JVP rift spreads to allied organisations

 
By Yohan Perera
The JVP crisis yesterday moved into its allied organizations, with the issue developing into a clash between the party and the Patriotic National Movement spearheaded by the dissident JVP parliamentary group leader Wimal Weerawansa.
Police said that a member of the Patriotic National Movement was attacked in Bandaragama, allegedly by members of the JVP. Patriotic National Movement president, Dr. Gunadasa Amarasekera, alleged that Hemantha Perera, the Kalutara District organizer of the PNM, was assaulted by members of the JVP.
Mr. Perera had later been admitted to Bandaragama Hospital.
Dr. Amarasekera added that this sort of action was condemned by civilized society and he therefore requested the JVP to desist from resorting to such actions. "The crisis within the party should be resolved by the party, and this is not the way to do it. It should be done in an intelligent and wise manner.
This sort of foolish action would only make the imperialist forces happy, and not those who expect the forward march of the JVP and the PNM," he said.
Reports said that JVP parliamentary group leader Wimal Weerawansa and the dissident MPs who are backing him are working towards forming a "Patriotic Front," and several nationalist organizations and movements, including the PNM, are expected to join hands with them.