 593 Brigade commanded by Colonel Jayantha Gunaratne completely captured the village after a fierce battle with the LTTE.Kumulamunai is the first settlement after the massive Andankulam forest reserve in the south of Mullaitivu.Troops of the 59 Division first entered this strategically important village a week back after crossing a massive open area and capturing a bunker line covering the Thannimurippukulam - Kumulamunai road. Troops of the 593 Brigade in a subsequent operation captured three bodies and an armour plated cab fleeing Kumulamunai, a senior military official told the Daily News.

Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka’s term extended    

The term of Army Commander Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka has been extended by another year by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Minister of Defence announced yesterday (17). Accordingly Lt. Gen. Fonseka will be in office until 18th of December 2009.The Sri Lanka Army has recoded historical victories against the LTTE under the stewardship of Lt. Gen. Fonseka. He was appointed as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army on the 6th of December 2005. He narrowly escaped an assassination attempt by an LTTE suicide bomber on the 25th of April in 2006.Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka who is known to be one of the most battle hardened officers in the Army and an exemplary infantryman, became Army's chief on 6th December 2005.Under his leadership the Sri Lanka Army has been able to turn the tide in Sri Lanka's war on terror by liberating the Eastern Province from the clutches of the LTTE. Starting from Mavil Aru in mid-2006, the Army has achieved historic victories over the LTTE at Sampur, Vakarai, Thoppigala, Silavatturai, Madhu, Vidathalthivu, Pooneryn, and Mankulam battles with the maximum support of the Air Force and Navy.

A ferry to link Sangupiddi with Chavakachcheri

After staring at it for many months and consequent to the deployment of the SLA's newly formed Task Force 3 (63 Div), the Sri Lanka Army today decided to cross the A-9 highway from the west to the east and capture Mankulam as part of what seems to be an objective to capture Oddusudan and then Mullaitivu. The A-9 was freed from all military operations to facilitate the movement of civilians but the LTTE prevented the civilians from moving out.The 57 Division, which cleared Adampan and Mallavi went further north via Uylankulam spearheaded by Lt. Col Subhashana Welikala. The same officer was posted to the 63 Division now forming a west to east mobility corridor via Olumadu to Oddusudan as part of TF-3/63 Division. The 57 encountered some resistance in Kokavil last week but are now well set to capture the ground around the Kokavil Rupavahini tower.The 58 Division, which captured Pooneryn also cleared the area upto Kalmunai Point on the same day, although some sources still claim the area is under LTTE control. The area is completely ridded of LTTE. The Army now plans to deploy a large ferry capable of transporting 500 persons and 5 buses at one time to cross the 4km lagoon from Sangupiddi to Chavakachcheri. Similar ferries were deployed after the Eastern Province was liberated. This will not only ease SLA movements but also open Jaffna to the outside world.The A-32 has also been cleared and preparations are being made to reopen the road in December. Repairs to the road, including the reconstruction of bridges and culverts will be handled by Army engineers with support from the government's engineering department.Meanwhile troops from the 58 Division who bisected the Pooneryn-Paranthan road were less than 9km away from Paranthan Junction. Field Commanders are of the opinion that the LTTE would start withdrawing from Muhamalai and Kilinochchi as they get closer to Paranthan. The 53 and 55 Divisions and the Mechanized Infantry Divisions stepped up attacks on the LTTE FDL there. However, no plans have been made to break lose from the FDL. The situation might however change when the 58 reaches Paranthan.The 130mm howitzers and 122mm mortars stationed in Pooneryn by the LTTE had been withdrawn after the fall of Nachchikuda, sources confirmed to DefenceWire. Field Commanders told DefenceWire that like in the East the LTTE will move their assets around until they get cornered and eventually destroy their own assets or leave them to be captured or destroyed by SLA or SLAF.

Shooting of doctor in Batticaloa:Sinhala docs ordered back to Colombo

Sinhalese doctors from the Batticaloa district have been asked to return to Colombo following the gunning down of a doctor attached to the Mahilawettuwan Central Dispensary. The Government Medical Officers’ Association recalled all 58 Sinhalese doctors serving in Batticaloa to Colombo till it is able to ensure their security.Spokesman for the Government Medical Officers’ Association, Dr. Upul Gunasekara said yesterday (17), that the Defence Secretary had pledged to appoint two Assistant Superintendents of Police to provide security and safety to doctors in the North and East.Members of the GMOA executive committee met with Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa yesterday morning following the shooting of Dr. Palitha Padmakumara who was on call at Nawakkkadu Hospital when he was taken out and shot by three armed men around 10.30 p.m. Sunday night.The Defence Secretary has assured the GMOA that doctors in the North and East especially in Batticaloa, were welcome to contact him or his officials the moment they are faced with a problem of safety. They also agreed that no patient or caretaker in possession of arms would be allowed into the Hospital hereafter.He said the five Sinhalese doctors from the Kalmunai Hospital had also taken permission to return to Colombo as they too felt unsafe. "We have asked all our Sinhalese doctors serving in the North and East-especially doctors serving in isolation to seek safety the moment they feel at risk and inform their divisional health secretaries of their whereabouts." The Health Minister promised doctors in the North and East tickets to fly to India, Japan, Singapore and other countries for three months. "But he is unable to provide them with an air ticket to fly to Colombo," Gunasekara said, pointing out that when all other job categories in the war area were paid a risk allowance, doctors were being denied it.Meanwhile the Director General of the Media Centre for National Security, Lakshman Hulugalle said the Defence Secretary pledged to strengthen their security with the assistance of the Special Task Force in Batticaloa.

Govt. exploiting military victory for elections - Mangala

A news statement released by the "Defence Watch" says the government is exploiting military victories for a snap poll.Future military operations are also politically planned by the government to mould social emotions in order to win elections, says the statement, released under the signature of Mangala Samaraweera, MP and SLFP - 'M' Wing leader.The statement says, "The 2009 budget proposals submitted by President Rajapaksa as the Finance Minister, was passed in the parliament yesterday (Nov 15) by exploiting the military victory in Pooneryn. The Rajapaksa regime had no other option in justifying this budget. It had no long term planned approach for social development and for the benefit of the people. Therefore, as usual, the government had to exploit the military victory to push through the budget."Stressing its argument further the statement notes, "We do not in any way negate military victories gained at the cost of their lives. But, we desist and deplore this deceitful, dubious politics that auction the honour and valour of the fighting soldiers in hoisting a family bandied regime that surpasses all previous governments in corruption and nepotism."The statement questions the sacrifices made by those politicians who make festive celebrations, carrying with them the honour of all the military victories. They have to date made no sacrifices for the war they are taking credit for and have only been interested in accruing more benefits, privileges and salary increases, says the statement.This is not the first time Pooneryn was captured by the military says the 'Defence Watch' statement, adding that from 1990 to 1993 November, Pooneryn was under military control, but was run over by the LTTE in a swift attack on 11th November. The government forces thereafter recaptured Pooneryn in a week's time, only to loose it again in 1997, explains the statement."This proves a very serious and important point that we have been stressing." says the statement issued under the hand of Mangala Samaraweera MP, which then adds, "We are now stepping into the 26th year of continuing with the war. The brutal and chaotic experience of this venture has to be borne by all governments and Opposition parties alike. It is more a tragedy than a joke to continue to exploit military victories as politically charged emotions in deceiving the people."In concluding, the statement says, "We therefore most obligingly wish to request the government in the name of future generations to stop this vulgar politics of capturing the same lost land over and over again. We request most obligingly to stop killing the civilised and human process of finding a shared solution to the ethnic conflict by projecting temporary gains as permanent victories.There will be no sustainable future prosperity for this country, outside a genuine attempt at working for a political solution. Standing for such a solution does not demean the military in any way. It only helps in avoiding the soldiers being unnecessarily pushed into death traps."

Continue strategic withdrawals, says Sri Lanka Defense Secretary to Tigers

Sri Lanka Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa says that Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE) leader Velupillai Prabhakaran can continue his strategic withdrawals from Paranthan, Elephant Pass, Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu as well.The Defense Secretary denied the LTTE's statement that the withdrawal from Pooneryn was a strategic one. He said that the LTTE had told the same when they lost other bastions of theirs. Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa made these observations participating in an interview with the state owned Sinhala daily Dinamina today. Rajapaksa said that Prabhakaran’s dream state would soon collapse as the security forces would soon capture Kilinochchi.

Major parties stay away from meeting called by CPI

CHENNAI: The all-party meeting convened by the Communist Party of India (CPI) on Monday called for a hartal on November 25 in Tamil Nadu to urge the Centre to intervene and ensure a ceasefire in Sri Lanka.All the major parties including the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, CPI(M), DMDK and Viduthalai Chiruthaikal Katchi stayed away from the meeting.The CPI(M) had told the CPI leadership that it did not approve of the party’s criticism that sending relief materials to the Tamils in Sri Lanka was nothing but a farce.CPI State secretary D. Pandian, however, sought to play down their absence saying that these parties had conveyed their inability to attend the meeting as they were preoccupied with other commitments. “All of them agree with our demand for India’s intervention to stop the war,” he added and pointed to Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi’s stand that nothing short of a ceasefire would satisfy him.Mr. Pandian called upon educational institutions, transport and railway employees and others to participate in the hartal.

Request to people

“We request the people to rearrange their travel plans. We will observe the protest with absolute discipline. Our volunteers would see to it that no damage is done to public properties on the day of hartal,” he said.Asked whether the party would be in a position to organise the hartal successfully without the participation of major political parties, he said, “No one can reject the call to stop the killing of innocent Tamils.”When told about the Supreme Court direction against such protests, he said, “We are ready to face the consequences.”Later, he explained that “we are only asking people to abstain from work and we are not going to prevent anyone from doing their work.”Mr. Pandian said if the Centre failed to act in one week after the hartal, all the political parties would meet once again to chalk out the next course of action.

No difference of opinion

Denying that there were differences of opinion among the political parties on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue, he said “actually all the parties are vying with each other to help the Tamils in Sri Lanka.”He shot down a proposal to seek the help of the United Nations or the International Committee of Red Cross Society to help the Sri Lankan Tamils.

“Ceasefire first”

“First we need a ceasefire. All other issues could be discussed later,” he said.The Pattali Makkal Katchi and the MDMK are some of the parties that attended the meeting.

Demonstration Planned in London to Thank the Tamil Nadu for showing Solidarity with Eelam Tamils

London - British Tamils Forum (BTF) and Association of Tamil Councilors in Britain collaborating and organizing a peaceful demonstration on Wednesday, 19 November 2008 between 3.30pm and 6.30pm, at the Parliament Square, London, United Kingdom.The BTF exists in U.K with the aim of alleviating the sufferings of the Tamils community in the Island of Sri Lanka and to further their right to self determination within a democratic frame work under pinned by international law, its covenants and conventions. BTF Calls for the participations of the peaceful demonstration full Text:

Please note that a peaceful demonstration has been organised by the Association of Tamil Councillors and the British Tamils Forum on Wednesday, 19 November 2008 between 3.30pm and 6.30pm, at the Parliament Square. Wednesday was chosen to coincide with the weekly Prime Minister’s Question Time. Most Members of Parliament will attend on this day. Many parliamentarians and members of House of Lords are expected to join us at the demonstration at various times. This is organised to lobby the UK political establishment and law makers to: (1) Acknowledge that the killings of Tamils by the State of Sri Lanka amounts to a systematic genocide (2) Recognise the Tamil’s aspirations for self-determination in their home land This demonstration is organised to also show solidarity and to thank the Tamil people of Tamil Nadu for their support. Our brothers and sisters of Tamil Nadu (TN) have been brilliant in standing shoulder to shoulder with the Tamils of Sri Lanka at a time of need. They have shown resolve, courage and determination. We, British Tamils want to show our gratitude for their support. Please come in thousands without giving any excuses and show our strength and solidarity with the Tamils of Sri Lanka at a time of need and to encourage the Tamils of Tamil Nadu for their continuous support. Details are as follows: Date: 19 November 2008, WednesdayTime: 3.30 pm till 6.30 pm Location: Parliament Square, London SW1P (Nearest Tube Station: Westminster)

17 November 2008

Paranthan, Army’s next target

Buoyed by the victory at Pooneryn, the army yesterday pushed forward towards Elephant-Pass from the Forward Defence Line (FDL) at Muhamalai in the Jaffna Peninsula amidst heavy Tiger resistance, defence sources said. The Army 53 Division commanded by Brigadier Kamal Gunaratne made initial advances from its FDL in Muhamalai, according to army sources. The troops were assisted by the Air Force fighter jets that engaged in several rounds of sorties over LTTE positions in Muhamalai. “The raids were conducted assisting the ground troops,” Air Force Spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said. The Air Force fighter jets first pounded identified Tiger oppositions at 6.45 a.m. when ground troops commenced their advances. Later in the day another round of air strikes took place around 1.30 p.m. Defence sources said the push from Muhamalai aimed at regaining Elephant Pass commenced keeping up the momentum gained with the taking of Pooneryn on Saturday morning. The fall of Pooneryn was a major morale blow to the LTTE since it had lost control of the entire north-western coast and the western flank of the A-9 Jaffna-Kandy main road by now.The Army 58 Division led by Brigadier Shavindra Silva after gaining control of strategically important Pooneryn has directed their focus on Paranthan north of Kilinochchi. In gaining Pooneryn the 58 Division troops bisected the Pooneryn-Paranthan Road and will now be marching towards Paranthan junction. Paranthan is situated on the A-9 main road between Kilinocchci and Elephant Pass. Several earlier attempts by the army to push forward towards Elephant Pass did not succeed and resulted in heavy casualties. The latest being an abortive attempt in April 2008. But defence sources said the LTTE has now lost a large amount of its fighting power with the morale too being low that would enable the troops to march forward. Defence sources also indicated that with the 58 Division advancing along the Pooneryn-Paranthan Road the Tigers will have to face the army in two fronts to protect Elephant Pass.

Heavy fighting in Northern Front, 20 SLA killed - LTTE

Liberation Tigers of Tamileelam (LTTE) on Sunday said they thwarted another attempt to break LTTE FDL by Sri Lanka Army (SLA) at Ka'ndal in Mukamaalai in the Northern Front. 20 SLA soldiers were killed and at least 80 wounded in the fighting that broke out at 5:10 a.m. and lasted til 12:40 p.m., when the SLA was pushed back, according to the Northern Command of the LTTE. Sri Lanka Air Force Kfir fighter jets and MI-24 gunships were engaged in the offensive push by the Sri Lankan forces. Artillery and Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) fire continued throughout the evening targeting Ki'laali, Mukamaalai, Ka'ndal, Pazhai, Iyakkachchi and Vadamaraadchi East. The dead and the wounded soldiers of the SLA were airlifted by the SLAF helicopters.

TMVP cadres rejoining Tamil rebels in Sri Lanka

Informed sources say that around 70 cadres of Sri Lanka's Eastern Province based breakaway rebel party Tamil People's Liberation Tigers (TMVP) have fled the organization to rejoin the Tamil Tiger rebels during the past few months. Some of these cadres have killed their colleagues prior to their fleeing to join the Tigers, sources say. There are around 1,200 armed cadres of TMVP in the Eastern Province. Plans are afoot to recruit 300 of them to Civil Defense Force and to send another number for foreign employment. TMVP is a breakaway faction of Tamil Tigers and they helped the government to regain full control of the Eastern Province and to win the Provincial Council election there.

Air strikes against Tiger targets

The Air Force stepped up air strikes against LTTE targets in the North yesterday, a day after ground troops seized control of Pooneryn, the Defence Ministry said.Mi-24 helicopter gunships and fighter jets were deployed to pound LTTE defence lines in the Jaffna peninsula and on the mainland, the Defence Ministry said.“Sri Lanka Air Force has lunched a series of air strikes in support of ground troops in the Muhamalai area,” the Ministry said in a statement. With the fall of Pooneryn, the military has taken the northwestern seaboard of the island and is poised to make a final push for Kilinochchi, defence officials said.

India gets boatloads of SL Tamil refugees

Boat loads of 29 refugees had landed close to Dhanuskodi on Saturday ( Nov 15) say Tamil Nadu coastal guard sources.This is recorded as the largest single landing of refugees from across the Palk Straits, during the past few months and reflects escalating heavy fighting in the Wanni.These refugees had said the sea journey cost them Rs. 15,000 per person and took the option to cross, as they were starving in refugee camps. Thy had said children suffered worst with no milk powder and water. The NGOs working in the area had come into severe accusations from these refugees who had said the NGOs don't provide food for those in refugee camps, though they claim they do.They had pleaded with Indian officials to send food and water to those starving in refugee camps in the Wanni.Meanwhile, 03 Indian fishermen were arrested yesterday for ferrying Tamil refugees from Sri Lanka on November 8 to Anitheertham near Rameswaram, police said.

Wimal wants snap polls to oust LTTE agents in House

A fresh parliamentary election could result in the defeat of LTTE agents in Parliament and help elect a group of patriots, National Freedom Front Leader WimalWeerawansa, MP, said yesterday. The JVP dissident said that the government should call for a snap general election as the armed forces advanced on the remaining LTTE strongholds in the Vanni.Addressing a press conference at NFF headquarters, he said that all political parties and groups opposed to LTTE terrorism should form a common front to contest the next general election.He said that the JVP had played a critical role in helping the SLFP to win the last parliamentary and presidential elections in 2004 and 2005 respectively, but today the Marxist party had ended up with the UNP/TNA combination. Responding to a query, the MP strongly defended his call for an early poll. He asserted that the removal of LTTE agents in Parliament, through an election, was part of an overall strategy to defeat the LTTE.

Suicide air strike a possibility as pressure mounts on Vanni front

With the area on the western flank under its control rapidly shrinking amid heavy pressure on its positions along a 12 km stretch on the neck of the Jaffna peninsula, among the retaliatory measures contemplated by the LTTE could be a suicide mission by its aircraft.Authoritative defence sources said that this possibility had been discussed and counter measures planned. Last month’s failure to shoot down LTTE aircraft which bombed the Thalladi army base and the Kelanitissa power station, too, could influence a suicide mission by Air Tigers, the sources acknowledged.The sources said that the SLAF was on a heightened state of alert to meet any eventuality. They speculated on the possibility of Air Tigers targeting a major naval asset on the eastern seas.Military officials said that the LTTE was fast running out of options as the pressure builds up on its positions along the Kilinochchi-Elephant Pass A 9 road stretch, south of Mullaitivu, and Kilali-Muhamalai-Nagarkovil sector now vulnerable to a major ground assault by 53 and 55 Divisions. They have stepped up operations.SLAF jets launched from Katunayake twice engaged LTTE fortifications on the neck of the Jaffna peninsula yesterday. On Saturday SLAF jets and helicopter gunships zeroed-in-on the same area as the Task Force I (TF I) advanced towards Sangupiddy.The 57 Division and TF I are in the process of consolidating their positions parallel to the A9 road.Army Chief Lt. General Sarath Fonseka told The Island on Saturday that his troops were operating just ten km west of Paranthan on the A9.

16 November 2008

Tiger chief vows devastating military blow

LTTE Leader Velupillai Pirapaharan has informed the Tamil National Alliance the Tigers will strategically withdraw from Pooneryn but deal the government a devastating military blow within the next three months.This message was communicated to the TNA through Batticaloa District MP, Senathirajah Jeyanandamoorthy who crossed over to Tiger territory the previous week in the company of another Eastern Province MP, Chandra Nehru.It is learned only Jeyanandamoorthy had met Pirapaharan while both MPs had met LTTE Political Wing Leader B. Nadesan.Informed sources said the two MPs had briefed the TNA of the outcome of the visit in parliament last week. Jeyanandamoorthy had also informed several other opposition members of his discussions in the Wanni.It is learned the two MPs had also been taken to the Forward Defence Lines by the Tigers and explained the progress of the on going war.According to the briefing given by Jeyanandamoorthy to the MPs, the LTTE had said the organisation can never be defeated militarily and that they will fight to the last man if the government persists with the war.The Tigers according to the MP had also said the people of the south will within the next few months realise the futility of the war effort and start attacking the government for misleading them.It was further said the Tigers are prepared to discuss a federal solution if the government places a comprehensive proposal on the table, but added the LTTE had ruled out the possibility of the Rajapakse administration submitting such a solution.The LTTE had further said a fight to a finish would mean a fight for the establishment of Eelam.Informed sources said the MPs have also been taken to refugee camps and Kilinochchi and shown some of the buildings damaged due to aerial bombardment.The Tigers have also said Kilinochchi will never fall into government hands.Following his visit to the Wanni, Jeyanandamoorthy made a statement in parliament last week that the LTTE will surrender their weapons to facilitate a ceasefire.

