The Commissioner General of Essential Services on Wednesday (Oct 15) submitted a report to His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka on the on going operations to supply foods to Wanni. The report states that the government has been able to continue provision of sufficient food stocks to the civilians living in Kilinochchi and Mullaittivu districts effectively despite non cooperation of some international aid agencies . Further, the report recall that it is the government of Sri Lanka that has been providing foods to terror stricken areas during last 20 years and state that this has been carried out with the utmost commitment to protect its own citizen but not to satisfy any international agency.

Following is the report in full :

Food Supplies to Kilinochchi and Mullaittivu Districts
Introduction :
Food supplies to the above districts are based on three categories. i.e.,
(a) People who were displaced prior to 11.08.2006

(b) People who were displaced after August 2006

(c) Food for sales to the general public by the Cooperatives

The government of Sri Lanka under the supervision of the Ministry of Resettlement and Disaster Relief Services maintains food supplies to the first category. The World Food Programme(WFP) under the supervision of the Ministry for Nation Building assists the government to supply food to the second category of people. Food and Non-food supplies for sale to the third category have been provided monthly with the recommendation of the Government Agents of the respective districts. The government has so far maintained uninterrupted supplies to all the categories refereed to above. Details with regard to food supplies from January to date are given in the below illustrated tables.

Emergency Operations

On the directive of H.E. the President, an emergency operation was launched to ensure uninterrupted supplies to the internally displaced people (IDPs) where they are currently located in the above districts. The operational principles and modality for food delivery under this programme was mapped out and executed under the guidance of Hon. Basil Rajapaksa, M.P. and the Senior Advisor to H.E. the President. A high level Committee Chaired by him with the following Members were appointed to monitor and over see the entire operation.

i Hon. Abdul Risath Bathiyutheen - Minister of Resettlement and Disaster Relief Services

ii Secretaries of the Ministries of Resettlement and Disaster Relief Services and Nation Building and Estate Infrastructure Development

iii Commissioner General of Essential Services

iv Chief of the Defence Staff

v Mr. Neil Buhne, Resident Representative of UNDP

vi Country Director ICRC

vii Country Director WFP

In order to successfully implement the emergency food delivery programme, the following operational principles were agreed to:

a. To maintain a buffer stock of nearly 5000 MT of essential food commodities (Dhal, flour, sugar, vegetable oil ) at the logistic network already established in Vavuniya. This arrangement was made to ensure speedy supplies to Wanni instead of having to transport from Colombo.

b. An exclusive convoy of 75 trucks containing 750 MT of the above food items to depart from Vavuniya to the above districts weekly. All these trucks to be sealed at the logistic hub in Vavuniya in the presence of Sri Lanka Army to avoid security checks at Omanthai Entry/Exit Point.

c. UN/WFP Staff to accompany the convoy to monitor the delivery of food to the allocated warehouses. i.e., Kandavalai, Dharmapuram, Puthukkudiyiruppu and Mulliyavalai. These warehouses were identified in order to ensure that food is delivered to the places where the people are largely located

Performance
The first convoy of 51 trucks with 750 MT of food items, which left Wanni on 3rd October 2008 successfully completed its mission. The respective GAs have confirmed delivery and distribution of the stock to the beneficiaries.

The second convoy of 50 trucks loaded with 750 MT of food cargo at Vavuniya logistic hub were to depart for Kilinochchi and Mullaittivu districts on 10.10.2008 could not proceed due to reluctance of the UN/WFP to travel on the new route suggested by the Security Forces Commander in Wanni. The first convoy travelled on Vavuniya, Mankulam, Oddusudan route and reached the destination as referred to above. However, the second convoy was advised to take the route from Vavuniya, Pullaiankulam, Nedunkeny and Oddusudan. This change of route was decided due to security reasons. Despite repeated requests by us, the convoy had not moved up to date.

Due to the failure of the WFP to move the food convoy, it became extremely necessary to arrange an urgent procurement from Vavuniya to ensure emergency food supplies to the above districts. On the advice of Hon. Basil Rajapaksa M.P., the Commissioner General with the assistance of the GA Vavuniya and Kilinochchi initiated an immediate action plan to procure food items from Vavuniya on Sunday (Oct 12). Consequently, 20 trucks loaded with nearly 300 MT of flour were sent on urgent basis to the above districts on Monday (Oct 13), on the new route.

Due to a damage of a culvert on this route which was caused by heavy rain the convoy could not move the same day. Having completed immediate repairs with the involvement of GA Vavuniya, the convoy reached the destination by Tuesday (Oct 14) evening, and distribution commenced on Wednesday (Oct 15).

The GOSL continues to carry out the emergency operation to ensure that its people in Wanni will get sufficient food supplies without depending on the foreign aid.

The Role of the World Food Programme
The action of the UN/WFP to delay the 50 trucks already loaded with the goods until security assessment of its Mission is completed is unacceptable. According to the terms of the Letter of Understanding between the WFP and GOSL, the overall objective of the operation to be assisted by WFP. In other words, WFP is to support the Government in its efforts to improve the food security of vulnerable people in conflict areas. The Government is responsible to implement the operation and for ensuring that the commodities provided by WFP are properly transported, received, handled and accounted for and distributed to the beneficiaries. Also, it will facilitate the safe and unimpeded access for delivery distribution and monitoring of these commodities. Security clearance for relief convoys that the government wish to send including food donated by the WFP will rest only on the Government and not on any foreign determination.

Under these circumstances, action by UN/WFP to withhold this convoy is deplorable. This action has impeded the uninterrupted supplies to Wanni Districts for which WFP should take the responsibility. Certain attitudes of some UN Agencies and INGOs have raised serious concerns in the recent past as well.

Conclusion
Despite all these impediments, action has been taken by the government to fulfill its commitment to ensure uninterrupted supplies and avoid any shortage of food. The Committee headed by Hon. Basil Rajapaksa MP, has now decided to make arrangements to deliver a convoy of 150 trucks containing basic food items to these areas.

The Commissioner General has directed respective GAs to distribute the food that is already available in the Multi Purpose Cooperative Shops (rice is available in plenty in these districts), in the event of any shortage. The GAs have cooperated in this emergency endeavour in an excellent manner. Coordinating Committee headed by Hon. Basil Rajapaksa MP is constantly monitoring the operation and it will ensure that there would not be any shortage of food to the displaced people and the public of these districts at this period.

Further, the GOSL has not sought any logistic supervision by any external agencies, as it is fully capable of discharging all its relief and other logistic functions. Any attempt by any agency to undermine its proven logistic role will have to be considered as hostile to the Government.

There has been no control by the UN Agencies and other Non-government organisations on actual distribution of the relief supplies to the beneficiaries. The Government always welcome the representation of the UN or other expatriate agencies to accompany the trucks, if they wish to do so. The Government logistic system works perfectly well to the satisfaction of the beneficiaries and the UN partners. The Government has been providing relief measures and logistic network to these terror-stricken areas for over 20 years. It is being carried with enormous difficulties and threat, not to satisfy the UN or INGOs but by deep-seated commitment of the GOSL to protect and feed its own citizens during these difficult years of their lives.

Foreign Minister, Rohitha Bogollagama who is currently on an official visit to Australia, has called on the UN Working Group under the Security Council's Counter Terrorism Committee (CTC) to consider listing the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as an international terrorist group. He made this call, while delivering an address to the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), a prestigious, independent think tank in Canberra last Monday (13 October 2008).

Minister Bogollgama, speaking at the forum, stated, "I strongly believe that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) which has earned international notoriety and opprobrium for its countless cold blooded and savage acts of terrorism, targeting not only high profile politicians and military personnel, but ordinary civilians, designed to cause maximum casualties and property destruction, is a prime candidate for consideration by the Working Group for listing, as an international terrorist group.

The LTTE is pre-eminently qualified to meet the criteria for such listing. After all, the LTTE has been described as "probably the most sophisticated terrorist organization in the world", by Dr. Magnus Ranstorp, Chief Scientist at the Centre Asymmetric Threat Studies of the Swedish National Defence College".

The Foreign Minister during the course of his wide ranging lecture on the theme, "Global Action on Countering Terrorism", urged the international community to pursue front organizations of the LTTE, posing off as charities and humanitarian relief groups, which continue to raise funds to fill the LTTE war chest. In this respect, he said that the United States has taken a bold lead in targeting the support network of the LTTE by designating the Tamils Rehabilitation Organization (TRO), which had long claimed itself to be a charitable organization, as a front to facilitate fund raising and procurement of weapons for the LTTE.

The Minister stressed that the onus is now clearly upon the international community to support Sri Lanka, by taking tangible and meaningful steps to eradicate terrorism from the island, and help the government to restore democracy and rebuild the damaged infrastructure in the North and the East. He said, "We believe that the true friends of Sri Lanka in the international community, who have the well being of our people at heart must put their money where their mouth is, by taking decisive action to stop funds being raised under various ruses, which are being channeled to finance the LTTE's operations".

Elaborating on the present military operations in the North, Minister Bogollgama declared that the Government of Sri Lanka is deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation of civilians in the uncleared areas, as the military operations enter a decisive phase to free these areas from the terrorists. The Minister emphasized that, as a responsible government, President Mahinda Rajapaksa's administration is acutely conscious and aware of its responsibilities towards all citizens of Sri Lanka.

He said that, "this is why, even as there is intensification of the military strikes against the LTTE, there is remarkably minimal collateral civilian casualties. This has not occurred by chance or a fortuitous turn of circumstances, but rather in pursuance of the government directive to the military to adhere strictly to a policy of "zero civilian casualty", in combating terrorism".

Referring to the situation of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts, the Minister said, "it is important that we bear in mind that the situation of those displaced due to the on-going military operations in the Wanni, as previously in the case of the East, is merely a temporary dislocation".

On the other hand, the Minister questioned the lukewarm attitude of the international community towards the plight of the Muslim community of the Northern Province, which has been expelled at gun point by the LTTE 18 years ago. He asked, "I wonder why the shrill voices of those who are screaming of a non-existent humanitarian catastrophe in the Wanni, are deafeningly silent on the plight of the over 100,000 Muslims who are now languishing in refugee camps, after being forcibly evicted by the LTTE from the North. 24th October marks the 18th anniversary of the ethnic cleansing of Muslims from the North by the LTTE.

75,000 Muslims were compelled to vacate their homes at gun point on this day in 1990 by the LTTE, and after they were driven out of their lands, which they had inhabited from time immemorial, the LTTE went about systematically looting and pillaging the properties and valuables of these hapless people". Minister Bogollgama declared, "If any proof were needed of the racist nature of the LTTE, the ethnic cleansing of Muslims from the North, speaks for itself - res ipsa loquitur".

In conclusion, the Foreign Minister urged UN member nations to ratify all major UN Conventions relating to terrorism. The Minister noted, "Nothing short of this commitment would suffice in the global struggle to eliminate the modern day scourge of terrorism, which has blighted the lives of millions of people around the world".

Tamil Nadu state assembly opposition leader and the Southern Indian state's former Chief Minister accused the State's current Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi of actively supporting the LTTE terrorists and not doing anything for the poor Tamil civilians who are being used as a human shield by the Tigers to safeguard themselves.

" Reports reveal that the LTTE is using the innocent civilians, living in that areas, as human shields by preventing the Tamils from leaving to safer places. This horrible practice of using civilians as human shield must be stopped forthwith," she said.

Jeyalalitha Jeyaram, who is popularly known as "Amma" (mother) in Indian politics is also the leader of the other large party in the state AIADMK. She challenged Karunanidhi to prevail upon the terrorist group to send the innocent civilians to safer areas where they are not purposely exposed to the horrors of war by the LTTE terrorists, Jayalalitha said.

AIADMK , the political party she heads officially boycotted the "All Party Meeting" Karunanidhi presided over two days ago on the Sri Lankan crisis .

Karunanidhi in a statement after the meeting claimed they decided that all parties in the Tamil Nadu should resign from their parliamentary memberships both in the lower house and upper house if the New Delhi government does not impose a ceasefire on the Sri Lankan government within two weeks.

But contrary to the announced agreement Karunanidhi's daughter Kanimozhi resigned from her Upper House seat without staying for two weeks.

New Delhi government also said , they cannot impose such measures as they could not interfere with the sovereignty of a foreign government.

Jeyalalitha in her statement accused Karunanidhi of duplicity and charged that he was only trying to safeguard a terrorist group which is banned in India and least bothered about the civilians.

Jayalalitha said Karunanidhi's decision to for the MP's to resign is mere drama and would not serve the purposes of the Tamil people.

Jayalalith said the Indian government does not have the moral right to interfere with the Sri Lankan government and stop the war as it would open floodgates to interfere with the sovereignty of India by other countries.

She said she is amazed that this basic fact is not known by a person who had held the Chief Ministership of the state for five times.

Troops of the 58 Division operating in the Western Kilinochchi battlefront, Thursday(Oct 16) seized total control over Manniyankulama area considered a LTTE strongpoint, 13.5 Northeast of Nachchikuda.

According to military sources, troops are now consolidating defences in the area.

Security forces mounted heavy artillery and mortar attacks at LTTE positions leaving scores killed and as many injured including two LTTE leaders, at Muhamalai, Jaffna, today (Oct 16). Fighting ensued between troops and LTTE since 4a.m, according to Jaffna security sources.

Successive LTTE counter attacks were also thwarted by the military as troops claimed heavy damages to LTTE in the hours long fighting which lasted till noon. The slain LTTE leaders were identified as Kanyan and Isaiman, according to military. 3 soldiers have laid their lives and 9 others reported wounded during the confrontation, security sources said.

JHU national organizer Patali Champika Ranawaka says he strongly believes the president will never betray the country and will not stop the war until the north is saved from terrorism. The government minister also told the media in Colombo today (Oct. 16th) that India had no right to interfere in Sri Lanka's affairs.
Accusing New Delhi of having supplied arms and given training to the LTTE in the 1980s, Mr. Ranawaka said India had to pay for its interference with the life of Rajiv Gandhi.

India will have to face similar repercussions if it tries to involve again in Sri Lanka's internal issues, he warned.

Pointing to pressure by Tamil communalistic parties in South India for a cessation of hostilities, the JHU national organizer said his party would get Buddhist parties in that country to urge New Delhi against any involvement.

He asked Sri Lankan Tamils to ask India to extend its support to the humanitarian missions in the north by the president to save them from terrorism.

Mr. Ranawaka accused certain political parties and groups in the south of trying to create political instability by pointing to attempts by India to involve itself in the Sri Lankan issue.

If that happens, a repeat of what had happened in the 1980s would be unavoidable, he warned.

Since ancient times, South Indian invaders had targeted Sri Lanka, he said, and called for an extensive union to prevent a likely invasion of the sort in the future.

When a journalist questioned the JHU's stance if the government enters negotiations at the request of New Delhi, Mr. Ranawaka ended the media briefing by saying that the media has no right to ask questions of that nature.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa has responded positively to the meeting between the prime minister and the opposition leader to discuss appointments to the Constitutional Council, Acting Attorney General, Priyasath Dep told the Supreme Court today (Oct. 16th).
He was reporting the progress of the CC issuer when the SC took up a fundamental rights application filed by Dr. Sumanasiri Liyanage, a senior lecturer of economics at University of Peradeniya and attorney Subash Ravi Jayawardena, an Executive Director of South Asia Peace Institute.

The petitioners allege that their rights had been violated due to the non-appointment of the CC.

Previously, Chief Justice Sarath N. Silva had directed to reach consensus with regard to appointments to the CC in order to fully implement the 17th Amendment to the Constitution.

The acting AG further said the prime minister and the opposition leader have reached agreement on the five nominees and would take the matter up with the President in the neat future.

The SC directed the Acting AG to report progress to the court on November 14th.

A police constable on duty at road block in Chenkaladi, Batticaloa was shot dead at 7.10 p.m. today, police sources said.

Police said they suspected that the LTTE pistol gang was involved in the shooting.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi today said a 'human chain' demonstration would be held in Chennai on October 21, to remind the Centre of the all-party meet's decision, to ask its MPs to resign if no action was taken on the Sri Lankan Tamil issue within a fortnight, according to a PTI report.

In a statement, Karunanidhi said the human chain was to remind the Centre of the six resolutions passed at the all-party meeting here on October 14.

The Chief Minister appealed to the people to participate in the agitation in large numbers.

Meanwhile, writing in the DMK's official organ 'Murasoli', he said as per the resolution, DMK ministers in the Manmohan Singh ministry would quit if the Centre did not take action to stop the killings of Tamils in Sri Lanka within a fortnight.

"The very fact that they will resign their Parliament seats means they will also be resigning from the ministry", he said, replying to MDMK chief Vaiko's demand in this regard.

On AIADMK leader Jayalalithaa's charge that the meet was a farce and the resolutions amounted to supporting the LTTE, he said, her statement had been appreciated by the Sri Lankan President's advisor, Basil Rajapakse.

"This clearly proves who are all with the Sri Lankan government. At least now people of the state will understand who is committing acts inimical to the Tamils', he said.

A British tourist who was in Sri Lanka for a short vacation found dead in the Habaraduwa Sea area in Southern Sri Lanka.

Police spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara said this British man’s body, identified as Richard Steven was found by the people of the Mihiripana area in Galle this afternoon.

According to the sources the tourist has drowned in the sea while he was bathing in the area with his wife yesterday.

Sri Lankan men’s 4x100m relay team earned another gold medal at the Third Commonwealth Youth Games in Pune, India yesterday evening.

In the finals Sri Lankan team of Ranil Shehan Jayawardena, Dewage Roshan Chamara Silva, Keith Thishan De Mel and Shehan Sadaruwan Abeypitiyage won the event establishing a new games record with a time of 40.85 seconds.

Today is the fifth day of the youth Commonwealth games and few other Sri Lankan athletes are scheduled to participate in their finals this evening.

Known for its penchant for active involvement in political issues, the Tamil film industry is lending its support to the efforts by the state parties to bring focus back on the issue of Sri Lankan Tamils by calling for a protest rally on Sunday.
Over 2,000 people, including top stars, directors and other film personalities, are expected to converge at Rameswaram island, which is in close proximity to Sri Lanka

The rally will demand a halt to the island army's ongoing offensive in the north of the neighbouring republic, industry sources said.

Hectic arrangements are underway for staging the rally and the industry personnel would travel to the pilgrim town of Rameswaram by a special train from Chennai, they said.

The move, ostensibly aimed at pressuring the Centre to arrange a ceasefire between the Army and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, is spearheaded by Director Bharathiraja and comes after the steady revival of the Sri Lankan Tamils issue in the past few weeks after a gap of 17 years.

Political parties, gearing up for next Lok Sabha polls, are attempting to whip up support for the ethnic Tamils apparently to make the emotional issue a poll plank.

The support for Sri Lankan Tamils gathered momentum as the island's army made successful forays into the Tigers' last stronghold of Killinochi, cornering LTTE [Images] chief V Prabhakaran and a vast network of his militant group.

However, unlike the Hogenakkal issue in which the film industry put up a united show in April to oppose the attempts by Karnataka to stall the drinking water project for two border districts in Tamil Nadu, differences have come to the fore over the Rameswaram rally.

A section of actors has expressed reservations over participating in the agitation.

Some actors and artistes are apprehensive about the choice of the venue for the rally as they feel it would be difficult to make themselves available at a far-off place at short notice.

"We are apprehensive about the security of the artistes. Besides, how many people can be accommodated in the small town," an actor speaking on condition of anonymity told PTI.

"In fact, the South Indian Artistes' Association had on Sunday only expressed its moral support to the rally but had not confirmed on its participation," the actor said.

Bharathiraja, on the other hand, had defended the decision to hold the rally in Rameswaram, saying "The island is known throughout the nation and the world and our voice from here will be heard in Sri Lanka."

There is no word yet on the participation of matinee idols Rajnikanth [Images] and Kamalahaasan in the rally.

The industry grapevine has it that Rajnikanth may play safe by absenting himself as he might not like a repeat of the Hogenakkal hunger strike that landed him in trouble both in his home state of Karnataka as well as Tamil Nadu.

Kamalahaasan, who had shared the stage with Rajnikanth and others during the film industry fast over the Hogenakkal issue, too has been silent on the issue. Sources close to the actor told PTI he was busy with his next venture Marmayogi.

However, the actor's pro-Tamil sentiments were well known, they said hinting that he may pitch in at the last minute as Rameswaram was close to his native town of Paramakudi.

Actor-politician Vijaykant appears to be another doubtful for the rally as it comes just a day after the youth conference of his DMDK in Chennai.

Massive protest against Sri Lanka has been called by the Malaysian Democratic Action Party (DAP), Jalan, and Baru branch on October 17, 2008 in front of Jalan, Muniswaran Temple in Malaysia.
According to the Secretary of the Jalan, Baru Branch, Mr. Sathees, Massive protest against Sri Lanka and its genocides against Tamils has been called by the Malaysian Democratic Action Party (DAP), Jalan, Baru branch on October 17, 2008, Friday, 8:00 p.m in front of Jalan, Muniswaran Temple in Malaysia. This protests will be attended by the Elected members of the DAP from both provincial legislative and Parliament.


Malaysian Tamils also express their concerns on the serious plights of over 230,000 Internally Displaced People including 40,000 children who are living in degraded conditions with minimum access to food, medicines, and other basic essentials as UN aid agencies and INGOs were forced out from Vanni by the Sri Lankan government, concerned Jalan Tamil resident told TNS.

New Delhi, 16 October 2008 -- The European Commission, which has already contributed Euro 2 million to provide relief to the victims of the Bihar and Nepal floods, has now allocated an additional Euro 3.5 million for Bihar and Euro 1 million for Nepal to address the continuing urgent needs. These funds will be used for food, shelter, water and sanitation, primary health and protection and will be channelled through the European Commission's partners in the area; non governmental organisations (NGOs) and United Nations (UN) agencies.


This is in response to the events in August, when an embankment on the Kosi River collapsed leading to heavy flooding in Nepal and the Indian State of Bihar .


These were the worst floods in the region for 50 years, affecting the lives of more than four million people. At least two million were displaced from their homes and an estimated 150,000 hectares of crops were destroyed.

Four farmers were shot dead early today by some unidentified persons at Vammiyadikulam, in Ampara, Police spokesman said.

Lakshman Kiriella today addressing a press conference said that the Sri Lankan Government must deal with Tamil Nadu more responsibly than with the Indian Central Government.

The Australian Federal Police says there has been a significant rise in attempted people smuggling operations from Sri Lanka, both by sea and air.

An earthquake has occured at the South Indian Ocean with the magnitude of 4.9 on the Richter scale.

Test results on the leading milk powder brands Nespray, Anchor, Kotmale, Maliban and Diamond have proven to be free of Melamine, Minister of Consumer Affairs Bandula Gunawardena said.

Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said today that the demand from political parties in Tamil Nadu for a ceasefire in Sri Lanka appeared to be orchestrated by the LTTE and refused to halt the military campaign against the Tigers.

And in remarks, clearly aimed at Tamil Nadu’s politicians, he also said in an interview: “Everyone needs to remember that Sri Lankan Tamils are Sri Lankan citizens. It is our duty to solve their problems.”

Former Treasury Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera was summoned before the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption on Wednesday where he gave a recorded statement pursuant to the Lanka Marine Services Limited (LMSL) Supreme Court judgment which called on several state agencies including the Bribery Commission to launch investigations and act on the Court's findings.

Commission sources said that the investigation which commenced some time ago is now in its last stages.

Chief Justice Sarath N.Silva today directed Counsel for the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) to inform Court on November 3rd what steps have been taken regarding the complaint pertaining to the financial mismanagement of public funds in the Council based on the findings of the one man committee headed by retired Appeal Court Judge, Chandradasa Nanayakkara.

The CJ made the ruling when the case was taken up today.

Colombo stocks fell on Thursday in line with Asian and US markets where the indices crashed in a continuation of the US financial crisis, brokers said.

They however expected the market to recover in the next few days. Among the main pickings, Dialog fell by 25 cents to Rs 7.75, JKH dropped by Rs 1.50 to close at Rs 74, CIC fell by Rs 2.50 to Rs 35.75 while Maskeliya Plantations saw a stock of 365,200 shares being traded lower by Rs 1.25 to Rs 26.75.

The All Share Index fell by 41.72 points to 1,985.79 while the Milanka dropped by 46.97 points to close at 2,213.28 .

With Tamil Nadu MPs threatening to resign en masse over 'atrocities against fellow Tamils in Sri Lanka,' Prime Minister Manmohan Singh yesterday (October 15th) sent a stern message to Colombo to deescalate hostilities and underscored the need for a political settlement that respects the rights of minorities.

"The situation in Sri Lanka remains a cause of serious concern to India. We are concerned at the escalation of hostilities," Prime Minister Manmohan Singh told reporters.

He said this when asked whether he had spoken to Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse in the wake of a threat by Tamil Nadu MPs, irrespective of party affiliation, to resign over what they allege to be continuing atrocities against Tamil minorities in Sri Lanka.

'We are concerned about the harassment and killing of Indian fishermen in the neighbouring country,' Manmohan Singh said at a press conference at the end of the third IBSA summit with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and South African President Kgalema Motlanthe.

"India has always believed that there can't be a military victory in Lanka," he said.

"We have always believed that the situation in Sri Lanka required a negotiated political settlement that respects human rights of the Tamil minorities," the prime minister stressed.

The prime minister's remarks came in the wake of an all-party meeting in Tamil Nadu, convened by Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi that warned the Centre that all MPs from the state would resign if the government failed to halt the war in the island nation within two weeks.

In a strong message, the DMK, a key ally of the UPA regime, and other parties demanded that India halt all military aid to Sri Lanka, take steps to halt Colombo's military offensive to ensure the return of peace, and dispatch humanitarian aid.

The MDMK General Secretary Vaiko yesterday (Oct. 15th) blamed the union cabinet of India for its 'crime and treachery' against Sri Lankan Tamils by providing military assistance to Sri Lankan government.

The fact of India's military help to Sri Lanka has been conceded in a letter written to him by the Indian PM, he said.

"This is being done with full knowledge that such assistances are used for the genocide of Tamils. India should withdraw all assistance and compel Colombo to stop the war. Failing, India should warn Sri Lanka of severed diplomatic ties and imposition of economic sanctions."

Vaiko also said, "DMK should withdraw its support to the Congress-led coalition government and the Tamil ministers in the union cabinet should resign if India is not acting in these lines."

Vaiko was quoting from a letter written to him by the Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on 2nd October, in which he had reportedly stated that India's military assistance to Sri Lanka was to uphold the unity and integrity of Sri Lanka.

Vaiko says this is a testimony from the PM on the military assistance.

Vaiko's demands included the withdrawal of radars supplied to the Sri Lanka Air Force, withdrawal of Indian military contingent in Sri Lanka, freezing monetary assistance, canceling agreement on intelligence exchange, stopping military training in India for members of the Sri Lanka armed forces, pressurizing Colombo to stop the war, restarting peace negotiations through Norway mediation and pressurizing Sri Lanka to allow UN offices to operate.

Vaiko also indicated that the two sitting MDMK Members of Parliament would not hesitate to join the resignation campaign.

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Finalized military reports received from the battlefronts indicated 47 fatalities and 21casualties to the LTTE in counter terrorist offensives conducted yesterday (Oct 14). Also, 6 soldiers laid down their lives and 21suffered injuries during the operations.

On the Kilinochchi front, troops of Task Force 1 heading Pooneryn gained further ground in the Vannerikkulam area during offensives launched in the morning hours. Ground troops confirmed more than 10 terrorists were killed and 6 others were wounded. Also, 4 soldiers laid down their lives and 7 others suffered injuries . During the afternoon hours , troops had 3 separate confrontations in the Vannerikkulam area and reported 3 terrorists were killed and 6 soldiers were injured.