Sri Lanka bombs major rebel northern defense line 

Sri Lanka - 's air force pounded the Tamil Tiger rebels' main northern defense line Sunday, a day after government forces dismantled the last rebel stronghold on the island's west coast, the military said. Fighter jets bombed the Tamil separatists' defence line in the Muhamalai area of the Jaffna peninsula, north of the rebels' de facto state early Sunday, said military spokesman Brig. Udaya Nanayakkara. He said the jets also hit rebel artillery and mortar positions in retaliation for rebel shelling of soldiers on Saturday. Nanayakkara said details of damage and casualties were not available immediately. On Saturday, the military announced it had dismantled the last rebel defence on the island's west coast and secured a land route to government-held Jaffna in a key victory against the guerrillas. The military has had no land link to the northern peninsula for more than a decade, forcing the government to depend on boats and aircraft for access. The main highway to the peninsula remains under rebel control. Nanayakkara said the peninsula's main military base no longer falls within the rebel artillery range because of Saturday's gains. Nearly 40,000 soldiers are believed to be housed on the base. President Mahinda Rajapaksa in a televised speech on Saturday hailed the military's triumph and urged the rebels to lay down their arms and surrender. It was not possible to contact rebel officials for comment because most communication lines have been severed. Independent accounts are difficult to obtain from the battlefield because journalists are barred from the war zone. The Tamil Tigers have fought since 1983 to create an independent state for the country's ethnic minority Tamils, who have suffered marginalization by ethnic Sinhalese-controlled governments. More than 70,000 people have been killed in the violence.

CWC backs UPF demand

The Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) yesterday said that they backed the proposal for an Executive Authority for Tamils of Indian Origin made by Up Country People’s Front (UPF) Leader P. Chandrasekaran. CWC Deputy Leader R. Yogarajan told The Nation that their party had presented a similar proposal to the All Party Representatives Committee (APRC), but insisted that it should not be viewed as a “demand,” but rather an attempt by a minority to gain their rights within the established system. He noted that the proposed Executive Authority was recommended by the expert committees that were appointed by President Mahinda Rajapaksa to advise the APRC. “As such what we are suggesting is not contrary to Government polices,” he said, adding that successive governments had failed to answer the needs of the Tamil people of Indian origin. The best example of this is the public service where 92% are Sinhalese and only the remainder Tamil. Can it be denied that the Tamil people are marginalised?” he asked. Yogarajan advocated a Executive Authority consisting of all the Tamil Provincial Councillors of Indian origin to be based in Nuwara Eliya. The proposals of the CWC differ from UPF only in the suggestion that the separate Cultural Council proposed by Chandrasekaran be amalgamated into the larger Authority. When questioned about the Sinhalese people that live in the up country region, Yogarajan replied that the Central Government would, “take care of them” citing the example of the governance system in the United Kingdom that has separate bodies to cater to minority needs of Welsh, Scottish and Irish people, but not the English who as the majority are looked after by the Central Government. He clearly noted that the Executive Authority was a mechanism to gain political and economic rights, and should in no way be confused with the Sri Lankan Tamil struggle for a homeland. He also emphasised that the proposals were not targeted to gain political advantage ahead of an expected election, pointing out that the Government Budget was, “clearly not an election Budget but one that concentrates on reflecting the current economic situation.”

Govt to curb TMVP action in east

The government has at long last decided to be tough with TMVP cadres, as violence in the east sees no end.A security forces commander in Batticaloa has advised TMVP officials that their cadres should not to come out of their offices and camps armed. He has further warned that he would be reluctantly compelled to arrest anyone who did not follow such instructions. Newly appointed DIG for Batticaloa, DIG Edwin Gunathilake who held lengthy discussions with TMVP leader, MP Karuna Amman and eastern province chief minister Pillayan regarding the security situation in Batticaloa, has asked the two TMVP leaders to prevent their cadres from coming out of their offices with weapons, and travelling in the province until the situation is brought back to normalcy. A senior security forces officer told LAKBIMAnEWS that this was why they were compelled to stop members of the TMVP from traveling in Batticaloa carrying weapons. Police records reveal that over 100 civilians and around 20 police officers have already been killed so far this year. All these killings have been attributed to unidentified armed groups. TMVP cadres in civilian clothes are used to traveling in motorbikes and vans carrying firearms. This has made it extremely difficult for security forces personnel to distinguish between TMVP and LTTE cadres.Meanwhile, parliamentarian Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman has met IGP Jayantha Wickramarathna on the 11 th. During the meeting, Karuna Amman explained that his cadres were used to the military way of life and that they were largely ignorant on civil law and administration. Therefore, he requested the IGP to help organise a programme to educate TMVP cadres on civil law and administration.

Karuna, Pillaiyan divided over assassination

Eastern Province Chief Minister Sivenesathurai Chandrakanthan alias ‘Pillaiyan’ and TMVP leader and parliamentarian Vinayagamurthi Muralidaran alias ‘Karuna’ hold opposing views on the assassination of Pillaiyan’s personal secretary, Kumaraswami Nandakopan alias ‘Ragu’.While Pillaiyan has publicly stated that he did not suspect the LTTE of killing his secretary Ragu, Karuna categorically stated that it was the LTTE that carried out the killing.Earlier, with Pillaiyan informing that the LTTE was not involved in the killing of Ragu, all fingers were pointed at Karuna.Pillaiyan’s confidants told The Nation, on the condition of anonymity, that the modus operandi of the assassination of Ragu, nicknamed ‘Nandhi’, was similar to that of an act carried out by the TMVP Karuna faction, in connivance with a State sponsored paramilitary group.However, Karuna insists that the LTTE killed Ragu.He said he had pre warned his cadres and area leaders to take extra precaution, as LTTE attacks on them had been anticipated.He also blamed Ragu for not using the police protection offered to him by the State.“I really don’t understand why he went without the protection. I feel very sorry for him,” he said.Asked of his response to the statement Pillaiyan has made absolving the LTTE from this attack, Karuna said he could not agree to Pillaiyan’s statement.He said he would talk with Pillaiyan today to clarify this.At the time of his untimely death, Ragu was Pillaiyan’s advisor, who had locked horns with Karuna about two weeks ago.Karuna demanded that Ragu and media spokesman Azad Mowlana be removed from the party, after Mowlana informed the media that Karuna was no more in charge of the political wing of the party.Ragu was a product of Shivananda College, Batticaloa and subsequently entered Moratuwa University to pursue a degree in Marine Engineering.However, he had given up his studies midway and returned to the east. But his father had forced him to pursue a degree in Surveying, where he later obtained a degree from Moratuwa University. Thereafter, he proceeded to Australia for further education and returned to the country as a qualified engineer, to contest the May 11 Provincial Council election.A hartal protesting the assassination was organised in Batticaloa, Ampara and Trincomalee districts yesterday. He was a native of Kaluwanchikudi, Batticaloa.

Threats won’t silence me: Mangala
 
SLFP (M) leader and MP, Mangala Samaraweera raised a privilege issue in Parliament last week about threats to his life that he says have become a regular occurrence since he began a weekly news briefing, “ defence watch.”Giving two phone numbers from which he said he had received death threats he claimed the situation was an impediment to his rights as an MP and asked that the matter be referred to the privileges committee in Parliament.Later joining the Budget debate, Mr.Samaraweera said that death threats would not deter him form speaking against anti-democratic activities taking place in the country. “I maybe killed for talking about these things but I cannot keep silent when such things are taking place,” he said.

Budget passed by 42 votes

The second reading of the 2009 Budget was passed yesterday in Parliament by 42 votes. While the UPFA, the UNP Dissidents and the National Freedom Front (NFF) voted for the Budget, the United National Party (UNP) Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance (TNA) voted against.“A vote against the Budget is a vote against the military campaign,” said Health Minister and Leader of the House Nimal Siripala de Silva. “People question our Defence Expenditure, but you saw the results of that expenditure today. So, if the opposition defeats the Budget, all the hard work of the military will be lost,” he added.Meanwhile, UNP MP Sajith Premadasa called this Budget a ‘crude’ and ‘overt’ attempt to ‘hoodwink’ the people. The Budget has not taken any measures to bridge the gap between the rich and poor.“This government is on a spending spree on unproductive and disastrous activities. This money printing frenzy will add to the inflation in the country. It has not addressed any urgent problems, like the GSP+ issue, the brain drain and the inflation,” he said.The JVP criticised the NFF’s claim that the Budget is an indication that the government is on the right track. JVP MP S.K. Subasinghe said that the people who live off the government are not in a position to make an objective judgment.“During last year’s Budget, Wimal Weerawansa talked about fleas who were sucking the blood out of a carcass, and it seems that another 12 new fleas have joined in,” he said.

Free people from LTTE control, TULF leader tells Indian Govt., TN
 
Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) president V.Anandasangaree said the Central Government of India and the State Government of Tamil Nadu should now get together and free the people who are now trapped in areas under LTTE control and allow them to get into areas where more than 80% of the Tamils live.He said the Central Government and the State Government should jointly agree to persuade the Sri Lankan Government to devolve power to Provincial Councils akin to those devolved to various States in India. In a statement issued last week, Mr. Anandasangaree said this was the only way peace can be brought to Sri Lanka. He also said that the resolutions unanimously passed at the Tamil Nadu Assembly demanding the Central Government pressurize the Sri Lankan Government to stop the war immediately and start talks with the LTTE is ‘shocking and totally unacceptable’ even to the Tamils of Sri Lanka. “Very soon those who supported these resolutions will deeply regret being misled by a handful of extremists who know nothing about the Sri Lankan ethnic problem and merely act on hearsay,” he said adding that the said resolution passed at the Assembly contrary to helping to solve the problem will only help to aggravate it. He said even if its intervention was justifiable, India can intervene only in an advisory capacity without being accused of interfering with the sovereignty of the Sri Lankan Nation. “India with its large intelligence network need not be told what is happening in Sri Lanka. Therefore one should understand that the response of the Indian Government to the various representations made to it will be subjected to the Government’s own observations,” he added.Mr. Anandasangaree was also critical of the role of the Tamil National Alliance leader who had lamented that he was disappointed with the manner in which India had handled the problem by merely sending food to the displaced Tamil people. “There is no doubt a lot of human rights violations are taking place both in the Government controlled areas and areas under LTTE control. The TNA leaders should tell the world to what extent the LTTE is involved in such areas without putting the entire blame on the Government or on any para-military group. They do not utter one word about the violations in the LTTE held areas,” he added.Mr. Anandasangaree said a new problem that had cropped up is the demand of the Tamil Nadu Government to have the 2000 tons of aid to be distributed to the Internally Displaced Persons by the ICRC under the supervision of Indian Embassy officials. “The Central Government had to concede to the demand of the Tamil Nadu Government, deviating from the usual practice, under similar circumstances in the past,” he said.“The TNA Members of Parliament had failed in their duty to tell the Government of Tamil Nadu that all these years, for more than a quarter of a century, it is the Sri Lankan Government that had been feeding the LTTE Leader, his family, his cadres and the people in the LTTE-held areas,” he charged. They must be honest enough to tell Tamil Nadu that whenever a fresh stock arrived in the Wanni, the LTTE took all what it wanted and also replenished its stock with the new arrivals and passed the balance to the people, he said.

Ceasefire alone will satisfy DMK: Karunanidhi 

DMK will not be satisfied till a ceasefire was enforced in the embattled north Sri Lanka, party president and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi said today (Nov 16)."We have made our stand clear in the party executive and also through the resolution at the all-party meeting that we want nothing short of a ceasefire and protection for the lives of innocent Tamils there," he told reporters in Chennai. The main crux of the resolution at the all-party meeting was that there should be a ceasefire between Lankan military and the LTTE, he said. Asked about Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa's remarks in Delhi last week that he was duty-bound to protect the lives of Tamils but wanted to eliminate terrorists, Karunanidhi said his party's demand was that the Lankan security forces should not create problems for Tamils in the guise of fighting LTTE."In fact, innocent Tamils have been severely affected in the attacks by the Sri Lankan forces," he said. When asked whether he had any plans to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the issue, Karunanidhi said he had already spoken and written to him. Moreover, DMK representatives in the union cabinet -- T R Baalu and A Raja -- were constantly interacting with the Centre and the Prime Minister. When pointed out that Congress President Sonia Gandhi had not yet spoken on the issue, he said DMK was taking up the issue with the government. "If we wanted to take up the issue with the Congress party, we would have discussed with her," Karunanidhi said.

Tamil journalist arrested at home in Wellawatte

General Manager of Tamil FM radio station ‘Vetri’, Journalist Mr. A. R. V.Loshan was arrested early in the morning today, Saturday before dawn at his residence at Wellawatte by Sri Lanka Terrorism Investigations Department (TID), according to Colombo’s premier Tamil daily Virakesari website.Virakesari report says the Tamil journalist was arrested on charges of alleged links with ‘terrorists’ and for aiding in ‘terrorist activities’. Police sources said he was to be held at the Bambalapitiya station, but his family members have reported it is not known where he is detained at the present time.Loshan has also served as a journalist for the Asian FM radio ‘Suryan’ earlier. Virakesari reported hours before the arrest, Chandramohan (Chandru) an announcer of ‘Vetri FM’, was also questioned at his residence by the TID. Vetri 99.6FM station joined the Sri Lankan Radio broadcasting scene in February this year. Vetri FM Broadcasts from Colombo and it is run by Voice of Asia Networks which also operates Siyatha FM.

Lankan issue: Vijay goes on fast          
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Actor Vijay along with his fans association on Sunday went on a eight-hour fast to express his solidarity for the cause of Sri Lankan Tamils at Chepauk in Chennai. His fans from various parts of the State took part in the fast.The film fraternity has been organising several protests across the State condemning the killing of Tamils in Sri Lanka. On 19 October, a mega rally was organised at Rameswaram in which producers and film directors took part. On 1 November, members of the South Indian Film Artistes Association held a eight-hour fast.Vijay's attempt today was in continuation of that. However, there have also been a talk that this is a prelude to his entering politics.The fast was inaugurated by the actor's father and veteran director S A Chandrasekhar. He spoke about Vijay's commitment to Tamil. 'Though Vijay had several offers to act in other Indian languages, he has chosne to do only Tamil movies. That shows his love for the language and the people.''His fans have come from far off places not see their favourite hero, but to express their support for a noble cause', he added.At 10.30 am, Vijay arrived at the venue along with his mother Shobha Chandrasekhar. Clad in blacks, he welcomed his fans and urged their co-operation to carry the protest in peaceful manner.Earlier addressing media persons, Vijay said, 'my fans have organised fast at 37 places across the State on Sunday. It is my effort to show my support for the ailing Tamils. I am happy and consider myself privileged to be part of the protest'.Expressing confidence that the war would come to end soon in the neighbouring island nation, Vijay said, 'we can't go to Sri Lanka and fight for the cause. This is an attempt to show our support for them'.Film directors Perarasu, Selvabharathy and actor Mansoor Ali Khan took part. 

CID quizzes TNA MP

The CID on Friday (Nov. 14th) questioned Batticaloa District TNA parliamentarian, S. Jeyanandamurthi for two and a half hours under the alleges of pro- LTTE conduct and causing inconvenience to the Sri Lanka government.The TNA MP was questioned over a statement allegedly made by him in Germany last June.

DMK to boycott CPI meet on Lanka issue   
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Chief Minister Minister M Karunanidhi on Sunday said the DMK would boycott the all -party meeting convened by the CPI on Monday to discuss the Lankan issue. On the violence at Tamilnadu Ambedkar Law College, the DMK chief sarcastically wondered that it looked like it might have been instigated by AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa and MDMK chief Vaiko to ensure that he quit his Chief Ministerial post. Addressing media persons at Coimbatore today, Karunanidhi said, 'I have discussed in detail about the steps to be taken to protect Tamils in Sri Lanka with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and AICC president Sonia Gandhi.'   Stating that resolutions were passed at the party's executive council meeting and all-party meet convened recently to discuss the issue, Karunanidhi said, 'Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse cannot be trusted. Under the pretext of finishing off the LTTE, the Lankan military is bombing Tamil establishments. It is an attempt to end both Tamils and the LTTE.'He said that the DMK would abstain from the all-party meeting convened by the CPI on Monday. He however said there was nothing wrong in every party showing keen interest over the Lankan issue.Queried over the law college violence, the veteran leader said, 'it is an unhealthy sign to see caste clashes in educational institutions. The DMK has been raising its voice against them'.On the security provided to Jayalalithaa, he said, 'for those enjoying 'Z' security cover, only 54 police personnel can be employed. But for Jayalalithaa's security, we have posted 174 cops and a  bullet-proof car.Denying that Jayalalithaa was attacked when she visited Pasumpon recently, Karunanidhi said, 'only her supporters kicked up a ruckus by pelting stones'.

15 November 2008

Sri Lanka asks Tigers to surrender after taking key town

Sri Lanka's president Saturday asked Tamil Tigers to surrender after troops claimed to have recaptured a strategically important town from Tiger rebels following months of heavy fighting.President Mahinda Rajapakse said in a televised address to the nation security forces wrested control of the town of Pooneryn and the main northwestern coastal route of A-32."This morning the entire A-32 road and Pooneryn was captured by our security forces," the president said. "On this occasion, I ask (Tiger chief Velupillai) Prabhakaran to lay down and immediately come for talks.""The best thing he can do for the (Tamil) people in the north is to lay down arms and surrender," he said.Pooneryn had been a Tiger stronghold since 1993 when the rebels dislodged the main military base after killing some 700 soldiers in three days of intense battles.The rebels had used the coastal area to launch artillery strikes against a military airbase on the northern edge of the government-controlled Jaffna peninsula vulnerable to long-range attacks.The defence ministry described Saturday's capture of Pooneryn as the "greatest feat against terrorists" along the island's northwestern seaboard.The ministry said troops were closing in on the town of Kilinochchi, the political capital of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) further south."Pitched battles are still going on in the area," the ministry said. "The terrorists are fast withdrawing" to the northwest.The ministry, however, has made repeated claims in recent months that Kilinochchi was about to fall.The air force deployed helicopter gunships to pound suspected Tiger strongholds in the Jaffna peninsula Saturday morning in support of ground troops in the area, the military said.There was no immediate comment from the Tigers, who had said security forces had moved deep into territory held by them in the northern parts of the country since mid-2007.The LTTE has been fighting since 1972 to carve out a homeland for minority Tamils from the majority Sinhalese community. Tens of thousands have been killed in the conflict.The latest reports came as the country's parliament was set to vote Saturday on a new war budget allocating a record 1.6 billion dollars for defence in 2009, up from 1.5 billion dollars this year.The government is banking on a military success against the Tamil Tiger rebels after pulling out of a moribund Norwegian-arranged truce in January.The territory held by the separatist Tiger rebels has shrunk sharply since the guerrillas lost the vast eastern province in July last year after months of heavy combat.Security forces have in recent months stepped up their offensive in a bid to capture Kilinochchi, the town where Tigers received visiting foreign dignitaries.With the fall of Pooneryn, the military has taken the northwestern seaboard of the island and is poised to open a new land route to the Jaffna peninsula, which had so far been supplied by sea and air routes.Despite regular reports of fierce fighting, the military has stopped releasing its own casualties figures in daily bulletins since last month saying it would hinder operations.However, official figures tabled in parliament show 1,269 troops were killed in the first 10 months of this year. The military has claimed killing more than 7,500 Tiger rebels during the same period.

Karunanidhi for Indian Intervention in Lanka

CHENNAI - Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Friday insisted on a political road map to end Sri Lanka’s ethnic conflict, saying India needed to take pro-active measures to end the strife.The chief minister also offered the resignations of DMK ministers from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s United Progressive Alliance (UPA) cabinet to force India to act. “Neither the DMK nor other parties are heartless enough to ignore the sufferings of Tamils in the neighbourhood and cling to power. To press for an immediate ceasefire in Sri Lanka, our ministers in the central cabinet will quit if needed,” Karunanidhi told the state assembly.“The centre should analyse (Sri) Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s attempts to fool India by the bisection of the Tamils’ issue in the island as a terrorist problem to be dealt with militarily (on the one hand) and offer to safeguard minority civilians (on the other). We should demand a road map for a political negotiation and its aftermath,” he pointed out.“Our Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should point out to Rajapaksa that several nations (including) India, Pakistan, the US and Britain do not bomb their citizens despite facing (issues of) terrorism,” Karunanidhi added on the last day of the winter session of the state assembly.Karunanidhi’s comments came a day after Rajapaksa told Manmohan Singh in New Delhi that while he was willing to safeguard Tamil civilians, he would not halt the war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).Earlier there were sharp exchanges between the treasury and opposition benches.Congress members alleged that some regional parties were indirectly but openly supporting the “enemies of the nation” under the garb of sympathising with Sri Lankan Tamils.The LTTE has been outlawed 
in India since the 1991 assassination of former Prime minister Rajiv Gandhi.