In the Madamoddai area , Task Force 1 troops advance into LTTE hiding areas around 13.30 PM and claimed over 10 terrorists were killed and more were injured. Troops found 2 bodies of slain LTTE cadres and 2 T-56 riffles during subsequent search. In a separate confrontation reported in the same area troops claimed two terrorists were wounded. Also, 3 soldiers suffered injuries. Elsewhere, snipers deployed in the forward area claimed 4 terrorists were shot down during the day.

Meanwhile, 57 division troops heading Kilinochchi carried out series of attacks at LTTE positions located in the East and the West of Akkarayankulam area during the day and claimed 14 terrorists were killed. A soldiers suffered injuries during these operations. Troops found a T-56 riffle and a radio set during a search operation following confrontations.

Troops of the same 57 division heading towards Mankulam from the West of A-9 road , attacked a group LTTE cadres travelling on a tractor around 12.20 PM and claimed 4 terrorists were killed. In a similar attack carried out around 2.20 PM , troops confirmed an LTTE cadre was killed . In a separate confrontation reported from the North of Mankulam area around 12.40 PM , troops claimed 2 terrorists were killed

Troops of Task Force 2 operating in the Vavuniya front attacked and captured an LTTE bunker located in the Nallikulam area around 1.30 PM and claimed one terrorist was killed. During the subsequent search , troops found 2 hand grenades.

On the Mullaittivu front , troops of 59 division conducted daylong offensives in the Andankulam, Thannimurippukulam, Nayaru and Kiriibbanwewa areas. Troops claimed one LTTE cadre was killed, 3 others wounded and 5 more were either killed or wounded. A soldier was killed and another injured in a confrontation occurred in the Thannimurippukulam area at 10 AM. Also , troops engaged in mine clearing operations removed 45 AP mines and 6 IEDs during the day.

In the Jaffna theatre of operations , one soldier suffered injuries in a confrontation with the terrorists at 5 PM on the Kilaly defence. Separately, a soldier suffered injuries in an AP mine explosion on the Muhamalai defence around 6.20 PM.

Apart from the main operational theatres, two incidents reported form the Mannar and Batticaloa areas. Troops confronted with a group of LTTE infiltrators in the Illuppakadavali area around 2 PM and found 2 bodies of LTTE cadres along with one T-56 riffle, 153 ammunition, 3 claymore mines, 9 AP mines, one night vision device and other military gear.

At Pottani in Batticaloa , an LTTE claymore mine attack wounded 2 motorbike riding soldiers around 2.30 PM.

International Organization of Migrants (IOM) in a press release has denied any connection of its staff members with the bag of explosives found in its office in Vavuniya on Tuesday (Oct 14).

The press release said IOM staff had discovered a bag containing an explosive device at 1.30 PM on Tuesday and informed the police and national authorities . According to the IOM the bag apparently belonged to a "contracted cleaner" who was employed at the office. Further , IOM said that it is deeply concerned about this threat to the safety of their staff .

Meanwhile, police sources in Vavuniya said that a suspect named Suseidasan Kristurasa Peries , aged 29 years, was arrested in connection with the incident . Also, police confirmed that the suspect was a temporary labor but not a permanent employee of the IOM.

According to the police, the discovery had been made around 6.30 PM on Tuesday by the Vavuniya police crime division personnel. Police had been informed the presence of suspicious person and a bag in the IOM office premises in Vavuniya earlier on the same day evening . Acting on the information received police had searched the premises and found 1.5 Kg of C-4 high explosives, 4 electrical detonators , and 7.4 feet long detonator code inside a plastic bag.

During the investigations in was found that the bag had been taken to the office by the suspect on September 26. The suspect had brought the bag with fish inside and believed to have kept the bag with the intention to hand it over to another person. Police conduct further investigations.

Defence.lk in its initial report on the incident has called the suspected to be a staff member of the IMO . The website published the report in good faith on information revealed during the primary investigations . However, in light of denial of any such involvement of IOM staff members, the website expresses its regret at any misconceptions about the IOM and or any inconvenience caused by the report.

"The ultimatum of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) to the Manmohan Singh government that all the 39 Tamil Nadu members of Parliament (MPs) will resign if it fails to pressure the Sri Lankan government to declare a ceasefire in the war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is nothing but political blackmail. The DMK has always flirted with the cause of the Sri Lankan Tamils, which is fired by a dangerous kind of populism", stated the Indian based 'Daily News & Analysis(DNA) web news portal in a timely article published on Wednesday(Oct 15).

Further stressing on the political gimmick by the DMK to defend LTTE, DNA asserts that the DMK has to accept the simple, if unpalatable, fact that there is no room for playing pan-Tamil politics across national borders.

"Unfortunately, various Central governments have succumbed to arm-twisting by Dravidian parties on this subject on the false assumption that there is something common between the Tamils in India and in Sri Lanka" DNA further stated reporting on the ground realities of the DMK led political stunt.

Following are excerpts of the news article published by the Indian web News portal, 'Daily News and Analysis(DNA)'.

The DMK cannot be allowed to play petty politics and interfere in Sri Lanka's internal affairs, which goes against our foreign policy

The ultimatum of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) to the Manmohan Singh government that all the 39 Tamil Nadu members of Parliament (MPs) will resign if it fails to pressure the Sri Lankan government to declare a ceasefire in the war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is nothing but political blackmail. The DMK has always flirted with the cause of the Sri Lankan Tamils, which is fired by a dangerous kind of populism.

Though the all-party resolution on Tuesday is couched in a language which expressed concern over the civilian population in northern Lanka, it is a way of helping indirectly the banned terrorist organisation, the LTTE, which had a hand in the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. In reality, the support of DMK and others for the cause of Tamils across the Palk Strait has always meant support for Lankan Tamil terrorist organisations.

It might perfect realpolitik on the part of Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi to flex his political muscle when the general elections are just six months away. He may even be looking for an excuse part ways with the UPA. But this is cynical and immoral.

The DMK has to accept the simple, if unpalatable, fact that there is no room for playing pan-Tamil politics across national borders. Unfortunately, various Central governments have succumbed to arm-twisting by Dravidian parties on this subject on the false assumption that there is something common between the Tamils in India and in Sri Lanka.

Forty years ago, the problem of the Indian Tamils in Sri Lanka was solved through the Shastri-Bandaranaike pact through which half the plantation workers were repatriated to India and the rest granted Lankan citizenship. It is an altogether different case with the Jaffna Tamils in the northern part of the island which the LTTE claims to represent. They had migrated to the island some 1000 years ago and they belong to Sri Lanka.

India does not enter the picture. More importantly, India cannot support a secessionist movement and terrorist organisation like the LTTE.

The Lankan government has assured that it would protect the lives of the Tamil civilians. India will have to accept the assurance in good faith. The DMK cannot be allowed to play its petty politics and interfere in the internal affairs of a neighbouring country, which goes against the grain of Indian foreign policy. The UPA must send this resounding message to the DMK.

A government convoy with food and essential items to displaced in the Mullaittivu district has come under an indiscriminate LTTE artillery and heavy mortar attack this afternoon while along the A-9 main Road at Puliyankulama, Mullaittivu, according to informed sources in Wanni.

When contacted to verify the incident sources close to UN confirmed the attack but refrained from further commenting on the incident.

The government food convoy consisting 50 lorries of food and essential items left the Omanthai Entry/ Exit point at around 12.30p.m., sources said. The UN envoy was forced to abandon the mission in safety of the crew and food stocks, the sources said. According to latest information, the food convoy has arrived at Vavuniya this evening.

The latest attack at the food convoy pronounces the callous disregard of LTTE towards the combined humanitarian assistance and relief work by the government and UN for the stranded civilians in Wanni, defence observers state.

More information will follow.

Day This year, and for the third year running, the European Union will co-sponsor the AIDEX sports day scheduled for 26 October 2008 at the Reid Avenue Grounds, Colombo 7.

AIDEX is the annual sports festival organised by the Colombo Friend-in-Need Society, one of the oldest charitable organisations in Sri Lanka that supplies limbs for amputees throughout the island under the Jaipur Foot Programme. AIDEX is part of the rehabilitation programme for the disabled using Jaipur limbs & wheelchairs.

Limb users island-wide are encouraged to participate to showcase their abilities as well as the versatility of the limbs provided free-of- charge by the CFNS. Both children as young as 8–10 years and elders over 70 years participate enthusiastically. This year 325 participants will compete in a total of 53 events including track & field, cycling and archery.

CFNS donates 750 – 900 limbs on an annual basis and since 1985 has donated over 20,000 limbs to accident, conflict-affected and other victims. They also provide free hostel and meal facilities to 30 persons visiting their clinics for rehabilitation.

CFNS & the EU encourage the general public to attend the sports day to show their support towards the participants and join in their achievements.

Tamil Nadu state assembly opposition leader and the Southern Indian state's former Chief Minister accused the State's current Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi of actively supporting the LTTE terrorists and not doing anything for the poor Tamil civilians who are being used as a human shield by the Tigers to safeguard themselves.

" Reports reveal that the LTTE is using the innocent civilians, living in that areas, as human shields by preventing the Tamils from leaving to safer places. This horrible practice of using civilians as human shield must be stopped forthwith," she said.

Jeyalalitha Jeyaram, who is popularly known as "Amma" (mother) in Indian politics is also the leader of the other large party in the state AIADMK. She challenged Karunanidhi to prevail upon the terrorist group to send the innocent civilians to safer areas where they are not purposely exposed to the horrors of war by the LTTE terrorists, Jayalalitha said.

AIADMK , the political party she heads officially boycotted the "All Party Meeting" Karunanidhi presided over two days ago on the Sri Lankan crisis .

Karunanidhi in a statement after the meeting claimed they decided that all parties in the Tamil Nadu should resign from their parliamentary memberships both in the lower house and upper house if the New Delhi government does not impose a ceasefire on the Sri Lankan government within two weeks.

But contrary to the announced agreement Karunanidhi's daughter Kanimozhi resigned from her Upper House seat without staying for two weeks.

New Delhi government also said , they cannot impose such measures as they could not interfere with the sovereignty of a foreign government.

Jeyalalitha in her statement accused Karunanidhi of duplicity and charged that he was only trying to safeguard a terrorist group which is banned in India and least bothered about the civilians.

Jayalalitha said Karunanidhi's decision to for the MP's to resign is mere drama and would not serve the purposes of the Tamil people.

Jayalalith said the Indian government does not have the moral right to interfere with the Sri Lankan government and stop the war as it would open floodgates to interfere with the sovereignty of India by other countries.

She said she is amazed that this basic fact is not known by a person who had held the Chief Ministership of the state for five times.

Twenty six activists belonging to Tamil fringe groups and sympathising with the LTTE cause were arrested yesterday(Oct 15) when they pelted stones at 'The Hindu' office premises and attempted to enter the building to protest against an article carried by the English daily on the Sri Lankan issue.

The arrested included some law college students, lawyers and workers, police said, adding that those arrested claimed that they were activists of Adi Tamilar Peravai and Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam. No one was injured.

Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam sources, however, denied that the workers of the organisation were involved in the incident. The protesters came in two batches. One batch, comprising 16 persons, burnt the copies of the Daily in front of its office and pelted stones on a row of cars parked there. Police, who rushed to the spot, arrested them.

The second batch, consisting of 10 members, including some students, attempted to jump over the main gate but were prevented and taken into custody, they said. The Hindu's Editor-in-Chief N Ram said action must be taken against the fringe groups involved in the incident since the LTTE is a terrorist organisation and a banned outfit.

Police showed quick response in handling the situation, Ram added.

London - British parliament debated Sri Lanka's humanitarian situation as the debate was requested by Joan Ryan, the ruling Labour party MP from London's Enfield North constituency. British government said at least 500,000 people are internally displaced in Sri Lanka due to the ongoing conflict.
Joan Ryan MP said, the Government of Sri Lanka being the party which was unilaterally abroagetted from the cease fire agreement it is the government of Sri Lanka?s responsibility to make the concrete effort to bring back the sustainable Cease Fire Agreement sooner.


The debate in the Westminster parliament was attended by the, Under Secretary of State on International Development, Michael Foster, MP, said a majority, approximately 220,000 people are repeatedly displaced in the north.


"At least 30,000 people have been displaced on average five times," he said.


The British government has increased its aid to the Sri Lanka and urged the Sri Lankan government facilitate the work of impartial humanitarian agencies.


"The UK is constantly monitoring the situation in Sri Lanka and has increased its humanitarian aid in light of the circumstances on the ground," Mr. Foster said.


The UK government, he said, also "lobbied for an immediate delivery of UN food aid to avoid starvation in the north".


In areas under LTTE control, the minister said, there is no tolerance of dissent or freedom of expression.


"The LTTE need to develop its role as a credible partner in peace. It cannot continue to persecute people just because they have opposing views," he said.


The British government called for an immediate stop to child recruitment.


"Similarly, in the south we have seen restrictions on the freedom of expression with journalists and newspaper agents intimidated and killed. Three democratically elected MPs are killed during the last few years," Mr. Foster said.


Welcoming "Sri Lanka government's commitment to protect civilian population," Minister Michael Foster urged all parties to the conflict to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law.


Meanwhile, Rt Hon Keith Vazz MP called on the British government to condemn the bombing of Tamils in Sri Lanka.


Another Labour MP Barry Gardiner questioned and criticised the Sri Lanka Army commander Sarath Fonseka 's comments to the National Post Canadian news reporter Stewart Bell on September 25, 2008 issue where he said,


"I strongly believe that this country belongs to the Sinhalese but there are minority communities and we treat them like our people,"


"They can live in this country with us. But they must not try to, under the pretext of being a minority, demand undue things."


Without exception all Members of Parliament from all three main political parties in a show of solidarity and concern spoke in support of Tamils and the general suffering of the Tamils, particularly in Vanni, North of Sri Lanka. They also showed no remorse in condemning the Government of Sri Lanka for its military action against the Tamil Nation to fundamentally a political problem and its persistent human rights violations.


The UK Government Junior Minister responsible for the Department for International Development (DFID) Rt. Hon Michael Foster MP announced that an additional aid of £2.5 million to support the efforts of the ICRC and other UN agencies and NGOs. This confirms the statement made by his predecessor Rt. Hon Shahid Malik MP to the British Tamils Forum at a meeting held at the end of September that the UK Government will be sending aid via international aid agencies and local Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and NOT through the Government of Sri Lanka.

MPs who spoke at the Westminster parliament debate said that everyone is very concerned about the escalating violence in Sri Lanka, the large scale internal displacement that this is causing and the recent expulsion of International Non Governmental Organisations and Aid workers from the Vanni area.


They also pointed out that as a responsible democratically elected government, it should take full responsibility of protecting the internally displaced people from being targeted by indiscriminate aerial, land and sea bombardments.

Around 20 Sri Lanka Army (SLA) personnel Wednesday entered the Magazine Prison in Colombo, verbally abused and stripped the detainees sexually harassing them, the prisoners complained to Tamil National Alliance Batticaloa district parliamentarian P. Ariyaneththiran.
The SLA soldiers beat Tamil prisoners when they asked why they were being harassed, the MP said quoting the prisoners as saying and questioned the Sri Lankan authorities why the military personnel were allowed to enter the prison and urged immediate action to ensure the safety of the detainees.

Five months ago, in May 2008, 68 Tamil detainees, hurriedly transferred from New Magazine prison in Colombo by the Terrorist Investigation Department (TID) interrogators, were verbally abused, tortured and subjected to sexual abuse at the notorious Boosa Prison in Galle.

SriLankan Airlines which flies to 44 destinations in 24 countries in Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, and the Far East has launched an SMS alert facility to keep passengers informed of flight updates.

With the new facility in place the airline is urging all passengers including foreigners with roaming facility to provide their mobile phone numbers at the time they book their tickets, in order to ensure their contactability.

The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) has solidified its effort to assist the development of higher education in Afghanistan, opening a permanent office to manage its partnership with Balkh University (BU) located in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan.

The newly launched office, situated on the campus of AIT in Pathum Thani, will support its US$ 1.5 million AIT-BU Partnership Project, an initiative funded by the World Bank and spearheaded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Afghanistan.

The 30-month partnership aims to apply AIT’s expertise and experience in curriculum, institutional and human resources development to Balkh University, located in northern Afghanistan. BU is one of six universities in Afghanistan receiving World Bank support to strengthen higher education in the war-ravaged nation.

At an opening ceremony on 10 October, Prof. Dr. Said Irandoust, president of AIT, noted the significance of the formal tie-up, calling it a pioneering partnership for both partners. “AIT is extremely proud and pleased to partner with the Ministry of Higher Education of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to strengthen the overall capacity of the Faculty of Engineering of Balkh University. This office embodies our ambition to support higher learning in Afghanistan and its launch is an historic day for AIT,” President Irandoust said.

The Faculty Development Plan (FDP) for the AIT-BU Partnership Project includes a doctoral degree program, master’s degree program, short course in administration and management, certificate courses in computer science, English-language, and various other subjects including laboratory management and library management. All educational activities carried out at AIT are administered through the new office. In addition to these programs, special training programs are also planned to be conducted at Balkh University, through the previously established AIT Project Office located in Mazar-i-Sharif. Currently, five BU faculty members are enrolled at AIT under the new program, including the Chancellor of Balkh University.

Photo shows H.E. Mrs. Merete Fjeld Brattested, Ambassador of Norway to Thailand and acting chairperson of the AIT Board of Trustees, cuts the ribbon to inaugurate the AIT-BU Project Office. The ambassador is flanked by AIT president, Prof. Dr. Said Irandoust (left) and BU Chancellor Prof. Habibulla Habib. The event was attended by many distinguished members of the diplomatic corps and high-ranking AIT officials.

Serving an ultimatum to the Centre on the Sri Lankan Tamil problem, an all-party meeting in Tamil Nadu, convened by chief minister M Karunan


idhi, on Tuesday warned that all MPs from the state would resign en masse, if the government failed to halt the war in the island nation within two weeks. ( Watch )

In the strongest ever message from a key ally of the UPA regime, the DMK and other parties demanded that India halt all military aid to Sri Lanka, take steps to halt Colombo's military offensive to ensure the return of peace, and come forward to despatch humanitarian aid.

Resolutions to this effect were passed at the meeting, which was boycotted by the main opposition AIADMK, its ally, MDMK, the BJP and actor Vijaykanth's party, the DMDK.

"If these resolutions are not translated into action and the Union government does not come forward to end the war in two weeks, MPs from Tamil Nadu will have to quit," the resolution said.

Expressing his gratitude to the parties for bolstering his efforts to reach out to the 'Eelam Tamils', Karunanidhi said,

"This outcome, which is intended to be an impetus to India to act and a warning to Colombo, is an important chapter in our history."

For want of an effective mechanism to counter emigration fraud on the part of Sri Lanka, Australia has moved to thwart Sri Lankans from gaining entry to Australia on the pretext of joining Australian Universities and tertiary institutions. In the face of tightening controls, Sri Lankans have increasingly abused Student Visa programme allegedly with the help of some involved in facilitating the process.

After categorising Sri Lanka as one of the worst violators of the Student Visa programme, Australia has introduced tough conditions to discourage Sri Lankans along with people from nine other countries with effect from September 1.

The toughest of the new laws was the sharp increase of the funds available to a student, government sources said. Accordingly, a person seeking to enroll at a University or tertiary institution for a three-year period would be compelled to show nearly 9 million in a savings account for at least six months. The sources said, this would make it extremely difficult for a majority of prospective travellers to meet the mandatory requirement.

The DIAC (Department of Immigration and Citizenship) has tagged Sri Lanka a Level 4 country, thereby subjecting Sri Lankans to a set of new rules and regulations. The sources said, this would be an added burden on genuine students now required to show funds for a minimum of six months in a savings account to cover tuition, living expenses and health care as well as return airfare depending on the duration of the course.



The humiliating Level 4 classification is based on fraudulent documentation, visa cancellation and unlawful activity among other criteria..

Although the DIAC has assured that the new laws were aimed at keeping bogus immigrants away, the mandatory requirement to prove a high degree of financial capacity would jeopardise the chances of genuine students.

According to the DIAC students undertaking an undergraduate degree need to show funds to cover the first three years of tuition plus living expenses., as sponsorship for visa purposes and other costs. In many cases the total would be above Rs. 8 million. If the course fee of 4 years Bachelor degree in Engineering at an average Australian university was A$ 20,000 per annum and the living expenses A$ 12,000, the funds required to be shown for at least three years was equivalent to A$ 96,000. At the current exchange rate, this was equivalent to Rs 8.6 million. When Sri Lanka was at level 3, students had to show funds for only the first two years or A$ 64,000. (Rs. 5.76 million) Sponsorship amount for a Business degree with living expenses for 3 years would be around $90,000 or Rs. 8.1 million. In addition, there was a need to show the funds for living expenses, Overseas Health Cover, Travel Cost etc, the DIAC said.

About 80,000 emigrants of Sri Lankan origin call Australia their home. According to 2006 statistics provided by Australia about 500,000 Sri Lankans had been enrolled at Australian universities and tertiary institutes.

According to police and banking sources some students had obtained bank guarantees through fraudulent means, in some instances with the connivance of senior bank employees.

Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets launched the second air raid at the LTTE bunker construction site that was pounded earlier this morning (Oct 15), Air Force spokesman Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said.
He said the jets targeted the LTTE heavy vehicles summoned to the location to drag away the damaged earth moving vehicles in the earlier air strike . The air strike was taken at 11.45 AM , he added.

Finalized military reports received from the battlefronts indicated 47 fatalities and 21casualties to the LTTE in counter terrorist offensives conducted yesterday (Oct 14). Also, 6 soldiers laid down their lives and 21suffered injuries during the operations.

On the Kilinochchi front, troops of Task Force 1 heading Pooneryn gained further ground in the Vannerikkulam area during offensives launched in the morning hours. Ground troops confirmed more than 10 terrorists were killed and 6 others were wounded. Also, 4 soldiers laid down their lives and 7 others suffered injuries . During the afternoon hours , troops had 3 separate confrontations in the Vannerikkulam area and reported 3 terrorists were killed and 6 soldiers were injured.

In the Madamoddai area , Task Force 1 troops advance into LTTE hiding areas around 13.30 PM and claimed over 10 terrorists were killed and more were injured. Troops found 2 bodies of slain LTTE cadres and 2 T-56 riffles during subsequent search. In a separate confrontation reported in the same area troops claimed two terrorists were wounded. Also, 3 soldiers suffered injuries. Elsewhere, snipers deployed in the forward area claimed 4 terrorists were shot down during the day.

Meanwhile, 57 division troops heading Kilinochchi carried out series of attacks at LTTE positions located in the East and the West of Akkarayankulam area during the day and claimed 14 terrorists were killed. A soldiers suffered injuries during these operations. Troops found a T-56 riffle and a radio set during a search operation following confrontations.

Troops of the same 57 division heading towards Mankulam from the West of A-9 road , attacked a group LTTE cadres travelling on a tractor around 12.20 PM and claimed 4 terrorists were killed. In a similar attack carried out around 2.20 PM , troops confirmed an LTTE cadre was killed . In a separate confrontation reported from the North of Mankulam area around 12.40 PM , troops claimed 2 terrorists were killed

Troops of Task Force 2 operating in the Vavuniya front attacked and captured an LTTE bunker located in the Nallikulam area around 1.30 PM and claimed one terrorist was killed. During the subsequent search , troops found 2 hand grenades.

On the Mullaittivu front , troops of 59 division conducted daylong offensives in the Andankulam, Thannimurippukulam, Nayaru and Kiriibbanwewa areas. Troops claimed one LTTE cadre was killed, 3 others wounded and 5 more were either killed or wounded. A soldier was killed and another injured in a confrontation occurred in the Thannimurippukulam area at 10 AM. Also , troops engaged in mine clearing operations removed 45 AP mines and 6 IEDs during the day.

In the Jaffna theatre of operations , one soldier suffered injuries in a confrontation with the terrorists at 5 PM on the Kilaly defence. Separately, a soldier suffered injuries in an AP mine explosion on the Muhamalai defence around 6.20 PM.

Apart from the main operational theatres, two incidents reported form the Mannar and Batticaloa areas. Troops confronted with a group of LTTE infiltrators in the Illuppakadavali area around 2 PM and found 2 bodies of LTTE cadres along with one T-56 riffle, 153 ammunition, 3 claymore mines, 9 AP mines, one night vision device and other military gear.

At Pottani in Batticaloa , an LTTE claymore mine attack wounded 2 motorbike riding soldiers around 2.30 PM.

Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets raided an LTTE bunker construction site located 2km Southeast of Puthukkudiyiruppu, in the Mullaittivu district at 9.25, this morning (Oct 15), Air Force spokesman Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said.

Speaking further he said that a large number of LTTE cadres and many heavy earth moving vehicles were occupied in the targeted location when the air strike was carried out. Citing Air Force operational sources, he added that the air raid has caused heavy damages to the terrorists.

On information received from a civilian, security forces have found a bag with C-4 explosive and detonators inside an INGO office in Vavuniya last evening, 14 October.

According to the police sources, the bag contained 1.5Kg of C-4 high explosive, 3 m length detonator code and four electric detonators found inside the office of International Organization for Migrant (IOM) which is operating under UN around 6.30 pm.

The recipient of the bag, a staff member of IOM office Vavuniya, has already been taken into custody and he confessed that he received the bag from one of the staff member in Mannar office.

Further investigations are being carried out by the Vavuniya police.

In an attempt to put pressure on the Indian Central Government over the Lanka issue, Indian party Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam (DMK) MP Kanimozhi today submitted a symbolic resignation to the party chief and father M Karunanidhi.

Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi handed over a postdated resignation to the party chief in support of the party's Tamil cause. Kanimozhi's resignation is dated October 29, 2008.

Karunanidhi's DMK yesterday passed a resolution asking the Centre to stop violence in Sri Lanka against “Eelam” Tamils or they'll withdraw support.

A Sub Inspector attached to a Cabinet Minister had gone into hiding after taking Rs. 5 million from several persons promising them jobs in Korea, Police Spokesman confirmed. Mirihana Police have received 15 complaints in this regard so far.

The newly appointed Parliamentary Select Committee to identify shortcomings in the Inland Revenue Department is expected to assume work shortly with the intention of introducing some recommendations to streamline the tax collection.

Speaker W.J.M. Lokubandara recently appointed this select committee under the chairmanship of UNP MP Kabir Hashim to study the shortcomings in this Department and make recommendations to Parliament to correct them.

MP Hashim said that he contacted the Secretary General of Parliament to know his mandate in this committee as the chairman.

“Basically, I intend to introduce a tax collection system which can increase state revenue without burdening people. During the time of ancient kings, the state taxed people in a cruel manner. We do not want to create such a criterion of collecting taxes from people,” he said.

He said that the methodology of collecting VAT from people is highly complicated and therefore a large percentage of accumulated revenue is pocketed by some elements.

The UNP MP said that he would try to introduce a very effective tax collection system through this committee.

Recently, the Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts exposed a massive VAT fraud running into rupees four billion. The Committee cited the loopholes in the Department for such a financial crime.

A foreign employment agency operating in Maharagama was banned by the Foreign Employment Bureau yesterday for allegedly attempting to send an underage girl for overseas employment using false documents. The Foreign Employment Bureau said the agency was planning to send the 16-year-old girl as a housemaid to the Middle East.

The girl was arrested when signing the documents to travel overseas.

This is the second agency to be banned by the Foreign Employment Bureau for similar reasons.

As part of a programme to rehabilitate TMVP cadres, the Eastern Provincial Council opened a Korean language training centre in Batticaloa last week to train 200 TMVP members before being sent to Korea for employment.
After a three-month training stint these members would leave for Korea as part of a government plan to provide employment opportunities in Korea for 500 TMVP cadres. This follows a request by the party which holds office in the Eastern Province.

Provincial Minister M.L.A.M. Hizbullah said that some Sinhala and Muslim youths would also be included in the first batch to be sent to Korea.

“Along with Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, I also attended the opening ceremony of this Korean language training centre” he said.

Meanwhile TMVP spokesman Azad Maulana said plans were also afoot to seek employment for his party members in the tourism industry in the Middle East and that this matter was being discussed with the Tourism Ministry.

“We are planning to give our cadres training in Hotel Management so that they can find employment both locally and internationally,” he said.

The remaining cadres were expected to be absorbed into the security forces and the civil defence force.

Some selective buying was seen in a few counters such as Dialog, JKH, Caltex and Maskeliya Plantations (MP) which pushed Wednesday’s Colombo stock market up, but it was on thin volumes, stock market analysts said.

“Dialog had some foreign interest, but other shares such as JKH, Caltex and MP had buying interest because they had come down to attractive pricing,” Vajira Premawardhana, Executive Director, Lanka Orix Securities said. He said there was no sustained buying in the market adding that tomorrow the same trend will be shown.

Dialog closed 50 cents up at Rs 8, JKH was 50 cents down to close at Rs 75.50, Caltex was Rs 3 up to Rs 106 and MP was Rs 2 up to Rs 28 at stock market close. The All Share Index increased by 43.93 points to 2,027.51 while the Milanka increased to 65.66 points to 2260.25 at stock market close and the turnover was Rs.138 million.

Public interest activist Nihal Sri Ameresekere filed a petition in the Supreme Court this week challenging the Appropriation Bill 2008 (Budget 2009) and seeking a determination as to whether any one or more of its provisions are consistent with and/or ultra-vires to the Constitution.

According to the petition, Mr. Ameresekere submitted that some clauses of the Appropriation Bill 2008 amount to the alienation, relinquishment or removal of legislative power of the people and are inconsistent with articles in the Constitution. The clauses also usurp and subvert the Constitutional mandate that parliament shall have full control over public finance, thereby violating Article 148 of the Constitution. >br>
He further asserted that the Treasury Secretary appointed by the President and being under the control and direction of the Executive, the power attributed to Parliament cannot be alienated, relinquished, removed or transferred to the Executive. He also states that the Bill vests unfettered discretion or authority in the Secretary to the Treasury or any other officer authorized by him, when the Constitution does not attribute any such unfettered discretion or authority, and such is antithetic to the 'rule of law' .

Mr. Ameresekere argues that the Bill violates the basic premise that public finance is held in trust for the people of Sri Lanka, who cannot be denied of the due and proper accountability therefor, which is against the 'rule of law' and that the Bill seeks Parliamentary approval for allocations of public funds, without specifying the public services or specific public purposes for such funds, in violation of Articles 150(2) and 149(1) of the Constitution.

He goes on to state that the Bill violates the Constitutional mandates by not disclosing the 'other funds of the Government' and the utilization of such funds in addition to violating the scheme set out in Chapter XVII of the Constitution for full control by Parliament over public finance. The Bill also violates the 'Directive Principles of State Policy' and 'Fundamental Duties' set out in Chapter VI of the Constitution.

The Attorney General is listed as the respondent in the case. Mr. Ameresekere's submissions, as a respondent, were said to have played a major role in the Lanka Marine Services Limited (LMSL) Supreme Court judgment filed by petitioner Mr. Vasudeva Nanayakkara.

A man was shot dead in Wellawatta , police said.

Police Spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara said the man was identified to be Megarasa (32).

A unidentified group of people who had come in a threewheeler had shot Megarasa near the IFS building in Wellawatta at 1.30 pm.

The victim's body lies at the Kalubowila hospital morgue, said SSP Gunasekara

No one has been arrested in connection with the murder and Wellawatta police is carrying out the investigation, he said.

Political parties in India’s Tamil Nadu state have issued an ultimatum to the central government in New Delhi that they would resign from parliament unless the Manmohan Singh administration comes out with a comprehensive plan to ensure the safety of Tamil civilians caught up in the war in Sri Lanka’s north within two weeks.

There are some 40 lawmakers from Tamil Nadu in the 541-member national legislature and their withdrawal could spell political instability in India. The Singh government on July 22 won a no-confidence motion by just 19 votes after its Communist allies withdrew support in protest against India’s nuclear deal with the United States.

The decision to issue the ultimatum was taken at an all-party conference held in Chennai on Tuesday. The parties led by the ruling Dravida Munnetral Kazhakam, an ally of the Singh government, called on New Delhi to pressurize Sri Lanka to end its military offensive against the Tamil Tigers and insist on a political solution.

The parties also called on the Singh government to work for a cessation of hostilities in Sri Lankan within two weeks.

DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi said the parties had decided to tell their members to step down unless the Sri Lankan government’s military offensive stopped in two weeks.

In a symbolic gesture, Karunanidhi's daugher Kanimozhi handed over her resignation from Rajya Sabha, India's upper house. Some political parties had insisted that such a ceasefire should come within days instead of within two weeks, reports from Tamil Nadu said.

The opposition AIADMK and its allies the BJP and the MDMK led by Y. Gopalaswamay a.ka.a. Vaiko did not attend the all-party conference but said they supported the move. Vaiko in a statement said today his party's two MPs would resign if New Delhi failed to comply with the ultimatum.

The all-party resolution, seen as the strongest ever message from a key ally of the Congress regime, also demanded that India halt all military aid to Sri Lanka and take steps to send humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka's Tamil trapped in the Wanni war zone.

Police will later today release the photograph and details of the alleged suicide bomber who was responsible for the killing of Major General Janaka Perera and 27 others on October 6th at Anuradhapura.

Police have identified the suicide bomber after scrutinising the photographs take prior to the blast as well as the video footage of the scene, DIG Jayantha Gamage said.

The Bank of Ceylon is to launch a Rs. 3 billion-worth debenture issue this week, the Bank said.

No details were given except to say the announcement will be made tomorrow at a media conference. Other Bank sources said the issue listed at Rs 100 per debenture for five years will be listed in Colombo Stock Exchange’s main board. “In the event there is an oversubscription we will extend the issue to Rs 5 billion,” a bank source said. He said managers and the sponsors to the issue will be the Merchant Bank.

Students of Higher National Diploma on Engineering staged a protest walk and demonstration in Colombo today (Oct. 15th), demanding a proper administrative mechanism for their diploma.


The protestors walked from Viharamaha Devi Park to University Grants Commission and staged an agitation there.

Later, Higher Education Minister Vishwa Warnapala had given them an audience, but had left unexpectedly telling them to raise the matter with the president, reports said.

President of HNDE Students Union Madhusha Gunasekara said their demand had been placed before UGC as well as Ministry of Higher Education several times, without any response.

The UNP casts serious doubts on the effectiveness of the police investigation into the killing of Maj. Gen. Janaka Perera, and says its progress is from satisfactory.

Its spokesman Gayantha Karunatilake told the media in Colombo today (Oct. 15th) that even the judiciary is dissatisfied with the probe.

Speaking further, he disputed government claims of having to pay high fuel import bills, noting that the highest bill per barrel had been 34 USD in July.

Despite the reduction of world market price by three-fold, it is unfortunate the government had not brought down local prices and continues to burden the people, Mr. Karunatilake said.

He described the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation as a black market, and said its highest profit according to the pricing formula should be 1.5 per cent, and not the 36 per cent it gets now.

Lanka E news

The unofficial discussions underway to take the 17 United National Party (UNP) breakaway MPs back to party have shown signs of being successful.

UNP MP Wajira Abewardhana and several non-MP UNP members including a higher official of a state corporation are engaged in talks.

A member of the 17 MPs’ group said to Lanka-e-News that several rounds of discussions have been held so far with several MPs of his group and dates have been fixed for discussions with more MPs. He said that there is a possibility of Ministers Mahinda Wijesekara, Lakshman Yapa Abewardhana, Hemakumara Nanayakkara, Naveen Disanayaka, Rajitha Senarathna and G.L. Peiris to stay in the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP).

Meanwhile, M.H. Mohammed, Gamini Lokuge, Dharmadasa banda and P. Dayarathna have agreed to rejoin UNP. The spokesman said that these Ministers have less responsibility and less recognition in the government. Minister P. Dayarathna has no duty in the nominal Ministry of Plan Implementation.
A member of the 17 MPs group said that although Minister Karu Jayasuriya is considered the leader of the group, the President does not care him and he did not attend the funeral of the mother of Karu Jayasuriya. Moreover, he did not visit the Minister at hospital whilst he is undergoing treatment after a serious surgery.

Sessions of the north central provincial council today (Oct. 15th) have been adjourned following a protest by opposition councilors.

UNP councilors wore black armbands to protest the bomb blast that killed provincial opposition leader Maj. Gen. Janaka Perera and 29 others.

The chief organizer of the opposition blamed the government for the killings, after which all opposition members left the meeting.

The chairman of the council announced later that sessions would be postponed till October 28th.

The most helpless and poorest of all migrant workers, the Sri Lankan housemaids in the Middle East will be heavily exploited, say migrant sources in Kuwait, claiming the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment is also in the know of the scandalous US $ 200 insurance cover.

Sri Lanka Manpower Welfare Association - Kuwait, which claims it is a voluntary welfare organization, has addressed a long letter to the President on 23rd September, 2008, asking for presidential intervention in stopping this exploitative insurance cover.

It says this company that is to be contracted is not a company that deals in insurance coverage and because a well established, recognised insurance company in Kuwait has quoted very much less at US $ 63 per person for 24 months.

This Kuwaiti company “Al-Huqook International”, Insurance Commission Agent at Naser Al-Rumeh Complex, Hawally, which is only a commission agent, is said to be very influential through some embassy officials and have virtually got approval from Colombo to start insurance work, according to Kuwaiti Sri Lankan sources.

Meanwhile, the Association of Licensed Foreign Employment Agencies has negotiated with M/S Enaya Insurance Company (SAK), P.O. box 223, Safat, for a mutually beneficial insurance cover at US$ 63.

It has written about the proposal on 25th July, 2008 under the signature of ALFEA Secretary, M. Faiza Mackeen to the “Sri Lanka Manpower Welfare Association - Kuwait” asking them to pursue in its implementation, with a copy sent to Hussain Bhaila, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

It is thus apparent that this very economical insurance cover had not gone through, for the welfare organization in Kuwait to seek the President’s intervention two months later in September.

An estimated 30,000 Sri Lankans migrate every year to Kuwait for employment, according to foreign employment sources.

Therefore, if the commission agent is given the insurance coverage, the extra dollars collected from migrant workers on the premium payment would be US $ 4,110,000 on a safe estimate, says the Kuwaiti source.

SLBFE sources say they are not in the know about Kuwait, but a similar programme had been discussed for Lebanon.

This insurance cover in the country of work is proposed despite SLBFE maintaining the “Suraksha” insurance cover for all registered migrant employees.

The question asked in Kuwait is who would actually benefit with over 04 million dollars accumulating in foreign banks.

(Lanka-e-News, ) State owned Lake House paid for an entire container to import 250 film rolls used in Image Setters whilst it could be easily transported in two small packages.

When 250 such film rolls were imported in two small packages on August 19, 2008 from Polytechnic Graphic of Hong Kong, the transport cost was US $ 180 (Rs. 19,518.80).

But on September 23, 2008, 250 similar film rolls were imported from Fuji Corporation of Japan and the transport fee for it was US $ 1325 (Rs. 143,697.05). The transport cost went up by more than eight-fold as a result of using an entire container for importing the 250 film rolls.


Cash strapped Lake House sent home around 1000 workers under a voluntary retiring scheme. The Chairman says that paying salaries and bonuses are a problem.

The recent shifting of INGOs including UN agencies out of the LTTE-held territory has allowed the SLAF to target LTTE facilities located close to buildings previously occupied by international agencies.

The military said the removal of expatriate staff had cleared the way for stepped up aerial attacks. SLAF jets bombed ‘Tamileelam police’ headquarters situated near the UNICEF office in Kilinochchi on October 3 causing heavy damages. According to the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) which represents all INGOs and UN agencies active in Sri Lanka, damages had been caused to UNICEF office.

The military said the air strikes and operations undertaken by the army behind the enemy lines targeting vehicles would be facilitated by the removal of expatriates from Kilinochchi. But under a tripartite understanding among the government, the LTTE and the ICRC, the Geneva headquartered organisation is continuing its operations in the LTTE-held area.

The firepower of Israeli built Kfir and Russian MiG 27s coupled with a variety of artillery pieces including multi barrel rocket launchers and mortars had given a tremendous boost to the overall offensive which Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa told The Island was approaching a decisive stage.


The IASC in its latest report which dealt with the northern and eastern provinces from October 2 to 9 period said that although air strikes had been directed at Kilinochchi town and its surrounding areas at the beginning of the week, the focus moved to Kilinochchi in the last few days.

With the army positioned west of the A9, parallel to the road stretch from Omanthai to Kokavil, the SLAF has zeroed-in on targets in Kilinochchi and its suburbs in support of the 57 Division pushing towards the town. The fighting elements of the 57 Division are a few kilometres away from Kilinochchi town.

Although civilians had vacated Kilinochchi and moved towards Mullaitivu, the Kilinochchi hospital continued to function, officials said. Some of its wards had been shifted to a government health facility at Tharmapuram and to a school at Vishvamadu along the A 35 road leading towards Mullaitivu.

The Island learns that the ICRC’s presence at LTTE-held Puthukkudiyirippu is likely to be reviewed as the ground offensive spread along the Weli oya front with the 59 Division making slow but steady progress. While reiterating the ICRC’s commitment to provide humanitarian assistance to the needy, Anthony Dalzei, deputy head of the ICRC said that they were continuing operations from Puthukkudiyirippu. The ICRC first set up base there in 1997.

The ICRC last month facilitated the passage of over 10,000 people and 1440 vehicles across the Omanthai entry and exit point. The ICRC presence at the crossing point for six days of the week also facilitated the transfer of 1,400 patients to Vavuniya and bodies of 136 combatants.

"Sri Lanka is one of the few countries in the world where the government provides education from kindergarten to University level, free of charge, said Science and Technology Minister Professor Tissa Vitarana.

However, he said the present number of universities could not admit more than 20,000 students out of more than 100,000 eligible to follow higher education yearly. Many more would be accommodated in the tertiary education system in Sri Lanka. He queried, about the rest?

Vitharana who was the Chief Guest at the Adyapana 2008 Exhibition held on Friday at the BMICH said the private sector was offering to set up institutions of higher education and it was the responsibility of the government to take that into consideration and allow the private sector to do that effectively.

The exhibition was organized by the Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services (Pvt) Ltd., with the theme ‘Guiding to pursue your dreams’.

Speaking in favour of establishing private universities, he said, a significant number of poor students with merit who could not afford to go to such universities could be sent there, if we commenced a suitable scholarship scheme for them.

"Either the state must provide it or within the country we must get the cooperation of the private sector to fill the gap," he added.

The minister said it was senseless to send large numbers of young people abroad at considerable expense to themselves and to the country when the country has the capacity to provide that education within the country itself.

He also said even under the best of circumstances providing educational opportunities in the country by the government, "We still need to go abroad to provide opportunities to finetune the skills, facilities for which are lacking in our country".

Professor said the interaction between educational institutions within the country and those abroad as well as the mixing of the students and the teachers here and abroad were essential requisites to widen the knowledge to compete in this difficult world.

"It is the duty of the government to provide facilities to enhance knowledge to the maximum to each and every student." He said Cuba still provides free education upto the post graduate level to everyone who was eligible and capable of following higher education.

"I would like that to happen in Sri Lanka too. The money spent is wealth invested. It is by that initiatve we can develop and build our economy and compete with the rest of the world," he added.

He stressed Sri Lanka could not afford to be ignorant, but had to keep a pace with new knowledge while avoiding the dangers of being cram pots by merely memorizing facts and figures.

"We have to possess sufficient knowledge to get a correct overall perspective, but at the same time we should be able to reason out on the basis of new technologies/knowledge and to apply that knowledge in a practical and useful way."

He said amidst the rise of diverse mushroom educational institutions giving a variety of qualifications which were not worth even the paper of the certificate that is awarded. He cautioned the students to select those institutions which impart quality education.

The Minister also stressed that children should learn not just to acquire knowledge, but to get an acquaintance with new concepts, understanding of new issues with ability to reason, think and solve problems.

Two soldiers on a motorcycle who sustained serious injuries in a suspected LTTE claymore mine blast in Veheragodella area in Aralaganwila border were admitted to Polonnaruwa hospital, Military Spokesman said.

The Special Presidential Commission Investigating Serious Violations of Human Rights will begin the public hearing on the Digampathaha massacre on Monday, Chairman of the Commission retired Supreme Court Judge Nissanka Udalagama said.

Former Inspector General of Police and Governor of the North Victor Perera said he resigned the governorship due to personal reasons.

He told The Island yesterday that the pressure of work as Governor would not permit him to attend to a number urgent private matters which needed his personal attention.

He said some people had expressed different views on his resignation as Governor of the Northern Province but when President Mahinda Rajapaksa appointed him he had told the President that he could hold the office only for a short time. "I want to live a quiet life as a private citizen without taking on more responsibilities now," he said.

Investigations into the assassination attempt on Minister Maithripala Sirisena by a LTTE suicide bomber at Boralesgamuwa last week took a new turn with the arrest of a soldier in Vavuniya under whose name the mobile phone used by the suicide cadre had been registered.

Invstigators said the soldier’s national identity card number had been used to buy the Sim card used on the suicide bomber’s mobile phone. According to Police spokesman Ranjith Gunasekera LTTE cadres have used 20 such forged identity cards to buy Sim cards and investigations are now on to trace the 20 people whose numbers had been used by others to buy Sim cards.

Investigations also revealed the last call to her mobile was made through a telephone tower in the Cinnamon Gardens area and she had received a total 26 calls to her mobile on that particular day.

Investigators believed the person who made the last call to her mobile phone was responsible for directing her on the failed suicide mission. Most of the calls received on her mobile phone had originated from Wellawatte

Police, Army and the STF launched a joint search operation in the Wellawatte area on Sunday after positive information received that she had lived in the Wellawatte area under a Sinhala name.Investigators wanted to find out the exact place where she lived in Wellawatte and her acquaintances there.

Investigators also said their search on Sunday failed to reveal any positive information but two suspects were arrested during the search.

Chandula Abeywickrema, Deputy General Manager of Hatton National Bank PLC who is the current Chairman of Banking with the Poor Network (BWTP), the largest Microfinance Network in Asia with over 40 members representing over 15 countries in Asia has been invited in his capacity as the Chairman of BWTP Network to speak at the prestigious SEEP Network Annual Conference to be held in Washington D.C.

The SEEP Network Annual Conference is considered by many to be a premier opportunity for Microfinance and Micro Enterprise practitioners to share the lessons learned and engage in the new learning on innovative practices and the most current issues in the field.


This year’s conference will be held in Washington DC from November 3rd to 8th under the theme "Powering Connections" and will bring together the largest microfinance networks in the world including practitioners from non-governmental organizations, private sector firms, investment funds and bi-lateral agencies. The conference will offer the participants, key opportunities to learn to share to engage through networking.

The Small Enterprise Development Programme (SEEP Network) is one of the leading international network promoter of best practices and financial services and is a global organisation whose membership is committed to reducing poverty through power of enterprise.

This Washington based organisation has 67 member institutions, active over 140 countries reaching 23 million micro entrepreneurs.

Since its inception in 1985 the SEEP Network has been a leader in the development of microfinance and enterprise development fields, through its contribution to the documentation of best practice, through its capacity to convene key stakeholders and its well regarded methodology for lateral learning which offers a platform for productive dialogue.

Embracing renewable and sustainable energy sources (solar, wind, biogas, etc) in a bid to cut carbon emissions is an area that has become relevant to every individual in recent times. However, an issue which is still to be resolved is how alternative energy sources could keep up with the level of energy consumption currently maintained by burning fossil fuels. The answer may come from a very unusual source - UK resident, Sri Lankan Tony Newton.

By creating a way to increase the intensity of LED lights to make them comparable to 40W incandescent bulbs currently used the world over, Mr. Newton has approached the 'consumption' issue from a very different angle: Decrease the household energy burden by lowering the amount of energy consumed by lighting devices.

In fact, Mr. Newton claims that test cases utilizing LED lights, batteries and solar panels incorporated into homes to maintain 'sensible lighting' have seen as much as a 20% immediate savings on the average monthly electric bill. According to the literature, this is just one in a list of multiple benefits, which include: increased efficiency through LED lights which are 90 - 98% energy efficient compared to incandescent bulbs which are only 10% energy efficient; LED lights produce none to very little heat from the load resistor depending on the supply current, whereas incandescent light bulbs dispel 200 degrees Celsius; and LED lights last 50,000 to 75,000 hours compared to incandescent lights, which last 900 to 1,000 hours.

The idea, which apparently occurred to Mr. Newton after visiting a friend outside Colombo following the 2004 tsunami, was in response to the main electricity grid being down. His realization was that many people who did not have access to the electricity grid could be helped by new technologies available in the UK. Following his idea, Mr. Newton consulted with Professor K. Balachandran of Brunel University, UK, and designed LED light panels to maximize illumination, minimize power consumption and increase their lifespan. He also carried out pilot projects and tests in UK and Sri Lanka to determine the feasibility of the LED lights. Currently, the LED lighting systems are available for purchase in the UK as a way to neutralize a person's carbon footprints. Offered in conjunction with co2balance, UK, Mr. Newton's LED lighting systems are primarily available to people in countries with strict carbon emissions standards.

This system allows them to earn carbon credits by investing in LED lights, a battery and solar panels for a rural home in Sri Lanka, which would ordinarily be burning kerosene oil for lighting, and thus offset their 'heavy' carbon emissions by contributing to the 'lightening' of someone else's carbon emissions.

To date, Mr. Newton has shipped 330 LED light panels, which he has branded 'Tia', after his granddaughter. He has also outfitted a school in Mombassa, with plans for a further school in Kenya and South Africa. In addition, he is in the process of completing several projects in Sri Lanka, including Nithyakalyani Jewellery and the lighting of the stairway of the ancient Yapahuwa rock fortress, a charitable project which is currently pending further sources of funding.

ISTActor Arun Vijay’s next venture is Malai Malai produced by Dr NS Mohan’s Feather Touch Entertainments. Starring Pooja and Prakash Raj, the film is directed by A Venkatesh. The shooting is to commence soon and the music tracks are being composed by Mani Sharma.


However, this seems to be no ordinary composing session by the music director. The generous producer has decided to fly the entire 12-member team of Mani Sharma, which includes the percussionist, singers, keyboard player and several others, along with the director to a lush locale near Colombo. Normally it’s only the director, producer and music director who go out of town or abroad to compose music in solitude, away from city's distractions.

When contacted, Arun Vijay explained the reason behind such a move, “This way, the producer gets a clear picture of the songs and a better vision emerges about how they will sound with instrumentation and the voice as well, before the recording session itself.” He adds, “Looks like they have also found some beautiful locales for shooting in Sri Lanka which maybe used later in the film.”

As of now, Arun Vijay is on cloud nine about his next film and the generosity of the production house coupled with the vision to make a finely-tuned product may just be the right shot in the arm for his career.

A team of Indian officials is expected this month in Sri Lanka to prepare groundwork for the second coal power plant in the country that will be located in Sampoor in Trincomalee district captured in 2007 from Tamil Tiger rebels.

Minister of Power and Energy John Senaviratne revealed this at a function held yesterday to mark the inauguration of the second phase of the Upper Kothmale hydro power plant. He said that the Secretary of the Indian Power and Energy Ministry would be a member of the delegation.

Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has signed a MOU with India to set up a 500 mega watt coal power plant but the progress of the project stalled due to controversy regarding the venue.

(Lanka-e-News, ) Army Commander Sarath Fonseka left for US suddenly for a private tour on day before yesterday (12).

Army spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara confirmed the tour but did not reveal the reason behind it.

Lanka-e-News learns that the Army Commander has gone to US to extend his Green Card visa. Although it is due to be extended in November, he has left early due to instructions of the astrologers to stay out of the country these days.

The Army Commander who visited Vanni battlefronts on October 11 said that the earth mounds would not prevent LTTE defeat. Meanwhile the security forces are expected to enter into Kilinochchi town, the heart of the LTTE this week and the leave of the senior Army officers have been cancelled, Lanka-e-News learns.

In another front, the pressure from India to Sri Lanka to go for a political process regarding the conflict in Sri Lanka is also on the increase.

(Lanka-e-News, ) Chaminda Athuluwage who was sacked from the post of Chairman of Fertilizer Corporation due to a serious fraud in purchasing fertilizer has been appointed as the Chairman of the National Lotteries Board.

As the JVP MP Anura Kumara Disanayaka revealed in the parliament an instance of calling for tenders for purchasing Rs. 1.3 billion worth fertilizer at 10 AM in the morning and closing them at 4 PM in the evening of the same day, then Minister in charge of the Fertilizer Corporation removed the Chairman from the post. Now the same person has been appointed to the National Lotteries Board which comes under Finance Minister, President Mahinda Rajapakse.


The staff of the National Lotteries Board has also expressed amazement due to the appointment of a person who was involved in a fraud of that sort to the chair of the board.

Former Chairman of the National Lotteries Board was also sacked due to a misappropriation in printing lotteries tickets. An audit query is also conducted by the Auditor General in this regard.

The lights will be on and the media cameras will be shooting Tamil films stars and technicians, live in action at the coastal town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu on 19 October, protesting against shootings and bombings in the neigbouring island nation.
After the big show of protest on the Hogenakkal water dispute, Tamil film stars, directors and technicians are preparing for the next grand show of solidarity with their people, this time on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue.
All activities in Kollywood will come to a standstill for three days from 18 to 20 October to enable the film personalities to gather at the coastal town for a rally and a public meeting condemning the Sri Lankan government for the “Tamils’ genocide”.
The decision was taken at a joint meeting of the associations of film artistes, directors, technicians, producers and theatre owners.
A joint statement said that all film-related work, including postproduction work, would be stopped for three days, as everyone should leave for Rameswaram on 18 October in a separate train arranged for them. Director Mr Bharathiraja, who announced the decision and told reporters that the rally would demand a ceasefire and stopping of the Centre's assistance to the island government.
Meanwhile, the all party meeting to be held tomorrow is likely to be reduced to a meeting of ruling parties and their supporters, since two more Opposition parties, actor Vijaykanth's DMDK and the BJP, in addition to the AIADMK and MDMK, announced that they too would boycott the meeting.
State BJP president Mr L Ganesan recalled that the BJP and other Tamil nationalist parties collected medicines and food for the suffering Sri Lankan Tamil population. However, the Centre did not allow the relief materials to be supplied to the people through the International Red Cross, he said. The all party meeting convened by chief minister Mr M Karunanidhi would not be useful for the island Tamils, he added.
Mr Vijaykanth alleged that the Centre was co-operating with the Sri Lankan government in the island conflict and the all party meeting was only to divert the people's attention.
The Dravidar Kazhagam and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, allies of the DMK, appealed to all parties to take part in the all party meet, so that an unanimous decision, reflecting the sentiments of Tamil Nadu could be taken and conveyed to the Centre.
When asked about the expectations of the Sri Lankan Tamils from the all party meeting, Mr K Sivajilingam, Sri Lankan Tamil MP, belonging to the Tamil Nationalist Alliance, which represents 22 out of the 23 Tamil constituencies, told reporters that the Sri Lankan government should announce a ceasefire, to end the sufferings of displaced civilian population. International relief agencies should be allowed to enter the Tamil area, he said and added that food, medicines and other essential commodities should be supplied to the affected people.

In an eco-friendly measure against the environmental hazard caused by polythene wrappers, the Sri Lanka government has evolved a technique to prepare food wrappers from banana leaves.

The Sri Lankan Agriculture Ministry has claimed that it has perfected in the technology for making available the all pervading aromatic "cured" banana leaves and to keep it for a longer duration without any change in its colour or quality.