DMK threatens to withdraw ministers over Lankan issue

NEW DELHI: In an attempt to regain his credibility on the Tamil Lankan issue, Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi renewed his call to the Centre  to push for an immediate ceasefire in Sri Lanka and threatened to withdraw DMK ministers from the Union Cabinet. Pushed to the corner by the Sri Lankan government’s refusal to take a step back from the military offensive and the Centre’s reluctance to appear soft on the LTTE, Mr Karunanidhi has clearly been forced into a corner on the issue. Lashing out at the Centre again, Mr Karunanidhi reissued his threat offering the resignation of DMK ministers from Union Cabinet and demanded a political roadmap for resolution of the ethnic strife. ``Neither DMK nor other parties are heartless enough to ignore sufferings of Tamils in the neighbourhood and cling to power. To press for an immediate ceasefire in Sri Lanka, our ministers in the central cabinet will quit if needed,’’ Mr Karunanidhi told the state assembly. He further said that the Centre should not be fooled by Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa and sought a political roadmap. “The Centre should analyse (Sri) Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa’s attempts to fool India by the bisection of the Tamils’ issue in the island as a terrorist problem to be dealt with militarily (on the one hand) and offer to safeguard minority civilians (on the other). We should demand a road map for a political negotiation and its aftermath,” he pointed out. “Our Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should point out to Rajapaksa that several nations (including) India, Pakistan, the US and Britain do not bomb their citizens despite facing (issues of) terrorism,” Mr Karunanidhi said on the last day of the winter session of the state assembly. Mr Karunanidhi’s comments come a day after a meeting between Mr Singh and Mr Rajapaksa. Apart from raising concerns on the humanitarian crisis, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had told Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa that there could be no justification for terrorism. New Delhi has followed a Lanka policy that includes pushing for a politically negotiated settlement that is acceptable to all communities while maintaining the anti-terror plank. Mr Rajapaksa also told Mr Singh that he would not stop the military offensive against LTTE. After the meeting, Mr Rajapaksa said that LTTE could only be `dealt with militarily’ and that there could be no compromise till LTTE laid down arms. Mr Karunanidhi’s earlier misadventure on the issue is clearly providing fodder for the opposition that took the DMK chief to task for failing to make any headway on the matter. AIADMK deputy leader O Panneerselvam questioned the DMK’s future plans after its “ambitious moves” on the issue failed to bring peace in Sri Lanka. The Tamil Nadu state assembly on Wednesday had voted unanimously on a resolution, which was moved by Mr Karunanidhi, supporting a ceasefire in Lanka, withdrawal of military forces from the North and resolution of the ethnic conflict through talks. 

Red Cross in charge of Indian aid to Sri Lankan Tamils

COLOMBO: India has approached the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) for delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians caught in areas that are still under the LTTE’s control in Wanni, said the ICRC on Friday.The Indian request follows an agreement between India and Sri Lanka on October 26 under which Colombo had agreed to India’s request for providing humanitarian assistance to the internally-displaced persons (IDPs). In his meeting with Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Thursday in New Delhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh referred to Tamil Nadu sending 2,000 tonnes of food and other materials for IDPs in north Sri Lanka.The ICRC said the relief material is expected to reach Sri Lanka in the next few days. The ICRC is the only international humanitarian organisation permanently present in the Wanni, where it operates with the agreement of both the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE. “This is the first time that India has provided humanitarian aid to conflict-affected people in Sri Lanka through the ICRC. We have seen the relief items and they do indeed correspond to the needs of the displaced people we see in Wanni. We look forward to receiving this relief consignment here in Colombo in the coming days,” said Paul Castella, ICRC’s head of delegation in Sri Lanka.“Security and stability are a pressing concern for the displaced people in Wanni. Many of them have had to flee several times since hostilities escalated in July,” said Hicham Mandoudi, head of ICRC’s operations in Wanni.

Relief delivery

“What these displaced people want is a place where they can stabilise their lives. They’re exhausted after moving from one place to another, each time leaving behind more of their belongings.”The ICRC continues to facilitate the passage of food convoys through the Omanthai checkpoint between government-held and LTTE-held territories. The checkpoint was temporarily closed following reports of shelling. Meanwhile, the military on Friday claimed the 57th Division troops, operating along on the main axis of battle in the Wanni battlefront, are now “successfully manoeuvring” towards Kilinochchi, the administrative hub of the LTTE. The Defence Ministry said the 571st and 572nd brigades marched further northwards, destroying LTTE positions along the western boundary of Kilinochchi built-up area and claimed the LTTE had suffered heavy losses.It further said mop-up operations were completed in Devil’s Point and the area has been “fully liberated.” Sri Lankan artistes, in a letter to the South Indian Cinema Artistes and Technicians, delivered to the High Commissioner of India, have sought to impress upon their counterparts the nature of operations being undertaken by Sri Lanka in the north.The objective is to portray the true picture of the humanitarian operations to rescue the civilians, said actor Ravindra Randeniya.

Ponneryn under the Govt. troops

After three and half hours air and ground attack the govt. forces have entered LTTE strong hold at Ponneryn this morning (Nov15) says defence ministry of Sri Lanka.According to the defence ministry, 12 Gamunu Watch and 10 Gajaba Regiment successfully negotiated the great marshlands south of Pooneryn last night , and cut off the Pooneryn- Paranthan road (B-69) close to Nallur before dawn today. Troops then marched about 10 Km along the B-69 and entered into the Pooneryn town , where the LTTE have their last bastion on the West coast. According to the defence sources at the field LTTE cadre have given a stiff resistance to the advancing troops. Pitched battles are still going in the area, the sources said. The cadres are fast withdrawing towards the K- Point.

Pooneryn falls, Paranthan next
 
Today marks an important milestone in the Sri Lanka Army's history. The town of Pooneryn fell into the hands of the troops after the 58 Division managed to capture the Pooneryn-Paranthan road in the morning. Soon, two brigades will shake hands across the Jaffna lagoon.The threat to Jaffna has been reduced by at least 50%. Troops will now march towards Paranthan and then towards Kilinochchi, which will soon be surrounded from the south, north and the west. The jubilant Army Commander, the man behind the entire mission, congratulated Brigadier Shavendra Silva in a telephone conversation this morning. Brigadier Silva and his men from the Commando Regiment were the main ingredients of the success.As we had predicted, the Pooneryn-Paranthan road was bisected by the 58 who crossed the open marshlands tediously resulting in the immediate fall of Pooneryn, which was abandoned by the LTTE by that time. As we have pointed out earlier, the LTTE had withdrawn its 130mm guns from the peninsula-- a former hive of LTTE activity. They had also removed their 122mm mortars.Task Force 1 troops put their full force behind the thrust after capturing Devil's Point three days ago. Devil's point was captured after a tactical crossing of an area with many natural obstacles.

K’nochchi to be taken on LTTE Heroes Day

The government is expecting to announce the capture of Kilinochchi on Nov. 27th, which coincidently is the Heroes Day of the LTTE.Speaking to ‘Lanka Dissent’, a senior minister who wished to remain anonymous said that senior defence personnel have informed the President that it is possible to capture the Kilinochchi town - the main administration centre of the LTTE within the next few days.Preparations for celebrations are already underway and the government affiliated National Freedom Front has even printed a poster to be pasted in Colombo.The NFF poster hails the security forces for capturing the LTTE stronghold in Kilinochchi.Each year, the LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran makes a speech to mark the Heroes Day on Nov. 27th.After the Heroes Day speech last year, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa had stated that he will not allow the LTTE leader to deliver the Heroes Day speech in 2008.

Pillayan's Secretary killed

Chief Minister of Eastern province Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan’s private Secretary Kumaraswami Nandagoban (32) alias Ragu and other person Sameer Rajkumar (29) killed at Athurugiriya.They were killed opposite the Oruwala Steel Corporation.When Karuna amman back to Sri Lanka TMVP. request from Pillayan discharge his secretary Ragu. He was fluent in English, Sinhala and Tamil language.Athurugiriya police will be held further investigation

Preparation to dissolve parliament after Budget 2009

Following the final budget vote on Dec. 08th, President Mahinda Rajapaksa is considering to dissolve Parliament and hold General Elections in March 2009, internal government sources say.Several SLFP seniors have proposed that it is more apt to call for General Elections after holding provincial council elections in some of the remaining 5 provinces.However, the President has already held talks with several leaders of the government affiliated political parties saying that a General Election should be faced under the theme of obtaining a mandate to completely liberation the North and destroy Prabhakaran.Government affiliated political parties have requested the President to delay the General Election until May 2009, when the five-year tenures of most parliamentarians will end.Nevertheless, the President has remained his stance saying that it was prudent to go for snap polls considering the current political situation.Meanwhile, a group of SLFP seniors led by Prime Minister Rathnasiri Wickramanayake has been holding talks aimed at forming a broad national alliance to face the snap polls.Reports say that they have held discussions with several political parties including the Ceylon Workers Congress, the UNP Democratic Group, the National Freedom Front and the All Ceylon Muslim Congress as well as several MPs who crossed over to the government recently.

Where is Sri Lanka's war heading?

Sri Lanka's military on Saturday said it had seized the entire western coast of Sri Lanka after months of combat, leaving it in position to open a road to the war-isolated Jaffna Peninsula for the first time since 1993. Analysts say the military is making gains and has the unflinching support of President Mahinda Rajapaksa in its mission to wipe out one of the world's most ruthless and effective insurgent groups. Here are some scenarios of what could happen next:

EARLY ELECTIONS: The rebel capital of Kilinochchi is the next big target for the army. The defacto seat of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam's (LTTE) quasi-government, Kilinochchi is a target of strategic, symbolic and political importance. Many including allies of President Mahinda Rajapaksa say its capture could prompt him to call an early parliamentary election to strengthen his coalition. But others say the president has given no hint of that and point out that keeping people guessing over elections has long been one of Sri Lanka's great political games.

CAPTURING KILINOCHCHI: Capturing it would allow the military to sweep the rebels east through the jungles on an arc-shaped front to the port of Mullaitivu, hemming them in from all sides. The military for the last month has said it was on the edge of Kilinochchi, 330 km (205 miles) north of the capital Colombo. Fighting is heavy and the rebels appear ready to make their stand there, analysts say. With Saturday's capture of Pooneryn, the army has cleared artillery that kept troops in Jaffna from moving south to Kilinochchi. Watch for those soldiers to begin moving. Soon after, the battle for Kilinochchi would near a crescendo with the army striking from the north, south and west.

MARKETS SHRUG: If Kilinochchi falls, analysts and market players say they expect a brief boost to the Colombo Stock Exchange and maybe some temporary relief to depreciation pressure on the rupee. But both tend to move on their own fundamentals after 25 years of war. Neither are looking good now amid a global financial crisis and an IMF warning that Sri Lanka's economic growth could be at risk if the country doesn't cut spending, stop supporting the rupee and ease reliance on expensive foreign short-term debt. Given Rajapaksa's primarily rural power base has been largely shielded from economic woes through his populist-angled budgets, an economic crisis presents a correspondingly lower political risk to him -- especially with the war going well.

COUNTERATTACK: The Tigers could do what they have done after losing ground in the 1980s and 1990s, which is regroup and hit back hard. But security analysts say the army is three times bigger and much more hardened than it was in those days, with better weapons and tactics. The Tigers also have few avenues to smuggle in weapons after most of its merchant smuggling fleet was destroyed. The former No 2 in the LTTE last week said Mullaitivu is now the only place the LTTE can ferry in weapons.

COLOMBO ATTACKS SPIKE: The government on Saturday warned citizens to be vigilant for more suicide bombings and unconventional attacks in the capital Colombo in response to the Tigers losing ground up north. Their rudimentary air force bombed a power station in Colombo on October 28, and there have been at least seven blasts in the city since August 30. But the city is under heavy guard and the government has no compunction about carrying out heavy-handed sweeps of Tamil areas to avert attacks.

LTTE transporting weapons by air: janes’ website
   
The Janes’s Defence Weekly said it was in a position to confirm the LTTE made at least one attempt to transport a consignment of artillery rounds by air to rebel-controlled areas in the Wanni. It said commercial satellite imagery obtained by Jane's confirmed that between 2004 and 2007, the rebels constructed two airstrips that could handle aircraft capable of transporting weapons’ cargo from Central or Southeast Asia. “While the imagery does not confirm the airstrips are in use, the investment of significant resources suggests the LTTE has developed facilities that can serve air logistic needs at a critical time in its three-decade war with the Sri Lankan State,” the reputed defence website said.It said since the effective resumption of the conflict in 2006, the LTTE lost control of the Eastern Province with its forces slowly pushed back in the north and as such the LTTE's priority must now be to ensure a continued supply of arms and ammunition to prevent further defeats. “Given this situation and having suffered heavy losses to its ocean-going smuggling fleet, the LTTE now appears to be preparing to fly in supplies to its stronghold in northern Sri Lanka,” the website said. However when contacted by Daily Mirror Air Force spokesman Janaka Nanayakara said there was no possibility of the LTTE airlifting weapons from another country as the radars in Sri Lanka would have detected any such movement.He said there no reports of the Tigers transporting weapons by air even between LTTE-controlled locations in the North.Following last year’s LTTE air raids India stepped up surveillance to prevent the LTTE carrying out aerial attacks on Indian nuclear facilities.Foreign Secretary Palitha Kohona was also quoted last year as saying there was a possibility of the LTTE carrying out air strikes on Indian nuclear installations and ships in the Indian Ocean.The LTTE usually used sea routes to transport weapons and had often been attacked by the Navy with large scale destruction of weapons cargo in the process.  

14 November 2008

TELO Mp’s asks India's help to solve Lankan Tamils issue  

Pressing for an "acceptable" political solution to Sri Lanka's ethnic problem, a TAMIL political party of the island nation today sought India's intervention to stop war and suggested it could bring LTTE chief V Prabhakaran "on board" for a negotiated settlement. The Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization (TELO) appealed to India to "complete its unfinished agenda" in Sri Lanka and ask Mahinda Rajapaksa government to stop its "obsession with a military solution" to the ethnic issue. Senior TELO leader and MP Srikantha said the Sri Lankan government should commit itself to resolve the conflict through a political settlement to avoid "a split" in the country."We are ready for an acceptable political solution that addresses the basic aspirations of the Tamil people. That can be had within the framework of a united country," Srikantha, who is accompanied by another party MP M K Sivajilingam, told reporters here.He said if the Sri Lankan Government agrees to settle the conflict through a political solution that satisfies the "legitimate political aspirations of the Tamils", he was hopeful of bringing Prabhakaran "on board"."We urge India to put its foot down and tell the Sri Lankan government to halt the ongoing military offensive that has caused immense loss of lives and hardships to people caught between the two warring groups -- LTTE and the Sri Lankan Army in the Wanni region," Srikantha said.India, which has greater interests in the affairs of the island, should also tell the Sri Lankan Government to come out of its "obsession with a military solution and play a greater role in bringing peace to the nation," he said.

Pooneryn will be taken shortly - Keheliya

Troops will capture Pooneryn area in the Wanni in the recent future, defence spokesman, Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said.Speaking at a press briefing at the Media Centre for National Security yesterday (Nov. 13th), he said that security forces have captured 74 km of the 80 km long Mannar-Jaffna road.Sea Tiger defenses in the western flank of the A-9 main road will fall entirely after the Poonryn area is captured, he further said.The land route from Mannar to Jaffna and the Pooneryn area would be captured after 20 years, Minister Rambukwella said.

JHU warns to exit UPFA

The Jathika Hela Urumaya has warned that it would withdraw from the ruling UPFA coalition if the President and the ruling party defy the ‘Mahinda Chinthana’ policy concept, reports say.A JHU delegation comprising its national organizer, Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka, its legal advisor Udaya Gammanpila and MP Ven. Akmeemana Dayaratana Thera had informed this decision to SLFP seniors, Ministers Maithripala Sirisena, Anura Priyadarshana Yapa and Dallas Alahapperuma and Senior Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapaksa at a meeting at Parliamentary Complex yesterday (Nov. 13th).Noting that the JHU will only support the UPFA government as long as the Mahinda Chinthana policies are upheld, the party said that their alliance at future elections too, would depend on this condition.The meeting was one step of a series of measures taken by the government to build a broad alliance to face future elections.

Fresh ceasefire proposal not viable without political framework, says NPC of Sri Lanka

National Peace Council (NPC) of Sri Lanka says that a fresh ceasefire proposal is not viable without a political framework. The NPC says that previous ceasefires have not only failed, but have led to even more severe fighting, and have been used to re-arm and reposition combatants. The organization further says that calls for a ceasefire without a corresponding commitment to a political solution can be construed as political propaganda. From this perspective no ceasefire will be effective if it is not accompanied by a political framework, including demilitarization and international monitoring, the communiqué issued by NPC says. “While supporting the present call for a ceasefire, we do not wish to see history repeat itself, dashing the people's hopes for peace yet again,” NPC said. “NPC calls on the two parties to publicly announce the parameters within which a political solution will be sought when they make their ceasefire offers. The ceasefire will only be successful if it is accompanied by a dialogue geared towards finding a sustainable political settlement,” the statement added.

LTTE cannot be crushed, say Sri Lanka TELO MPs

The Tamil Tigers cannot be crushed, two Sri Lankan TELO MPs said Thursday, reacting to claims that the rebels were on the verge of losing the dragging war in the island nation."We have been hearing from various (Sri Lankan) presidents that the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) will perish. There is nothing new in it," N. Sri Kantha of the pro-LTTE Tamil National Alliance (TNA) told the media here.Sri Kantha and his colleague M.K. Shivaji Lingam spoke even as Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa met Indian leaders here."The LTTE cannot simply be crushed,' Sri Kantha said. 'It is a military organisation that still controls a sizeable chunk of Sri Lankan territory. It has a 35-year history. It can be defeated but it cannot be destroyed."The Tamil leaders sought India's immediate intervention to for the sake of a ceasefire in Sri Lanka.Describing the LTTE as a guarantee for the safety of the Tamils in Sri Lanka, Sri Kantha said: "If the LTTE is crushed, the Tamils will be subjugated.""If (Sri Lanka) wants a military solution to the national question, there is only one option for the Tamil people... the LTTE," he added.He said that LTTE leader Veluppillai Prabhakaran, who is wanted in India for the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, was a wiser man now."Prabhakaran is not a criminal. He is the supreme leader of the group fighting for the cause of the Tamils," Sri Kantha said.The MPs asked India to find a permanent solution to the conflict in Sri Lanka that has left thousands dead over the past quarter century.He said if a political solution was not evolved, all 22 TNA MPs would quit parliament."A ceasefire is the need of the hour. We are here to seek the support of the Indian government and the people as we are the immediate neighbours. We are also culturally and linguistically linked. We are requesting this for the sake of the defenceless Tamil people," Sri Kantha said."We are not asking for a separate state. We need a political solution. Our people are arrested and tortured by the military. We are calling upon the Indian government to intervene effectively and immediately to put a full stop to the suffering of the Sri Lankan people," he added.

Government is in the middle of Jeyananda Murthy's and Nadesan's ideas, says Lakshman Yapa

Minister of Media and the government spokesman on national development Lakshman Yapa Abewardhana says that the government is ready to set forth a power devolution proposal to India if all parties approve it and government will guarantee to implement complete power devolution for north.The Minister made these observations addressing a press briefing held in Media Ministry auditorium at Polhengoda yesterday morning (13).The Minister said that the government is to propose the Provincial Council system that is effective in the Eastern Province and parliament approval is needed for broader power devolution.The Minister said that according to current constitution non other than power could be granted in resonse to Mr. S.B. Disanayaka's statement that he was ready to contest Central Provincial Council as the Chief Minister if authority including police powers is granted.In response to Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe's statement that all political parties should unite for a political solution for the north and east, Minister Yapa said that it was the government stance always. However, he asked how UNP could put forward a proposal without even participating in the All Party Conference. The Minister asked to submit a proposal if UNP has any. He said that the advice given as an outsider that the government should work with Tami National Alliance is hollow.  Minister Lakshman Yapa said that the country could go to a new tendency of power devolution if all parties agree to it.The Minister further stated that the President Mahinda Rajapakse would talk with India especially about the safety of the people of north. The government has no alternative sans liberating people from the hands of terrorism, he said.The Minister added: "MP Jeyananda Murthi said in the parliament that the Tamils had no other solution except a separate state. LTTE political wing leader Nadesan expressed interest for a ceasefire. The government is in between these two lines."India will under no circumstances oppose the war against terrorism. She showed it by extending the LTTE ban for two more years."Following are the queries raised by media persons and the Minister's responses to them. Question: How do you explain the contrast between asking LTTE to lay down arms before commencing negotiations and requesting proposals from UNP?Answer: Defeating terrorism and providing a political solution are two processes. Political solution can be activated while defeating terrorism. Security forces are defeating terrorism whilst the political authorities are preparing a political solution. The President is ready to go for a political solution while defeating terrorism. Armed rebels have been brought to parliament.Question: How do you bring the LTTE that is fighting for a separate state for three decades into the negotiation table?Answer: Some fighters have laid down arms before coming for negotiations. Some were suppressed to push them to talks. Those two are the only options. Killed persons in both sides are citizens of this country. Our effort is to separate terrorists from citizens.Question: The government always talked about military success and not about a political solution. Is Indian influence behind the sudden change of tune to a political solution?Answer: The government always believed a political solution. All Party Conference was summoned for this. The President and the government are in a clear position that this problem cannot be solved only through war.

Colombo creates human crisis at entry point - Nadesan

The closure of entry point at Omanthai in Vavuniya by the Colombo government for the last three days has created a human crisis affecting emergency patients and supply of medicines to civilian hospitals, said B. Nadesan, the political head of the LTTE yesterday, Tamilnet reported.Intense shelling by the Sri Lanka Army on the entry point has made the ICRC officials posted there to leave, said the website. "By imposing a sanction on food, medicine and by maintaining an inhumane economic blockade, the Sri Lankan government is pinpointing the war at the civilians, disregarding International norms to be observed. The indications are that Colombo is adamant in pursuing an aggressive war," he has told TamilNet. "The LTTE has always extended full cooperation to the ICRC in operating the entry point. The stipulated working hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. But, the Sri Lanka Army has limited the timings to be between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Even this limited facility was stopped for the last few days," Nadesan said. Meanwhile, medical officials in Vanni said that at least two civilians have died in recent days without being able to make through the entry point to reach Vavuniyaa hospital. Every time a convoy of medical supplies leaves for Vanni, the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence authorities grant them permission to pass through the entry point, said the website. But, the military officials manning the entry point will find some petty excuse to deny entry to the convoy or to delay it. Sometimes after much scrutiny they may allow just one or two lorries of the convoy, say the medical officials at the hospitals of Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi. Recently, a lorry with oxygen cylinders has been held back at Omanthai for several days while acute shortage of oxygen prevailed in the intensive care units of the hospitals.

Three Muslim children abducted in Sri Lanka

Three Muslim school students have been abducted by an unknown group of four persons in a van yesterday evening, Sri Lanka police reported. The abducted students of Henamulla Muslim School are residents of Henamulla in Panadura. The motive behind the abduction is not known yet. Panadura police are conducting investigations.

India Tells Sri Lanka to Protect Tamils as War Concern Mounts

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh told President Mahinda Rajapaksa to protect ethnic Tamils amid rising concern about the impact on civilians of Sri Lanka’s offensive to capture the headquarters of the Tamil Tigers. Singh focused on “humanitarian” issues during talks with Rajapaksa in New Delhi yesterday and stressed the rights of civilians must be protected even when dealing with terrorism, according to India’s state-run broadcaster Doordarshan. The leaders also discussed incidents of Sri Lanka’s navy firing on Indian fisherman during their meeting at a regional summit aimed at combating terrorism, crime and drug trafficking. Rajapaksa has said the Tamil Tigers use Indian fishing boats to transport weapons. Lawmakers in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu passed a unanimous resolution the day before Rajapaksa arrived calling on Singh to demand negotiations with the rebels and a halt to Sri Lankan military operations. Tamil Nadu is home to about 73,000 Sri Lankan refugees, most of them Tamils, according to the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Sri Lanka’s army is trying to capture the headquarters of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in the northern town of Kilinochchi and end a 25-year conflict. More than 230,000 civilians have been displaced by the fighting in recent months, according to Tamil aid officials. Rajapaksa, after the meeting, said he told Singh that Tamil civilians would be protected, Doordarshan reported. “We assure not only the prime minister but the whole world that we will look after Tamils,” he said. “Nothing will happen to Tamils. We are looking after our people, it is my duty.”

Civilian Targets

The LTTE is fighting for a separate Tamil homeland in the north and east of the island nation. It says the army’s offensives amount to genocide and the air force is bombing civilian targets, claims the government denies. The army has driven to within 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) of Kilinochchi. It began attacking the LTTE’s last bases in the north early this year after capturing the eastern region in July last year. Sri Lanka’s military yesterday seized rebel coastal fortifications on Devil’s Point in the country’s northwest after besieging the area, the Defense Ministry said on its Web site. The LTTE said Nov. 9 it’s willing to revive a 2002 cease- fire agreement, which the government ended in January saying the rebels used it to rearm, recruit and prepare further attacks. Rajapaksa said yesterday a truce may be possible if the LTTE lays down its arms. The LTTE is designated a terrorist organization by the U.S., the European Union and India. Tamils made up 11.9 percent of Sri Lanka’s population of 20 million and ethnic Sinhalese almost 74 percent in 2001, according to a census that year.

Govt. warned: Tigers may infiltrate army posing  as TMVP cadres

Defence sources have warned that the LTTE will be sure to exploit the proposed recruitment of TMVP (Thamil Makkal Viduthalai Pulikal) cadres to infiltrate the Army and Civil Defence Force (CDF),An authoritative security official told The Island that this possibility couldn’t be dismissed. A large scale infiltration would jeopardise security not only in the Ampara-Batticaloa region, where the new recruits were to be deployed, but other areas, including Colombo as well, he said. The security threat would be immense, he said. The government must take every possible measure to screen the TMVP cadres.Over the past few weeks, LTTE agents operating with their erstwhile colleagues in the Eastern Province had killed 14 Karuna loyalists.Military officials said that Police and the Army hadn’t been successful in tracking down the assassins. Although their identities are known, police and security forces hadn’t been able to track them down, they said.A senior security official said that the breakaway LTTE faction had been susceptible to operations carried out by undercover LTTE operatives. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official said LTTE agents had massacred a group of sleeping Karuna loyalists at Kottawa and Reggie, Karuna’s own brother in the Eastern Province sometime ago.Early this year, an LTTE suicide cadre who carried out a devastating attack targeting police outside the Presidential Secretariat was subsequently identified as a person seen with TMVP cadres, particularly in Trncomalee. Police said that an infiltrator accompanying either National List MP Karuna or Eastern Province Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan would be able to access high security zones. Nothing would be as dangerous as a sleeping agent, a senior police official said. He asserted the LTTE struggling on the Vanni front would naturally step up covert operations to offset battlefield losses.Sources said that the Army was responsible for providing security to both Karuna and Chandrakanthan. Sources also said that the TMVP leadership wanted several hundred cadres to be absorbed to the Army (Volunteer Force) and the CDF as part of an overall plan to provide them with security and employment.

ICRC asked to make suitable entry/exit point shift

The Defence Ministry has officially made a request from the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) to find a suitable location to shift the sole Entry-Exit point and cross loading point between the uncleared areas and the cleared now functional at Omanthai, to a place closer to Oddusudan, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa told the Daily News last night. “We made this request officially from the ICRC this week as we believe that there is no point of having the entry-exit point there in Omanthai as there are no LTTE presence in the Omanthai area at present,” the Defence Secretary added. Defence Secretary Rajapaksa met an ICRC delegation this week along with Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka to officially convey this request. ”The ICRC also agreed with the point made by us and to find a suitable location to shift the Entry Exit point further north”, the Defence Secretary added. The Defence Ministry made this request from the ICRC after the Sri Lanka Army 56 Division operating in Omanthai cleared the LTTE defence line in Omanthai last week. According to sources, the Omanthai Entry Exit point will be shifted to the South of Oddusudan on the Nedunkerni – Oddusudan road as almost all areas between Mankulam and Oddusudan has been cleared by the Special Forces and Commando troops operating there, though the area has not been dominated by the troops. Sources also added that only a handful of LTTE cadres were present at the Omanthai entry- exit point during the past few days. The Security Forces Headquarter in Wanni on Wednesday changed opening hours of the Omanthai Entry-Exit point from 9 am to 1 pm to expedite the process of sending vehicles to accelerate the movement of vehicles and passengers within a shortest possible time frame. However, the ICRC temporarily halted their operations at the Omanthai Entry-Exit point since Wednesday over concerns about the security of the ICRC representatives there. Army Commander Lt. General Fonseka who visited the Wanni Security Forces Headquarters, instructed Major General Jagath Jayasuriya, Commander, Security Forces Headquarters, Wanni (SFHQ-W), to explore possibilities of dispatching of essentials into uncleared areas in single lineup convoys, once or twice a week, instead of regular fleets of vehicles throughout the week in consultation with ICRC officials. According to Army headquarters the directive in this regard came subsequent to ICRC officials’ reluctance to man the Omanthai Entry/Exit point as usual after the SFHQ-W decided to keep the Omanthai opening hours only between 9.00 a.m. and 1.00 p.m. from Wednesday onwards, in view of several concerns and intensification of humanitarian operations, progressing away further north to the gateway. The Army Commander advised Wanni Commander Major General Jayasuriya to seek services of the ICRC escort for those lined-up food convoys to be taken in one fleet. Although the ICRC has not so far showed up for manning the gateway, its ambulances and other vehicles executed their emergency medical services across the point in the past 48 hours, the Commander was told.

13 November 2008

LTTE Survival is Indian Insurance Policy against Sri Lanka by T.S. Gopi Rethinaraj

The survival of the Tamil Tigers is India’s insurance policy against Sri Lanka swinging over to interests of powers that might seek to contain India in the Indian Ocean region. Now that the ethnic conflict has resurfaced as a factor in Tamil Nadu politics, India can ill afford to be seen as actively colluding with the Sinhalese to subjugate the ethnic Tamils. While the recent competitive jostling among political parties over this issue is largely due to fragile electoral alliances in the state, there is also growing public sympathy for Sri Lankan Tamils due to the grave humanitarian crisis generated by the military campaign against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).India has reached an impasse because of its stated policy to safeguard the territorial integrity of Sri Lanka and its unwillingness to recognise LTTE’s stand in the conflict. Unless India overcomes this fixation, the Sinhalese dispensation will continue to exploit New Delhi and pursue its agenda without inhibitions. India should also recognise that the Sinhalese majority is yet to show any inclination to moderate its racist vision for Sri Lanka’s future. Frequent reminders by Colombo’s ruling elite that the ethnic minority will have to accept the country as Sinhalese land only confirm that the ongoing war is not really about defeating the LTTE, but part of a larger strategy to Sinhalicise the entire island. The Sri Lankan government’s efforts to alter the demographic character of traditional Tamil areas, by settling Sinhalese peasants and creating high-security zones, are mainly to weaken the Tamil resolve.Since the LTTE remains the only roadblock to this Sinhalese agenda, its military defeat will ultimately result in the political, social and psychological subjugation of Tamils living on the island. The Sri Lankan state has mostly achieved this objective in areas not under LTTE control. This is why I reiterate that once the LTTE is militarily defeated, India will lose leverage with Colombo. However, the LTTE leadership should also realise that the Sri Lankan Tamils’ best opportunity to secure an honourable settlement is till such time that they are militarily relevant and must, therefore, explore alternative ways to quickly resolve the ethnic conflict.While the LTTE’s violent methods — forced recruitment, employment of child soldiers and unrelenting militancy — are repugnant, their largely ethical conduct in the civil war has gone almost unnoticed. The LTTE has been mostly fighting a defensive war, restricting their combat within what they perceive as traditional Tamil areas, and their guerrilla attacks have mostly targeted defence bases and security forces. This is in contrast to almost all other militant/terrorist organisations in the world which mainly target civilian infrastructure and inflict massive civilian casualties. Ironically, it is the Sri Lankan state that has been deploying its firepower and aerial bombing capabilities over civilian areas in the north, resulting in massive civilian casualties and damages to residences, hospitals, and other civilian infrastructure. Unlike its antagonists, the LTTE has rarely been accused or found guilty of rape and other crimes against women and children during combat. The conduct of the Sri Lankan state reveals that the ongoing military campaign has an almost genocidal streak, with the deliberate targeting of civilian areas mainly aimed to deter civilians from supporting the LTTE. Within India, especially after Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination, there has been a carefully orchestrated portrayal of the LTTE as the source of all troubles in the island. While the LTTE’s role in the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi deserves the strongest condemnation, that singular episode alone cannot be the basis for India’s Sri Lanka policy or for condemning Sri Lankan Tamils to eternal suffering. Suggestions that the emergence of an independent Tamil Eelam will hurt Indian security interests are disputable because its ethnic and political ties with India, through Tamil Nadu, will be much stronger than with a Sinhalese-dominated state. However, given a chance, most Sri Lankan Tamils will be happy to live under a greater Tamil Nadu — comprising traditional Tamil areas in the north and east of the island — as Indian citizens. But India failed to explore the option to integrate the north and east with Tamil Nadu when several opportunities presented that outcome before 1987.The historical baggage — some of which dates back to pre-Christ times — also continues to remain a major impediment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict. The British failure to present a partition plan to accommodate political aspirations of the Sinhalese and Tamils allowed earlier historical grievances to fester.The racism and blatant discrimination against Tamils in jobs, education and economic opportunities that produced the original conflict are still intact. Hence attempts to equate Sri Lanka’s ethnic problem with various insurgencies faced by India are not only inaccurate but an unfair characterisation of the Indian state.Thus viewing Sri Lanka’s ethnic conflict through the prism of Indian federalism is misleading. India has always been keen in ending the ethnic conflict by actively engaging with the Sinhalese, and has consistently advocated a federal solution to Sri Lanka’s ethnic conflict. This, according to New Delhi’s assessment, would meet the aspirations of all ethnic groups in the island. But Colombo is not prepared to offer Tamils this proposed solution, which would anyway preserve Sinhalese political dominance in Sri Lanka. The failure to take into account this deep Sihalese-Tamil divide explains the stagnation in India’s Sri Lanka policy.Colombo has always keenly followed political undercurrents in India, especially within Tamil Nadu, and has been quite successful is driving a wedge between the concerns of Tamil Nadu politics and the central government. India’s succumbing to this contemporary scheming is, in the long run, deeply inimical to its interests and security. Unless India makes a course correction, some political parties are likely to exploit the situation to revive the long-forgotten separatist propaganda in Tamil Nadu. While the NDA government was more sensitive and remained equidistant from the two warring groups, the UPA government has been providing crucial military assistance to the Sri Lankan government. India’s current policy will inadvertently lead to complete subjugation of ethnic Tamils in the island.India should not allow its long-term interests to be corroded because of the machinations of the Sinhalese and their Indian supporters, and put its own strategic interests at peril. India should intervene, as it did in East Pakistan, if Colombo does not show any sincerity in addressing the problem of Tamils and continues its deception.

Devil's Point captured by Srilankan army

ONE of the incredibly tough tasks, hitherto undertaken by Srilankan army Task Force – I troops battling in WANNI, was triumphantly completed by Thursday (13) early morning when the troops brought the entire triangular DEVIL’S POINT to the west of A-32 MANNAR – POONERYN road under their writ. The DEVIL’S POINT, one of the most anticipated targets of the Security Forces in the extreme west of KILINOCHCHI district was completely freed from LTTE, consequential upon a chain of pitched battles that lasted for a few days, following the most recent fall of KIRANCHI, PALAVI and surrounding LTTE hubs into Army hands.This geographically unique Sea Tiger base with VALLAIPADU as the main fishing town was of strategic value to the LTTE, since this extreme coastal point offered them a distinct and direct view of their northern POONERYN strongholds and newly liberated northwestern coastal areas towards central MANNAR to the south.  DEVIL’S POINT that served as one of the leading Sea Tiger training bases ever since the Tigers captured those areas has been of a symbol of prestige and military power right throughout for the eelam cause. LTTE using this coastal harbour-type cape, regularly initiated many attacks on naval vessels and other ground troops as their suicidal Sea Tigers conveniently operated from this base, launching multi-pronged sea-borne missions, on the directives of Sea Tiger leaders.  Simultaneously, this pearl-rich area remained an oasis for smuggle of arms and ammunition, explosives and contraband to the LTTE outfit because it is a quite close sea route to the southern INDIA. This fish-infested coastal area, equally rich with Kadolana plants and other greenery provided the LTTE with an ideal buffer zone, enabling Tigers to thrive on their own and operate as they wished. Tigers at their will afterwards carved out their own network of secret routes for their clandestine operations, instead of using the existing public roads that cut across to every corner in this protruding piece of picturesque land, particularly to escape aerial observations and bombardment.      Invaluable coral reefs in this ecologically important sea area around the DEVIL’S POINT are identical to the famous Great Barring Reef in AUSTRALIA and it is full of tourist attractions. It claims unique biodiversity of the best quality and records a history related to island’s foreign trade and maritime culture.The fall of DEVIL’S POINT makes the land stretch along the A-32 road now free of LTTE, enabling the troops to march further up towards the LTTE stronghold, POONERYN.

TN Assembly passes resolution calling for ceasefire in Lanka  

With Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa in New Delhi, the Tamil Nadu Assembly yesterday mounted pressure on the Centre by passing an unanimous resolution asking it to press Colombo to declare a ceasefire with the LTTE and end its military offensive in the island's north.The Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution moved by Chief Minister M Karunanidhi asking the Centre to "use its good offices," and tell Colombo to go for truce.Sri Lankan government had unilaterally scrapped a tattered 2002 ceasefire with the Tamil Tigers in Janury this year and launched a major military offensive in the north. The army is fighting to regain LTTE's last stronghold of Killinochchi. The LTTE has, however, expressed its willingness to revive the ceasefire.Karunanidhi, in his reply to the debate, said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi should take note of the resolution and ensure that the ceasefire demand did not remain just a "dream"."A ceasefire is necessary for the peaceful existence of Tamils in Sri Lanka," he said.He also urged political parties to sink their differences and asked them to stand united as "it is the unanimous wish of Tamils living the world over that a ceasefire be immediately put in place to ensure that the hardships of Tamils come to an end in Sri Lanka".The 40-year-long ethnic struggle had rendered many homeless and forced others to flee the country, even as many were killed in the army offensive, Karunanidhi said.Highlighting the "pro-Sri Lankan Tamils" activities being held in Tamil Nadu by different organisations, he said it was a result of the "impact created on the seven crore Tamils here due to the hardships faced by the Lankan Tamils." The resolution was passed as Rajapaksa arrived in New Delhi last night to take part in the BIMSTEC summit. He is expected to apprise Singh of the steps being taken by his government to protect civilian Tamils.

Batticaloa market reconstructed by USAID

One of the major sources of income for the Batticaloa Municipal Council is now restored to full capacity following the official opening of the Batticaloa Market by USAID Mission Director, Rebecca Cohn. A bustling marketplace since 1948, the Batticaloa market has been badly affected by repeated natural and man-made disasters since the late 1970s. With the successful completion of major rehabilitation activities, the market can now attract both vendors and customers with its new fruit and vegetable stalls, a new fish market, a state-of-the-art water treatment system, a cold room for the fish market, a central courtyard, and a fully rehabilitated building. USAID provided over $475,000 to improve the Batticaloa Municipal Market for the benefit of the local community, states a US Embassy media release. Throughout the process, USAID worked closely with the Batticaloa Municipal Council, the Batticaloa Chamber of Commerce, and the Eastern University. "One of the aims of USAID is to strengthen the relationships between community members and their local government leaders," said Mission Director Cohn at the opening. "The market improvements are about much more than just the beautiful new facilities and renovated buildings."

Up-country Tamils want power too
   
The Up-country People’s Front (UPF) on Tuesday called for the creation of a separate power-sharing unit for up-country Tamils by amalgamating the areas where they live in concentrations contiguously in the Central, Uva and Sabaragamuwa provinces.The proposal for the creation of a power sharing unit for up-country Tamils is among a set of fresh proposals that a UPF delegation led by its leader Minister P. Chandrasekeran handed over to All Party Representatives Committee (APRC) Chairman Prof. Tissa Vitarana on Tuesday.“We initially submitted our proposals to the Parliamentary Select Committee on Constitutional Reforms on December 12, 1994, aimed at fulfilling the aspirations of Up-country Tamils, These proposals were submitted again, on August 30, 2006, to the Experts Committee appointed by the President to look into the national problem, and finally to the APRC in 2007. While reiterating those previous proposals, we, on Tuesday submitted a set of fresh proposals, a UPF spokesman said yesterday. 

The new proposals are:

* A genuine power sharing mechanism should be evolved to fulfill the political aspirations of all nationalities in Sri Lanka.

* A power sharing unit to be created for Upcountry Tamils, by amalgamating the areas where they live in concentration and contiguously in the Central, Uva and Sabaragamuwa provinces.

If necessary, the district boundaries could be re-demarcated to carve out the proposed power sharing unit, (To our country, the Belgium model of power sharing which has both characteristics - Territorial and non-Territorial based power sharing - will be appropriate. The Territorial based power sharing unit could be carve out non-contiguously like in the Pondicherry Union Territory in India. Any other suitable non-contiguous territorial power sharing methods prevail in any other parts of the world could be considered).

* Upcountry Tamils who are living out of the proposed unit and scattered in other provinces have to be safeguarded in respect of their security, development and basic political rights. In this regard, we propose that a Development Council similar to the Community Council in Belgium be established.

The following powers should be vested with the proposed power-sharing unit

(a) Legislative Power

(b) A Chief Minister with full powers and a Council of Ministers(c) A Governor

(d) Proposed units should have the same powers as devolved to the other units inclusive of control over land and police powers.