"As a result on an experiment carried out at Agriculture Research Station, Telijjawila in Southern Sri Lanka a technique has been perfected to produce cured banana leaves that can be kept more than one month under refrigerated condition without any changes in colour or quality," the ministry said.

"People have been using banana leaves to wrap food items since ancient times and this practice is common among majority of the cultures in the south Asia," the study said.

Meal wrapped in banana leaves has additional taste as it gives a distinct fragrance. It also keeps the food fresh for a longer time, the report said, adding that the non-availability of it had led to the alternate use of plastics.

Polyethylene sheet is a convenient wrapper but these take about more than one year to start degradation thereby creating pollution and leading to many undesirable consequences.

"In addition, these sheets could contain various chemical compounds which may be harmful to the humans when exposed for a longer time period," the study said.

Describing the methodology to keep leaves fresh for long duration, the study said well grown leaves are trimmed and separated into pieces (45cm x 45cm) excluding the mid rib. These pieces may be rectangular or round in shape depending on the requirement.

Iranian Economic Affairs and Finance Minister Shamseddin Hosseini has underscored the importance of enhancing economic relations between the members of the Special Unit for South-South Cooperation, especially during the global financial crisis, MNA reported.

Hosseini made the comments in a meeting with Sri Lankan Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Sarath Amunugama on the sidelines of the annual six-day meeting of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB) in Washington, the Mehr News Agency reported.

The Special Unit for South-South Cooperation was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1978. Hosted in UNDP, its primary mandate is to promote, coordinate and support South-South and triangular cooperation on a Global and United Nations system-wide basis.

?On our behalf, we will lay the grounds towards facilitating the trade between the two sides? private sectors,? Hosseini said hoping that the Sri Lankan government would also contribute to this purpose by creating the required bedrock.

?Iran is on the way to becoming one of Sri Lanka?s biggest trade partners,? Amunugama said, pointing to Iran?s significant achievements in the energy sector.

The Iranian delegation is headed by Hosseini and also includes Majlis Economic Committee Chairman Mohammadreza Tabesh, and MP Qolamreza Mesbahi Moqaddam, who is also on the Economic Committee.

The boards of governors of the IMF and WB group normally meet once a year in the autumn for a plenary session to discuss the work of their respective institutions.

Pearaa'ru bridge, located on Maangku'lam - Oddisuddaan Road, which branches off from the A9, the access route which was used by the World Food Programme (WFP) humanitarian convoy to Vanni during the first week of October has been destroyed by the Sri Lankan forces in joint attacks carried out since Sunday. In the meantime, rain has started to fall in densely populated areas in Vanni on Tuesday. Many of the refugees living under the trees were forced to seek shelter in buildings, temples, churches and with the neighbouring houses.

The IDPs were expecting Humanitarian Convoy last Friday.

On Sunday, a Sri Lanka Army DPU team attempted to destroy the 15 meter wide and 10 meters deep bridge, which is located at 9th Mile Post from Maangku'lam. Later, the SLA targeted the bridge with artillery fire. Sri Lanka Air Force bombers also carried out bombardment on the bridge, disabling vehicle transport over the bridge.

Pearaa'ru channels water from Vavuniyaa to Ira'naimadu Tank.

The other access road, which runs thruough Neadungkea'ni from Pu'liyanku'lam in Vavuniyaa towards Mullaiththeevu has been targeted by the DPU for a long time.

Toronto - With blue skies and temperatures reaching over 25 degrees on the 'Thanksgiving' weekend last day, Thousands of Canadian Tamils were seen standing out in the street of the King City cricket ground with placards peacefully handing out leaflets which clearly articulated the gruesome reality for Tamils in Sri Lanka while carrying many placards and chanting slogan against the Sri Lankan army gunner turned cricketer Ajantha Mendis and Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
The Twenty/20 cricket (T20 Canada 2008) tournament was organized by the Canadian Cricket Club this ‘Thanksgiving’ long weekend, at the Maple Creek Cricket Club, in the outskirts of Toronto between Canada, Pakistan, Zimbathwe and Sri Lankan teams.

The organizers, unable to find a local sponsor had to rely on a sponsor from Dubai to underwrite the expenses related to this tournament. The Pakistan team arrived 24 hours before their first match due to hassles in obtaining visas for some of their players.


The biggest story that brought hundreds of Tamil protesters to the ground was the easy entry into Canada of gunner Balapuwaduge Ajantha Winslow Mendis (S/158405) of the SriLanka artillery as part of the Sri Lankan team.


The fact to note is Gunner Mendis was handpicked by the present Army Commander General Sarath Fonseka who is conducting the current genocidal war in the Tamil homelands, for promotion to the rank of Sergeant. It is the same commander who warned the minorities of the Island not so long ago in an interview with AP that they should not expect equal rights since the country belongs to the Sinhala Buddhists.

Besides the governments around the world refuse visas for the members of the notorious Para-militaries and armed forces, who have been accused of heinous crimes against humanity?


The government of Canada through its embassy in Colombo routinely denies visas for elected Tamil members of parliament for the very reason they speak for the equal rights of the Tamil population. Most recently the Sinhala NSSP Leader Wikramabahu was denied visa, for the very fact that he approves the universally accepted ‘self determination’ for Tamils.


Hundreds of Tamil protesters gathered for last three days of the matches at the cricket grounds to protest the easy entry of a Sri Lankan army gunner into Canada and to bring to the attention of the cricket world that atrocities and human rights violations are part of the human dignity and would not be tolerated in countries like Canada where fundamental human rights are being legislated and practiced. Some of the Sri Lankan players made rude ‘middle finger’ gesture to the supporters of the Canadian team which played against them Sunday evening.


Canada, Tamils are visibly upsets over the serious plights of their brethrens gathered in thousands in front of the cricket venue to show solidarity and expose the plights of 230,000 internally displaced people including 30,000 children are being living with no or limited access to food, medicines, sanitary conditions and drinking water. Some Singhalese fans were looking for the trouble with protesting Tamils were kept away by the York Region Police officials.

3rd and final day of the match between Sri Lanka and Pakistan on the Final game thousands of Tamil Canadians flogged the streets in front of the cricket ground and chanted slogans such as 'Sri Lanka Stop Genocides of Tamils', 'Sri Lanka Get off the Filed', 'Sri Lanka Play By the Rule', 'Sri Lankan President number one Terrorist', 'Sri Lankan state is a terrorist state', 'Sri Lanka Assassinates Elected Tamil MPs', 'Sri Lanka Assassinates Tamil Journalists', 'Sri Lanka stop killings Tamils' and many other slogans along with placards showing the plights of Tamils in North and East of Sri Lankan in the hands of the Sri Lankan forces.


Over head, a plane carrying 'Stop the Genocides in Sri Lanka' circled the cricket stand area for more than two hours.


Canadian Tamils are hitting streets of Toronto to engage the Canadian public on the above Tamils' plights as well as needs for the free Tamil Home land as the solution for the protracted conflict between Tamils and Singhalese for the past 60 years.

The government’s attempt to bring the leading Indian cement manufacturer ‘Aditya Birla Group’ to start the operation of the Kankasanthurai Cement factory has been stalled due to a row between the Construction and Engineering Services Ministry and the Industrial Development Ministry.

The Construction and Engineering Services Ministry earlier held initial negotiations with the government and the company to resume the operation of the cement factory which suspended its activities in 1980s due to the eruption of the conflict. The Ministry was even planning to prepare the Cabinet memorandum in this case. In addition, a site assessment was also carried out.

However, government sources said that the Industrial Development Ministry got involved in the issue claming this as an issue totally coming under its purview. Subsequently, it has taken over the right to make any decision regarding the privatization of the country’s one of the largest cement plants or the resumption of its operation.

Birla Group is a leading cement manufacturer in the world. According to a press release issued by the Company on October 1, the Aditya Birla Group’s cement production for the period April-September 2008 has moved up by 1.37 per cent at 150.06 lakh mt as against 148.04 lakh mt during April-September 2007.

Dispatches grew by 1.91 per cent at 149.87 lakh mt in April-September 2008 vis-a-vis 147.06 lakh mt in the corresponding period last year.

Cement production for the month of September 2008 rose by 2.74 per cent at 23.91 lakh mt. Dispatches are up by 4.12 per cent at 23.93 lakh mt over September 2007.

Asked for comments about the issue, Industrial Development Minister Kumara Welgama said that he could not make any adhock decision to privatize this cement plant which he cited as a public property.

Minister Welgama said that he would not try to resume operation of this plant either, until the security forces give their clearance for it.

“We cannot sell this plant to any company according to my whims and fancies. Even the media might launch a scathing attack on me if I do such a thing. The military is still occupying the area where this factory is located in Kankasanthurai. We have to get their clearance for venturing into any investment in it,” he said

The government has formally applied to the European Union to extend the GSP Plus trade scheme under which the island's exports will gain duty free access, an official said.Secretary to the External Trade Ministry S. Ranugge, said the government expects to know by December 15 whether or not the GSP Plus scheme would be extended.
The application for GSP Plus extension was sent through the Foreign Affairs Ministry to the high commission in Brussels which had submitted it last Friday, he said.

The island's apparel industry and exporters of a host of other products depend heavily on the duty free access provided under the GSP Plus scheme to sell in EU markets.

Loss of the duty free concession would make Sri Lankan exports uncompetitive against exports of other countries with lower labour, energy and raw material costs.

It would be a critical blow especially to the apparel industry which has seen sales to the United States, the biggest markets, slowing down. The apparel industry has said it fears the EU might not extend the concession because of concerns over alleged human rights abuses by government forces in their campaign against the Tamil Tigers.

Kalutara Magistrate yesterday remanded a mother and six others who surrendered to court for allegedly selling an infant to Rs. 65,000.

Kalutara Magistrate H. Anura Seneviratne remanded the infant’s mother P. Tharanga Nayomi de Silva of Gallanamulla, Payagala and U. L. Mohamed Naleer of Perakum Mawatha, Kolonnawa who had allegedly bought the infant, and Madurawala Manage Piyaseeli, Tuan Dileema, Madurawela Manage Nuwan Chamara, Abdul Latheef Sinthi Naleema and W. Shiromi who had acted as go-between in the alleged transaction.

The suspect W. Shiromi who had allegedly obtained Rs. 10,000 from the transaction was produced before the law through counsel Siri Perera was remanded till October 28.

The applications for bail filed by counsel Siri Perera and Viraj Jayanetti were refused by the Magistrate and ordered to remand them till next hearing.

Kalutara SSP Ravi Vijegunawardena and Officer-In-Charge of Kalutara Women and Children’s Bureau Inspector Malka Thushari appeared for the complainant.

The Cabinet is reported to have turned down Plantation Minister D.M. Jayaratne’s proposal requesting for an increase in the fertilizer subsidy given to tea smallholders, political sources said yesterday.

The Minister had said an increase in the tea fertilizer subsidy would in the long run be a profitable investment for the government as it would help increase productivity and ease the burden on tea smallholders who accounted for 75 per cent of Sri Lanka’s tea production.

But the Treasury is reported to have said that at this time such an increase would not be feasible.

The matter was discussed at the recent parliamentary consultative committee meeting held in the parliamentary complex with the Ministry producing facts and figures as to how an enhanced fertilizer subsidy will eventually increase productivity.

Meanwhile, JVP parliamentarian Chandrasena Wijesinghe, who is thepresident of the Joint Federation of Tea Small Holders’ Association, said fertilizer was absolutely essential to produce quality tea leaves.

“Without producing quality tea, we will find it difficult to maintain our market particularly in the European Union,” he said.

He said that at present a bag of tea fertilizer was issued to growers at Rs.2,950, but the request for a further subsidy has been unfortunately rejected.

Two unidentified gunmen yesterday robbed the Walasmulla Ruhunu Development Bank, police said. The bank manager had complained to police that two gunmen had threatened the customers at gunpoint and robbed them of their cash, jewellery, and mobile phones together with money from the bank counter and fled. Walasmulla police are conducting inquiries. The amount of money stolen is yet to be verified.

A software developed in Sri Lanka, which can alert security men to bomb threats and other emergencies, is among the entries nominated for this year’s Manthan Awards to be held in New Delhi from October 16-18.
The Manthan Awards, an initiative of Digital Empowerment Foundation from India, was aimed at bridging the digital divide between India and worldwide.

The Light Emitting Diode (LED) for providing emergency alerts as well as 17 other nominations from Sri Lanka would contend for the awards.

As many as 15 South Asian countries and 28 states and UTs from India have sent their entries for these awards in 13 categories. Explaining the FM-enabled LED screens for distribution of up-date and reliable information, a senior IT official Chitranganie Mubarak said this would enable police stations and hospitals to receive and provide bomb alerts that could save many lives. "This software for the gadget developed by the government-run Information and Communications Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) will be handy for alerting on any bomb explosions or bomb alerts by installting the LED in sensitive places," Mubarak said.

She said the technology could even be used by India since the LEDs are light and easy to be installed anywhere.

The software and the gadgets are expected to sell for less than USD 100 each with the option of developing large LED boards suitable for community centres.

While the country has been plunged into chaos following the multi-million rupee financial ‘Sakvithi’ scam, Negombo police yesterday started probing a similar institute that had paid depositors a monthly interest of 3%.

Negombo police Fraud Investigation Bureau initiated the probe following four complaints received against an institute called “Samajeeya Arthika Sahanaseva Hawula” in the Pulluhena area in Pamunugama.

Police spokesman Ranjith Gunasekara said the complainants had deposited around Rs.1.5million in the scheme and the institute had paid 3% as monthly interest.

The investigators are being carried out to verify whether the financial institute was operating under a proper registration from the Central Bank, he said.

Meanwhile, police have so far received more than 2,000 complaints in the alleged “Sakvithi Scam”.

The main opposition UNP yesterday appointed K.D. Tennekoon, Rohana Gamage and Anura Gunasekera to fill the vacancies created by the tragic deaths of North Central Province opposition leader Janaka Perera and two others when a suicide bomber blasted himself in Anuradhapura.

NCPC UNP member Kasthuri Anurdhanayake said Mr. Tennakoon who was ninth on the preferential list would succeed Major General Perera while Mr. Gamage and Mr. Gunasekera who were placed 10th and 11th in the list would replace Sunil Dissanayake and M. Anurdeen the two other councillors killed in the blast. UNP general secretary Tissa Attanayake said the party had not finalized the dates for the swearing-in and the naming of Major General Perera’s successor as the opposition leader.

The main opposition UNP obtained 12 seats in the North Central Provincial council the JVP 1 seat and the ruling UPFA 20 seats.

Police have raided the Wellawatte house where the suicide bomber who targeted Minister Maithripala Sirisena was residing. Two inmates of the house were arrested and documents seized.

WELIOYA: THIRTY-NINE besieged men, women and children in MULLIVAIKKAL, in MULLAITTIVU braved the LTTE obstacles and restrictions to reach the Army troops in PULMODDAI on two boats Tuesday (14) morning at about 2.00.

Army troops received those fleeing thirty-nine Tamil civilians, including six small boys, six little girls, fourteen women and thirteen men and entertained them to refreshments and meals before arrangements were made to re-locate them.

Those civilians, in spite of warnings issued by the LTTE, had risked their lives in the seas after starting off their journey from MULLAITTIVU early in the morning.

Following initial investigations, those civilians are to be re-located elsewhere until normalcy is returned to the WANNI.

VAVUNIYA: THE DEAD body of a male terrorist killed in the general area KOKKUTHUDUVAI in WELIOYA was handed over to the representatives of International Committee of Red Cross around 1.20 p.m. on Monday (13). To be taken to the un-cleared areas via OMANTHAI Entry/Exit point.

Meanwhile, a dead body of a man was recovered by the Police around 7.45 p.m. on Monday (13) from PANDARIKULAM area.

12 LTTE terrorists were killed and 3 injured during offensives launched by security forces at identified LTTE bunker positions West of Akkarayankulam, Kilinochchi, yesterday (Oct 13).

Security forces operating in general area Northeast of Akkarayankulama, forced into an LTE bunker defence killing 4 terrorists at around 8.35a.m.

Similarly, troops launched an attack at 2 LTTE bunkers located in general area West of Akkarayankuklama, killing 8 and injuring 3 terrorists at 4.20 p.m., military said citing gourd troops.

2 soldiers were also reported wounded in separate incidents, one due to an anti-personnel (AP) mine explosion and the other due to an IED explosion in the same area.

The government made preparations to send in another fleet of lorries with essential food items for those displaced and deprived of basic needs by LTTE in the non-liberated Kilinochchi and Mullaittivu districts on Monday (Oct 13).

A food convoy consisting of 20 lorries from Vavuniya has crossed over to the non-liberated zone yesterday afternoon from the Omanthai Entry/Exit point, Army sources report. The convoy carrying stocks of dhal, rice, coconuts, sugar , flour, spices, oil, grams, potatoes and cereals for children has made its way across Mundirippu, Nedunkandal, Mankulama and Oddusudan areas where thousands of trapped civilians were reported living.

According to military, the food stocks were thoroughly checked before they passed through the Omanthai Entry/ Exit point.

Earlier, on 3rd October, fifty-one lorries with 650 tons of dry rations were send to Wanni and distributed among IDPs under the supervision of the Government Agents in both Kilinochchi and Mullaittivu.

Troops of the 57 Division operating in general area West of Akkarayankulama, Kilinochchi today (Oct 14) launched a surprise assault at an LTTE bunker also killing 3 terrorists, Wanni military sources report.

The attack was launched at around 6.30a.m., with rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) and small arms, military said adding no damages were caused to own troops during the confrontation.

At least 15 terrorists were killed including a senior sea tiger identified as Kadalmaran, and similar numbers reported injured following heavy attacks carried out by troops of the 57 Division targeting LTTE resistant positions, East of Akkarayankulama, Kilinochchi on Monday (Oct 13).

The fighting erupted since yesterday morning and lasted till 11p.m., Wanni military sources said. Among the dead two were identified as senior sea tigers including Kadalmaran, who was believed commanding the reinforcement elements of LTTE in the area.

According to military, a soldier has laid his life and 8 others reported wounded during the hours long confrontations.

Pitched fighting ensued between troops and LTTE later in the day, when terrorists launched counter attacks to stall the military advance. The LTTE attempts were put all-in vain as troops stepped intense assaults, neutralizing the counter attack, forcing the tigers to flee the area, military sources said.

Thirty-nine Tamil civilians including fourteen women and twelve children from un-cleared area of Mullaittivu sought refuge with security forces this morning, 14 October.

Despite the LTTE's restrictions and obstacles, these civilians from Mullivaikkal area have reached the security forces in Pulmoddai around 9.30 a.m today. Thirteen men are among the escapees. Meals and other basic needs have already been provided before the arrangements made to relocate them.

These innocent civilians underwent severe hardships from the LTTE have crossed the Mullaittivu seas on two boats having risk on their lives.

The civilians were later directed to an IDP centre after completing initial investigations.

The executive editor of the Hindu, Malini Parathasarthy said in a signed editorial of the paper that despite the campaign masterminded by a desperate LTTE in Tamil Nadu the Indian government should maintain its policy of staying out of Sri Lanka's internal affairs.

The lengthy editorial carried on the paper's centre page said, "This latest campaign in Tamil Nadu masterminded by a desperate LTTE must not be allowed to undermine the sound policy decision upheld by successive Indian governments since 1991 to stay out of Sri Lanka's internal affairs."

In no uncertain terms the editorial said, "It is indeed the sovereign right of Sri Lanka as it is of India to eliminate any terrorist organisation that poses a fundamental threat to its survival as a nation."

The newspaper with 1.17 million circulation and considered the most influential national daily in India was commenting on the current agitation by Tamil political parties in the South Indian state to bring pressure on New Delhi to intervene and stop Sri Lanka's offensive against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) the leaders of which are believed to be virtually trapped in their stronghold of Kilinochchi.

The editorial severely warned New Delhi that such an intervention would weaken the moral authority of India to fight against terrorism and separatism in Kashmir.

Parathasarathy, in her comment, under the headline, "The Dangers of Tamil Chauvinism" said, "For the last decade or so, New Delhi has successfully resisted the various attempts made by the LTTE and its supporters in Tamil Nadu to force it to intervene in the Sri Lankan crisis. If New Delhi were to express its disapproval, even implicitly, of Sri Lanka's sovereign right to recapture its own national territory from the LTTE, it would weaken the moral authority of India's own actions in regard to its struggle against terrorism and the separatist agitation in Kashmir. This latest campaign in Tamil Nadu masterminded by a desperate LTTE must not be allowed to undermine the sound policy decision upheld by successive Indian governments since 1991 to stay out of Sri Lanka's internal affairs."

Parathasarathy said while India is anxiously grappling with the enormity of the horrific new threat to Indian society-terrorism- fast becoming an everyday reality on the streets political parties in Tamil Nadu led by the MDMK and the PMK "have recently plunged into high-pitched activity aimed at garnering support for the LTTE, a deadly terrorist organisation. These parties have launched a campaign in the State ostensibly to express solidarity with the Sri Lankan Tamils trapped in the war zone in northern Sri Lanka but the timing of this campaign which appears to have materialised overnight, is a dead giveaway. The Sri Lankan army, just two kilometers away from the LTTE's administrative capital, Kilinochchi, has successfully encircled the Tigers and their leader who are virtually trapped in their bunkers."

"For the first time in years," said Parathasarathy, "the Sri Lankan government appears to be on the brink of a major success in its battle with terrorism. There is now the very real prospect of the capture of the elusive LTTE chief, Velupillai Prabakaran, who is behind the assassination of a former Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi. Tamil Nadu's politicians clearly have different standards for India and for Sri Lanka. It would appear that they accept that battling terrorism in India and saving Kashmir from Islamist jihadis are important national tasks but not so in Sri Lanka which has been menaced for more than two decades by the LTTE.

It was the LTTE which pioneered terrorism in South Asia and produced two generations of suicide bombers who have claimed numerous high-profile victims. For far too long have the legitimate aspirations of the Sri Lankan Tamils been held hostage to the hegemonic ambitions of the LTTE chief Prabakaran who has consistently sabotaged all attempts to find political solutions to the conflict."

The editorial further said, "Yet the Thirteenth Amendment to the Sri Lankan Constitution which was a consequence of the Indo-Sri Lankan Agreement of 1987, envisaging devolution of power to provincial councils has become a touchstone for the resolution of the ethnic conflict. The Sri Lankan President, Mahinda Rajapaksa, has made it clear that he remains committed to a political solution of this sort. In a meeting with the All Party Representative Conference (APRC) last Saturday, Mr. Rajapaksa emphasised that it was the duty of the Sri Lankan state "to ensure to the Tamil people of the North the same democratic rights as enjoyed by the people in all parts of the country." He also took care to explain that the military action against the LTTE was against terrorism and not against the Tamil community.

"The Sri Lankan President has acquired unprecedented political space for his military campaign against the LTTE. Several factors including the rebellion of the powerful LTTE commander Karuna and the fact that there is now in place an elected provincial council in the Eastern Province have rendered irrelevant many of the points in the earlier Sri Lankan Tamil political platform.

That there is a credible and workable political solution now in sight has made it easier for Colombo to launch military operations against the LTTE. It is indeed the sovereign right of Sri Lanka as it is of India to eliminate any terrorist organisation that poses a fundamental threat to its survival as a nation."

by Jehan Perera

President Mahinda Rajapaksa has once again reiterated that he believes in the need for a political solution to end the current conflict in Sri Lanka. He has made this statement at a time when the Sri Lankan armed forces are poised to capture the LTTE's administrative capital of Kilinochchi after months of heavy fighting and heavy casualties. When government spokespersons say that the government is for a political solution this is often taken as an affirmation that the government is prepared to negotiate with the LTTE with whom it is engaged in warfare. However, a political solution does not necessarily have to be negotiated with the LTTE, or so the government seems to think.

There is also the possibility of a political solution that is put into place without the LTTE being either consulted or being made a party to it. The government seems to be thinking that it can formulate a political solution by acting in consensus with ideologically allied parties, such as the Sinhalese nationalist parties of the JVP and JHU, and pro-government Tamil parties such as the EPDP and TMVP. The President may be thinking of a political solution that is put into place after the LTTE is defeated on the military battlefield. In the same speech where he spoke approvingly about a political solution, the President also called on the LTTE to lay down their weapons, surrender to the government forces and enter the democratic process by contesting elections.

The President took up these positions in a speech delivered to the All Party Conference. This is an important initiative that he summoned over two and a half years ago to find a political solution to the ethnic conflict. While the representatives of the APC have laboured considerably and made various proposals, the government has not been prepared to accept them. The only recommendation that the government has so far accepted is what the President himself proposed. This was to implement the present constitution, in particular the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, and no more. Unfortunately, this too has yet to be done, although this recommendation was made with much earnestness at the beginning of this year.

The whole history of the Tamil struggle is to find ways of dealing with the outcome of Sinhalese ethnic majority domination of the polity. It is hardly a cause for surprise that in these circumstances many Tamil people continue to place a degree of support in the LTTE, despite their track record of human rights abuses and political bungling. This is on account of the LTTE continuing to possess a measure of bargaining strength through its remaining military strength, which is unavailable to any Tamil political party. Even Tamil allies of the government, such as the EPDP and TMVP have little or no bargaining strength, as they are almost totally dependent on the government for their survival.


TAMIL SUPPORT

Since it was first established, the APC and its representatives have held dozens of meetings, but none of these meetings have included representatives of the TNA, which is the largest Tamil political party. Only a few of the meetings at the earlier stages included the main opposition party, the UNP. The UNP left the APC process accusing the government of bad faith. It continues to say that the whole exercise is one to deceive the international community and is unwilling to join it. In these circumstances, it is readily apparent that the political solution envisaged by the President is one between allied parties, rather than through negotiations with antagonists or those holding oppositional views.

The original source of popular Tamil support for the separatist insurgency was the perception amongst Tamils that the existing political system was based on permanent ethnic majority rule, rather than on any principle of fairness that ought to govern relations between an ethnic majority and ethnic minorities. In the absence of the LTTE, the government can unilaterally seek to impose a solution upon the Tamil people. It is not likely that such a political solution that is designed by Sinhalese nationalist parties such as the JHU and the government's own proponents of Sinhalese nationalism, can even be minimally acceptable to the Tamil people.

On the other hand, the government may reasonably feel that it is simply not possible to negotiate a political solution with the LTTE. This is not simply the view of nationalist Sinhalese. It is also the considered view of many in the international community, who are today giving the government a considerable degree of leeway in militarily dealing with the LTTE. The best opportunity for a negotiated political solution was the peace process of 2002-2005 which was facilitated by Norway, and behind which stood countries like Japan and the United States. But the LTTE continued to think in terms of its own leadership of a separate Tamil state and sought to undermine that peace process.

Today, unfortunately, the members of the government that entered into the ceasefire with the LTTE are in the opposition. There has been a full scale war in the north and east of Sri Lanka for the past two and a half years. The Ceasefire Agreement was formally abrogated by the Government of Sri Lanka, led by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in January 2008. But the blame for the return to war cannot be put on the government alone. The foundations of the Ceasefire Agreement were shaken five years earlier when the LTTE walked out of peace talks in March 2003 and refused to attend the Tokyo donor conference in July 2003.


CONTINUING CONFLICT

What Sri Lanka needs for peace that is stable and lasting is a political solution that is fair by all communities, and is perceived as such by them. The challenge for peace making in Sri Lanka is to overcome the two main obstacles to such a political solution that is fair by all communities. These two obstacles are Sinhalese nationalism that sees Sri Lanka as a Sinhalese country and seeks to impose its own vision of a political solution upon the ethnic minorities. The other obstacle is the unwillingness of the LTTE to accept anything less than a separate Tamil state under its own leadership.

The military battles being fought at the present time in the north may get rid of one of these obstacles. The government's ongoing attempt is to militarily eliminate the proto-structures of a separate state that exist in the north, as was done in the east two years ago. The loss of the outer form of a separate state, such as their office buildings and administrative apparatus, might compel the LTTE to have a more realistic assessment of the contours of a political solution. If the present leadership is not prepared to be realistic, but is determined to continue to take the Tamil people to their doom, this can even lead to further splits within the organisation.

The problem, however, is that the very process of a military victory by the government may lead to the strengthening of the other obstacle to a political solution that is fair by all communities. This obstacle is Sinhalese nationalism that claims Sri Lanka to be a Sinhalese country, in which the ethnic majority has the power to impose their own vision of a political solution upon the ethnic minorities. Unless the government is prepared to accept the reality that Sri Lanka is a multi ethnic society, this will be a recipe for continued ethnic strife in the years to come.

During his Presidential election campaign in November 2005, President Mahinda Rajapaksa critiqued the Ceasefire Agreement that was signed in 2002, and pledged instead to design a new peace process that would bring peace with dignity. The ground reality in the north today is one of upwards of 300,000 people fleeing from place to place to escape the ravages of war. This is not peace with dignity for the Tamil people, who have a birthright to this country, who are sons and daughters of Sri Lankan soil, who are necessarily represented by the Government of Sri Lanka, and whose support and goodwill is necessary if Sri Lanka is to reach its full potential as a rapidly developing nation. The plight of the people of the north is reason enough for the government to consider a new peace process based on negotiations that are different from the past.

A petition is being signed in Sri Lanka requesting the Canadian Foreign Minister to recall the First Secretary of the Canadian High Commission on the assumption he has grossly abused his responsibility in handling visa applications.

The petition has been initiated by South Asian Peace Institute and says the signatories could use the draft made available or, re-arrange and edit the petition to suit its purpose.

The draft petition says, “Had Mr. McKinney properly scrutinized Dr. Karunaratne’s passport the proper facts would have been established. We presume that relying on this type of misinformation, Mr. McKinney and his staff would have led to many instances of rejecting visa applications resulting in denying Sri Lankan citizens’ entry to Canada.”

Ex-IGP and former governor of Northern Province, Victor Perera has been summoned again to the Bribery Commission (CIABOC) for questioning, sources say.

Speaking to ‘Lanka Dissent’, a senior CIABOC official said that Mr. Perera was initially quizzed on October 03rd for nearly seven hours after a group of senior police officers complained against him of fraud during his tenure as IGP.

He was again interrogated for four hours on October 10th, he added.

After his interrogation on October 03rd, Mr. Perera resigned from his post as governor of the Northern Province.

Meanwhile, human rights organisations have expressed surprise of the appointment of a person to a Tamil majority area who was IGP at a time where human rights violations against Tamils have been reported

Education authorities in northern Sri Lanka say that 26,168 schoolchildren have been displaced due to fighting between government forces and the LTTE, BBC Sandeshaya reports.

In a letter sent to Kilinochchi district secretary, the Director of Education of the area says there is a need for 125 temporary shelters to accommodate those students.

“There is a very urgent need for 100 urinals for males and 100 toilets for girls. 3000 Mats are needed for the seating arrangement of children,” the letter sent by T Kurukularajah said.

The education official has also requested the DS to provide three million rupees to dismantle the previous temporary schools and bring them to the new sites.

From Colombo to Dhaka, Kabul to Karachi, and Kathmandu to Kerala, Wednesday 15 October is likely to break all records as millions and millions of children practice the power of proper sanitation through soap suds and pledging not to leave their human excreta in the open.

South Asia has the highest rate in the world of people using no toilet at all – 48% of the population. Because of this, six of the eight countries in the region are not on target to meet the sanitation Millennium Development Goal (MDG). However, Sri Lanka and Pakistan are on track to achieve the MDG goal of “Improved sanitation” and of reducing related deaths among children under five years of age, by 2015.

Events in Sri Lanka on Global Hand Washing Day are centred around schools, and more than one million children will participate. The Ministry of Health and UNICEF have supported the training of 1500 Public Health Inspectors who will visit a record number of schools on the day and demonstrate how handwashing should be done according to the correct technique. Additional demonstrations will also be held in clinics, hospitals and tea plantations.

“We know that this single, very ordinary act of washing hands with soap can have an extraordinary impact on saving the lives of Sri Lanka’s children,” said Dan Toole, Regional Director of UNICEF South Asia. “It is inspiring to see all our partners, teachers, politicians, and NGOs - and most importantly children themselves – put so much energy and enthusiasm into Global Hand Washing Day. We know that children can transform this day into an automatic act and this way dramatically improve the chances of their countries to reach the Millennium Development Goals.”

UNICEF will also release a television advertisement staring Sachin Tendulkar, encouraging children to wash their hands. Said Tendulkar: “Having two young children, I constantly have to remind them to wash their hands before and after meals,” Tendulkar said. “I wanted to be a part of this campaign, because washing hands with soap can keep children safe and healthy and protect them against deadly disease.”

Global Handwashing Day’s hygiene promotion activities are aimed at lifting the lid on open defecation, one of the world’s “last taboos”. ‘Open defecation’ presents serious health risks from diarrhoea, worm infestations, hepatitis and acute respiratory infections like pneumonia – all the biggest killers of children. It is also one of the greatest environmental hazards and the greatest contributor to malnutrition in the region.

“Hand washing with soap before meals and after using the toilet, is the single most inexpensive health intervention in the world,” said Ananda Jayaweera, UNICEF’s Project water and sanitation specialist. “Studies have proven that effective hand washing - for at least 20 seconds with soap - cuts deaths from pneumonia and diarrhoea by some 50 percent.”

Due to negligence on the part of the Police Headquarters, the Anuradhapura Multi Purpose Cooperative Society has declined to supply fuel to police vehicles. A petrol shed run by the cooperative society has refused to continue a long standing credit facility since September 20.

The Anuradhapura Police had been told that fuel wouldn’t be supplied until Police Headquarters settled a Rs. 2.2 million outstanding bill. Police said that their movements were badly curtailed due to the dispute between police headquarters and the cooperative society.

The Sri Lanka Hadabima Authority which is under the purview of the Agriculture and Agrarian Services Ministry will commence national agriculture development projects. Under the proposed projects 5000 horticultural projects, preservation of soil in the Central Province, land management, carbonic agriculture and Haritha Udana home gardening competitions will be introduced shortly, the Agriculture and Agrarian Services Ministry said.

Advisor to Agriculture and Agrarian Services Ministry A.H.L.Somathilaka said that soil erosion in the Central Province had caused several problems to the farmers of different crops and the Ministry had prioritized to preserve soil in the Province. All farmers in the Province would be given training programmes on soil preservation techniques, nature of lands and geological varieties, nature of soil and agricultural knowledge. Training on biological aspects of different crops, physical qualities of crops and usage of different agricultural implements for different crops.

He said that the project would also involve in training farmers self-management of the preserved lands for cultivation purposes, importance of intake of a balanced diet of family members, utilization of the available plot of land for total productivity, consumption of non-toxic fruits and vegetables, strengthening of the family income, labour productivity of families. Around 25 Divisional Secretariats covering 5000 families in the Central Province would be selected for the training.

Somathilaka emphasized that the proposed project would also include distribution of seed paddy, different kinds of seeds and seedlings to farmers on short-term, medium -term and long-term basis according to the needs of farming communities in the Province. The Hadabima Authority agricultural and extension officers would visit each farming community and instruct them on modern techniques for self-management of their plots of lands.

He said that a large number of farmers were found to be using primitive methods in cultivating processes and some farmers were in the habit of cultivating crops by means of polythene bags, plastic bags and other bags. It was a popular method used by some farmers. Some farmers had been using indigenous agro-chemicals such as margosa seeds mixture, garlic mixture and natural herbal mixture for cultivation of different crops and these farmers had been using agro-chemicals very rarely. The Ministry had found that some farmers had not been eliminating insects and they were chasing insects, by means of traditional Takaya, scare-crows and puppets farmers had been successful in chasing insects. These environmental-friendly methods were extremely popular in remote farming communities.

Referring to the sustainable agriculture, Somathilaka explained that Rs 50 million was allocated for agricultural development for 2008, the Hadabima Auhtority had been given Rs. 5 million to produce carbonic fertilizer and expand the production for the use of fruits and vegetable cultivation. A separate project to produce carbonic fertilizer among 5000 families of home gardening would be introduced. The 5000 families would be given necessary instructions to produce carbonic fertilizer of 100 sq.ft in each graden.

Somathilka elaborated that the Markadura Divisional Agricultural Research Centre had already trained 7100 farmers on carbonic fertilizer production as the agricultural and extension officers in the Hadabima Authority had been given required training in carbonic fertilizer production.

According to the Hadabima Authority, horticultural competitions encompassing 5000 farming families will be organized at Grama Niladaries and Divisional Secretariats levels. Samurdhi officials, Agricultural Officers, Agrarian Services Officers and Divisional Secretaries in respective districts will select the best farmers in each district. The winners will be presented with gifts and recognized certificates.

Police headquarters yesterday said that lawyer Ms. J. M. Sharmila Fernando was wanted in connection with ongoing probe on the ‘Sakvithi’ scam.

She was among seven other suspects including Abayaranasinghe Mudiyanselage Chandana Weerakumar alias Sakvithi Ranasinghe (National Identity Card No 723591945) wanted by investigators, a senior official said. At the time of the chief suspect’s disappearance, she had functioned as his secretary and the company lawyer, he said.

According to complaints received by Mirihana police so far, the company had accepted over Rs One billion in deposits from about 2,000 persons. Police spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekera said that among the victims were nearly two dozen police officers. Releasing the photographs of the eight suspects, Gunasekera said that the public could pass on information about their whereabouts to DIG Chandana Wickremaratne (011-2829384), SSP Deshabandu Tennakoon (011-2852555), ASP U.S.I. Perera (011-2855272), Chief Inspector O. G. Amarabandu (011-2809243) and Chief Inspector Liyanage (011-2852556).

Sri Lankan soldiers attacked Tamil Tiger rebel bunkers along the northern front lines triggering gunbattles that killed 27 guerrillas and three soldiers, the military said Monday.
Fighting has escalated in recent months on the Indian Ocean island with the military capturing a series of rebel bases and large chunks of territory. Officials have pledged to crush the guerrillas by the end of the year.

In the latest fighting, soldiers destroyed three bunkers and captured four others Sunday after battles that killed 15 rebels near their administrative capital of Kilinochchi, the military said in a statement.

Separate clashes in the same area killed four rebels and one soldier, it said.

The military has said it is closing in on Kilinochchi and its forces are about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from the outskirts of the town.

In the northern Jaffna peninsula, troops killed four rebels along the front lines while a rebel mortar attack killed two soldiers, the statement said.

Clashes in Mullaitivu killed four rebels and wounded one soldier, it said.

With nearly all communications to the north severed, a rebel spokesman could not be contacted for comment.

Independent verification of the military's claims is nearly impossible because most journalists are banned from the war zone. Both sides routinely exaggerate enemy losses and underreport their own.

The rebels have been fighting since 1983 to create an independent homeland for the country's ethnic minority Tamils, who have faced marginalization by successive governments controlled by ethnic Sinhalese. More than 70,000 people have been killed in the violence.

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, who is visiting Australia, said the global economic turmoil would not cripple the government's ability to fund the war, which he said was in the ``final stages.''

``We are quite confident our financial resources will sustain current engagement with'' the rebels, Bogollagama told reporters at a joint press conference with his Australian counterpart Stephen Smith in Canberra Monday.

Last week, the government presented budget proposals for 2009 seeking a 20 percent increase in defense spending to a record 177 billion rupees ($1.6 billion).

The Prayathna People's Movement Places its highest appreciation on the recent rulings of the Supreme Court. Saying the rulings of the Supreme Court have sent a clear warning that former president, the incumbent and future presidents, state officials and others who hold public offices should exercise their duties as enshrined in the Constitution in such a way to uphold the Doctrine of Public Trust, Good Governance, the rule of law and should be accountable to the people for their actions from which they can never escape.

The full text is as follows.

Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunge and several others have been ordered to pay millions of rupees as compensation in the Waters Edge deal. Itt has also ordered the Bribery Commission to investigate the transaction and the Urban Development Authority to take over the land. It also emphasized that the former President has misused her powers. On the same day former Treasury Secretary P.B. Jaysundera rendered his unreserved apology before the Supreme Court for holding public office even after the findings against him by the Supreme Court. However, the Supreme Court has ordered him to file an affidavit in respect of the posts he held after the said findings. Earlier, the Supreme Court ordered to withdraw a gazette notification issued by the Secretary to the President related to the extension of the retirement age of public officers appointed by the President.
The Supreme Court has clearly stated that the President’s powers in effecting action of the Government or of State officers is also necessarily limited to the Constitution and that the President does not have the power to shield, protect or coerce the action of the State officials or agencies, when such action is against the tenets of the Constitution or the Public trust. It noted that the principle that those charged with upholding the Constitution –be a police officer of the lowest rank or the President-are to do so in a way that does not violate the Doctrine of Public Trust. The Waters Edge Land deal could be a good example how corrupted elements acquire lands that are meant to accommodate state institutions for their personal benefits and how the political powers have been misused, and shows how ignorant our state officials are about the happenings in the world. The Doctrine of Public Trust that arises from a body of law over 1,500 years deals with the property law, especially on the natural resources.

In 1988, the US Supreme Court upheld a Mississippi Supreme Court decision and ruled that all lands subject to the ebb and flow of the tide in Mississipi belong to the state in trust for the benefit of the citizens. Although the Waters Edge Land transaction was made under the cover of the benefit of the people it transpired that it was not so. The actions of the former President, and other statutory bodies have clearly shown how good governance has been floated in the country. The leaders and other power elites have not seen themselves accountable as individuals and were under the impression that they are above the law and have immunity. Even the immunity of the President is within the framework of the Constitution.

The rulings of the Supreme Court have sent a clear warning that former president, the incumbent and future presidents, state officials and others who hold public offices should exercise their duties as enshrined in the Constitution in such a way to uphold the Doctrine of Public Trust, Good Governance, the rule of law and should be accountable to the people for their actions from which they can never escape.

The Prayathna People’s Movement wishes to state that there is no doubt that the people will appreciate these historic rulings of the Supreme Court.

The Auditor General has sought the opinions of Inspector general of Police regarding unbelievable purchasing such as paying Rs. 200 per a coconut shell spoon which is worth Rs. 20 in the local market.

Audit queries have led to find out that there are equipment purchased below standards and paying 10-12 times higher prices when purchasing kitchen utensils, stores equipment and welfare apparatus to the value of Rs. 5,247,584 for the Police Training Schools in Pahalagama, Katana, Wehera, Boralanda, for the Police stations in Aithiyamale and Karadiyanaru and for the Monaragala police division.

According to the Auditor General,

A fish knife which is Rs. 250 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 1350;

A table knife which is Rs. 100 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 575;

A coconut shell spoon which is Rs. 20 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 200;

A stainless steel rice spoon which is Rs. 40 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 250;

A plastic waste bin which is Rs. 575 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 3950;

A cross saw which is Rs. 875 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 1350;

A coir rug which is Rs. 200 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 2650;

A serviette which is Rs. 20 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 120;

An electric coconut grater which is Rs. 5500 in the market has been purchased for Rs. 23,500;
When 75 money boxes were purchased to the Police Department, tenders were called from four companies. A technical evaluation committee comprised of a Senior Superintendent of Police and two others gave instructions in this regard. However, the minimum price was ignored and the second price was accepted. Purchasing the items at Rs. 1421.73 without VAT caused a loss of Rs. 20,745.75 to the department.

The Auditor General further states that the advantage for the state was prevented when welfare items worth Rs. 1,586,750 were purchased for 30 locations to house 6000 police officers who were on duty for 2007 Esala Perehera.

Although the Senior Superintendent of Police - Kandy had informed that the purchased items could be handed over to the Police Stores by September 02, they were not handed over duly until November 15, 2007. Further, the descriptions of the radio sets purchased were not submitted to stores. The Auditor General has also pointed out that purchasing coconut shell spoons at Rs. 200 each is an erroneous procurement.

The Auditor General has shown to the Inspector General of Police that Rs. 327,750 loss had been caused to state through purchasing 81,000 polysacks by way of paying higher prices.

Whilst approval had been given to purchase 1690 iron beds at the cost of Rs. 10,830, they were procured at Rs. 14,900.

1390 white shirts were purchased for police officers at the cost of Rs. 799,250, but the supplier was not one registered in the Defense Ministry.

Even five years after the five storey police station in Kotahena was completed construction, steps have not taken to acquire it from the contractor, the Attorney General has observed.

“If the President now believes military offensives don’t solve this conflict, then the President has to halt the war immediately and table his political proposals to the society through the APC,” says SLFP M Wing Leader, MP issuing a statement on the APC that was held on 11th October, chaired by the President.

The statement further says, the President has been using the APC and the APRC to his own advantage when international forums like the UN General Assembly, the SL Aid group and SAARC meets and to face regional pressure.

“This time seems no different. This time the Tamil Nadu politicians have formed broad alliances as never before against the war in Sri Lanka. Growing agitations and protests in TN demanding India to intervene in stopping what they call a ‘genocide against Tamils in SL’ has compelled the Man Mohan Singh government to intervene diplomatically.” the statement adds.

Concluding the statement, Mr. Samaraweera says, he therefore demands from the President to do table his political proposals immediately, instead of acting out yet another tragi-comedy and pushing this country into a bloodier future.

India has strongly urged the Sri Lankan government to present proposals for a political solution, diplomatic sources confirm.

The same source further says that the Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Alok Prasad has conveyed the Indian government’s concern on the plight of the thousands of Tamil people in the Northern war theatre due to continued military offensives.

Discussing on the military offensives in the North and its impact on civilians, India has urged Sri Lanka to assure the safety of the IDPs and to provide humanitarian aid to them.

The Indian HC Prasad’s meeting with the President follows a recent meeting between the Indian Defence Advisor, M.K. Narayanan and the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commissioner in India, Palitha Ganegoda in Tamil Nadu.

Sources say the Indian Central government has intervened due to continuing pressure on the Delhi government by Tamil Nadu politics.

The Supreme Court ordered the Consumer Protection Authority to take steps to stop the levy on polythene bags used in supermarkets and other outlets, considering a FR petition filed against the this levy as a fundamental rights violation.

The Ministry of Environment effected the tax on polythene as an environmetal protection step and compelled all consumers to pay an environmental cost for using polythene bags to carry their goods home.

The Consumer Protection Authority and the Environmetal Ministry was cited as respondents in the FR petition.

AG’s department that appeared for the Environmental Minstry explained that this tax was effected on the Environmental Act, but this explanation was not accepted by the SC. The Chief justice said it only exploits the consumer and gave the Consumer protection Authority a weeks time to take steps to stop the levy.

Health Services Director General, Dr. Ajith Mendis said he was receiving threatening telephone calls from unidentified persons after the Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry detained two containers of milk powder imported from China at the Colombo port.

The Ministry took measures to detain the two containers last week as China is beset with contamination of milk powder and allied products with Melamine that killed four children and sickened thousands.

“The Health Ministry temporarily prohibited the clearing of the two containers of milk powder imported from China to ensure the safety of consumers who would eventually use the product. We wanted to prevent a situation similar to what happened in China, if by any chance the milk products are contaminated. The Health Ministry is responsible for the safety of foods consumed by the public. We have done the right thing in detaining the two containers. Besides, the entire country would blame the Ministry if something unfortunate happened after the clearing of milk powder without testing,” Dr. Mendis emphasized.

Samples of the milk products in the containers had been sent for testing in two laboratories and a report is expected in two weeks. The Health Ministry will release the consignment for distribution if the tests clear the products of any contamination, he said.

Meanwhile, Trade, Commerce, Cooporative and Consumer Affairs Minister Bandula Gunawardana said that samples obtained from almost all the milk products in the market had been sent to Singapore for testing.

“I expect the reports of the tests of these products this week. However, there must not be any reason for concern as none of these products are imported from China,” Minister Gunawardana said.

Newly sworn-in member of parliament and TMVP Leader, Karuna Amman is to seek a meeting with foreign envoys in Colombo especially the British High Commissioner to clear his name in charges relating to human rights abuses and war crimes.

Karuna who was deported from Britain this year for holding a false diplomatic passport, said he was confident that he would not be denied an entry into Britain despite the whole controversy that led to his arrest and subsequent deportation.

“I am confident that I will not be denied visas into Britain or the US as I have not done anything wrong. I am waiting to meet the diplomats especially the British High Commissioner as I have a lot of issues which need to be discussed with him,” Mr. Karuna said.

He added that during his meeting with the British envoy he would also discuss in detail the reasons which led to his arrest and the events which followed. “I am willing to discuss everything about my stay in Britain,” Mr. Amman added.

During his meeting with President Mahinda Rajapaksa last week, Amman discussed his intention of meeting the foreign envoys to which the President had readily agreed.

Amman had also stated he would discuss in length with the diplomats of his plans to develop the east. “We need international support in my plans to develop the east,” Amman had told the President.

Meanwhile, US based Human Rights Watch (HRW) said last week that leaders of both the TMVP and the LTTE might find themselves denied visas to visit the United States under the new Child Soldiers Accountability Act passed by the US government recently.

Legal and Policy Director of HRW James Ross said that active LTTE organisers were known to be operating in the US and Europe while TMVP deputy leader and Eastern Province Chief Minister Pillayan who had been undertaking overseas trips, was yet to visit the US since entering the democratic stream. “Leaders of the LTTE, the TMVP and anyone else involved in recruiting children as soldiers better think twice when planning a visit to the United States. Under the new US law, it could just mean being denied a visa,” Ross said.

A Senior Scientist attached to the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) yesterday predicted that there could be a movement in the Sumatra plate during the coming days which might result in an under sea quake.

NBRO Scientist H. G. S. Ariyaratne said that his prediction was based on the behaviour of under sea species.

He explained that several species of fish which were seen in the Sumatra seas have become widely visible in the seas around Sri Lanka. According to his personal research he had managed to find out that species senses various changes that take place in the sea-bed including changes in plates. “These species move out of the areas when they sense these changes to escape possible quakes,” Mr. Ariyaratne said.

Mr. Ariyaratne said these species which were usually seen in the seas off Sumatra were found around the Sri Lanka seas prior to the 2004 tsunami. “This phenomenon has been visible during several occasions just before under sea earth quakes according to the research I have done,” he pointed out.

He said he was able to predict under sea earth quakes four times in the recent past but stressed that some official research should be made about this development.

“It could be very useful as it could be a breakthrough on predicting an earth quake at a time like this where there is no way of predicting disasters such as earthquakes,” he added.

AP report quotes Swiss authorities as saying Melamine found in biscuits in Sri Lanka; The Consumer Affairs Authority says there is no truth to such claims.

MANILA, Philippines -- A Sri Lankan who police say could belong to an international syndicate producing fake automated teller machine (ATM) cards was arrested as he was repeatedly trying to withdraw money at the Glorietta mall, an officer said Monday.

Superintendent Manuel Santos said Premarajah Rathinem, 39, who was temporarily staying at Copacobana Hotel in Pasay City, was accosted Friday noon by security guards at the third level of the mall when he was seen taking "too long" to withdraw cash from Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) ATMs.

"He was going back and forth to line up at the ATM using different cards. We recovered eight cards, which were certified counterfeit by BPI," Santos said.

Some P32,000 in cash that the suspect had withdrawn from the ATMs was also seized.

Rathinem is detained at the Makati police station.

The police offer said Rathinem could be a member of a syndicate that steals details from ATM and credit cards with "skimming" devices then reproduces fake cards with the copied information.

He said several lookouts likely accompanied Rathinem as he withdrew money but fled when he was arrested.

"We already caught a handful of Filipinos and foreigners with the same modus operandi, but they would not reveal their operations," Santos said.

The suspect will be charged with violation of RA 8484 or the Access Device Regulation Act of 1998, with BPI filing the case.

Country's leading telecom firm Bharti Airtel today said it expects to roll out services in Sri Lanka by December as inter-connection issues with local telecom firms are expected to be sorted out.
"We find the (Sri Lankan) regulator extremely supportive," Bharti Airtel Chief Executive Officer Manoj Kohli told reporters on the sidelines of the South Asian Telecommunication Regulators' Council conference here.

"We are on track to launch the services .... Inter-connection issues have been nearly sorted out and the roll out is likely by December 2008," he said.

The Indian telecom major was facing problem for getting interconnection from the local operators in the island country.

Airtel had said that the incumbent operators in Lanka are not giving interconnections to the company.

Bharti Airtel Lanka Private Ltd, a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel Ltd, had already announced plans to launch 2G and 3G services in Sri Lanka under the same brand Airtel.

It had signed a $150-million deal with China's Huawei Technologies to set up a mobile phone network in Sri Lanka.

VAVUNIYA: ONE more fleet of twenty lorries carrying essentials into war-affected un-cleared areas started off from VAVUNIYA and crossed OMANTHAI Entry/Exit point a couple of minutes ago on Monday (13) afternoon.

The latest convoy carrying rice, dhal, coconuts, sugar, flour, spices, oil, grams, potatoes and other cereals in the company of government representatives of the MULLAITTIVU and KILINOCHCHI districts made its way across MUNDIRIPPU, NEDUNKANDAL, MANKULAM and ODDUSUDAN into areas where thousands of trapped civilians are living.

Food stocks were thoroughly checked at OMANTHAI Entry/Exit point before the lorries were allowed entry into those areas. In the first week of October, authorities managed to send more than forty such consignments into battle-torn areas with the coordination of the UN World Food Programme (WFP).

WELIOYA & KILINOCHCHI: HEAVY FIGHTING as well as further weakening of the Tiger terrorists now confined to two districts, continued for another day on Sunday (12) inflicting more losses and damages to the enemy in the WELIOYA, AKKARAYANAKULAM and VANNARIKULAM battle-affected areas.

Troops of the 59 Division in confrontations with LTTE terrorists in the general areas of PERIYAKULAM, ANDANKULAM, THANNIMURIPPUKULAM in the WELIOYA sector had several encounters with terrorists and bumped off at least nine of them. Three more terrorists were confirmed injured during these clashes.

In the aftermath of an anti personnel mine explosion in THANNIMURIPPUKULAM on Sunday (12) at about 12.00 noon injured one soldier. The incident also prompted the troops to conduct a search in the same area and unearthed about eighty-three anti personnel mines and eight Improvised Explosive Devices (IED).

Meanwhile, troops of the Task Force I during their confrontations with LTTE terrorists in the general areas, west of AKKARAYANKULAM and VENNARIKULAM in KILINOCHCHI district on Sunday (12) killed at least nineteen terrorists and injured twelve more.


Troops also ensured eight terrorist bunkers and a strong point of the LTTE were destroyed during those confrontations. Troops also lost the precious life of a soldier and fourteen more troopers sustained injuries due to anti personnel mine explosions, triggered by terrorists and also simultaneous firing of small arms.

Troops, determined to cause maximum losses to the enemy, are currently engaged in a series of clashes in order to achieve further gains.

VAVUNIYA: A SEARCH operation conducted together by combined Army and Police personnel in the general area of KATTAKADU, VAVUNIYA on Sunday (12) recovered two hand grenades, four magazines and one hundred and four ammunition rounds.

JAFFNA: TROOPS operating in the general areas of MUHAMALE and NAGARKOVIL in JAFFNA after observing a gathering of terrorists and a bunker initiated attacks Sunday (12).

Army troops effectively conducted the attack and killed at least six terrorists. A similar number was reported injured during both those encounters. The LTTE bunker was razed to the ground and troops immediately conducted a search surrounding MUHAMALE Forward Defence Line (FDL) and collected thirty T-56 ammunition rounds, one hundred and forty-eight Multi Purpose Machine Gun (MPMG) ammunition rounds and one combat jacket from the area.