(e) Should have the right to obtain assistance from foreign countries and other agencies for development work in the unit.

* Political representives of the Upcountry Tamils in all tiers of the political institutions (Parliament, Province/Region/Unit, Local Authorities) should be guaranteed according totheir ethnic ratio. To ensure this, the electoral, system should be reformed and a Delimitation Committee with upcountry Tamil representation should be appointed.

The delegation which met the APRC Chairman included Deputy Minister P. Radhakrishnan, UPF General Secretary S.Vijayakumaran, APRC member representing the UPF Wijayachandran, vice presidents A . Lawrence, and Sarath Atukorale.

Missing monk found

The Buddhist monk who went missing in Panama, Ampara two days ago was found in a cave at Kudumbigala jungle this morning (Nov. 13th).The monk, Ven. Kiralumulle Dhammasiri Thera was found semi conscious in a cave one km away from a hermitage which he supposed to have visited.Accompanied by Civil Defence Force members, the monk, had gone by cab to the place to handover some needs to his father at the hermitage atop a hill in the jungle.Police, backed by STF commandos, combed the Kudumbigala jungle for the missing monk.The monk was admitted to Pottuvil Hospital and transferred to Ampara Hospital for further treatment.

Opening hours of Omanthai Entry/Exit point changed

Wanni: Security Forces Headquarters in the Wanni has decided to change the duration of the opening of the Omanthai Entry/Exit point and cross loading point only from 9 am to 1 pm daily with effect from Wednesday for speedy clearance of traffic at the Entry/Exit point, Military Spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nananayakkara said yesterday. However, Brigadier Nanayakkara said that it was not the reason for the absence of the ICRC representatives there at the Entry/Exit point, the Spokesman added. ”They have apparently, not turned up at the Entry/Exit point due to some confrontations reported there. But it will be sorted out soon as they are expected to meet the Security Forces in the Wanni on Thursday”, Brigadier Nanayakkara added. He said the decision to change the opening hours of the Entry/Exit point was taken by the Security Forces in the Wanni in consultation with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). ”It was meant to accelerate the movements of food convoys and civilians within the shortest possible span of time, prevent the assembly of civilians along the stretch of no-man’s land and other areas during long hours of opening and also to ensure no harm is caused to any civilians due to intensification of military operations in peripheral areas,” the Brigadier added. However, the Entry/Exit point would facilitate the movement of ambulances with seriously-ill patients under emergency circumstances and transfer of the dead, etc as usual, in co-ordination with the ICRC at Omanthai, a statement from the Wanni Security Forces headquarters said. At present, only the lorries and other vehicles, belonging to UN organisations, District Secretariats and the ICRC cross through this check point on a regular basis in conformity with procedures. The checkpoint earlier remained open between 9 am.-5 pm., the statement further added.

Govt. strengthening Karuna & Pillayan to rob East votes

The government is strengthening the armed Karuna Amman and Pillayan factions to use them in a robbery of votes in East Province at a future election, alleged Defence Watch spokesman Mangala Samaraweera.Speaking to the media today (Nov. 13th), he said the Defence Ministry has so far failed to act against abductions and murders being committed by the two groups in East, where it is claimed democracy has been restored.Instead, "it is nurturing these terrorist groups, which are responsible for more than 100 acts of terrorism in the province since its 'liberation," he said.Speaking further, the Defence Watch spokesman said Sinhala communalism, being promoted under the sponsorship of Rajapaksa regime as one of its key political strategies, has fueled LTTE terrorism.Instead of condemning the communal-minded statement made by the army commander recently, government politicians had attempted to justify and protect him, said Mr. Samaraweera.Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa had publicly stated that Tamils arriving in Colombo should be registered with authorities, as the city was having a big influx of 'outsiders.'The 'outsiders' he had referred to are Tamil people who had lived in harmony in this country for hundreds of years, he said. Mr. Rajapaksa, who calls Tamils living in Sri Lanka outsiders does not even have the citizenship of the island, and is only a US Green Card holder, said Mr. Samaraweera. After nurturing Tamil communalism by ridiculing Tamils, the present regime is now attempting to create a Muslim communalism, he charged."Powerful government minister Patali Champika Ranawaka declared recently that this country belongs only to Sinhala Buddhists."No other in the government has so far rejected that irresponsible statement that had neglected and mocked hundreds of years of Sinhala-Muslim harmony.This could pave the way for a Muslim communalism as well, warned Mr. Samaraweera.The Defence Watch spokesman said such statements by government leaders tend to isolate Sri Lanka internationally and strengthen the LTTE by the day."The government is attempting to provoke Sinhalese against Muslims, in addition to the Sinhala-Tamil communalistic conflict. This regime governs the country by setting everybody against each other. The people of this country should understand that reality," he added.

UNP moves to save GSP+

Opposition UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday called on the Government to bring in an amendment to the Constitution to give legality to all the current international treaties and conventions and assured the Opposition would support it. Mr. Wickremesinghe made this request at a meeting with the representatives of women garment workers yesterday. He also said that implementing these conventions and treaties was a must to save the GSP+. He said the Government should comply with the Supreme Court decision which said Parliament should give legal validity to these conventions. Mr. Wickremesinghe said obtaining GSP + facility would not affect the country’s sovereignty as stated by the Government. He asked why the Government applied for the GSP + in August this year if it was going to harm the sovereignty of the country. “The Government has changed its tune and is talking of sovereignty. It vows not to bow down to the conditions of the European Union or to the UN Human Rights Ambassadors to come and monitor the human rights situation in this country” he said. He criticized the Government decision not to allow the European Union representatives to come to Sri Lankan to monitor whether the county is adhering to the conditions necessary to qualify for GSP+. He also asked as to why the Government allocated more funds for the garment sector when it could save the sector without wasting funds. “Let us together save the garment industry and save 100,000 jobs in the sector ,” he said spelling out the consequences of losing the GSP+. The Opposition Leader warned that several sectors including tea, garments, rubber and the tourism sector are collapsing today and the country would have a tough time with a shattered economy by next year.

Teacher-turned Tiger captured  
   
The Army yesterday said that security forces have captured an LTTE female fighter who happened to be a graduate English teacher still drawing her Government salary. “One of the four female Tigers captured in the Palavi area on Tuesday after fierce clashes on the Mannar-Pooneryn road happened to be a Government English teacher of a reputed school,” Army Headquarters said.It said that this teacher turned LTTE cadre, identified as  Nilaveli (28) was teaching in Grade 6-10 classes until she joined the LTTE’s ‘Saiver’ Regiment to forestall conscription of her beloved teenage brother and sister by the LTTE. Graduated from the reputed Kopay College of Education (English Faculty), she has still been drawing her Government salary and all other perks from the Education Department in Kilinochchi as a trained English teacher, it said.She was arrested at Vallayarkuttirukkumoddai, about 4 km to the east of the 7th Mile Post on the A-32 Road, close to Palavi area.The other two captured female Tigers have been identified as Kilavedi (18) and Thuruveli (19), all four of them originally from Kilinochchi, Paranthan and Mallavi areas.“She had confessed to the military that more than one hundred (100) of her counterparts, some of who are also her own batch mates, still remain with the LTTE organization, either after they were conscripted or made to join it in fear of Tiger reprisals,” it said.She had also said that she was compelled to join the LTTE purely to save the lives of her beloved teenage brother and the sister from the notorious LTTE conscription, since the LTTE has strictly ordered the surrender of at least one family member to the outfit from each family. In the same manner, almost all officials, clerks, lower grade employees of the Agriculture Department, several other Government agencies as well as officials of Kilinochchi-based Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs), following LTTE diktats have been forced to serve in the front lines whether they liked it or otherwise, the Army said quoting the captured LTTE female cadre.

LTTE part of the problem: Swamy

CHENNAI: The former Union Minister for Law and Justice, Subramanian Swamy, on Wednesday described the ‘Tamil Tigers’ [LTTE] as part of the problem of strife in Sri Lanka and not part of the possible solution. He was addressing a meeting organised by the Canadian Democratic Tamil Association for Culture in Toronto on Tuesday.Dr. Swamy maintained that while India does not support an independent Tamil Eelam and respects the integrity of Sri Lanka, nevertheless India will strive for devolution in the present Constitution of Sri Lanka as promised in the proposals of the all-party committee submitted to the Sri Lankan President. India, he said, will hold its patience till the LTTE problem is solved by its decimation in the current ongoing military action, but that sooner or later India will ask for implementation of the devolution proposals so that the large Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in India can return home. He said the Sri Lankan majority Sinhala population had a poor track record of keeping to commitments made to the Tamils, and hence Indians retain the right in the future to raise the plight of Tamils in international fora and in other meaningful ways. He pointed out that in 1987 after Sri Lanka had signed an agreement with India to have an Indian peace keeping force stationed in the island, within two years the Sri Lanka President entered into a clandestine deal with the LTTE to frustrate the Indian army and inflict casualties. The association president Suresh Elancheran proposed a vote of thanks and suggested that the time had come for an international conference of democratic Tamils for a federal Sri Lanka to be convened in New Delhi next year. Mr. Krishna Sastri of the Canada Kanchi Kamakoti Forum also spoke and congratulated the organisers.

Karuna meets police chief

Parliamentarian Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman has recently met Inspector General Jayantha Wickremaratne to discuss providing his TMVP activists with a knowledge about civil law.The TMVP had worked with the Army to liberate Eastern Province from the LTTE.At the meeting at Police Headquarters two days ago, Karuna has noted that his supporters lacked understanding of civil law.Head of administration senior DIG Mahinda Balasuriya has also attended the discussion.Karuna has earlier told Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa that his activists would be disarmed and asked that they be absorbed into the police and the Civil Defence Force.

An open appeal to the Minister Douglas Devananda by Rajasingham Jayadevan

The two news items under the captions ‘Pragmatic Political Programme of the EPDP’ and ‘Douglas Devananda: The guardian of the Tamils’ published in the Sri Lanka Guardian prompted me to write this open appeal. The purpose of writing this appeal is to touch on issues that have not (and you are unable to) addressed in these two documents.As a school time friend at Jaffna Central College and having been involved in the political activities in the late 1970’s, I too sincerely extend my birthday greetings to you when you are celebrating your 52nd birthday.Your document titled ‘Pragmatic Political Programme of the EPDP’ gives a fair account of the overall historical circumstances of the conflict in a nutshell, but unfortunately, the stages suggested to resolve the conflict are very long drawn out and complex, when all out efforts are being made by the government to undermine any political resolution to the conflict. The 13th Amendment to the constitution has become an avenue to masquerade a military solution to the conflict with the view to force a Sinhala solution (or even a non solution) through the throats of the weakened Tamils in the country.It is also feared the three stages suggested for a political resolution in your pragmatic program is only aimed to empower persons like you to preside over the running of the affairs of the north. This, I consider is a process to further weaken any permanent resolution to the conflict and only will help the government to play its rudimentary attitude towards the minority Tamil speaking people.The drama that is unfolding in the Eastern Province claiming of Provincial governance to empower people there, regretfully is a naked reflection of the insincerity of the government to belittle the Tamil speaking people on the whole. In the name of democracy, the government is doing everything behind the scene to extent its age old agenda to further marginalise the Tamil speaking people.The indigenous Tamil speaking people are being strangled by the government and the LTTE. The self proclaimed protagonist of the Tamil cause (the LTTE) in their crusade is able to continue with their writ over the Tamil people due to the intransigence and arrogance of the supremacy of the un-accommodative majority rule.As the leader of the undemocratic EPDP, it is time (though belated) to review your role in the socio-political environs of Sri Lanka for over thirty years. Dr Tellipallai C Rajaratnam’s restrictive analysis of only self-elongating of your achievements failed to address the adversities our people are encountering with the EPDP, due to the same fear they have for the LTTE.I fully condemn the dastardly violent attempts on your life by the LTTE. There was all the purpose and need for you to protect yourself to confront the threat of LTTE violence against you. But unfortunately, your activities have gone beyond limits and your EPDP is one of the most detested paramilitary groups accused of committing untold crimes by enjoying impunity from the government for its violent conduct.Over many years, numerous accusations have been levelled that your paramilitary outfit has carried out murders, kidnaps and all kinds of other human rights violations. Though some of them have been denied, I am privy to some of these accusations. It is an established fact that your paramilitary group gave birth to the white van abduction culture in Colombo and in the northern Jaffna peninsula. With the overall violent situation prevailing in the country and the government’s indifference and inaptitude to deal with these crimes, a climate has been established for the paramilitary groups to enjoy the uninterrupted freedom to engage in human rights violations against their own people without facing the laws of the land.It will be unfair if I do not touch on few specific human rights violations of your paramilitary group. The murder of the parliamentarian Maheswaran on the New Years day this year in a Hindu temple in Colombo is widely believed to have been carried by your group. The murder of BBC reporter Nimalaraj in Jaffna; causing serious bodily harm to the TNA parliamentarian and TELO Muthalvar Sivajilingam and threatening the doctors in Vavuniya to handover millions of rupees to your paramilitary group recently are some of the very serious crimes widely spoken in the community. These are crimes that have seen silent burial due to the indifference and inaptitude of the government.At the time when self elongation of your achievements are being made in the media, it is also expected a clear statement from you to respond to the various very serious allegations against you are responded and a public apology is made for the sins that were committed. Those who are working to eradicate the LTTE cannot enjoy the freedom given by the government to perpetrate the very same violations the LTTE is condemned for.It is also regretted that, being a Tamil minister, you have done very little to campaign against pro-government human rights violations against the Tamil speaking people. Most recently, when the Hindu Priest Siva Sri Siva Kadachcha Sivakugarajah was allegedly assassinated by the military in Trincomalee, you did not make any public statement to condemn the killing. Your silence over the human sufferings in the military operations in Vanni, further confirms your inability to go further than your remit as a party to the government.It is experienced that your violent campaign against the LTTE also contributed towards brutalising the Tamil civilian population further in Sri Lanka.It must be noted with considerable concern that there are allegations that you are a main functionary of the government to obediently accomplish any tasks entrusted to you. The recent pro-government demonstrations in the East to pressurise India and the failed hartal in the north were reported to have been executed by you on the instructions of the government. Indian engagement is vital for any peaceful resolution to the conflict and any such activities against India can only cause greater harm for our people.You were telling your colleagues including me recently, that you have rightly reflected to the President Mahinda Rajapakse, that you feel hopeless that you could not achieve anything for your people by aligning with the government for nearly two decades. You had told the President, unless there is substantial shift in the government’s attitude to resolve the conflict politically, you will be left with no alternative other than to either commit suicide or claim political asylum in another country to keep away from politics. But your pressure has not worked and the agenda of the government which you are part of has not changed an iota even.The President is claimed to run a manipulative government and his scheming to undermine democracy are limitless. He is extending the age old concept of Sinhalisation of the Island with the sheer brutal determination under all sorts of pretexts. Regretfully, as a party to this government and involved in the violent paramilitary campaign against the nation’s people, you have also become a participant to extend the state agenda against the Tamils.It is my humble request for you to change your course of direction in the interest of your people and the country as a whole. Time has come for you to play a different role to the one that has failed you for such a long period.Whatever your circumstances may be, it is time that immediate steps are taken to give up your paramilitary campaign against your own people. We all detest the LTTE. Let us defeat it by political means. Let us implore on the government to offer tangible political resolution to empower our people. By this process the LTTE can be withered from the society wholeheartedly.Mere military campaign and bogy stories that the Tamils must not even claim a federal system of governance must be campaigned against. The government must be compelled to invest in socio-economic-educational infrastructures without wasting the resources on its military efforts.I trust that you will consider this appeal in an overall context and in the spirit in which it is written and hope you will consider overhauling your future direction to help the suffering Tamil speaking people to redeem from their never ending sufferings.

12 November 2008

Govt. claims more airstrikes than in Vietnam charges Mangala

SLFP (M) Convener Mangala Samaraweera yesterday charged in parliament that Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapakse has gone on record stating that 14.4 million kilograms of explosives have been dropped in the Wanni."The Defence Secretary has made a fantastic story," Samaraweera quipped, stating that Rajapakse’s response to questions about the LTTE’s aerial capabilities was "they have come six times, we have bombed them 6,000 times."Samaraweera charged that the government works by "responding to terrorism with terrorism." He alleged that the Defence Secretary’s own statements were, "we have made more airstrikes than in Vietnam."The SLFP (M) Convener also said, "for the first time in our land, racism has become the policy of the government." He cited instances of the army commander stating that "minorities can’t talk minority rights" and raised alarm about Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapakse’s concern about an "unusually large influx of outsiders to Colombo.""This is the country of all people living in this country," Samaraweera stated. "When some are called outsiders, we can continue quarrelling and kill each other forever.""Gotabaya Rajapakse who calls Tamil people ‘outsiders’ is the one who dropped his Sri Lankan citizenship," the SLFP (M) Convener further charged, before reading from an oath he claimed Rajapakse had taken to become a citizen of the United States."I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen," Samaraweera read from what he said was "the very first line of the oath.""It is this Gotabaya Rajapakse who is bringing about this situation. I do not underestimate the enemy that I am facing. Any day I could be killed. But we must fight in the name of democracy," Samaraweera said.He accused "those who want to fight the war" of not sending their own children to fight it. Samaraweera cited the cases of LTTE Leader Velupillai Pirapaharan sending his children to study overseas whilst sacrificing other innocent children "for the unrealistic dream of Eelam.""Mahinda Rajapakse and Rajapakse Brothers Limited need the war to rule the country and turn it into a police state," he charged, also alleging that the government lies to the public about military casualties."In August, the Prime Minister said 155 soldiers were killed and 983 seriously wounded. Gotabaya Rajapakse’s defence.lk says only 15 soldiers were killed and 308 injured." Although the army commander has claimed "12,000 Tigers have been killed and 8,000 made disabled," Samaraweera said that "we cannot be happy with increasing statistics. We are not fighting another country.""These are all Sri Lankans being killed and wounded, whichever side they are on," Samaraweera said.The SLFP (M) also accused the army commander of insulting officers who have sacrificed their lives for the country. "President Chandrika Kumaratunga chased Velupillai Pirapaharan from Jaffna in 1995. In 1996 we captured Kilinochchi. Great generals such as Kobbekaduwa and Janaka Perera have sacrificed their lives to fight the LTTE.""But the Rajapakses gave up their citizenship of Sri Lanka and went to live in the USA. Now those who came from the USA want to set up a police state in Mugabe style," he warned."The army commander went to the USA to get his Green Card renewed," Samaraweera charged, alleging also that "he needs to do this so he can run there when something goes wrong here."Samaraweera also alleged that the Defence Ministry is setting up a "Three wheel spy service" deploying three wheelers to monitor the movement of select people, and "setting up intelligence services in rural areas."He charged that the officers in charge of handling the defence.lk website are also tasked by the Defence Secretary to "find information about journalists and make threats to them."He concluded that the government should use the APRC report instead of violence, as a weapon with which to defeat terrorism.

SL Army captured Kumulamunai village in Mullaittivu

Defence ministry of Sri Lanka said their troops of 59 Division operating in the Mullaittivu jungle have dominated Kumulamunai village last evening, 11 November, reaching another significant milestone in the Wanni Battle. Security forces dominated a part of the road running between Tannimurippu-Kulam and Kumulamunai earlier and continued their military thrust to enter the strategically important township, Kumulamunai, located 13 Km south of LTTE heartland, Mullaittivu town. Defence ministry of Sri Lanka further said Security Forces advancing at the western and eastern Kilinochchi battlefronts made simultaneous thrusts into LTTE fortifications also assisted with artillery and mortar fire from rear, as security forces claimed inflicting serious damages to LTTE yesterday(Nov 11). According to military sources, 9 LTTE bodies were also recovered during separate search operations conducted. Troops of the Task Force-1, now operating east and west of the A-32 Mannar-Pooneryn main road have further extended military defences, while battalions positioned at Kiranchchi, Palavi and west of Chunnavil commenced marching towards Veravil, Valaipadu and Devil's point areas, Defence ministry of Sri Lankasaid, The fall of Palavi today has cut-off escape routes and reinforcement to LTTE as the troops position for a final thrust into the strategic coastal LTTE fortifications at Devil's point and Valaipadu.

TNA sees security threat for Tamils in arms surrender

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) said that the security of the Tamil people will come under serious threat if the Tigers lay down their weapons.TNA parliamentarian S. Jeyanandamurthi told The Morning Leader that the while the LTTE was ready for negotiations, it will never lay down arms.The Tigers last week had said the outfit was ready for negotiations.The government said that the Tigers should first lay down their arms before coming to the negotiating table."It is absurd for the government to lay down such conditions. The security of the Tamil people will be in question if the LTTE disarms. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that the LTTE would accept the conditions put forward by the government," Jeyanandamurthi said.He said that the Tigers faced a similar situation during the Indo-Lanka peace accord. "The LTTE was asked to handover their weapons. The situation turned out very bad once the fighting started."He also said that the Tigers were no longer a guerilla organisation but a conventional outfit having its own ground, sea and air force."The LTTE is no longer a guerilla outfit. It has its own ground, sea and air force as a conventional outfit. At this stage, it is a very foolish request by the government for them to lay down their arms," he added.He also said that the civilians in the Wanni will not leave the place due to security concerns."The people in the area have said that they will not come out of the Wanni, as they would face security issues in government-held areas. They however face difficulties due to the lack of shelter and also aerial and artillery attacks by the government forces. The allegations that civilians are used as human shields are completely false," he said.