One soldier was injured due to explosion of an anti personnel mine.

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama who is on an official visit to Australia at the invitation of Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith held bilateral talks at the Parliament House in Canberra today, 13th October.

Welcoming the Sri Lankan Minister, Foreign Minister Smith recalled previous meetings they had in Singapore at the ASEAN Regional Forum and more recently in New York on the sidelines of the UNGA.

Referring to the two-way Trade between Sri Lanka and Australia, he mentioned that it surpassed A$ 300 million. Foreign Minister Smith noted that the Australian Government provides A$39 million annually in development assistance to Sri Lanka, and to coincide with the visit of Minister Bogollagama another A$ 6 million will be provided over 03 years for primary school education through UNICEF.

Referring to the importance of the Sri Lankan diaspora of 150,000 and over 5000 students presently studying in Australia, Minister Smith noted that the visit taking place at this juncture was important in reaching out to the diaspora as well as Australian public in general.

Minister Smith observed that this visit was helpful in enhancing the relationship between the two countries as exchanges between Governments further develop people to people contacts, as well as to understand the difficult issues faced by Sri Lanka. Describing the relationship between Australia and Sri Lanka as one based on friendship and cooperation, Minister Smith stated that both countries share positive synergies on the multilateral as well as regional fora.

Minister Smith thanked Sri Lanka for the support given for Australia to become an observer in the SAARC.

While thanking the Australian Foreign Minister for the invitation extended, Minister Bogollagama mentioned that his visit was taking place ten years after the last official visit undertaken by a Sri Lankan Foreign Minister to Australia. He stated that the friendship between the two countries remained close and next year would mark the 60th Anniversary since the establishment of the Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra. Noting the sizeable presence of a Sri Lankan community in Australia he thanked the Australian Government for being a good host to them and for the contribution made by them to Australia in diverse fields.

Minister Bogollagama also appreciated the assistance given by Australia over the years in various sectors stating that Australia was also an important investor in Sri Lanka. Referring to bilateral trade he stated that there was scope for further enhancement. Further he stated that in view of the Free Trade Agreements Sri Lanka had entered with India and Pakistan, investing in Sri Lanka would be an attractive proposition for Australian companies, as they would facilitate them to enter the vast Indian Sub-continental market on competitive terms.

Minister Bogollagama briefed the Foreign Minister on Sri Lanka's campaign in countering terrorism, but stressed that the solution would be a political one. Quoting the most recent statement made by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Minister explained in detail the manner in which provisions of the Constitution of Sri Lanka provides for the devolution of power.

Further, he explained the priority given by the government towards establishing democracy in all parts of the country and the development of the Eastern Province under the Negenahira Nawodaya programme. Minister Bogollagama briefed Minister Smith on how a section of the LTTE had embraced democracy and the manner in which one time deputy leader of the LTTE entered Parliament and how an ex-child soldier was today the democratically elected Chief Minister of the Eastern Province.

Minister Bogollagama described the history of negotiations since the Thimpu peace talks of 1985 and those that followed at different intervals, all of which were used by the LTTE to re-arm, regroup and recommence hostilities. He stressed the need to counter terrorism so as to free the people from the clutches of the LTTE and in this effort emphasized the importance of the LTTE being proscribed as a terrorist organization in Australia.

Foreign Minister Smith responded by stating that the proscription of the LTTE under Australian domestic laws was currently under consideration by his Government. Later on Minister Smith responding to a question at the joint press conference reiterated that the Government is considering the ban.

At the joint press briefing, Minister Bogollagama stated that the Tamil community was part and parcel of Sri Lankan society and that every Tamil was not a terrorist. He emphasized that 54% of Tamils lived outside the Northern and Eastern Provinces of Sri Lanka and Colombo reflects the fusion and amity of Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim communities.

Minister Kumara Welgama says so far 23 industrial zones have been set up this year. Around 15 thousand employment opportunities have been generated through these projects. 188 factories of these industrial zones have commenced their operations and another 58 are under construction.
Minister Welgama revealed this information during a progress evaluation meeting held at the Ministry recently. Construction of the Buttala, Galigamuwa and Embilipitiya Industrial Zones will be completed next year. The Ministry said that over six thousand persons will get jobs at these industrial zones.

Switzerland's Health Ministry said Monday it was halting sales of three Chinese-made food products which contained traces of melamine, but stressed there was no grave risk to public health.

"To-date, small traces of melamine were found in two types of biscuits and a brand of caramel sweets," the Health Ministry said in a statement, adding that there was "no reason to fear a danger to health in Switzerland."

In a separate statement, authorities in the canton of Geneva identified the three products as White Rabbit sweets from China, Milk Cookies S&P from Thailand, and LemonPuff Munchee biscuits from Sri Lanka.

Sales of White Rabbit's milk-flavoured sweets were halted in China last week after they were found to contain melamine -- an industrial chemical that was added to Chinese milk to make its protein content seem higher.

The Swiss Health Ministry said that the levels of melamine in the products would only pose a danger to children aged up to 3 years "if they ate more than one kilogram of the biscuits every day for a long period," and that there was no danger for adults.

"However, this contamination with melamine is still not to be tolerated, and the products concerned will be immediately taken off the shelves," the statement said.

Tainted milk has killed at least four children and sickened 53,000 in China in a widening scandal that has put a spotlight on the country's lax food safety standards and lack of corporate accountability.


Many multinational corporations have become implicated, with Unilever recalling milk powder after finding melamine in its Lipton tea products, Cadbury ordering back all mainland China-made chocolate products and Heinz recalling hundreds of cases of baby food.
Earlier Ceylon Biscuits Ltd (CBL) which produces Munchee biscuits, said it did not use any Chinese milks in its brands and its products were safe for consumption.

"CBL group states categorically that they never used and are not using milk and milk products in the manufacture of any of their group products," the company said in statement.
CBL said it followed stringent quality control measures in accordance to international and local standards, materials were tested before use and its products met international and local food regulations.

CBL says all its products are safe.

With reference to the reports in news media about the employment of World Bank Country Director's husband as a consultant at the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) , the Bank would like to clarify that:

He was appointed to the position through a competitive process by responding to an advertisement placed by SEC in local newspapers and on the Internet.

His employment in Sri Lanka as a consultant was cleared by the World Bank 's Ethics office as one without any conflict of interest.

He is paid a local salary and is employed as an international debt expert with experience of working in the U.S. and Japan. His experience enables him to
contribute significantly to the development of the Sri Lanka debt market , said Information Officer of the World Bank, Sri Lanka Chulie De Silva.

Residents of Orr's Hill, a suburb of Trincomalee city with predominantly Tamils, are being photographed by the Sri Lanka Army (SLA). Members of each family are being photographed as a group to ensure that no strangers live with them, SLA officials said. Trincomalee Brigade headquarters of the SLA is located at the tail end of Orr's Hill facing Trincomalee Harbour.
The SLA and police conduct frequent cordon and search operations in Orr's Hill area where several provincial ministers of the Eastern Provincial Council are also residing in government quarters.

Residents have been warned by Sri Lankan forces not to entertain outsiders or strangers in their houses.

Famous Pacific Shipping Sri Lanka has been named the preferred local freight partner by the Danish contractor MT Højgaard to handle the majority of the logistics services required during the construction of the Oluvil Port Project in Sri Lanka. FPS Sri Lanka, a member of the Famous Pacific Shipping Group, will provide a complete package of freight forwarding services, including documentation, customs brokerage, co-ordination of cargo discharge operations, interim storage and transfer of materials to the site of the new facility. The shipments will include over-dimensional cargo, breakbulk, FCL, LCL and open top containers, as well as airfreight consignments.
Located on Sri Lanka's east coast, 375 km from Colombo, Oluvil's new port will function as a regional facility primarily for bulk and breakbulk shipments, as well as providing a home for fishing vessels.
The estimated cost for the initial stage, which is due to completed by 2010, is €50 million.
FPS Sri Lanka successfully handled the first shipment of more than 1,000 m3 of cargo and 14 TEU at the end of last month.
The company is also providing logistics services for a 300MW combined cycle power station, which is being constructed on the west coast of Sri Lanka for West Coast Power. According to managing director Gihan Nanayakkara, FPS Sri Lanka's appointment by MT Højgaard comes at the same time as members of the Famous Pacific Shipping group are developing a significant track record in project cargo forwarding as a means of diversifying from the group's NVOCC business model.

The Political Head of the LTTE, B Nadesan, issued a statement that symbolized the Tamileelam nation reaching out to the extended hand of support of Tamilnadu.
His statement highlighted the unjust reality of the isolation of the struggle of the people of Tamileelam by the world and the solo hand of support extended by the people of Tamilnadu.
A condensed version of the statement follows:
“We are encouraged by the united support extended by political parties of Tamilnadu for the people of Tamileelam struggling for their rights amidst aerial bombardments and artillery fire.
This genocidal war is heaping indescribable misery on our people. Our people are chased out from their own land and they are displacing daily in large numbers. The people of our proud nation are forced to live like nomads under trees.
All the Sinhala political parties are united in their support of the Rajapakse’s genocidal war against the Tamileelam people. The enemy States of India is supporting this genocidal war. Some other States are also extending economic support. The Sinhala State is trying to defeat the just struggle of the Tamileelam people by gathering together this support from the world. The Sinhala regime is conducting this genocidal war convinced that no one will raise their voice in support for our people. Despite these great odds, the Tamileelam people have waged a brave struggle with dedication and immense sacrifices.
In this context, the support extended by Tamilnadu to our people would send shockwaves to the chauvinistic Sinhala regime.
It is a historical tragedy that the proud Tamil people have no state of their own. We gratefully take extended hand of support to our people who are struggling to setup an independent state for the Tamil people.
We express our deep gratitude for this united stance of Tamilnadu political parties. It is the sincere hope of our people that your support will develop into even stronger political actions in support of our people.

Sri Lankan government says it is considering producing nuclear power in the near future as a solution to future power needs in the country.
Sri Lankan Minister of Science and Technology Tissa Vitharana says this project would be a better answer to the rising power crisis.
“At the moment producing the nuclear power is the cheapest way," the Minister said. The Minister says the Sri Lankan government is seeking Indian experts’ assistance to use the thorium deposits found along the Western coast of the country from Beruwela to Negombo as a source to produce electricity.
Thorium-based nuclear fuels would leave far less waste plutonium than conventional fuels. However, Thorium based nuclear energy is still in experimental stages and most countries do not use this technology for economic reasons.

Sri Lanka Minister of Export Development and International Trade, Prof. G.L. Peiris today confirmed of Sri Lanka's application for the GSP+ concessions from European Union.
“We have filed the application for GSP+ concessions from European Union last Friday. We are not planning to compromise the country's integrity, independence, and unity to receive these concessions. We currently fighting against terrorism and this should be understood by the European Union,” Minister Peiris said.

The Board of Investment approved a venture to establish a project to manufacture stainless steel sinks for the local market last Thursday. Prince Royal Lanka Limited is a joint venture between Valli Steel Industries of India and St. Anthony’s Hardware (Pvt) Limited. The Rs 90 million investment is carried out under Nipayum Sri Lanka 300 Enterprises Programme. Mr. Dhammika Perera, Chairman / Director General signed the agreement on behalf of the BOI.


St Anthony’s Hardware Limited currently imports 15,000 stainless steel sinks per month from Valli Steel Industries, India and holds around 65 percent of the market share. The joint venture will establish a stainless steel sink manufacturing plant at the Industrial Estate Pallekele, Kundasale. The plant is expected to commence production in February 2009 and operate at a production capacity of 20,000 sinks per month. Prince Royal Lanka Limited will provide employment opportunities for a work force of 100. Mr. Nepalraj Thilak, Director signed the agreement on behalf of the company.

CleanCo Lanka’s drivegreen programme recently connected to a superior total voice and data communications solution provided by Dialog Enterprise. The solution facilitates inter-branch connectivity between CleanCo’s island wide fixed and mobile vehicle emission testing centres, enhancing service delivery.

Dialog Enterprise, an integrated business division of Dialog Telekom PLC, has installed its connectivity solutions at 16 CleanCo testing stations, deploying an IP VPN (Internet Protocol - Virtual Private Network) based on MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching) technology. This enables users to access corporate and customer information over a secure private communication network. In addition, Dialog7 Fixed Voice Solutions have been provided with unlimited communication facilities between the head office and fixed and mobile testing stations, whilst 10 mobile testing units can receive data connectivity through a GPRS/3G/HSPA solution from Dialog GSM.

CleanCo’s need to connect its fixed and mobile testing centres was an ideal challenge for Dialog Enterprise to demonstrate its capability to deliver fixed mobile integrated connectivity solutions for Sri Lankan enterprises.

Mr. Kavan Ratnayaka, CEO Dialog Fixed Telephony & Broadband Services said, “It is important that we cater to the changing demands of customers. We firmly believe our advanced technology resource enables us to meet this demand. We are glad to partner CleanCo on this project, and hope our ICT solutions will deliver value results to CleanCo and its customers”.

Besides boosting CleanCo’s communication facilities, the solution will reduce costly infrastructure expenditure through the implementation of next generation network infrastructure for a total voice, video, data and broadband internet package.

Mr. Joel Peter, General Manager, CleanCo Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. commented, “We are glad to have selected Dialog Enterprise as our technology partner for the drivegreen vehicle emission project. Dialog’s ICT solutions will definitely enhance our information communication infrastructure facilities and contribute towards achieving our corporate objectives.”

The vehicle emission testing programme is an initiative of the Environment and Natural Resources Ministry together with the Ministry Of Transport to curb vehicle air pollution.

Three Sri Lankans were sentenced to death by Jeddah Court in Saudi Arabia yesterday, the Foreign Ministry confirmed.

Police were taken to task by the Anuradhapura Magistrate Ruchira Weliwatta today for failing to distinguish even the sex of the suicide bomber who caused a massive explosion in the heart of Anuradhapura which killed Retired Major General Janaka Perera and several others.

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CB) on Monday said it was reducing the Statutory Reserve Requirement (SRR) for all commercial banks in a bid to release more liquidity in the market as a buffer against the global financial crisis impacting here.

The SRR of commercial banks will be reduced by 75 basis points to 9.25 % effective from the next ‘Reserve Week’ from October17, and this will enable the market to access additional liquidity of around Rs 7.5 billion.

“This step has been taken in order to inject more liquidity to the domestic financial market so as to enable the market to effectively face any liquidity constraint that may arise as a result of the ongoing turbulence in the global financial markets,” the CB said in a statement.

To strengthen this move, the CB said it has also decided to further relax the access of commercial banks and Primary dealers to its reverse repo facility with effect from 15 October, by providing liquidity, when the market is short, at its reverse repurchase rate for a maximum of 10 times per calendar month, up from the current 6 times.

The above two measures, which would be in force until December 31, are being introduced as a necessary precautionary intervention in the face of the extraordinary adverse developments in the global financial

Food, shelter, clean water, sanitation and, above all, security remain the most urgent concerns of the tens of thousands of displaced civilians living in LTTE-controlled areas in the north of the country, said Anthony Dalziel, ICRC deputy head of delegation in Sri Lanka.

Mr. Dalziel, in an ICRC monthly news bulletin, also says that as fighting between government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the North of Sri Lanka continues, large numbers of people continue to flee eastwards leaving Kilinochchi for Mullaitivu district, often leaving their personal belongings behind.

"The situation in the Vanni is evolving daily and the ICRC is committed to staying close to those in need of humanitarian assistance. With the agreement of the Government of Sri Lanka, we are continuing our activities for the Vanni population from our offices in Puthukkudiyirippu where we have maintained an operational presence since 1997", said Dalziel.

"While security remains a concern we are in daily contact with the Sri Lankan security forces and LTTE which allows us to obtain the necessary security guarantees to be present and carry out our work in the field", he added.

The bulletin also says:

In an effort to help meet some of these needs, the ICRC, with the help of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society distributed relief items in September to over 4,500 people in the Karachchi and Oddusuddan areas. Among the items were hygiene kits, baby-care parcels, mosquito nets and emergency household kits. Tarpaulins were distributed to provide temporary shelter. Also in September, the ICRC repaired over 20 wells and built dozens of toilets.

Although the ICRC has not been involved in the distribution of food to the population in the Vanni, it supports the relevant stakeholders in their efforts to provide food and other essential supplies to the affected population. The ICRC's presence at Omanthai crossing point as a neutral intermediary facilitates the passage of food convoys, the civilian population and their vehicles, between the Government and LTTE controlled areas.

In coordination with local officials, the ICRC has been closely monitoring the health situation for any outbreaks of malaria or water-borne diseases as the monsoon rains approach. Many Vanni health-care units that previously treated patients had to relocate to safer places and moved alongside the population. They continue to provide medical care for the displaced.

Swiss authorities say they have found high concentrations of melamine in biscuits from Thailand and Sri Lanka and have called on other European countries to withdraw the products, the Associated Press (AP) reported from Geneva today.

Authorities in the canton (state) of Geneva say tests have shown high melamine levels in the Thai biscuits Milk Cookies and a brand of Sri Lankan biscuits of a local producer.

Melamine in milk has been blamed for the deaths of four infants and for sickening more than 54,000 others in mainland China.

The authorities said in a statement Monday that the European distribution channels for the two biscuits have been identified.

They say tests on a dozen baby milk products have shown no melamine contamination.

Troops of the 58 Division operating in general area Vannerikkulama at the western Kilinochchi battlefront confirmed destroying 4 LTTE bunkers, killing 12 terrorists and injuring 6 others yesterday(Oct 12).

According to Wanni military sources, 8 terrorists were killed in the area when troops forced into an LTTE bunker line destroying 4 bunkers, at around 2p.m. Earlier, troops confirmed killing 4 terrorists and injuring 6 others during a short encounter in the same area, at 8.30p.m.

A soldier has laid his life and 14 others were reported wounded including 6 due to anti-personnel (AP) mine explosions in general area Vannerikkulama, military sources said.

Supreme Court rejects JVP petition objecting Karuna Amman's appointment as MP under the national list of the UPFA.

Indian Coast Guard has taken 66 Sri Lankan fishermen into custody on charges of poaching and illegal entry into Indian Sea territory.

The fishermen who were in 12 crafts were arrested when they were fishing 120 nautical miles away from Visakapatmnam in Indian waters.

The court today issued an enjoining order against the manufacture and distribution of a leading brand of chocolates over a complaint that there was suspicion it contained traces of melamine.

The Provincial High Court of Eastern Province in Batticaloa decided yesterday to reserve the order of the case involving the suspension of Kattankudy Urban Council chairman, for October 17.

The Excise Department has increased the price of local and foreign liquor by Rs. 50 per litre and Beer by Rs. 10 with with effect from 08-10-2008.

Eleven LTTE terrorists were killed while 11 more sustained injuries in fierce gun battle erupted in northeast of Akkarayanklulam in Kilinochchi front yesterday, 12 October.

According to the defence sources, the hours long fighting commenced on last morning caused heavy damages to the enemy. By intercepting LTTE radio communication, the damages inflicted to the enemy were confirmed.

Two security forces personnel also made their utmost sacrifice for defending the motherland while engaged with LTTE terrorists, defence sources added.

Confirming the trend in Tamil Nadu that any emotional issue moves to the film arena after it takes the centre-stage in politics, Tamil film industry joined the protests on the Sri Lankan Tamils’ issue and announced that all the film stars and technicians would wear black badges “condemning the genocide of island Tamils”.
Joining the race with all the political parties, vying with each other to show their solidarity with the Sri Lankan Tamils, a joint meeting of Tamil film artistes, directors, producers and technicians, appealed to everyone in the film industry to wear black badges to draw the attention of the Centre towards the sentiments of state people.
The joint statement issued by South Indian Film Artistes Union, Tamil Nadu Directors Association, Tamil Films Producers Association, Technicians Federation, Distributors Association and Cinema Theatres Association said that the film fraternity would join hands to save the Tamil race in Sri Lanka. The statement also said it would convene a meeting again to chalk out the future course of action to convey Tamil sentiments to the Centre.
Not to be left behind, traders announced that they would down shutters on 17 October, to protest the killings of Sri Lankan Tamils. Mr T Vellaiyan, president of the Federation of Tamil Nadu Traders Associations, in his statement said that all the traders small and big in all parts of Tamil Nadu without exception should close their shops to reflect the sentiments in Tamil Nadu.
A section of the students and lawyers too joined the incessant protests against the island government and burnt the effigies of Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapakse. Hundreds of activists belonging to the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, a Dalit outfit, were arrested for similar protests.
Meanwhile, chief minister Mr M Karunanidhi, under fire from the AIADMK and MDMK and most of the Tamil nationalist groups for his silence on the Centre’s economic and military aid to the island nation, has invited leaders of all the political parties, to take part in a all party meeting to be held on 14 October, to expedite the Centre's actions to stop the genocide and war in the island nation.
However, both the AIADMK and MDMK have announced that they would not take part in the meeting `convened by those who have abetted the genocide”. AIADMK supremo Ms Jayalalitha had already demanded that the DMK should withdraw from the UPA government, which has provided training to the Sri Lankan military. However, the PMK, a constituent of the Union Cabinet, and a supporter of the LTTE, said that it would take part in the meeting.
The State Congress, which is facing the heat following charges of the Centre's support to the Sri Lankan government, said that the Centre and State governments were taking steps only to save the island Tamils. Stung by MDMK leader Mr Vaiko's accusations, TNCC president, Mr Thangabalu, said that Mr Vaiko was making charges against the Centre for political gains and his protest was held was `cheap publicity'. However, he was evasive about the Centre's role in the Sri Lankan civil war.

Australian foreign affairs minister, Stephen Smith, has made it clear to his Sri Lankan counterpart that military action alone will not solve the bloody dispute with the Tamil separatists.

Mr Smith who held talks in Australia's capital city Canberra with Rohitha Bogollagama expressed his concern about the ongoing violence and worsening human rights situation.

Mr Smith says all avenues have to be used to end the conflict.

"The need to ensure that people conducted themselves in a way that civilian casualities were avoided - that when it came to displaced people that there was capacity for delivery of humanitarian assistance to displaced people," he said.

"Both of these things apply to all parties concerned in the conflict and that we wanted to ensure that there is a very clear understanding that no long term enduring solution can be found through the use of military force."

Sri Lanka government is currently mulling to increase the standard fixed rate of water bills to minimize the losses.

Non-cabinet Minister for Water Supply and Drainage Mahinda Amaraweera stated that this measure will be taken to reduce the losses incurred by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board.

“Currently a monthly loss of 200 million rupees is borne by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board in providing the pipe-borne clean water to residences though out the island. This loss is due to the increased salaries, increased fuels prices, and the increased cost of chemicals and other purification methods used by the Board,” Minister Amaraweera said.

by Jehan Perera

President Mahinda Rajapaksa has once again reiterated that he believes in the need for a political solution to end the current conflict in Sri Lanka. He has made this statement at a time when the Sri Lankan armed forces are poised to capture the LTTE's administrative capital of Kilinochchi after months of heavy fighting and heavy casualties. When government spokespersons say that the government is for a political solution this is often taken as an affirmation that the government is prepared to negotiate with the LTTE with whom it is engaged in warfare. However, a political solution does not necessarily have to be negotiated with the LTTE, or so the government seems to think.

There is also the possibility of a political solution that is put into place without the LTTE being either consulted or being made a party to it. The government seems to be thinking that it can formulate a political solution by acting in consensus with ideologically allied parties, such as the Sinhalese nationalist parties of the JVP and JHU, and pro-government Tamil parties such as the EPDP and TMVP. The President may be thinking of a political solution that is put into place after the LTTE is defeated on the military battlefield. In the same speech where he spoke approvingly about a political solution, the President also called on the LTTE to lay down their weapons, surrender to the government forces and enter the democratic process by contesting elections.

The President took up these positions in a speech delivered to the All Party Conference. This is an important initiative that he summoned over two and a half years ago to find a political solution to the ethnic conflict. While the representatives of the APC have laboured considerably and made various proposals, the government has not been prepared to accept them. The only recommendation that the government has so far accepted is what the President himself proposed. This was to implement the present constitution, in particular the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, and no more. Unfortunately, this too has yet to be done, although this recommendation was made with much earnestness at the beginning of this year.

The whole history of the Tamil struggle is to find ways of dealing with the outcome of Sinhalese ethnic majority domination of the polity. It is hardly a cause for surprise that in these circumstances many Tamil people continue to place a degree of support in the LTTE, despite their track record of human rights abuses and political bungling. This is on account of the LTTE continuing to possess a measure of bargaining strength through its remaining military strength, which is unavailable to any Tamil political party. Even Tamil allies of the government, such as the EPDP and TMVP have little or no bargaining strength, as they are almost totally dependent on the government for their survival.


TAMIL SUPPORT

Since it was first established, the APC and its representatives have held dozens of meetings, but none of these meetings have included representatives of the TNA, which is the largest Tamil political party. Only a few of the meetings at the earlier stages included the main opposition party, the UNP. The UNP left the APC process accusing the government of bad faith. It continues to say that the whole exercise is one to deceive the international community and is unwilling to join it. In these circumstances, it is readily apparent that the political solution envisaged by the President is one between allied parties, rather than through negotiations with antagonists or those holding oppositional views.

The original source of popular Tamil support for the separatist insurgency was the perception amongst Tamils that the existing political system was based on permanent ethnic majority rule, rather than on any principle of fairness that ought to govern relations between an ethnic majority and ethnic minorities. In the absence of the LTTE, the government can unilaterally seek to impose a solution upon the Tamil people. It is not likely that such a political solution that is designed by Sinhalese nationalist parties such as the JHU and the government's own proponents of Sinhalese nationalism, can even be minimally acceptable to the Tamil people.

On the other hand, the government may reasonably feel that it is simply not possible to negotiate a political solution with the LTTE. This is not simply the view of nationalist Sinhalese. It is also the considered view of many in the international community, who are today giving the government a considerable degree of leeway in militarily dealing with the LTTE. The best opportunity for a negotiated political solution was the peace process of 2002-2005 which was facilitated by Norway, and behind which stood countries like Japan and the United States. But the LTTE continued to think in terms of its own leadership of a separate Tamil state and sought to undermine that peace process.

Today, unfortunately, the members of the government that entered into the ceasefire with the LTTE are in the opposition. There has been a full scale war in the north and east of Sri Lanka for the past two and a half years. The Ceasefire Agreement was formally abrogated by the Government of Sri Lanka, led by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in January 2008. But the blame for the return to war cannot be put on the government alone. The foundations of the Ceasefire Agreement were shaken five years earlier when the LTTE walked out of peace talks in March 2003 and refused to attend the Tokyo donor conference in July 2003.


CONTINUING CONFLICT

What Sri Lanka needs for peace that is stable and lasting is a political solution that is fair by all communities, and is perceived as such by them. The challenge for peace making in Sri Lanka is to overcome the two main obstacles to such a political solution that is fair by all communities. These two obstacles are Sinhalese nationalism that sees Sri Lanka as a Sinhalese country and seeks to impose its own vision of a political solution upon the ethnic minorities. The other obstacle is the unwillingness of the LTTE to accept anything less than a separate Tamil state under its own leadership.

The military battles being fought at the present time in the north may get rid of one of these obstacles. The government's ongoing attempt is to militarily eliminate the proto-structures of a separate state that exist in the north, as was done in the east two years ago. The loss of the outer form of a separate state, such as their office buildings and administrative apparatus, might compel the LTTE to have a more realistic assessment of the contours of a political solution. If the present leadership is not prepared to be realistic, but is determined to continue to take the Tamil people to their doom, this can even lead to further splits within the organisation.

The problem, however, is that the very process of a military victory by the government may lead to the strengthening of the other obstacle to a political solution that is fair by all communities. This obstacle is Sinhalese nationalism that claims Sri Lanka to be a Sinhalese country, in which the ethnic majority has the power to impose their own vision of a political solution upon the ethnic minorities. Unless the government is prepared to accept the reality that Sri Lanka is a multi ethnic society, this will be a recipe for continued ethnic strife in the years to come.

During his Presidential election campaign in November 2005, President Mahinda Rajapaksa critiqued the Ceasefire Agreement that was signed in 2002, and pledged instead to design a new peace process that would bring peace with dignity. The ground reality in the north today is one of upwards of 300,000 people fleeing from place to place to escape the ravages of war. This is not peace with dignity for the Tamil people, who have a birthright to this country, who are sons and daughters of Sri Lankan soil, who are necessarily represented by the Government of Sri Lanka, and whose support and goodwill is necessary if Sri Lanka is to reach its full potential as a rapidly developing nation. The plight of the people of the north is reason enough for the government to consider a new peace process based on negotiations that are different from the past.

Sri Lanka Navy once again rescued yet another Tamil family who were fleeing from the barbarous clutches of LTTE close to Veththelekerni on the 11th of October around 0615 hrs.

Sri Lanka Navy Patrol Craft on constant surveillance in the seas off Vettilikerni spotted an unidentified boat leaving the shores of Veththelekerni and promptly reacted and intercepted the same, and rescued the personnel on board after confirming that the boat was carrying innocent people fleeing from LTTE grip.

The family consisted of six, father and mother aged 44 and 42 years, two sons aged 22 and 14 years and two daughters aged 19 and 17 years had fled Tallaidy due to unbearable atrocities of LTTE , on-board a fiber glass dinghy (FGB) fitted with an out-board motor (OBM).

They were provided with their basic needs and other requirements on being rescued by the SLN. Subsequently they revealed that they had fled the area as they could no longer bear up the inhumane torture, hardships and pain inflicted on them by the so called ‘saviours’ of the Sri Lankan Tamils- the LTTE led by despot Prabhakaran, and they wanted to enjoy the freedom their brethrens enjoy in the government controlled areas.

The father who broke down several times during his narration of their miserable life story disclosed that LTTE had tried several times to forcefully conscript his young son, a youth who has been selected to the university and his daughters of whom one has just completed her A/L and the other who is studying for her A/L . However, they had been able to escape narrowly each time from being captured by the brutal LTTE because of their witty measures taken even at the risk of their won skin.

He further revealed that there are a large number of innocent people who are even septuagenarian irrespective of age , being forcefully engaged in securing bunkers and digging long stretched ditches, constructing bunkers and multitude of other severe hard work relentlessly which if they deny to carry out cause them unheard of torture and eventual death.

Another inhumane act of LTTE that was unfolded in the revelation is that the innocent people in LTTE held area, are deprived of their humanitarian support intended by the government in its ever increasing concern towards the innocent people concerned. As such LTTE plunder the food items and other material given to them by the government and subsequently sell them again to the same people again at a price which is hardly affordable for them.

Summarily, the father of the family said that they were living in constant fear of being conscripted and harassed and therefore he fled along with his family from LTTE grip, to seek the protection of the government to turn an new leaf in life rather than getting tortured and devastated his children's future at the blood stained cruel hand of the LTTE which is about to be eradicated from this land by the valiant military forces of Sri Lanka- the true guardians of the peace loving people of this country.

TRINCOMALEE: LTTE terrorists who launched an attack on army troops who were conducting a search operation at DIYAULPATHA in KANTHALE, had fled in the face of retaliatory attack by troops today (12) around 5.00 a.m.

A soldier was wounded in the encounter. In a subsequent search the Army troops were able to recover an I Com type radio set.

Troops operating in Mullaittivu front had several confrontations with LTTE terrorists in general area Andankulam yesterday, 11 October.

According to the finalized military report received from the battlefront said that 3 LTTE terrorists were killed while 6 others suffered injuries during these clashes. 3 more terrorists reportedly either killed or wounded, the report said.

Six soldiers also suffered injuries during these clashes, the report further said.

In a letter submitted to Jan Peter Balkenende , the Prime Minister of The Netherlands, an anti-terrorist organization in the Hague demanded the government should immediately ban the Tamil Rehabilitation Organization (TRO) which is raising funds for terrorism for pyrported humanitarian purposes.


Delivering the letter immediately after a protest demonstration in the capital , the Hague the protestors said, “ The LTTE is today an international criminal network involved in the global Narcotics trade, Arms Smuggling, Human trafficking, human smuggling, Money laundering, Credit Cad Frauds and a wide range of other illegal activities which collects a huge sum of Euros from The Netherlands on a monthly basis.”


The letter signed by K. Waidyasekera, Ranjith Ranasinghe and Mahanama Kumarage on behalf of the Sri lanka Against Terrorism in the Netherlands further said, the LTTE is a terrorist organization which has never been elected by the people democratically nor appointed to represent the Tamils in Sri Lanka . During the last two and a half decades, the LTTE has been engaging in brutal assassinations of Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim Political leaders, academics, journalists and innocent civilians, it alleged.

“Presently, there are 31 countries including the USA (1997), India (1992), Canada (2006) United Kingdom (2000), Malaysia and the EU (2006) which have banned the LTTE as one of the most dangerous and deadly extremist outfits in the world”, the letter informed the Dutch government.

The letter further alleged that the terrorist organization has committed the following crimes :

Two heads of State, Former President of Sri Lanka Mr. R. Premadasa and Former Prime Minister of India Mr. Rajiv Ghandi,

Five Cabinet Ministers including Hon. Lakshman Kadirgamar,
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs,

Ten Tamil Members of Parliament, including TULF Leader Mr. A. Amirthalaingam,

Three Tamil Mayors of the North and a large number of innocent Tamils, Sinhalese and Muslims, including religious dignitaries of all faiths (Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Islamists),

Former President Mrs. Chandrika Kumaratunga narrowly escaped from a suicide attack by the LTTE sacrificing an eye,

Army Commander Sarath Fonseka was targeted by a pregnant woman suicide bomber in Colombo . He was among the 22 seriously injured, 12 others died in this attack

The letter further said, “The LTTE pioneered the use of suicide bombs which are copied by many other terrorist Organizations worldwide.


"We understand that the Tamil Rehabilitation Organization (TRO) is a front organization of the LTTE which is actively engaged in fund raising in The Netherlands and that they collect funds from a large majority of Tamil families in The Netherlands. These funds are directly remitted to the LTTE accounts in France , United Kingdom and Canada . The LTTE is using these funds to buy weapons and to engage in other illegal activities towards destabilizing and terrorizing a sovereign country.


“Therefore, we request The Netherlands Government to Ban the pro LTTE TRO Organizations as an illegal Organization in The Netherlands.

"The LTTE has been recruiting children as Child Soldiers violating the International norm and the United Nations Convention on Children’s Rights. According to UNICEF’s latest report, the total number of child soldiers recruited by the LTTE since 2001 stands at 5794.”

The athletes of the Commonwealth Youth Games have been officially welcomed to Pune in India in a spectacular ceremony at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports City. Around 1700 athlete and team officials were greeted by a colourful display showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage and was attended by hundred’s of children from schools who exchanged gifts with representatives from each of the Commonwealth’s 71 countries.
Teams have been arriving across the week in preparation for the Games which are to be officially opened at a ceremony on Sunday night (October 12) by the President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil. The 90-minute welcome ceremony took place in the cultural plaza with athletes in high spirits. Each was presented with a turban on arrival, creating a sea of bright orange colour as athletes danced to the Bollywood beat.
A wide range of entertainment is planned for the plaza, sure to make it a central attraction for competitors and fans until the Closing Ceremony on August 18. The athletes, all 18 or under, will compete in nine sports across six days of competition at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports City, the single complex that houses all the venues and the residential village. The sports on the program include athletics, badminton, boxing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, tennis, weightlifting and wrestling.

First Global Investments (Pvt.) Ltd (FGI), a Sri Lankan based Islamic boutique financial services provider was recently granted approval by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Sri Lanka to function as an investment manager. This approval by the country’s leading Security Market regulatory authority should considerably help FGI in gaining the confidence of investors in its move towards entering the capital market.

FGI has sought to transform the local Islamic financial landscape by coming in as co lead arrangers with Investec (Private) Ltd., for the first Sri Lankan Islamic bonds (Sukuk) for Peolples Leasing Company-Islamic Services Unit.

FGI also provides financial advisory services including investment management, restructuring of organizations, structuring of complex transactions and setting up of independent Islamic financial units in compliance with Shari’ah principles

Unless the government intervenes to address the rice mill owners’ request for a higher price for quality rice, local rice production would further decline, the Old Moor Street Importers’ Association (OMSIA) said.

The government’s failure to permit the local rice producers’ request for a higher price for the better quality rice has led to a decline in the supply of good quality rice to the market and has helped the rice importers to flourish, alleged President, OMSIA, K. Palaniandy.

"When the government imposed the price restriction on rice the mill owners refused to supply the best quality to the market which has forced the people to go for imported rice which costs more than the locally produced varieties. If the imported varieties could be sold for a higher price without any restriction what was the reason for the authorities to not permit the local mill owners to increase the prices of their best quality product," queried Palaniandy.

According to Palaniandy although this was brought to the notice of President Mahinda Rajapakse and Consumer Affairs Minister Bandula Gunawardena nothing has been done so far to address the local mill owners’ request for the past few months.

"The government is boasting that it is helping the local farmers, but in reality it is indirectly helping the Indian and Pakistani farmers by importing rice from the two countries. Why cannot the government help our own people and allow the mill owners to increase the prices of quality rice to compete with the imported varieties," asked Palaniandy.

Palaniandy further said that Minister Bandula Gunawardena has said that requests for price hikes on rice by mill owners should be made to the Price Control Department and not him. "This is hilarious because the Price Control Department acts only on illegal price hikes and is not authorised to decide on price hikes. It is the Minister who has that power, not the Price Control Department," added Palaniandy.

Consumer Affairs Minister Gunawardena was not available for comment.

The Prisons Department is facing a severe cash crunch and is unable to settle its electricity and water bills.

The lack of cash has resulted in the Prisons Department having to face a possible disconnection of water and electricity supplies. According to the Commissioner General of Prisons, Major Gen. Vajira Wijegunawardena the Treasury has promised to release the required money within a couple of days to enable the department to make the payment.

"Since the Welikada prison is the largest among all the prisons we have to pay huge electricity and water bills compared to the other prisons. The Welikada prison alone has an outstanding electricity bill amounting to Rs.4 million for four months and as we could not heed the warnings issued by the Electricity Board the power supply at the Welikada prison was disconnected last week," said Wijegunawardena.

According to him although the government has allocated adequate funds for the Prisons Department lack of cash when the need arises results in the delay in making payment leading to the supply being disconnected last week.

"This is a common problem for all state departments as the country is facing a financial crisis. We cannot urge the Treasury to release funds whenever we want. But no sooner the electricity supply was disconnected I assured the Ceylon Electricity Board that the bill would be settled within two weeks and got the power supply back," he said.

When queried whether the water supply would be cut as well due to the non payment of water bills Wijegunawardena said that although there was a huge outstanding water bill to be paid to the National Water Supply and Drainage Board so far the water supply has not been disconnected.

"So far we have not encountered such a situation but however since it is our responsibility to settle outstanding bills I spoke to the Treasury and they assured me that they would release the necessary funds by next week. I hope to get the money by early next week to make the payments," added Wijegunawardena.

New Democratic Front leader and Opposition Leader of the Colombo Municipal Council Vasudeva Nanayakkara urged President Mahinda Rajapaksa to appoint a committee comprising retired Supreme Court Judges to look into the circumstances under which 41 State institutions were privatized between 1977 and 2004.

The NDF leader, who is also an Advisor to the President, said that privatization of these State institutions is questionable and has to be probed by competent persons as the entire process has been found lacking in good faith and irregular and dishonest in many aspects.

The veteran Left leader was addressing last week’s media conference held by the five left Party Socialist People’s Alliance on its proposals for the forthcoming 2009 Budget.

Nanayakkara said the government should invalidate the privatization of these State institutions and recover the heavy losses incurred as a result of this ‘irregular and dishonest privatization’.

Also present were the General Secretary of the Socialist People’s Alliance and Chairman of Official Languages Department Raja Collure, Deputy Secretary of the Communist Party S. Sudhusinghe and Colombo Municipal Councillor L. R. Stephen.

He said that as the court procedure is very costly and time consuming, a Committee comprising retired Supreme Court Judges or other such eminent persons should be appointed to look into the privatization issue in detail with expert assistance.

Some of these key State institutions are the Plantations, Lanka Indian Oil Company and Queen Elizabeth Quay.

Ceylinco Insurance PLC will at an extraordinary general meeting to be held on October 22 seek shareholder approval to grant a loan up to a maximum of Rs.100 million or a lesser sum to CIESOT (Pvt) Limited (Ceylinco Insurance Employees Share Ownership Trust) in the event that CIESOT request such a loan to purchase Ceylinco Insurance shares.

This is one of three resolutions to be considered at the EGM where shareholder approval is also being sought to pay an interim dividend of Re.1/= per share for the financial year ending December 31, 2008.

A second resolution to amend the Articles of Association of the company, enabling the directors to decide to propose interim dividends (if any) in the future without calling a shareholders meeting, is also down for consideration at the EGM.

Mr. Tilak de Zoysa has assumed the chairmanship of Associated Motorways PLC (AMW) from October 1 succeeding his brother, Ajita, who ended his tenure on September 30, the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) has been notified.

De Zoysa long served AMW as Deputy Chairman/Managing Director and is expected to continue for some years as the Chairman of the company which is now controlled by Al-Futtaim Engineering which had by last week acquired 96.06% of the company.

Al-Futtaim has nominated three new non-executive directors to the AMW board. They are Mr. Colin Leitch, the CEO of its Automotive Division, Mr.

David Ford, handling strategic investment for Al-Futtaim, and Mr. Avijit Majumdar, a key financial controller.

There are no plans yet to post an expatriate director here and the name of the game at present is ``business as usual.’’

The automotive business is about 60% of the Al-Futtaim group which has been diversifying into real estate and other businesses including, most recently, retailing having acquired Robinson’s department store in Singapore.

These new Al-Futtaim directors succeed Mr. K. Kanag-Isvaran PC, JKH Chairman Susantha Ratnayake, Mr. Dinesh de Zoysa and Mr. J.B.L. de Silva who have resigned from the AMW board with effect from September 26.

Analysts expect Al-Futtaim to look at its AMW investment within a 10-year horizon and initially focus on the IT systems in the Sri Lanka company in order to make them compatible with those of the parent.

The new AMW chairman is a nephew of Sir Cyril de Zoysa, the company’s founder, who currently serves as a member of the Monetary Board and he is also Chairman of Carson Cumberbatch & Company, one of the wealthiest conglomerates in Sri Lanka with massive oil palm plantation assets in Indonesia and Malaysia.

De Zoysa is one of several independent directors invited to serve on the Carson’s board by the two controlling shareholders of the Selvanathan family who also sit on the company’s board.

He is Chairman of HelpAge Sri Lanka and serves on the boards of John Keells PLC (not JKH), Taj Lanka Hotels, Lanka Walltiles, Nawaloka Hospitals, and HelpAge International, UK. A past Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, he is Consul here for Croatia and is also a pat Chairman of the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka.

AMW has already gone public with plans to develop valuable real estate with Union Place frontage in partnership with JKH and James Finlay.

Analysts believe that Al-Futtaim may be interested in expanding these plans with further land acquisitions adjoining the property already earmarked for development.

Before these plans can gel, AMW will have to move out of its Union Place headquarters to Elvitigala Mawatha where its Maruti showroom and workshops are located and develop land available there to enable the move.

Al-Futtaim took controlling interest of AMW in August and had received acceptances of over 0.5 million shares (0.82% of the company) when its mandatory offer of Rs174.50 per share closed last week.

Meanwhile, Al-Futtaim was mopping up all available shares on the secondary market and had acquired nearly 10 million shares (17.87%) on the trading floor of the CSE between August 22 and October 7.

An army captain attached to the Kurunegala army camp has been reported missing and suspected to have been abducted. Police say he was abducted in Yakkala by unknown persons travelling in a white van while he was travelling in a three wheeler.

Police DIG, Kelaniya division Sarath Jayasundara said that prior to the alleged abduction the wife of the army captain and his two children had committed suicide as a result of a family dispute.

Mr. Jayasundera said there was strong suspicion that his abduction may also be linked to the dispute. A special police team from the Gampaha police division are conducting investigations

Colombo Chief Magistrate imposed a fine of Rs. 50,000 each on 13 persons who pleaded guilty on attempting to migrate to Italy from the Wennappuwa seashore illegally.

The Chief Magistrate Nishantha Hapuarachchi while imposing the fine further handed the accused one year’s rigorous imprisonment suspended for five years. The accused are Duminda Fernando, Lanka Perera, P.K. Lalith Sanjeewa, H.D. Juwan Appuhamy, T. M. Premaratna, Sanjeewa Liyanage, K. Wasantha Thushara Fernando, H.G. Dulip Nissanka, B. Gerard Sandun, D. Ananda Nirodha, W. A. Pradeep, S. Wijayan and Nirmal, residents of Dankotuwa and Chilaw.

The CID charged the suspects under the Immigration and Emigration Act for attempting to leave the country illegally in a fishing vessel JMJ from the Wennappuwa sea shore on August 02, 2003.

The accused were arrested by the Sri Lanka Navy while waiting to board the fishing vessel.

Following an application made by the accused counsel Aruna Nishantha the Magistrate allowed the accused to pay the fine in installments. Counsel Ms. Maheshika Bakmeewewa prosecuted with the CID. The case was postponed for November 21.

AIADMK general secretary J Jayalalithaa has said her party had never supported Tamil militancy or terrorism in Sri Lanka. But it supported the Sri Lankan Tamils’ fight for self-determination

World Bank has named 28 countries ailing from financial strain due to high food and fuel costs and from cascading credit crisis in its latest report, published on Thursday 09th October that includes Sri Lanka among the 28 countries.

The report, published ahead of weekend International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings of finance and development ministers, said many of these countries had little or no room to take on new debt to afford the higher prices.

Among the "fiscally vulnerable" countries are Jordan, Cambodia, Lebanon, Jamaica, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Tajikistan, Madagascar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Rwanda, Malawi, Ivory Coast, Eritrea, Fiji, Haiti, Seychelles and Mauritania.

World Bank President Robert Zoellick said the World Bank was tentatively forecasting growth in developing countries could slow to around 4 percent, significantly lower than its April forecast of 6.6 percent.

The IMF said growth in emerging and developing states would reach 6.9 percent this year, slowing to 6.1 percent in 2009.

The report comes in the wake of current moves by Sri Lanka to negotiate 150 million US dollars in commercial debt and obtain a further 300 million US dollars in a syndicated loan.

It also comes at a time when a global financial meltdown has hit the United States and pushed several European and Asian countries into recession. Analysts said the financial crisis could severely hit aid-dependent countries with donors diverting much of their financial resources to bail out the faltering banks.

Colombo 13 October 2008. DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Ports and Aviation to assist the Government of Sri Lanka in supporting disaster response through the donation of specified services by the DHL Disaster Response Team (DRT).

The DHL Disaster Response Team (DRT) is a DPWN initiative under its Corporate Social Responsibility umbrella, to provide a logistics Disaster Response capability, based on its expertise in Airport Logistics Management, to support National Governments in disaster relief efforts.

Worldwide, DHL set up three Disaster Response Teams which are composed of staff volunteers who are experts in the areas of goods handling, warehouse management, inventory and customs. They are strategically placed in Singapore, Dubai and Miami to cover regions which are mostly impacted by natural disasters. In the event of a major disaster the DRT is often deployed to assist in airport ground handling of humanitarian relief cargo arriving on charter cargo flights.

Mr. Thosapala Hewage Secretary of the Ministry of Ports and Aviation said that the Ministry was happy to partner with DHL on a project of this nature. “DHL with its international presence and wide ranging resources is the ideal choice in supporting disaster response. Given its overall profile and excellent track record, I have no doubt of the overall success of this project”, he added.

“We hope we never need to deploy DHL’s DRT in Sri Lanka, but our partnership with the Ministry of Ports and Aviation paves the way for swift reaction and assistance in times of a disaster.” said Country Manager, DHL Express Sri Lanka, Martin Dudek. “In urgent situations, we are committed to making a difference by doing what we do best – helping resolve logistical bottlenecks and helping the organization of aid relief”.

During earlier times, the DRT team helped with relief efforts in Sri Lanka following the 2004 Tsunami disaster, when it actively worked with the Government of Sri Lanka and the Sarvodaya Movement, in the transportation of relief supplies such as purified water and dry rations to affected areas.

Among the wide ranging services provided by DHL are providing leadership and direction of its DRT in the handling of humanitarian relief cargo, delivered via cargo flights to disaster struck areas; day-to-day management of the DRT; supervising the transfer of relief goods in bulk or from aircraft pallets to wooden pallets; providing airside warehouse management; reloading relief goods by forklift and manual labour onto vehicles for onward transportation (trucks or helicopters) and moving relief cargo or freight within airport

Also included are the compilation of an inventory of solicited and unsolicited goods using appropriate software systems, as conditions, manpower, and resources allow and transmitting them at regular intervals to local or national based representatives, and also, providing assistance with customs processes, in consultation with the Ministry of Ports and Aviation.

Most recently, DHL’s Disaster Response Team was deployed in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar. There, the team managed a common humanitarian warehouse identified by the UN, for three weeks. DHL’s Disaster Response Team has also been deployed in the wake of the May 2006 earthquake in Jogyakarta and Central Java which left scores dead, injured and homeless. Several months later, in December, the team again provided assistance when Typhoon Reming affected the Bicol region in the Philippines.

DHL has also been called upon in the Pakistan earthquake in October 2005. The company has also assisted relief operations in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in October 2005 and the earthquake in Peru in August 2007.

Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by three wickets to win their Toronto Twenty20 clash with just one ball to spare on Saturday.

Pakistan made 7-141 with man of the match Shoaib Malik hitting an unbeaten 42 after Sri Lanka, who rested skipper Mahela Jayawardene and spin wizard Ajantha Mendis, had hit 9-137 off their 20 overs.

Pakistan were struggling at 7-91 at one stage following a four-wicket return for debutant Kaushalya Weeraratne, but Malik and Fawad Alam added 50 in four overs in front of packed King's City ground.

Malik hit the winning boundary off the penultimate ball to send Pakistan top of the table in the four-nation tournament which also features Canada and Zimbabwe.

Pakistan had needed 13 from the final over but Alam slammed his third six and Malik then sealed victory with consecutive boundaries off Nuwan Kulasekara.

When Sri Lanka batted, opener Sanath Jayasuriya smashed consecutive boundaries off Shoaib Akhtar, but fell next ball when he top-edged to fine leg.

Mahela Udawatte and Jehan Mubarak added 51 for the second wicket but the middle order struggled to push on against Shahid Afridi and Malik.

However, the main late action came from paceman Umar Gul who finished with four wickets.

Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka are expected to meet in Monday's final.

In Saturday's other match, Canada and Zimbabwe tied after both sides made 135 but the African side claimed the points when they won a bowl-off.

Advisor to President Mahinda Rajapaksa and leftist politician Vasudeva Nanayakkara is to compile all necessary documentations seeking Supreme Court intervention in rectifying 41 illegal and unethical privatizations of state-owned enterprises.

According to Vasudeva Nanayakkara all privatizations which have taken place since 1977 including the term of previous President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga will be questioned for proper practices adopted during the privatization.

“The privatization which brought in Lanka IOC to Sri Lanka, Queen Elizabeth Queue at Colombo Harbor will be among these investigations which we plan to take up at the Supreme Court,” he said.

Six Indian fishermen, reported missing since September 18 with their fishing trawler off the Chennai coastline, have reached Trincomalee in northern Sri Lanka after a group of Sinhalese fishermen rescued them.


The fishermen left Kasimedu Fishing Harbour in a mechanised fishing trawler (registration number TN- 02 MFB-218) for a three-day fishing trip. They lost contact with the shore when it was about 40 nautical miles off the Chennai coast. The trawler developed mechanical problems and drifted mid-sea.

Confirming the rescue of the six fishermen by their Lankan counterparts six days ago, an official in the Sri Lankan High Commission said they reached Trincomalee harbour on Saturday afternoon. They were doing well and accommodated in rooms provided by the Trincomalee Fishermen Association.

On hearing the news, R Adhimulam, president of Chennai Chengai Singaravelar Mechanised Owner’s Association, spoke to boat driver Vinoth (one of the youngest crew members) over phone and enquired about the condition of other fishermen.

“We cannot forget the Sinhalese fishermen. It was divine providence. They came when our trawler was drifting after it developed a technical snag,” Adhimulam, speaking to this website's newspaper, quoted Vinoth as saying.

After developing a technical snag the trawler drifted in mid-sea for about 17 days. On October 6, the Sinhalese fishing trawler found them, shifted them to their boat and gave food. The Indian trawler was abandoned.

The release of Bollywood fantasy film ‘Aladdin’ starring former Miss Sri Lanka Jacqueline Fernandez, Amitabh Bachchan and Sanjaya Dutt has been postponed. Eros Entertainment had initially scheduled to release the movie on Christmas Eve.

Police have opened an investigation into yet another scandal concerning Sakvithi Ranasinghe the English tutor turned “finance company” operator who swindled unsuspecting depositors of over Rs. 1,000 million and fled the country.

Ranasinghe is said to have hired vehicles on rent and re-rented them without paying the owners.
So far police have received complaints of around 30 such vehicles which were rented by him.
A number of these vehicles had been used by Ranaisnghe himself to run his own businesses
Police investigating the case said “whenever the owners called for payments, he had used delaying tactics, but in most instances he never paid”.

Police who have so far uncovered 27 bank accounts used by the main suspect (Ranasinghe), in his financial scam have yet to move Court to freeze these accounts.

Detectives have also learned that Ranasinghe used many offshore accounts to illegally transfer money out of the country. A detective probing the scam told ‘The Sunday Times’ they would be taking steps to freeze Sakvithi’s funds held in offshore accounts.

To freeze the accounts the detectives will be seeking the assistance from Interpol despite the fact no formal request has been made as yet.

Darshani Maduwanthi who surrendered to Court to make a confidential statement is being held in remand custody.

The other suspects Bataduwa Arachchige Asitha Prabath of Malabe, Sirimal Randeniya of Embuldeniya, Gunaratne Gamage, Anushka Shamal Rupasinghe of Kekirawa, Jayasiri Arachchige Upeksha Sanketha Jayasuriya of Embuldeniya. Ganithaylage Pottal Gedera Chandrika Kavinda Kumari of Walapane, Kongala Boralalage Kesara Sama Kumari of Kotte and Don Nalaka Thushara Karunathilaka are in detention.

Detectives are searching for Sakvithi Ranasinghe, his wife Jamburagoda Gamage Kumari Anuradhini both of No 175/4, Madiwela Road, Embuldeniya. Udahamulla, Priyangika Priyakanthi Fernando of Piliyandala, Chanaka Siriwardena, Damayanthi Sangeethika Adikari of Madinnagoda Rajagiriya, M.N. Hewagama of Pannipitiya and Chaturi Harischandra of Panadura.

Edwin Ariyadasa who was linked to the Sakvithi scam surrendered to Court last Thursday when the case was taken up before the Nugegoda Magistrate. He was released on Rs. one million bail.
Mr. Ariyadasa's lawyer M.L.M. Ameen said his client was only a paid director of the English education section of the institute and had no connection with the scam.

Ariyadasa was ordered to make a statement to the police and inform Court in the event he planned to leave the country.

The case is to be taken up again on 20th October.