Buddhist monk abducted in Eastern Sri Lanka

A Buddhist monk was abducted from a internationally famous temple in Ampara, eastern Sri Lanka by unidentified persons last night, the police said.Police said the abducted monk has been identified as Ven. Sivuralamulle Dhammasiri Thero of the Kudumbigala Temple. Police have provided security of two Home Guards for the monk as he has been threatened several times but the sources said at the time of the abduction the Home Guards were not present. Kudimbigla Temple is in the Ampara district and is well known for its meditation programmes.

Sri Lankan Tamils' issue dominates zero hour of TN Assembly

The Sri Lankan Tamils' issue dominated the Tamil Nadu Assembly on Tuesday, with all political parties highlighting their stand on the issue. Members of various political parties competed with each other and sought the permission from the Speaker R Avudaiyappan to raise the issue during the zero hour. Following the constant shouting of the members from the opposition benches, chaos and confusion prevailed, prompting Chief Minister M Karunanidhi to intervene and request the members to patiently and separately speak their mind as it was a "welcome" decision to see all the parties "speak in one voice" on the issue. Subsequently Congress member Gnanasekaran asserted that while his party favoured a ceasefire in Sri Lanka, it however did not support the LTTE. In an apparent reference to Viduthulai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol Thirumalavan, a vocal supporter of LTTE, Gnanasekaran demanded that those expressing open support to the banned organisation in the state be arrested. He alleged that those supporting LTTE were not only idolising the leaders of the militant organisation but also demeaning the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, by an LTTE suicide bomber in Sriperumbuthur. Later, V Sivapunniyam of CPI while calling for a ceasefire, accused the Centre of not doing anything for a truce in the island nation and asked the Congress members whether they were supporting the killings of Tamils in the pretext of hunting down LTTE cadres. However, he clarified that his party did not support the LTTE.

Woman arrested with explosives
   
A woman was arrested with .5 kgs of C-4 explosives concealed in a bag at the Omanthai entry/exit point yesterday, the military said.They said she was nabbed when she was accompanying her elderly grand mother for admission to the Vavuniya general hospital after their arrival from un-cleared areas in Mullaitivu.Both these suspects from Gnanimadam, Pooneryn area had been brought to the entry/exit point by ICRC officials in their shuttle van, since the 84-year old elderly woman was sick, feeble and not able to walk.“The suspected woman, enthusiastically volunteered to have her bag checked, since she herself was curios about its unusual weight though it was bought from a shop in Puthukuduirrippu,” the army said. The woman suspect had claimed that an LTTE agent in Puthukuduirrippu asked her to buy the same bag and requested her to deliver it to a person in Vavuniya.The Vavuniya police after initial investigations are to produce the suspect before the magistrate shortly.

Obama win can reduce Sinhala-Tamil divide says one of world’s top ten thinkers

The historic win of Barack Obama can help reduce ethnic prejudices and divides throughout the world, such as those between Israelis and Palestinians and Tamils and Sinhalese. This is the view expressed by Kishore Mahbubani in the Commemorative Issue of TIME magazine on the Obama election. Mahbubani is described as one of “the world’s top ten thinkers” in the current (Nov/Dec 2008) edition of the prestigious Foreign Policy magazine published by the Washington Post foundation, and asked for his suggestions for the incoming Cabinet of President-elect Barack Obama.Mahbubani is Professor, National University of Singapore, and Dean of the Lee Kwan Yew School at that university. He is Singapore ’s former Ambassador to the United Nations. His latest book is The New Asian Hemisphere: The Irresistible Shift of Global Power to the East.  Mahbubani is one of the ten global personalities (others include David Miliband and Amartya Sen) to be invited by TIME magazine to comment on the global implications of the Obama victory for the Commemorative Issue. He says: “…And if we can reduce this deep ethnic prejudice, we may have hope for other ethnic divides, like those between the Israelis and Palestinians or Tamils and Sinhalese. If we can finally focus on our common humanity, we have a real opportunity to create a better world”.

Sri Lanka and the American example

A few months ago journalist Anita Pratap predicted that LTTE chief Velupillai Pirapaharan would drag the war till international environment favoured him.  She said Pirapaharan expected the change to occur after the change of governments in America and India. One has taken place. The other may happen by the middle of next year.Anita did not anticipate the two developments that took place last week. They were the emergence of Barrack Obama and the resurgence of Tamil nationalism in Tamil Nadu. At the time of her prediction, Hillary Clinton was the favourite Presidential candidate in America, and Anita based her calculation after Hillary Clinton declared that a distinction should be made between terrorists and freedom fighters. In India, her forecast was based on the possibility of Bharatiya Janata Party winning the next election.The election of Barack Obama as President is expected to introduce a qualitative change in world affairs, by altering the emphasis from confrontation to dialogue and understanding. It is on the basis of this assessment, that minority communities worldwide are enthused. This is especially so of Sri Lankan Tamils who in general expect a significant change in the American policy emphasis in our country.Tamils are aware, as US Ambassador Robert Blake said, that US foreign policy is largely bipartisan, and they are also conscious that its emphasis changes with change of Presidents. The overall US policy has been, as Blake summed up: “The United States is committed to a political solution to Sri Lanka’s ongoing conflict, and continues to support the people of Sri Lanka in their efforts to build a strong economy and civil society.” What the Tamils anticipate from Obama’s administration is a stronger push towards a political solution.

Obama miracle

The Tamils are not expecting the Obama miracle to happen in Sri Lanka.  Sinhala extremism has a stronger hold among the Sinhala people.  Tamils are not hoping for a member of their community to be elected the President of this country. As my colleague D.B.S. Jayaraj pointed out in his column in the Daily Mirror, the emergence of R. Premadasa was an aberration. I will just record the incident the founder leader of the Federal Party S.J.V. Chelvanayakam told me in March 1960.  He met Governor General Sir Oliver Goonetilleke with a letter supporting the Sri Lanka Freedom Party leader C.P. de Silva, whose party won 46 seats against United National Party’s 50 seats in that Parliamentary election. Sir Oliver asked him: “Couldn’t you find a better man?” He called UNP leader Dudley Senanayake, a govigama, to form the Government.Expecting an Obama miracle to occur in Sri Lanka is anticipating too much. What the Tamils expect is a political solution, which would ensure for them peace, safety, security and honour. Tamils expect the new American administration to push harder towards that direction.Developments in Tamil Nadu gladden the Sri Lankan Tamils, because the trend there is to push their central government in Delhi to pressurise Colombo for a ceasefire and a worthwhile political solution. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi had adopted that position during the last few days. In two statements on Sunday and Monday he has announced that he is going to pressurise Delhi to call for a ceasefire in Sri Lanka. He said on Sunday that ceasefire could only be effected, if the parties to the conflict agree to it.  The secretary of the Tamil Nadu branch of the Communist Party, D. Pandiyan, followed it up. He said in a statement, “Those who are fighting for the democratic rights of Sri Lankan Tamils, especially the LTTE, should declare that they are ready for a peaceful settlement through negotiations.” (Please note the words) The LTTE acted promptly. In a statement issued through its political chief B. Nadesan, it announced its readiness for ceasefire and talks. Nadesan’s statement said, “There is no hesitation on our side to reiterate our position that we have always wanted a ceasefire. It is the Government of Sri Lanka that unilaterally abrogated the ceasefire.” It added that it is still fighting a defensive war.

Ceasefire

It led to Karunanidhi’s Monday statement in which he said that since the LTTE has declared its willingness to accept a ceasefire, he is going to press the Indian government to impress on Sri Lanka the need for a ceasefire. He had also added that the talks should be with the LTTE. It looks that even the Congress Party has moved on to that position. The leader of its Tamil Nadu branch T.V. Thangabalu gave a donation of Rs. 500,000 to Tamil Nadu government’s Sri Lankan Tamil Relief Fund on behalf of the Congress Party.In a statement, he announced the results of a meeting he had with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh the previous day. He said, “The Prime Minister will speak to Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa about a ceasefire.”The most important aspect of this development is that the LTTE is no longer a bad word.  It had swiftly moved to the centre. LTTE lobbyists have capitalised on this situation. The talk of Tamil Eelam is becoming louder. The highly respected Madurai Adeenam, the equivalent of Malwatte Chapter among Tamil Hindus had issued a statement that if the Sri Lankan Government failed to provide for the autonomy for the north and east, the only alternative available for the Sri Lankan Tamils (he used the words Eelam Tamils) is Tamil Eelam.

300 TMVP cadres for CDF

Three hundred TMVP cadres will join the government security apparatus soon as members of the Civil Defence Force, TMVP Leader and Parliamentarian, Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan said.Speaking to The Morning Leader on the issue Muralitharan said that the process of recruiting the TMVP members into the Civil Defence Force had already begun."This is not a matter that came up suddenly. I have been talking about this for a long time now. The process of recruiting the TMVP cadres into the civil defence force has already begun," he said. He added that the move would help increase security in the east following the frequent attacks on TMVP cadres recently. "Several TMVP political cadres have been killed by the LTTE. The LTTE is trying to infiltrate into the east. Our cadres joining the civil defence force will ensure that there is no infiltration of the Tigers in the east. Around 300 of our members will be joining the force soon," he said.

Heavy casualties to both sides at Sempankundu Villu
 
Heavy fighting was reported last evening between the Sri Lanka Army's 58 Division and the LTTE at Sempankundu Villu. Reports indicated 30 Sri Lanka Army dead and another 50 injured in this fight as troops edged to within 2.5kms of the Pooneryn-Paranthan road.The firefight occurred in open terrain and 11 SLLI troops fought against defended LTTE positions killing at least 30 cadres. LTTE supremo has appointed Stanley, a field commander that served under Karuna who is also a Jeyanthan 'Brigade' Cadre and a group of LTTE 'Commandos' from Batticaloa to guard this area from the Army.Stanley was heard informing his cadres that this fight was a do-or-die situation that could either make or break the LTTE. But 58 Division Commanders were confident of reaching the Pooneryn-Paranthan road within the next 7 days.Meanwhile troops of the 59 Division today captured the strategically important village of Kumulamunai situated in the general area northwest of Nayaru. From Kumulamunai, the buildup areas begin and span all the way upto Mulaitivu Town. The drawbacks of fighting in a buildup area is the limited artillery support. But the Army is glad to leave the jungle behind them as the Malaria season draws near.It is likely that the 59 Division will now march eastwards to Alampil and then to Mulaitivu--a 13km journey. The LTTE still uses Alampil for sea Tiger activities. The advantages of fighting in a buildup area is that the Army now has access to an elaborate network of roads. As a result, the mobility of the 59 will increase drastically. It is also difficult for the LTTE to bury large numbers of mines and booby traps in buildup areas, like they did inside the jungles.

SRI LANKA: Operational Developments in the Eelam War –Col R Hariharan

 Operational fronts

The security forces put two weeks of sunny weather to good use, advancing their offensive further both along the Mannar coast and the axis Akkarayankulam-Kilinochchi, southwest of the administrative capital of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). According to the security sources Task Force-I formed out of 58 Division advancing on a broad front south east of A32 Mannar-Pooneryn axis are six km short of Pooneryn on October 10, 2008. They came under heavy LTTE resistance at Palayilkulam and Uruthirapuram on way. The LTTE appears to be reducing its strength in Pooneryn.  It is reported to have pulled out its three 130 mm How guns from Kalmunai point in the Pooneryn salient. This would indicate that the LTTE would then pull out from Pooneryn in small trickles even as it resists the advancing forces.  The LTTE have the options to infiltrate into Jaffna peninsula and the Kayts Island group,  and Kilinochchi. The Kilinochchi option might not come through as the Task Force-I is moving to cut off Pooneryn - Paranthan road which joins the A9 Kandy-Jaffna highway. We can expect the navy to come into action in the last phase of Pooneryn operations both to contain and hunt down the LTTE cadres getting out through the lagoons around Pooneryn. The navy is reported to have deployed special boat squadrons to prevent such    moves of LTTE. The capture of Pooneryn would open up the A32 maintenance route to Jaffna in the coming weeks through the Sangupiddy ferry, relieving a major burden on the security forces in providing air and sea logistic support to Jaffna administration. After shifting from Kalmunai, the LTTE guns would not be able to engage Palali airfield and Jaffna forces headquarters. 57 Division advancing west of A9 captured by October 6 the well sited Akkarayankulam defence complex after three weeks of intermittent operations. It also claimed to have neutralized the long bund obstacle after fighting a few bitter battles. Its progress is slow due to strong opposition from the LTTE as well as heavy booby trapping of the route of advance. Forces of 57 Division are said to have reached Kokkavil on the A9 highway increasing the pressure on Kilinochchi. 57 Division is said to be consolidating itself 9 km southwest of Kilinochchi beyond Akkarayankulam. In a bid to prevent any intrusion of the eastern flank of 57 Division from the LTTE, which is dominating the A9 highway from Mankulam to Kokkavil, the Army Commander Lt Gen Sarath Fonseka inducted the newly created Task force-III into this area. The task force, a weak division, operating parallel to the A9 highway on the west is said to have gained control of three km stretch of road from Mankulam northwards. This operation further increases the options available to Gen Fonseka to further progress the offensive.   

LTTE's options

The increase in force levels of the security forces following the induction of Task Force-III has further reduced the options available to the LTTE to launch a counter offensive at a place of its choosing. After the fall of Pooneryn, the Sea Tiger operations also would be curtailed if not stopped along western coast from Mannar to Southern Jaffna coast. So the LTTE will do what it knows best. Increase its guerrilla operations - the whole bouquet of sneak raids, suicide bombings, and killings - making them more deadly, catching the security forces on the back foot well away from the battlefield. The recent air strikes on Kelaniya power station and Thalladi military base in Mannar district are examples of such efforts. The air strikes succeeded because the air force elements in the rear areas were not mentally ready for taking on the wily LTTE intruder. For this purpose the LTTE is trying out novel methods to smuggle in material for  suicide bombings and raids particularly in the eastern province and in Vavuniya district. Attacks on TMVP cadres and the STF, attributed to the LTTE have also increased in the east. However, so far the LTTE had not been able to disturb the government focus on war or trigger any major change in operational situation.  As pressure is building up on Kilinochchi defences, the LTTE could beef them up with cadres from Muhamalai front. Perhaps to prevent this possibility, 53 Division from Muhamalai had been keeping an offensive posture carrying out small but sharp attacks on the LTTE's forward defence lines. There is a strong possibility that the LTTE had already thinned out a major strength from Pooneryn along with the long range artillery moved out earlier. This would enable to strengthen the LTTE core strength in area Kilinochchi up to forward lines of Muhamalai front in the north. Thus the LTTE's sphere of operations is likely to be further constricted as more sunny days are predicted by weather watchers. The recent 'reiteration' LTTE's readiness for ceasefire made by Nadesan, the political head of the LTTE, should be seen in this operational context. It is likely the LTTE would play its political strong suite with the Tamil Nadu card with emphasis on ceasefire as the core theme in Prabhakaran's Maveerar Day (Heroes Day) address in two weeks time. If the LTTE announces a unilateral ceasefire, the Tamil Nadu politicians' call for a ceasefire would get a new lease of life brushing aside the cynicism clouding the political moves in Tamil Nadu. That could create a lot of embarrassment for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi.  If this is calculus is in the thoughts of Sri Lanka, we might see a large scale escalation of offensive in most of the war fronts in the coming two weeks.  

Battle Casualties

According to the details given in Sri Lanka parliament, during last month the security forces suffered 171 killed and 1122 injured in operations, most of them around the Akkarayan defence complex. In comparison, during the operations in July 2008 the security forces lost 106 men and 662 were wounded. The large increase in the security forces casualties would indicate the fierce resistance put up by the LTTE.  According to security sources the LTTE suffered nearly 700 killed, more than four times suffered by the security forces  in the same period in October 2008. Though these figures have not been verified by other sources, it is clear that casualties are hurting the LTTE more than the security forces as their overall strength and bank of recruits are much less. With the continuing exodus of civilians from the war affected areas, the LTTE would probably press more people of all ages into the war effort. This would further increase civilian casualties.  The morale of hardcore LTTE fighters defending the approaches to Kilinochchi is apparently still high as indicated by their ability to inflict high casualties on the troops, despite their own loss of men and territory. On the other hand, the security forces appear to be mentally prepared to press ahead with the offensive regardless of their casualties. Lt Gen Sarath Fonseka, the Army Commander, in an interview claimed that 80 percent of the operation against the LTTE was over. Yet he estimated the LTTE strength at 12000. (In my own estimate, the LTTE strength of 12000 if accurate would probably be made up of 4000 hardcore cadres, and 2000-3000 young recruits. The rest are probably civilian auxiliaries pressed into service.) This appears to contradict the success claimed in the so called war strategy of attrition and annihilation of the LTTE. The government for the time being is probably only aiming to regain control over major parts of LTTE controlled north and open up a land based logistic route to Jaffna peninsula than carry on the war of attrition forever against the LTTE.

Veracity of information

The battle zones in the north are closed to independent media.Now international NGOs operating in the area have also vacated under the orders of the government. The only major source of information on operations is the defence spokesman and the government media. Under the new government regulatory dispensation for media, even the state TV is reported to be undergoing live censor. The LTTE, a closed organization, usually does not report the whole truth on casualties or operational details. Now the LTTE propaganda and media organs are mostly silent on the war. They are giving little additional information. So all operational assessments now suffer from a lack of verification through independent and unbiased sources of information  Despite this handicap and the asymmetry of insurgency environment, operational analysis follows inevitable military logic and reasoning on which warfare is based. By this yardstick, however much the information sources are suspect, a few home truths can be ferreted out in the present war situation in Sri Lanka. This tells us the LTTE has lost a major portion of its territory in the north and the whole of the east since January 2006. In the course of this, the LTTE has suffered heavy casualties, many times more than the security forces tally. Overall, the LTTE is now poised to lose its vital grip on the Jaffna peninsula's logistics jugular. In times to come this would reduce LTTE's influence on Tamils, provided their grievances are attended to by the government. Only time will tell whether the government would seize the opportunity, instead of talking only in terms of attrition, because so many such opportunities in the past were frittered away.

11 November 2008

Sri Lankan TELO MPs in Delhi seeking ceasefire

Two Sri Lankan TELO MPs sympathetic to the Tamil Tigers are here to meet political leaders as part of their efforts to bring about a ceasefire in their country.N. Srikanth and M.K. Shivajilingam of the Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization (TELO) will also take part in a demonstration sponsored by the Communist Party of India (CPI) here Friday in support of a truce in Sri Lanka."Our aim is to impress upon (Indian) national political parties that there should be a concerted campaign to induce Sri Lanka to agree to a ceasefire with the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam)," Srikanth told IANS.This should be a prelude to a resumption of negotiations between Colombo and the LTTE, he added.The TELO MPs, who arrived from Chennai, have plans to meet leaders of the Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) among others.Srikanth said the LTTE was "quite serious" about a ceasefire in Sri Lanka, where relief agencies say thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes because of renewed fighting in the island's north.He added, however, that despite suffering "some reverses", the LTTE was far from being militarily defeated.Srikanth and Shivajilingam said they found in India enormous sympathy for the Tamil people of Sri Lanka."We are going to tap on that," Srikanth said. "There is understanding and sympathy (in India) despite certain historical blunders on the Tamil side."The reference was clearly to the assassination of former Indian prime minister Rajiv Gandhi by a LTTE suicide bomber in 1991 that forced New Delhi to outlaw the Tigers.Sri Lanka has in recent months twice rejected the LTTE's offer of a ceasefire. Colombo says it will talk to the LTTE only when the group gives up its weapons.

Troops dominate another LTTE built-up - Palavi  

Troops of Task Force 1 operating in the western half of the Kilinochchi front have dominated another LTTE strong point, Palavi built-up area, reaching to a significant phase of the Wanni liberation offensive last evening, 10 November. Troops advanced towards Pooneryn from west of A-32 main road and have gained total control over the Palavi built-up area located 8Km northeast of Veravil and 6 1/2 Km west of A-32 main road, defence sources said. Dominating the Palavi built-up is strategically vital as this will cut-off the LTTE's main access route running parallel to the western coastal border from Veravil to Chempankundu. Troops are now consolidating defences in the area.

Persuade Lanka for truce, MK tells Centre

Ever as the Sri Lankan government refused to effect a ceasefire until the LTTE lays down arms, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on Monday asked the Centre to act swiftly to prevail upon the Rajapaksa government to make them come to the negotiating table by declaring a truce.Reiterating that both the Tigers and the Sri Lanka government should agree for a negotiated political settlement and for declaring simultaneous ceasefire, the Chief Minister said Lankan government had the responsibility and duty to work for a negotiated political settlement. India should immediately prevail upon the Lakan government in this regard and make it act accordingly, he added.In a statement here, Karunanidhi recalled the statement made by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on October 14 that military solution would not be possible for the ethnic issue in Sri Lanka and only a negotiated political settlement was possible. Karuanidhi also cited the remarks made by External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee on October 22. Mukherjee had advocated a peacefully negotiated political settlement w i t h i n t h e framework of a united Sri Lanka, respecting the legitimate rights of the minorities including the Tamil community.Following the call of Karunanidhi, the LTTE’s political head B Nadesan, on November 9, stated that the LTTE was ready for a ceasefire with the government.However, he did not say whether the LTTE would comply with the condition of the Lankan government to lay down arms. While PMK founder S Ramadoss took strong exception to the Chief Minister’s call, CPI State secretary T Pandian supported Karunanidhi’s view and asked the LTTE to declare a ceasefire.

President's India visit crucial

Presidential media sources say that the President Mahinda Rajapakse left for India yesterday evening (10) to participate in the conference of the Bay of Bengal Regional Technical and Economic Corporation held in New Delhi.Presidential Secretary Lalith Weerathunga also accompanied the President to attend the conference held on 13th.The President is likely to meet Indian Premier after this conference. The President is expected to hand over the framework of solution for the ethnic problem of Sri Lanka.Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe is also to meet Indian Prime Minister after the President's visit. A group of representatives of Tamil National Alliance (TNA) are also to visit India.

Troops regain Kiranchi

Kiranchi: Troops attached to the 58 Division yesterday took control of Kiranchi, one of the handful of Sea Tiger bases the Tigers had on the North Western coast, military officials told the Daily News yesterday. Kiranchi, located northwest of Nachchikuda, which fell to the hands of the Security Forces two weeks back, was captured by the 58 Division troops as they completely cut off the land area from north of Nachchikuda to south of Chempangundu on the A-32 road up to the seventh Mile post. “With the capture of Kiranchi the LTTE is left with only Palavi, Vallaipadu and Devil’s Point before the fall of Pooneryn, the northernmost unloading point of the LTTE,” a senior Military official told the Daily News. Kiranchi, is located away from the shore and the LTTE had used it as one of their cargo loading points with a Pier constructed by them. “The LTTE may have used this area to unload their cargo due to its strategic location which cannot be reached by the Navy,” the official added. “The LTTE had apparently used this Sea Tiger base after the fall of Vidathalthivu, their main Sea Tiger Base on the North Western coast,” the official added. The LTTE is also on the verge of losing Palavi and Vallaipadu on the North Western coast within the next few days with troops of the 58 Division under the command of Brigadier Shavendra Silva due to march towards Pooneryn.

Weerawansa's poster campaign ready even before Army captures Kilinochchi

The government is postponing the capture of Kilinochchi since August 23 Provincial Council election. Then the Prime Minister cum Deputy Defense Minister Rathnasiri Wickramanayaka said that the forces could see even the buildings of Kilinochchi town. Army Commander Sarath Fonseka said on September 25 that the first shot would be fired at Kilinochchi within a week.Prabakaran said after that capturing Kilinochchi was a dream of Mahinda Rajapakse.Meanwhile, the reports coming from the battlefield say that the forces in operation area in a competition to achieve the credit of capturing and hoisting the national flag in Kilinochchi.In the same way, various war mongering groups are also in a struggle to claim the credit of the victory. The poster is in store for almost two months now until the moment is ready for being pasted on walls.

Kilinochchi, Paranthan air raids displace 12,000, says Senadhiraja

Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Jaffna district MP Mawai Senadhiraja says that due to aerial attacks launched in Kilinochchi and Paranthan during the past days 12,000 Tamil people have been displaced. A number of civilians have injured too, he said.Senadhiraja said to 'Lanka-e-News' that the displaced are undergoing a severe shortage of food, medicine and treatment for the injured.Commenting on LTTE's interest for a ceasefire, he said that it was a response to the plea of the Tamil Nadu leaders that LTTE should also agree for a ceasefire. The TNA MP pointed out that it was the government that withdrew from ceasefire and expelled the facilitator Norwegians and therefore the government was responsible for the situation.He said that a representation of TNA MPs would go to India within the next couple of weeks and would have dialogue with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Sing and Congress leader Sonia Gandhi about the ethnic problem of Sri Lanka.

2 STF commandos & 2 soldiers killed in East

Two Sri Lanka Special Task Force commandos were killed in a mine attack in Kanchikudichchiaru jungle yesterday noon (Nov. 10th), ‘Tamil Net’ reports.Citing the LTTE command in Ampara, the website says that one STF commando sustained serious injuries in the attack.The ambush was carried out while an STF unit was on a patrol in the area, it further adds.Speaking to ‘Lanka Dissent’, police spokesman, SSP Ranjith Gunasekera said that such an incident was not reported from the area.‘Tamil Net’ also says that two Sri Lanka Army soldiers, who were on a road patrol on Pankulam main road in Trincomalee, were killed when a Tiger ambush unit attacked them at 6.10 am on Nov. 08th.Citing a media release from the LTTE in Trincomalee, the website further says that the soldiers were riding in a motorbike, which was destroyed in the attack. Attempts to contact the Army spokesman, Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara over the incident were unsuccessful.Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Army yesterday handed over seven bodies of LTTE members killed in recent battles to the ICRC officials in Vavuniya. The ICRC representatives have taken the LTTE bodies to uncleared areas crossing the entry/exit point in Omanthai around 1.30 pm yesterday, Army sources said.

Special tribunal in India extends ban on LTTE by two years

NEW DELHI: A special tribunal headed by a Delhi High Court judge yesterday upheld the Centre’s notification for extending the ban on LTTE for another two years. The notification extending the ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, declaring it as an unlawful association, was issued by the Union Home Ministry on May 15. Justice Vikramjeet Sen, who was heading the special tribunal constituted under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, upheld the Government decision saying that there is sufficient evidence against the organisation to justify the extension of ban. The group-led by V Prabhakaran has been proscribed as a terrorist organisation by several countries including the United States. The LTTE was involved in the assassination of former Indian prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in May 1991 and the group has been banned by India since 1992.Additional Solicitor General P P Malhotra, while appearing before the tribunal, had contended that although the LTTE was based in Sri Lanka, it had sympathizers and agents on the Indian soil and there was urgent need to continue with the ban.

LTTE moving 130mm howitzers?
 
The Sri Lankan Army entered the village of Kiranchi yesterday after Tigers started withdrawing from the village in the face of the superior firepower of the 58 Division and the guile of the 2 Commando Regiment. A few Tiger units are still trapped inside the land mass at Devil's Point.Kiranchi is the southern-most village at Devil's point, a strategic area for the LTTE for over two decades and often used as an area to observe movements at sea. The village was being infiltrated by 2 Commando along with Valaipadu and Palavi, as part of an overall strategy of making the areas west of the A-32 unsafe for LTTE, particularly after LTTE units withdrawing from Nachchikuda started moving towards Pooneryn and Devil's Point. By Friday, Tigers had almost completely withdrawn from Kiranchi. They are expected to completely abandon Devil's Point within the next few days.58 Division troops are close to cutting off land-based escape routes for the trapped Tigers. 11 SLLI and 8GW troops operating ahead of 8th Mile Post on the A-32 are facing Chempiankundu Villu marshland from where they have around 3km to reach the Pooneryn-Paranthan road. The Tigers are expected to put up stiff resistance in this area.If the road is captured, Tigers may start withdrawing from Pooneryn. Intelligence reports claim they have already moved 130mm howitzers from Pooeryn towards Paranthan along the Pooneryn-Paranthan road. If these reports are accurate, the threat to Jaffna has now been considerably reduced.Tigers would have to recalculate their arti trajectory, acquire new targets and locations on GPS and DGPS and make new maps based on these calculations on latitudinal and longitudinal grids from areas south of Muhamalai and Kilali upto Elephant Pass or even Paranthan if they are to effectively defend against a southwards push by the 53 Division and the Mechanized Infantry. This could take weeks, even months.For the Army, the push towards Pooneryn is a real investment for the future. If Pooneryn is captured, there is a serious possibility of the Navy operating a ferry between Sangupiddi Jetty in Pooneryn and Kerativu in Chavakachcheri. Not only will the government save money with such a move but the Army will save valuable deployment time by transporting troops by land to and from Jaffna.Soldiers will be fresh when they get off in Jaffna or when they reach Mannar or Anuradhapura on leave. The Government may also build a bridge between the two points, which is nothing considering recent projects in the East and elsewhere including the new flyovers near Colombo and in the suburbs.

One thousand Tamil detainees demand justice

Tamil youth who had been held in custody as remand prisoners without charges being filed against them or releasing them for long periods, had gone on a one day token hunger strike yesterday (Nov. 10th).It had been a co-ordinated single day protest by youth held in Colombo, Batticoloa, Anuradhapura and Trincomalee remand prisons.Issuing a statement, the Civil Monitoring Commission (CMC) Convener, Colombo district MP Mano Ganesan says there are over 1,000 Tamil remand prisoners without proper investigations and trail and they are subjected to mental and physical torture.MP Ganesan blames both the Police and the Attorney General departments for their negligence in either taking steps to file charges against these Tamil youth and allowing them the right to legally defend themselves in Courts of Law, or releasing them if charges can not be filed.Referring to a FR petition that came before Supreme Courts early this year, MP Ganesan says in his statement, “Police department came under the observation of the Supreme Court early this year when Chief Justice Sarath N. Silva said that the police should either send the files of the suspects to the Attorney General to frame charges against them if there is any or release them unless there are charges.”But the situation has not improved, he notes in his statement, saying the CMC would initiate legal action on such cases.

Another TMVP office attacked

Two operatives of the TMVP Karuna Faction were killed when unidentified persons fired upon their office at Vavunativu in Batticaloa last night (Nov. 10th).There had been six persons at the building when it came under attack around 10.30 pm, police said.Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman has told a newspaper that he would ask the president to arrest LTTE members who were murdering his supporters in the East.Several of his offices came under attack recently, leaving a considerable number of his loyalists dead or wounded.'Tamilnet' has reported that an attack by LTTE commandos claimed the lives of four Karuna supporters, while five others went missing.The Tigers had also seized five TMVP members along with their weapons, the website has added.

10 November 2008

'India should intervene on the Lankan issue'-PMK Ramadoss           
 
Ramadoss said that the PMK would move a motion in the Tamil Nadu assembly session, to pass a resolution on a ceasfire in Sri lanka and stopping of military attacks on Lankan Tamils.He expressed the hope that the Centre would exert pressure on Sri Lanka to effect a ceasefire between the Army and LTTE and said  the situation in Sri lanka now was similar to that in 1971-72 during the liberation of Bangladesh.If India intervenes on the issue, the problem can be solved within a day, he opined.He also urged Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi to exert pressure on the Centre to bring about a ceasefire in the island nation.The PMK leader said he would soon meet Congress president Sonia Gandhi on this issue and was waiting for the visit of Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa on November 13.

Ceasefire will bring 'disaster'   
 
There is a widespread belief that India is forcing a ceasefire in Sri Lanka, the chief minister of the eastern province said.Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, widely known as Pillayan, told a gathering in Kalmunai that such a scenario would create a 'disastrous' situation in the east. "The details of the development in the eastern province are not being brought to the notice of the Indian politicians and the lack of complete understanding by politicians in India, the changes that are taking place in the East are not being projected properly. In this back ground there is a big expectation that a cease fire has to be announced due to the pressures from Indian people or other outside forces," he said. The chief minister was addressing the a cultural festival organised by the province's education ministry.Politicians in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu earlier called upon the Indian government to broker a truce between the LTTE and Sri Lankan government. However, Tamil Nadu politicians did not implement the threat to resign from parliament in the event of the central government failing to broker a deal.

India's concerns

After meetings held with President Rajapaksa's special envoy Basil Rajapaksa in Delhi, India announced sending 800 tonnes of essential supplies for civilians caught in the conflict in Vanni. While emphasising the need to deal against terrorism 'with resolve' a bilateral statement also re-iterated the need for a 'political solution' for Sri Lanka's ethnic conflict. Sri Lanka's main opposition, United National Party (UNP), along with the local media say that India has forced Sri Lanka to enter into a truce with the LTTE. "If such a situation arises, changes taking place in the east will be brought to and end and the situation will be disastrous again," chief minister Pillayan has said.

TMVP 'fractions'

He is the deputy leader of the paramilitary turned political party, Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Puligal (TMVP).Meanwhile, TMVP leader Vinayagamurthy Muralitharan (Karuna), MP, told BBC Sandeshaya that they have sought aid from the military in order to "stop the LTTE infiltrating the TMVP". At least 11 TMVP members were shot dead during the last month, he added.Mr. Muralitharan rejected suggestions that these killings were a result of fractional fighting between his loyalists and members loyal to the chief minister. In an earlier interview with the BBC Sandeshaya, MP Muralitharan said that disciplinary action will be taken against members of the TMVP loyal to him who have been accused of carrying out an attack on an office manned by the chief minister.

'1987 Indo-Sri Lanka pact only solution to Tamil problem'

Tamil Nadu Congress president K.V. Thangkabalu said Sunday that the Tamil conflict in Sri Lanka can be resolved only by implementing an accord New Delhi and Colombo signed in 1987.'The only solution to the Tamil people's issues can be through the application of the accord signed between (then Indian) prime minister Rajiv Gandhi and (then Sri Lankan) president J.R. Jayewardene in 1987. And this will be possible (only) after the warring sides cease fighting,' Thangkabalu said here.The accord was signed to devolve powers to the Tamil minority. But it failed as Indian troops deployed in Sri Lanka's northeast got locked in fighting with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).Thangkabalu's comments came after LTTE political head Nadesan told a television channel that his outfit was ready for a ceasefire to end the killings of Tamil civilians in Sri Lanka.Thangkabalu expressed his opinion after meeting Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. The Congress leader handed over a cheque of Rs.500,000 to the chief minister towards relief for the Tamils of Sri Lanka.Meanwhile, over 500 television artistes and technicians began a day-long hunger strike here Sunday demanding 'an end to the killings in Sri Lanka'. The protest began with a speech by Bharatiya Janata Party national secretary and Rajya Sabha member S. Thirunaavukkarasar.This is the fourth major protest by the entertainment industry in recent weeks.External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee has ruled out any effort by the Indian government to initiate a ceasefire in Sri Lanka.Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa is to visit New Delhi this month to explain Colombo's stand on the conflict to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

President to brief Indian leaders on APRC progress

President Mahinda Rajapaksa will brief Indian leaders on the progress made by the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) when he visits India this week, said Minister of Science and Technology and Chairman of the APRC Prof. Tissa Vitharana. Prof. Vitharana commenting on the APRC process which has been expedited said that the APRC is holding two meetings per week to reach an early resolution. “We are happy with the progress that has been made by the APRC. So far concessions have been reached on ninety per cent of the issues tabled at the APRC. We are confident that the rest of the ten per cent issues will also be resolved favourably”, Prof Vitharana said. Declining to comment on the date of the release of the final report,Prof Vitharana said that it could be expected soon.

Sri Lanka: Rebels must lay down arms before talks

Sri Lanka's government said Monday that Tamil separatists must lay down their arms before cease-fire negotiations can begin, as the military continued heavy ground and air attacks on the guerrilla de facto state in the north."We can't trust them with arms in their hands," government spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said, accusing the Tamil Tiger rebels of using a previous truce to rebuild their strength.On Sunday, a rebel-affiliated Web site reported that the Tigers were willing to consider a cease-fire. The government has recently stepped up an offensive aimed at ending the group's 25-year-old civil war, which has killed more than 70,000 people."There is no hesitation on our side to reiterate our position that we have always wanted a cease-fire," the TamilNet site quoted rebel political wing head Balasingham Nadesan as saying.Nadesan said the rebels were only fighting a defensive war that the government has forced them into, TamilNet reported.The government officially withdrew earlier this year from a nearly 6-year-old Norwegian-brokered cease-fire that had been openly violated by both sides.Rambukwella said the government had "enough experience" with Tamil Tiger truces, and that every time the rebels "get weakened militarily, they call for a cease-fire and within the process, they get strengthened."The rebels "should lay down arms before any negotiations," he said.In recent months, government troops have made dramatic progress in fighting against the rebels in the north, seizing a series of guerrilla bases and chunks of land, but the rebels have offered stiff resistance.The military says army troops are closing in on the rebels' administrative capital, Kilinochchi.On Sunday, air force fighter jets hit a rebel artillery gun position and a command center near Kilinochchi, air force spokesman Janaka Nanayakkara said. Army troops also pushed into the rebel stronghold of Ponneryn in the north, causing heavy damage to the guerrillas, the military said. It did not provide details of casualties.Rebel officials were not available for comment because most communication lines to guerrilla-held areas have been severed.The Tamil Tigers have been fighting since 1983 to create an independent homeland for ethnic minority Tamils, who have suffered marginalization at the hands of successive governments controlled by ethnic Sinhalese.

Twin air raids on LTTE targets  
   
Air Force fighter jets launched two air strikes targeting LTTE positions in Kilinochchi yesterday afternoon, Air Force said.Air Force spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said the jets launched simultaneous air strikes targeting a Sea Tiger Command Centre located 1 km West of Paranthan junction and an LTTE artillery gun position located 6 km South-east of Pooneryn, both were in the Kilinochchi district.He said the targets were engaged effectively citing operational sources.

TNA awaiting invite to APRC

The Tamil National Alliance (TELO,TULF,ACTC and EPRLF) last week said it was yet to receive an official invitation by the government to participate at the All Party Representatives Committee (APRC).APRC Chairman Prof. Tissa Vitharana had on Tuesday invited the UNP, JVP and TNA to join the APRC proceedings to work out a political solution to the national question. Prof. Vitharana said that the 86th session of APRC deliberations was held on Monday (3).  According to Prof. Vitharana, there are 13 political parties inclusive of 11 government and two opposition parties.The JVP and the UNP have continued to boycott APRC meetings since 2006 and 2007 respectively.TNA Parliamentarian, Mavai Senathiraja told The Sunday Leader that the party would take a decision on whether to participate at APRC meetings once it receives the official invitation by the government.“There has been an invitation by the government for the TNA to take part at the APRC meetings. But, we still have not received an official invitation requesting the party to take part at these meetings. We can only take a decision once we receive an official invitation,” Senathiraja said. It was also reported that a TNA delegation  would be going to India to meet  politicians of the central government. Senathiraja however said that the visit was still tentative and the dates of the visit have not been decided.  A delegation of the TNA, which was in Tamil Nadu last month had met Tamil Nadu politicians and artistes who staged protests against the attacks on Tamils in Sri Lanka.

2 SLA killed in Trincomalee ambush - LTTE

Two Sri Lanka Army (SLA) soldiers, who were on a road patrol on Panku'lam main road in Trincomalee district, were killed when a Tiger ambush unit attacked them at 6:10 a.m. on Saturday, according to a media release from the LTTE in Trincomalee. The soldiers were riding in a motorbike, which was destroyed in the attack, according to the Tigers. The LTTE has recently stepped up ambush attacks on Sri Lankan forces and raided paramilitary mini-camps in the districts of Eastern province. Meanwhile, there has also been reports of clashes between the factionalised TMVP paramilitary.

Army Commander’s term heading for extension

All indications are Army Commander Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka will be given a further extension of one year on reaching the age of 58 in December, in order to complete the job of bringing the LTTE to its knees, militarily.Sources said that with the Army performing well on all fronts, there was no necessity to even consider changing its Commander, especially with the incumbent being held in high esteem by his fighting men.This week saw some key positions in the Army changing hands. Master General Ordinance, Maj. Gen. Asoka Thoradeniya was moved to Army Headquarters with his retirement due on December 8. Eastern Commander Maj. Gen. Dhammika Liyanage succeeded as Master General Ordinance. Maj. Gen. Srinath Rajapaksa, the Commander of 51 Division assumed duties as Commander East. Commander of 21 Division Brig. Priyantha Jayasundera took over the command of 51 Division. Second in Command of 57 Division Brig. Senaka Wickramaratne assumed command of 21 Division. Col. Aruna Wanniarachchi who headed the 52-2 Brigade rose as Deputy Commander of 57 Division. These changes were effected by Military Secretary Maj. Gen. Deepal Alwis.Army Headquarters Sources said soon 33 Colonels will be elevated to the rank of Brigadier. In addition, the Army Commander has ordered raising the cadre of generals in the force by four. At least five senior major generals are scheduled to retire next year on reaching the age of 55, unless they are given extensions by the President.

Farmers talk of post-LTTE east

Farmers in eastern Sri Lanka say they were ordered to pay for the land they cultivated for decades while offering the land for companies.Farmers in Kantale told BBC Sandeshaya that the Mahaveli Authority has ordered them to pay a Rs. 2000 tax per season per acre to continuation of their use of paddy fields. "I have been cultivating this for 31 years," said a paddy cultivator.Though not having land titles deeds, they were hoping to be allowed to continue farming the land after the government re-captured the east from Tamil Tigers. "The government can offer all this land to the farmers. It is not impossible to give at least two acres to every farmer," another farmer said. They say authorities have offered tens of thousands of acres of land for few private companies to cultivate cash crops.The farmers in Samagipura, Samanalapalama and Suriyapura villages in Kantale recently protested the government imposed tax on paddy lands.

East 'liberation'

They accused the people's representatives of not listening to their concerns."We were warned that we will be taken to the police if we cultivate the land," a protester told BBC Sinhala Service.As only one monsoon rain falls to the east, the farmers who are trying to use rain water for cultivation are now facing a bigger hurdle than the threats faced form the LTTE beofre the east was re-captured, they say. "This tax is very unfair".KK Wickramasinghe is a farmer from Samgipura."The current situation is much more worse than facing LTTE attacks. They said the east was liberated for the people in the east. But now it seems LTTE was chased away to help big companies," he said. Many villagers however were of the opinion that President Mahinda Rajapaksa was not aware of the real situation in the east.

Corn and Soya

Jayasinghe Bandara, Kantale Farm Manager of Mahaveli Authority told BBC Sandeshaya that the government has taken a policy decision to offer two and half acres of farmland to farmers who previously cultivated. "The cabinet has offered 2000 acres to a company to cultivate Soya and Corn," he said.However, he refused to comment on whether the companies were offered land for the same rate of Rs. 2000 per season.The Janantha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) parliamentarian Jayantha Wijesekara also raised the issue at a meeting held on 28 October.At the same meeting, Nation Building minister Susantha Punchinilame said that farmers will not be given lands 'under the law of the jungle'. When JVP parliamentarian pressed on the issue, the minister agreed that the same rule should apply to the companies.Minister Punchinilame later told BBC Sandeshaya that the landless villagers will be legally offered land 'very soon'. 

CPI to seek ceasefire in Sri Lanka

SALEM: Communist Party of India (CPI) will press for immediate ceasefire in Sri Lanka and the same demand will be raised in the forthcoming session of Tamil Nadu Assembly, said senior party functionary R. Nallakannu.Talking to the mediapersons here on Sunday, Mr. Nallakannu said that since the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam had expressed its willingness to cease hostilities, the Sri Lankan Government should reciprocate it.

Demand

The Chief Minister, M. Karunanidhi, should take up this issue with the Prime Minister, he further added.

Youths

Highlighting the same demand, around 1000 youths belonging to Tamil Nadu unit of All India Youth Federation would stage a demonstration in front of Parliament on November 14. He insisted that the relief materials should be disbursed to the displaced Tamils through Red Cross.

Agitations

CPI also would stage agitations in district headquarters on November 18 to protest against the steep hike in vegetables, rice, dal etc. He expressed his anguish over the recent caste-related violence in southern districts and wanted the Government to take immediate steps to bring normality and peace.

Action sought

He demanded stringent action against those who were instigating caste flare-ups.

The realities of a surface-based war in Wanni

By this evening the Sri Lanka Army’s 58 Division was 6 kilometers from the Pooneryn-Paranthan road. Military tacticians will aim for this road, instead of heading directly for Pooneryn; a tactic we have observed numerous times in the recent past. Tigers will be forced to withdraw from Pooneryn but would have to avoid annihilation by the Special Boat Squadron and RABS boats deployed in the Kilali Lagoon. Their best bet would be to escape towards India rather than risking a perilous journey to Chalai in the northeastern coast. At least 40 RABS units are waiting for them from Kilali to Chalai. As we noted many weeks ago, the Sri Lanka Army will probably checkmate the LTTE’s Kilinochchi stronghold, not from the current operation by the 57 but from the operation working its way towards Paranthan from the northwest. Military tacticians have long realized that there’s more than one way to take Kilinochchi. Currently, the Tigers are using maximum force to hold down the 57 Division at Iranamadu, Akkarayan and Kokavil general areas. They cannot afford the 58 moving towards Paranthan from the Pooneryn-Paranthan road. This would make Muhamale and Kilinochchi untenable. But the Army is not going to stop at that. It’s going to crisscross the LTTE and dissect it from top to bottom, left to right and every other imaginable way possible. During a recent briefing, General Fonseka explained the role of the newly formed Task Force 3 claiming it would move from the west to the east from Mankulam. According to our analysis, TF-3 is heading for Oddusudan via Mankulam, Olumadu and Ampakamam and will probably join the 59 Division in a combined advance on Mulaitivu. TF-3 is being led by Lt. Colonels Perera and Welikala who are absolute daredevils with a cult-like following in the Army. The 62 semi-offensive Division is also quietly working its way towards Kanakarayankulam. As soon as the 58 reaches Pooneryn, the 53 Division will break out from its hold. Muhamalai to Paranthan is flat, open road, which the Mechanized Infantry Division is going to relish enormously. If the 53 breaks out, it will only be a matter of time until the 55 Division breaks out. Both Divisions are under two tough Commanders, one being Special Forces officer (from the time he joined the Army) Brigadier Prasanna Silva. So you have 8 Divisions going at the LTTE in eight different directions. But there’s more.If LTTE loses Pooneryn and retreats completely from the northwestern coast, the Sri Lanka Navy would have nothing to guard against along this coast. The Offshore Patrol Craft, SBS and RABS units currently deployed along this coast can all be withdrawn and redeployed along the north western coast. The only maritime area the SLN would have to guard would be the coast from Nayaru North upto Nagarkovil. The number of RABS units deployed from Pulmoddai to Point Pedro could exceed 100. This is in addition to the OPCs, SBS, Dvora, UFACs, Fast Missile Frigates etc deployed along the coast and in the high seas. The SLN could create a virtually impregnable security blanket along this coast that will completely halt any LTTE arms ship from even coming close to unloading its cargo.So the obvious question is, what will the LTTE do while this is going on? But the more pertinent question is what can they do?The answer to the first question is diplomatic pressure. Diplomatic pressure from Europe is not forthcoming to the extent LTTE might want. The best bet for diplomatic pressure to save the LTTE could come from India. But the Indians have a very limited say in this now. The Indian statement to end major operations in Sri Lanka by the end of December seems more of a publicity stunt aimed at appeasing sections of the Tamil Nadu politicians ahead of the 15th Lok Sabha Elections. But at the same time the Indian central government is cracking down on the LTTE in Tamil Nadu. It is our understanding that the Indians won’t push too hard this agenda on Colombo. Why won’t the Indians completely back this threat with actual muscle? The answers to the above questions are as follows. The current President of Sri Lanka, soon after he came to power, has freed Sri Lanka of the Indian hegemonic mentality. Its one thing India under Indira Gandhi developing a hegemonic interest during the Cold war and another thing maintaining such in this new age. The former USSR is long gone and with it India’s power in the Warsaw. The new power in Asia is China. President Rajapakse, to his credit, made sure that China was brought back into the South Asian region, especially to Sri Lanka in a big way. Today, China is the largest investor in Sri Lanka. They have invested heavily in Sri Lanka, particularly in the Hambantota port as a transshipment point to its growing export industries in the Far East and Africa. The Chinese will never allow their money to go to waste. China and Iran have also applied to join SAARC. Suddenly, India is not the only big player in the Indian Ocean region. The moment India exerts undue pressure on the Colombo government; the Chinese will react to save its investment in Sri Lanka. Even a single statement from the Chinese which is even remotely threatening could make India look not only weak but also foolish. A wise Indian government would avoid that. Another powerful actor is Iran. Long before President-elect Obama underlined the need to negotiate with Iran, Sri Lanka had done it. Today, the Sri Lankan President is a very good friend of Ahamedinajad. Sri Lanka, as an insider with the Tehran government, could even become a small state mediator between the USA and Iran like Algeria during the Iranian Hostage Crisis. But what about the LTTE’s military capability and its ability to remove the leadership of the country? The LTTE has been very successful when it could concentrate its attacks on defeating a single military operation. We have had many such operations led by, at the most two offensive Divisions. Each operation was met with stiff resistance. The LTTE would deploy all its assets and manpower and focus all its strategies and tactics on that single operation and confront it head-on, flank it or allow defence-in-depth. International support and the ‘goods’ coming from the northwestern and northeastern coasts sustained the counter-attacks. The Tamils in the eastern province gave it an unlimited supply of excellent fighters. The sea tigers were strong and innovative with large number of fixed and movable assets and high morale. The counter insurgency and counter terrorism (CI and CT) methods of the state intelligence was ill equipped, inexperienced and improperly led to face that challenge.But now, the Tigers have to spread their assets (artillery, mortars etc) thin to counter 6 separate offensive divisions, which could soon become 8 separate offensives. The population it controls is down to about 300,000 which reduced its recruitment base. The northwestern coast was lost and the eastern province was lost too. It has to now fight tooth and nail to maintain some control of the northeastern coast. International support is as low as it had ever been. The political and military leadership of the south is too numerous to eliminate. Killing just the Army Commander or the Secretary Defence or the President won’t solve the problem for the LTTE. For the first time in its history, LTTE must assassinate at least 3 leaders in a row or single blow. Even if one of these leaders survives such an impossible attack, the survivor would have to only maintain the current momentum to be a large enough threat to the LTTE. But the LTTE will fight. It will fight till it can fight no more because that’s all it’s got. It’s been over 3 decades since the LTTE chose this path. It may be too late to change. The LTTE has achieved very little in such a long time.Therefore an LTTE Victory at this point is seriously doubtful, although it seemed possible a decade ago. Defeat is what is knocking on the Tigers’ door today. Mere survival is insufficient. History has no place for losers.

Air War gradually moving to High Technology–Defence Analyse- By Arush from Wales

Air tiger air raids hit the Sri Lankan capital again, this time not for one target they took two different targets from long distance (250km). The raids were the ninth and tenth carried out by the LTTEAF, since they launched their first attack in August 2006. Each raid directed at military and economic targets had involved four aircrafts, the official in Wanni said.However, the defence sources said that two aircraft had taken off from east of Killinochchi and headed towards Mannar and Colombo. The Army’s 57th Division which operates along the front lines had detected the two aircraft and informed Colombo.The first attack was in 10.20pm. After an hour later, they attacked in Colombo. According to military information bombs have fallen near Thalladi, Mannar where a Sri Lanka Army main base is located. At least three soldiers were injured in the attack in Mannar. Some military sources said that two low flying Zlin 143 light aircrafts that bombed Thaladi camp had been proceeding towards the President's House at Fort when they were diverted by heavy Anti-Aircraft gunfire. Then they had flown closer to the Colombo harbour. Their direction, informed sources claimed, was towards the President's House. This area is highly fortified with AA batteries placed on all high rise buildings, including the Hilton Hotel, World Trade Centre Towers and the Bank of Ceylon building. Meanwhile the air defence system was activated in Colombo and part of the city was placed under a blackout at around 10.45 pm. Residents living around in the City of Colombo and suburbs panicked. All guns including T-56s were directed towards the roaring sound of the aircraft. They also directed flash lights into the air. The entire sky over Colombo and suburb were illuminated with the lighting of the firing. Normally, the most damage to low flying aircraft was sustained from anti-aircraft guns and artilleries from 7.62mm to 30mm in calibre. However, LTTE tactics, such as minimizing aircraft exposure time, may not give the SL Army time to aim their weapon. Moving to a new position immediately after attacking a target, it will also reduce SL Army engagement capabilities. Amidst heavy firing towards the aircraft one aircraft reached the Kelanitissa power installation and dropped three bombs in that area. One bomb fell close to the gas turbine. Resulting explosion triggered a fire which caused damages to parts of the coolant system connected to it. The Air Force found that the bombs, weighing some 35 kilogram’s, contained C-4 explosives and large steel balls. Around 530 MW is produced at the Kelanitissa power plant and the damaged GT7 was producing 110 MW.Few minutes after the plane was detected on radar, a fleet of modified F-7 jet fighters became airborne from Katunayake. They believed that the F-7s are the SLAF's counter to Zlin-143. An authoritative source said that Chinese F-7s had failed to zero-in-on the LTTEAF aircraft. “The aircraft missile systems failed to ‘lock on with the enemy aircraft," the source said. This was the third time the SLAF failed to protect the commercial capital of Sri Lanka from a LTTEAF.It is suspected that the LTTE air craft had some mechanism which prevented the missile system on the air force jets from locking onto its heat signal. For an example, Chaff is one in the family of countermeasures known as expendables. Chaff consists of amass of radar reflectors, that is launched as soon as a tracking radar locks on to a aircraft. The chaff has the effect of breaking lock which forces the radar system or its operator to re-establish lock. Failure to shoot down a LTTE aircraft despite timely detection by radar has amidst evidence that the LTTEAF has used a capability to neutralise the threat of a heat seeking missile attack. This would mess an overall of the SLAF’s strategy.  For heat seeking missiles – they may have applied an infrared suppressing system, combined with infrared low reflective paint to resist detection by thermal imagery, reduces the acquisition range of heat-seeking missiles and enhances. But as some sources suggested that Zlins are emitting very small amount of heat that may drastically limit the range of IR missiles. If it is true the question is, in last September, how a heat seeking missile fired by F-7 interceptor brought down one of the two LTTE aircraft returning to their base after attacking Vavuniya air base? The SLAF has not show any solid evidence regarding down aircraft until now.If they brought down the LTTEAF plane in Wanni within sort flying distance (Vavunia to Mullaithivu), the flying time was around 10 to 15 min, the SLAF got enough time to do some thing better for this time. Because LTTEAF had taken the two targets from long distance (more than 2 x 250 km) and longer time period (more than 180 minutes). But nothing was happened.The initial detection had been made north-east of Mannar at 10.18 p.m. by 2D radar installed by the Government of India at the SLAF base at Vavuniya then 2D radar installed at Palavi, Mannar. Thaladdi had come under attack within minutes after the detection. A Chinese JY-11 3D radar station located in the Mirigama had also detected the LTTE aircraft but SLAF failed to carry out a successful mission. 2D radar provides direction and the distance of a target whereas the Chinese radar provides even the altitude of a target. Katunayaka radar picked it time to time. Some times they lost it due to obstacles. Which is caused by low flying tactics or a radar warning receiver which can provide immediate indication of radar, will alert the crew to help them decide what to do. Then they had changed their altitude. But these claims cannot be verified. The LTTEAF came into public discussion in the late nineties. LTTEAF first use of air crafts was to sprinkle flowers over the cemeteries of the fallen LTTE cadres in Mulliyawalai during the annual Heroes Day celebrations in 1998. Then they flew over Palali firing rockets, attacked Katunayaka airbase, Palali again, Colombo on Cricket world cup night, Anuradhapura, Welioya, Trico Harbour, Vavuniya, and now they are back in Colombo. They have improved now, according to the military intelligence the LTTEAF has more than dozen deferent kinds of fixed – wing and rotary – wing aircrafts including five Czech built Zlin Z-143 four-seater light aircrafts. After the Katunayaka attack Sri lanka enhanced their anti-aircraft capability with India, Pakistan, China, Ukraine and some of the Western countries. India has already equipped air defence systems in Sri Lanka and its Air Force has trained SLAF personnel. Its neighbour Pakistan has also helped the Sri Lanka Air Force enhance its air capabilities by providing training and china had supplied six F-7s aircrafts with JY-11 3D radars. The SLAF recently upgraded fleet of MI-24s to intercept aircraft by adding radar, electronic warfare systems, FLIR, fully functional target tracking systems, and AAMs. But LTTEAF take a challenge with these new technology and continuous their air attack without fear. This gave a big surprise to the Sri Lankan government regarding their night attack capability and survivability technology. Some military analyst predicted that the LTTEAF using “Stealth technology”, which is design for the military purpose of avoiding detection by radar or any other electronic system. The Sea tigers were adapted with this technology from early part of this millennium. The attack on the Trinco harbour (Oct. 2000) was carried out by Sea Tiger Stealth Boats. The LTTE's Stealth Boat literally flew over the water at a speed of nearly 50 knots, one similar to a Sri Lankan Navy Dvora Fast Attack Craft. This indicated that the war brought both parties weaponry up to the standard known as "high technology." The shift from a low level threat environment to higher intensities indicates the need for more advances in survivability technology. Survivability of combat aircraft is directly related to minimizing the likelihood of being detected. Direct line of sight acquisition requirements can be exploited tactically by training aircrew to fly at very low level using terrain masking techniques to minimize detection. An air warfare expert Major Jordan D. Yankov (USMC CSC 1991) said that an aircraft has five distinct signatures by which its presence can be detected: visual, acoustic, radar, infrared, and electronic. Obviously, visual detection capabilities are degraded at night or during weather that produces marginal visibility. Low altitude flight operations afford ground clutter that can degrade a radar system's capability to track and distinguish targets. Flight profiles that off-set enemy detection capabilities often require advanced aircrew skills. Training programs that support tactical survivability concepts are essential. Acquisition and engagement may further be reduced through the use of an integrated early warning system that is tailored to sense specific threat systems. The use of radar or infrared jammers, and chaff or decoy flares could cause sufficient threat system degradation to keep the aircraft from being engaged by enemy weapons. Traditionally, light aircraft power and design limitations restricted available payload to fuel and mission specific equipment at the expense of ballistic hardening and survivability suites. But expanding the profiles and capabilities via modernizing light aircraft is within technological reach. Which was proved during the LTTE continues air assault now. What is required are aircrafts that are difficult to detect, difficult to hit when detected.Some military analysts have commented that LTTE has been followed North Korean tactics. The tactics consisted of using small planes to surprise and embarrass the South Korean and American Air Forces (Korean War). But they should not be ignore one thing, even though LTTE using light slow moving aircraft they challenged with highly advanced SLAF countermeasure, which is more advance than 1950s.It was reported that SLAF reconnaissance and fighter planes were patrolling in the air at the time of the return of the LTTE planes, but they failed to locate their landing place. Normally, LTTE aircrafts spend more time on the ground than they do in the air. Survival on the ground is possible by denying the enemy information on where the aircraft are based. Concealment and camouflage are essential to prevent enemy reconnaissance pilots and sensors from discovering hidden aircraft. The LTTE continues air strike capability means the defence establishment will have to re-evolve counter measures to rear bases, troop movements, VIP residences and economically important targets. To a nation that is reeling under an economic crisis, such measures would be a costly burden. Now, military sources said that plans are being drawn up by government to use the army, air force and the navy for the anti aircraft mission. The air force was also planning on using a new set of tactics to target Tiger aircraft but they could not reveal details due to security reasons. Despite this new tactics, a top defence official said that around 3.30 am on 5th of November, Indra-II radars in Vavuniya detected an LTTE aircraft proceeding from LTTE controlled Iranamadu proximately two kilometres into cleared areas in Vavuniya. Military establishments in the area up to Mannar, Anuradhapura and Welioya were immediately alerted. However, the aircraft disappeared from the radars after it reached some two kilometres close to Vavuniya. From these events, one thing is obvious, that Sri Lankan government doesn’t seem fit for the new LTTE air raid capability which is improved.

07 November 2008

Sri Lanka budget heavy on war, foreign borrowing

Sri Lanka on Thursday forecast record defence spending on its war with Tamil Tiger rebels in 2009 and raised taxes on imports, hoping to stave off currency depreciation as it faces a possible cash and credit crunch.President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is also the island nation's finance minister, predicted the economy would grow in excess of 6 percent next year, despite an International Monetary Fund forecast of 5.8 percent. The budget he presented in parliament also forecast gross foreign borrowing to rise 17.7 percent to 222.5 billion Sri Lanka rupees ($2.02 billion), which analysts said would pose a serious risk if the country keeps taking expensive commercial financing.The IMF last week warned that Sri Lanka's external accounts were vulnerable in a global economic crisis that has drastically cut credit availability.Analysts also say the rupee <LKR=> is under pressure against a stronger dollar, especially with cash reserves dropping and its tea, rubber and garment export sectors forecasting downturns."It would appear challenging for the government to raise an increasing proportion of its budget deficit financing from overseas in a cost-effective manner, especially given the possibility of further pressure on the currency," said Channa Amaratunga, director at CT Capital.Rajapaksa said defence spending was forecast to grow as much as a fifth to 200 billion rupees ($1.82 billion), which would be the highest absolute figure in history."We view such expenditure as a priority need towards establishing a stable economic environment to restore democracy, consolidate human rights and achieve economic development," Rajapaksa said.The military has captured swathes of rebel-held territory since the start of the year, and Rajapaksa's government is increasingly confident of ending a 25-year war with the separatist Tigers.The budget will also slap taxes on a host of import goods from food to electrical items, Rajapaksa said."In the backdr