By Ranjith Ananda Jayasinghe

With the Supreme Court giving a series of headline-hitting judgments in recent weeks, Chief Justice Sarath N. Silva said in an interview the Constitution was supreme and no one could break the law or was above the Constitution.


In this interview he also denied some reports that he planned to enter politics and on the contrary said he wished to devote his time after retirement to religious activities.

Q: Much attention is now on the judiciary. More and more people are coming to the Supreme Court on issues of fundamental rights and related matters.

A: If people are being deprived of their fundamental rights and corrupt practices are taking place the people apparently believe they could turn to the judiciary for redress. At a time when there is a war in the country, different ethnic groups have different problems. They can get relief from the judiciary.

Q: By giving relief in some instances, isn’t there a risk of jeopardising national security?

A: We did not release people who are held on national security grounds, haphazardly. The only hope of relief for them is through the courts. As the subject of human rights has become much broader now, there are many such cases.

Q: Aren’t many of the recommendations made by Parliament committees such as COPE and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) not properly implemented?

A: There appears to be a lot off lethargy in implementing some of the recommendations of these important parliamentary committees. They have to be dealt with by the Bribery and Corruption Commission. Some officials like those in the Police Department think they are above the law. This is shocking. What is happening now is that the Courts are telling the Bribery Commission and the Police to probe cases. It should really be the other way around.

Q: The Constitution guarantees immunity from prosecution for the executive president but the Supreme Court has ruled that this does not apply in certain instances. Could you clarify?

A: The people of country are sovereign. This sovereignty of the people is executed through the Executive the Legislature and the Judiciary. Our position is that everyone has a responsibility and if they act against this responsibility, then they lose immunity.

Q: Does this apply to the President?

A: We have taken the decision from the standpoint of the responsibility towards the people and the President is also bound by that. In other words what we are saying is that the Constitution of the country is supreme and no one is above it. There is no room for anyone to break the law and act in a manner detrimental to public interest. It is on these grounds that the Court ruling was made against the former President. The land for the Golf Course in Battaramualla was granted on a Cabinet paper submitted by the former President.

Q: If the President fails to carry out the responsibilities entrusted under the Constitution is that considered a violation of the Constitution?

A: Yes, by neglecting such duties, the people are deprived of the rights due to them.

Q: In such a situation does the Court have the right to direct the President?

A: Yes the Supreme Court has the right to direct him at times like that. The question of presidential immunity does not apply in such cases if it is one of public interest.

Q: Doesn’t the Constitution clearly guarantee immunity to the President from prosecution?

A: We cannot summon the President. The Attorney General can appear on behalf of the President in cases related to his work as a Minister. If not, someone else can appear on behalf of the President. But we will not give a judgement against the President. In the recently concluded Golf Course case, the reference was to a former president. As she no longer holds the post, we can give a judgement against her.

Q: When one is holding office of President, is it impossible to give judgement under any circumstances?

A: Recently the President had issued a gazette notice to extend the age of retirement of public servants. In such instances, the Court does not issue a ruling against the President but decides on the validity or non validity of the gazette notification. But these are not directed personally at the President or the former President. Only if they are asked to pay a fine does it become a personnel case.

Q: Your judgement to remove check points was a controversial one and caused uproar?

A: The cases with regards to road barricades came due to the irregularities that occur. That people are asked for bribes. Recently a man who was employed as an aluminium worker, was stopped at a check point. He was arrested and beaten up because he had a Kris knife and Rs 20, 000. He was arrested on the basis he had robbed the money at knife pointThis is wrong. Checks must be carried out in a responsible manner.

Q: Why did you rule that checkpoints on main roads be removed?

A: This is completely wrong. We did not order the check points removed. We wanted them regulated. On the day that the Eastern Province Chief Minister was being sworn in, a suicide cadre on a motorcycle slammed onto a police bus in Fort killing several people. He had come past three check points and was not detected. Terrorist are very tactful. Even a war hero and experienced military man like Janaka Perera misread them at one point. This was why he got caught to a bomb attack.

Q: All along the Duplication Road, there are sign boards saying “No parking.”?

A: This is illegal. We ordered that those boards be removed immediately. Additionally we asked that the public be allowed to use the Galle Face Green. But we have given no judgements that will jeopardise the security near the President’s House or Temple Trees.

Q: You have been a friend of the President for nearly 40 years. How is this friendship now?

A: I have been in public serve for 41 years. I have friends both in Government and the opposition. You asked about the President. We have given no judgements against him. If we give a ruling to stop corrupt practices, we are doing him a service.

Q: What are your plans for the future?

A: I am eagerly awaiting the end of my tenure in office so I can devote my time to my personal religious activities.

Q: Are you getting ready to enter politics?

A: No.

Q: There is speculation that you might be a candidate at the next President election?

A: No. It is completely wrong. I am not interested in politics.

A 'book-bomb' was found in the possession of a school teacher in Bandarawela today, police said.

Police Spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara said the teacher had been working at a school in Bandarawela for 20 years. She is originally from Jaffna, he said.

The bomb had been made by cutting off a hole in the pages of a book and stuffing it with explosives, SSP Gunasekara said.

All Ceylon Health Service Union (ACHSU) has given an ultimatum to the Health Ministry to pay the overtime, on call, and vocational allowances to the health workers attached to Batticaloa Hospital within a week’s time or face trade union action.

ACHSU Chairman Gamini Kumarasinghe said that the allowances had not been paid for the past four months: “It’s not the done thing to withhold these allowances, as the staff including doctors, nurses; minor staffs are asked to work around the clock due to shortage of staff in the hospital. Therefore, the ministry should know better to pay the allowances without any further delay. We have already informed the Ministry, although they have not shown any interest to settle the payments so far,” he said.
He also said that the number of required staff was last calculated way back in 1979, thus it was high time to recalculate the current requirements at the hospital, since it’s not possible to work round the clock without a break.

“Health workers are humans not robots, therefore the concerned officials should know to pay the allowances on time and appreciate the hard work they are putting in without creating any problem to the authorities, or disturbing patients care so far,” Kumarasinghe asserted.

He said that it was very essential to meet the shortage of health workers to cope with the rising population and immunisation requirements of the area. “It’s not possible to keep the hospital running in an appropriate manner with a dearth of workers, as even injured soldiers are brought to this hospital, since this is the main hospital in the east,” he added.

“I am not able to understand why the Ministry cannot look into the essential requirements of the hospital and its employees, as it is not reasonable by the workers who are working around the clock and specially at a time when the cost of living has increased by a massive margin,” Kumarasinghe added.

Elephant House ‘Cream Soda’ won the award for the ‘PEOPLES FMCG - Beverage Brand of the Year’, for the third consecutive year, in the FMCG category at the recent ‘Power of the People Awards’.

Organised by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) together with AC Nielson, the largest consumer research company in the world, the ‘Power of the People Awards’ recognise and celebrate brands that are most popular with the vast majority of the general public. The results were based on intense consumer research carried out over a period of six months.

Expressing delight at this unique honour, Head of Beverages, Ceylon Cold Stores PLC Mr. S. Srikanth said that this was an unqualified endorsement by the people of Sri Lanka of the undiminished popularity of the Cream Soda brand. “It is purely the Peoples’ Choice and the Peoples’ Choice alone which has placed Cream Soda and the Elephant Brand right on top for the third consecutive occasion ahead of heavy competition”, he added.

A flagship brand of the Elephant House range, Cream Soda has also supported upcoming Sri Lankan music talent, supporting artists such as, Iraj, Ashanthi, Krishan, Centigrades, Sureni, Chinthy, Shihan and many others.

Cream Soda was in fact one of the leading brands which was supporting the Sirasa Superstars Seasons 1 & 2, a reality show, which brought true raw local musical talent into the limelight. The brand has come forward on several occasions to boost Sri Lanka’s entertainment and music video industry. The Derana Music Video Awards was one such example.

Though the Bar Association yesterday passed a resolution on the Chrishantha Weliamuna grenade attack issue by convening a general meeting — after 19 years —- it appeared that a senior president’s counsel sabotaged any further discussion — not on the resolution per se — but on how else Mr Weliamuna’s security should be bolstered etc., etc., and other related matters.
However, lawyers noted that the notice calling for the general meeting explicitly and categorically called for “discussion’’. No such discussion took place, purpotedly on a spurious “point of order.” Lawyers said that the Bar Association was intent on going through the motions to ‘’pass a resolution and go home..’’ without discussing what should be done to ameliorate Mr Weliamuna’s immediate situation despite convening the meeting explicitly “to discuss and take further steps if any in respect of the requisition received on the attack made on the residence of attorney-at-law Welamuna.’’
There were several other practical issues such as security as there is a real threat on Weliamuna — with his wife personally writing to the powers-that-be to provide him with security. Weliamuna has also moved house, and is not taking work as that could land him in danger.

Any attempt to bring the Sri Lanka Electricity Draft Bill to parliament would put the entire country in darkness, the JVP affiliated Lanka Viduli Sevaka Sangamaya (LVSS) said.

Following Power and Energy Minister John Seneviratne’s remarks on the Sri Lanka Electricity Draft Bill, 28 CEB trade unions last week decided to stage protest campaigns islandwide in order to "save" the CEB from possible privatisation.

"In the run up to the 2005 Presidential Election Mahinda Rajapakse assured that he would not present the draft bill in parliament, which was first brought by the UNP during the Ranil Wickremesinghe regime.

"Despite these assurances the present administration on three previous occasions planned to present the bill in parliament but had to withdraw it at the last minute due to strong opposition from CEB employees.

"If the government makes any attempt to pass the draft bill in parliament as stated by Minister Seneviratne, the employees would once again be compelled to launch strong trade union action to safeguard the institution. The CEB employees feel that presenting the draft bill in parliament would pave the way for the privatisation of the CEB," Convener, LVSS, Ranjan Jayalal said.
According to Jayalal the proposed plan to privatise the CEB could bring severe repercussions to the country, as the government would not be able to control the electricity tariff revisions in the future.

"We have seen how the monopoly on gas and wheat flour has burdened the people of this country. Since plans are afoot to give, the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity to the private sector the government will not have any control over tariff revisions if the CEB is privatised," charged Jayalal.

"On many occasions we asked the minister for an appointment to discuss the issue; but we were not given a chance to meet him. Now, learning that we are on the verge of launching a series of protests we have been summoned for a meeting on Wednesday, October 15.

Considering the outcome of the discussion we will decide on our future course of action," Jayalal added.

The former UNP Opposition Leader of the North Central Province Janaka Perera had two weeks before his assassination made a complaint to the Anurdhapura Police stating he had intelligence information the LTTE was planning to kill him and requested security which however was not provided.

The complaint was made by Perera on September 19 at 3pm at the office of the Anuradhapura Superintendent of Police where it was stated that as a person who launched many a successful operation against the LTTE he was facing a grave security threat. .

In his complaint Perera requested the police to provide him personal security in addition to his place of residence and office.The security requested was not provided.

" According to information provided to me by officials of my intelligence team, the LTTE terrorists have sent several units from Vavuniya to Thanthirimalaya,Milachchiya,and Padaviya areas. These units according to the intelligence received have been advised by the LTTE that if I take forward my political campaign it will be a serious problem to them and therefore to make plans to destroy me. For this reason please provide security for protect my life, the place where I reside and my office," Perera said in his complaint.

He has further said he intends touring the districts of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa to work for the people in those areas and towards that end to make available the security sought at the earliest.

Perera in his complaint further points out that he was provided seven policemen including a sub inspector on an order of the Supreme Court before the provincial Council election but that one week after the election all the policemen were withdrawn and at the time of making the complaint he did not have the security of a single policeman.

Further to the personal request for security, Perera’s office had also in writing asked the DIG North Central Province on October 3 for special security from 8am to 10 am for the opening of the party office on October 6.

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama is expected to leave for India today for urgent discussions following a tough message delivered by New Delhi to the government to address forthwith the humanitarian crisis in the north.

Bogollagama is to meet Indian External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee and National Security Advisor M.K. Narayanan and explain the steps taken by Sri Lanka to address the humanitarian crisis in the north in the wake of military operations launched by the government to recapture Kilinochchi.

The President it is learned had earlier wanted Special Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapakse to visit New Delhi but later decided on Bogollagama to keep space for manoeuvering in the event India seeks firm commitments during the current visit. The growing concern of New Delhi was also reflected in reports reaching Colombo that India’s mission in New York was expressing concerns on the Sri Lankan situation to humanitarian agencies affiliated to the UN and in particular OCHA.

Indian National Security Advisor, Narayanan on Monday summoned Sri Lanka’s Deputy High Commissioner Palitha Ganegoda and expressed New Delhi’s ‘grave concern and unhappiness’ of growing casualties of Tamil civilians due to the ongoing military offensive.

Temple Trees sources said the President was angry at the tenor of Narayanan’s message and communicated his displeasure to India’s High Commissioner in Colombo Alok Prasad.The President ,Temple Trees sources said, had asked the High Commissioner whether India wanted him to end up like Janaka Perera by letting the LTTE off the hook.

Narayanan’s message to Sri Lanka was communicated amidst growing protests in Tamil Nadu across the political divide for the central government of India to intervene and stop the ‘genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka.’Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi had earlier informed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to take immediate steps to intervene in the Sri Lankan conflict and stop the ‘killings of Tamil people.’ A similar call was made by opposition leader and AIADMK Leader, Jayalalitha Jeyaram.

Karunanidhi has also convened an all party meeting for Tuesday (14), to discuss the prevailing situation in Sri Lanka and ‘recent attacks on Tamils.’

In a statement issued Thursday Karunanidhi has said the meeting would discuss various ways to mitigate the suffering of Sri Lankan Tamils and formulate a plan to press the centre to take more action to prevent the ‘genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka.’

In a separate statement after Narayanan met Ganegoda, the Indian External Affairs Ministry said, "it was pointed out that there was a need for the Sri Lankan government to act with greater restraint and address the growing feeling of insecurity among the minority community."

India had further expressed the need for vital supplies to the affected population to not be disrupted in any manner.

The Sunday Leader learns the Indian High Commission in Colombo had earlier informed the government that it won’t be ‘business as usual’ if the civilians are affected due to the current operations.

India has also called on the government to submit a political solution at the earliest.

However, President Mahinda Rajapakse in an interview to Al Jazeera last week had said the government would forge ahead to militarily defeat the LTTE and thereafter look at a political solution.

It is learnt Bogollagama will explain to New Delhi the steps taken by the government to address the humanitarian crisis whilst denying that civilians have been killed due to the current operations.

(Lanka-e-News, ) Former Inspector General of Police and the Northern Provincial Governor Victor Perera resigned from the post after the Bribery or Corruption Commission questioned him.

The Commission questioned Victor Perera for seven hours over several complaints received against him pertaining to the period he held the post of Inspector General of Police.

Victor Perera was appointed to the post of Northern Provincial Governor immediately he resigned from the post of police chief of the country.
He has submitted his resignation to the President. Dixon Dela Bandara who was one time the Governor of the Sabaragamuwa Province was appointed to the post vacated by Victor Perera.

Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP Chandrakantha Chandraneru warned the government that the parliament that Karuna Amman sits in have to be more secured.

Chandraneru said that those who came to shoot him were sitting in the parliamentary gallery on the day Karuna swore in and the government had stealthily released 176 Karuna's cadres from jail. He charged that the government was getting ready to chase away the opposition MPs and to bring those killers to the parliament.


He made these comments at a press briefing held in Asath Saili Foundation in Barnes's Place, Colombo to mark issuing a joint statement by 12 parties in protest of the statement made by Army Commander General Sarath Fonseka to Canadian newspaper National Post that Sri Lanka belongs to Sinhalese.

MP Chandraneru stressed that Army Commander who holds a non-political post has no right to make such statement. Asking where the minority nationalities could go in such context, the MP asked urging to remember that they were not scarecrows. He said that the silence of the minority community politicians in the government over the Army Commander's statement was a shame. He said that legal action would be taken against this statement in future emphasizing that such statements point to the danger of an upcoming military rule in the country.

Colombo former mayor Asath Sali said that Sri Lanka belonged to all communities such as Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, Malay, Burgher etc. and no government could be formed without the support of the minority communities. In such a context, the government's non denial of the Army Commander's statement proves that this is the position of the government, he said.

Asath Sali said although Jathika Hela Urumaya leader Ellawala Medhananda Thero asks the Muslims to go to Arab, they have not come here from Arabia and six persons that came from Yemen married Sinhala women. It has to be sought from where the generation of the Thero who makes such statement came, said Mr. Sali.

Sali said that Mahinda Rajapakse is causing more division among communities than what done by Bandaranaike based on a language issue. He said that mere around 10% racists are the cause for the destruction in a time such things should not take place.

In a function held in Mathara Uyanwaththa esplanade the President brought joker Mervin Silva by a helicopter and made him to make a speech demeaning minorities. The President must repent for what Mervin Silva said.

Chamil Jayaneththi of Left Front said, it is wrong if the government thinks that the minorities are finished after Kilinochchi is captured. He said that the struggle of the minorities would start from Kilinochchi instead. Introducing the Army Commander's statement as a disaster Chamil pointed out that the rights of the minority communities are safeguarded thanks to the Tami struggle. He said that it is inevitable that the minorities will have to unite to fight for their rights.

The Secretary of the Western People's Front Kumara Gurparan and Sri Lanka Muslim Congress MP Rafeek Rajabdeen also addressed the press conference.

United National Party MP Ravi Karunanayaka charged in the parliament on 9th October that the government has granted an unethical appointment of an Adviser to the Exchange and Securities Commission to the husband of World Bank Country Director Naoko Ishi. The salary paid to the position is Rs. 150,000 per month.

The UNP MP made this allegation moving a parliamentary adjournment proposal charging that the Central Bank had not performed its duties of financial regulation.

He said that the inflation of the country had risen well over 30% and imprudent borrowings are also on the increase. He also pointed out that 35% of the currency circulation in the country is black money and charged that a Minister assisted Sakvithi Ranasinghe to flee the country with Rs. 1.8 billion.
Deputy Finance Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya said in response that Sakvithi Investment Ltd. was not a registered financial company and an investigation of the Central Bank was underway.

However, he did not mention anything pertaining to the other question of the UNP MP, i.e. appointing the husband of the World Bank Country Director to a post of Adviser to the Exchange and Securities Commission.

Tamilnadu state government has summoned an All Party Conference (APC) on October 14 to discuss the situation in Sri Lanka.

The official statement issued in this regard by the Tamilnadu state says that the Indian central government has commenced taking measures regarding the ethnic problem of Sri Lanka and the APC will urge the center to take further action to seek a peaceful solution and to influence Sri Lanka government to avoid genocide of Tamils.

Left parties of Tamilnadu launched a fast on October 02 to protest the killing of Tamils in Sri Lanka and the conflict in Sri Lanka is becoming more and more an election issue there since then. Ruling DMK avoided the October 02 fast but it is now trying to capture the monopoly of Sri Lankan issue.

WELIOYA: FIERCE FIGHTING that took place between 9.30 a.m. – 2.00 p.m. enabled the troops to capture four more LTTE well fortified bunkers in the general area of ANDANKULAM, WELIOYA after inflicting heavy losses to terrorists.

During confrontations in the area, LTTE lost six of their cadres and received injuries to thirty-seven more, according to confirmed technical reports.

Several attempts made by terrorists to recapture their lost ground were foiled by the troops.

However, two soldiers sacrificed their lives and four others were also injured in the series of confrontations.

A separate confrontation took place in the general area of THANNIMURIPPUKULAM around 6.15 a.m. on the same day. One LTTE terrorist was also killed by the troops.

Three hundred and thirteen anti personnel mines and seventeen Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) were also recovered in a subsequent search conducted by troops after capturing LTTE bunkers.

Meanwhile, two Terrorists were killed in ANDANKULAM in VAVUNIYA around 2.45 p.m. on Friday (10).

BATTICALOA: TROOPS operating in the general are of PALLEMADU recovered a cache of military items including a Claymore mine weighing 7 Kg during a search conducted around 4.00 p.m. Friday (10).

Two Anti Personnel (AP) mines, a Detonating Device and a length of 150m wire were among the items recovered along with the powerful Claymore mine.

Troops also recovered six hand grandees in a similar search conducted in the general area of NAVADI around 3.00 p.m., the same day.

Expressing the futility of attempting to negotiate peace with Tamil Tiger leader Velupillai Prabhakaran on a political solution a renegade leader of the Liberation Tigers of the Tamil Eelam (LTTE) speaking of his 22 years of experience with Prabhakaran said in Colombo that when at an international sponsored peace talks the LTTE delegate leader agreed to accept a federal system and issued a statement Prabhakaran rejected it and instructed them to drag the peace negotiations for five years as a means to accumulate more arms for war.

The TMVP leader Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan, addressing the All Party Conference to discuss a political solution to the Sri Lankan conflict at the Presidential Secretariat summoned by President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday(Oct 11) said, " LTTE delegate leader Anton Balasingham, without consulting Prabhakaran had issued a statement stating that they were willing to consider a federal system. When he discussed this with Prabhakaran he rejected the idea of federalism. He wanted the talks dragged for at least five years till the LTTE obtained enough arms to strengthen itself further."

Karuna Amman, who entered the Sri Lanka parliament recently under his true name Vinayagamoorthy Muralidharan as the leader of the Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Pulikal (TMVP), as a breakaway political party of the Tamil Tigers said the Tamil question has to be resolved separately without mixing it up with the Tamil Tigers and the only resolution of the Tamil Tigers is to defeat them militarily like in the country's Eastern Province. He was confident, he said they will be defeated very soon in the country's North.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the All Parry Conference repeated his call to the LTTE to lay down arms and surrender.

He said: "I wish to once again very clearly call on the LTTE to lay down their arms and surrender. They should act in this manner and enter the democratic political process. Our aim should be to ensure the democratic political rights of our Tamil brethren."

The President had summoned the All Party Conference to apprise its members of the current developments with regard to the operations to eradicate terrorism, establish peace and restore democracy throughout the country.

"However difficult it may be, it is my belief that the efforts to find political solutions to political issues should be continued. It is my belief that there are no military solutions to political questions. The people have elected us to realize their aims and aspirations. It is our duty to ensure to the Tamil people of the North the same democratic rights as enjoyed by the people min all other parts of the country. Military operations have become necessary to eradicate terrorism from the country and enthrone democracy throughout the land," the President said.

The leader of the Thamil Makkal Viduthalai Pulikal (TVMP) Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman, further said he had been with the LTTE for more than 22 years; and with his experience knew that when the LTTE came forward seeking peace it was always to further strengthen itself. On earlier occasions, incumbent governments, possibly by mistake, had encouraged the LTTE by giving it arms and money.

He recalled his own participation in several rounds of talks with the Government held under international sponsorship. They had come to an understanding to accept a federal system as a solution. However, Anton Balasingham, without consulting Prabhakaran had issued a statement stating that they were willing to consider a federal system. When he discussed this with Prabhakaran he rejected the idea of federalism. He wanted the talks dragged for at least five years till the LTTE obtained enough arms to strengthen itself further.

That was when he decided to leave the LTTE. It was called a renegade for talking this decision, which was done after he had explained to Prabharakan the futility of the armed campaign they were engaged in where at least 80,000 people had lost their lives.

He emphasized that it was necessary to defeat the LTTE militarily. This was necessary in the interests of the people of the North, who have already rejected the LTTE, but controlled by the military power of the organization.

He said the President had brought about many important changes in the East with free and fair elections and that all communities in the East were today participating in the development process there.

The Tamil Democratic National Alliance (TDNA) comprising the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE) and the Eelam People's Revolutionary Liberation Front (Naba faction) has called upon the Tamil Nadu political fraternity to put more pressure on the LTTE to stop fighting and enter the political process instead of turning a blind eye towards the arrogant attitude of the outfit.

TULF leader Veerasingham Anandasangaree who heads the TDNA as well was commenting on the agitation campaign that was staged in Tamil Nadu with regard to the current situation in the Wanni. Anandasangaree told the Sunday Observer that Tamil Nadu politicians should act with utmost responsibility when they deal with the Sri Lankan issue. "The LTTE is solely responsible for the current humanitarian crisis in Kilinochchi and the rest of the Wanni. However, the outfit is giving a different picture to Tamil Nadu politicians. Innocent civilians are not allowed to get into safer areas. The LTTE has threatened those civilians in Kilinochchi and made them to remain as human shields. If the Tamil Nadu political fraternity and the Central Government of India are genuinely concerned about the safety of the innocent Tamils in the battle-hit areas in the north,they should bring more pressure on the LTTE politically to stop the clashes in the Wanni instead of pointing the finger only at the Government.

If the LTTE allows innocent civilians who are sandwiched between the warring sides in the Wanni to enter safer areas several innocent lives could be saved,"Anandasangaree said. The PLOTE leader Dharmalingam Sitharthan said that Tamil Nadu politicians must not get carried away by the false propaganda of the LTTE. "The LTTE is not allowing the Kilinochchi civilians to go into safer areas and shedding crocodile tears saying that the civilians are suffering without food or medicine. Therefore, the Tamil Nadu Government should bring more pressure on the LTTE in safeguarding helpless civilians who are trapped in the battle-hit areas," Sitharthan said.

Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Government also arrested several agitators from various political parties who openly supported the LTTE in Chennai yesterday.

The U.S. Senate overwhelmingly ratified the landmark US-India civil nuclear trade agreement recently, a rare foreign policy victory for President Bush.
The nuclear pact was controversial both in the United States and in India that raised alarms about a new arms race in South Asia in particular, and in Asia and the Middle East – especially with China and Iran – in general.
Within the U.S. government, the foreign policy process was also questioned by national security experts in light of 9/11 security context. To examine the interagency policy process, the Center for the Study of Presidency, an American think tank, recruited Sri Lankan-born American diplomat, Dr. Patrick Mendis, to study this breakthrough U.S. policy by the Bush administration.
Dr. Mendis, a visiting scholar at the Johns Hopkins University’s Paul Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and the vice president of the Osgood Center for International Studies, produced an extensive case study with one of his former students in the U.S. Navy. Former acting director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), John McLaughlin, currently a senior fellow at SAIS, released the 625-page book of case studies that include Dr. Mendis’ study on U.S.-India Nuclear Agreement.
Former military professor through the University of Maryland in the NATO and Pacific Commands, Dr. Mendis became a national security and foreign policy expert. He worked as the chairman of U.S. government interagency policy working group on science and technology at the U.S. State Department and an advisor to the California-based Center for Global Security Research at the Lawrence Livermore National Lab of the U.S. Department of Energy. At the State Department, Dr. Mendis coordinated the science and technology policy with the White House and served as an advisor to the US Delegations to the United Nations.
The book release at the highly influential Hudson Institute was telecasted by C-SPAN and announced in other media. The CIA director said that the recommendations would be used to formulate new legislation in the new U.S. administration. The nuclear trade relations will become a priority in either Barak Obama or John McCain administration, the director McLaughlin predicted.
Dr. Mendis’ analysis contains the possible implications for the South Asia region as well as insights for improvements in a new interagency working space within the U.S. government.
The study was sponsored by a bipartisan, private-public partnership, through the Project on National Security Reform (PNSR). A guiding coalition of twenty-five former highest-ranking foreign policy and national security officials sets the strategic direction. PNSR is funded by U.S. Congress, foundations, and corporations. All case studies are publicly available.

Former CIA acting director of John McLaughlin (left) and Dr. Patrick Mendis, senior fellow and visiting scholar respectively, at the Johns Hopkins University’s Paul Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, D.C.

A five-member Sri Lankan cricket delegation will arrive in India next week to finalise a 40 million dollars deal with Indian Premier League [Images], the country's sports minister Gamini Lokuge said on Saturday.

"We want good relationship with India and our players have been released to play in the IPL," Lokuge said.

"We will negotiate the proposal of four million dollars to be paid annually to Sri Lanka [Images] Cricket and will depute a five-member delegation that will arrive in India on October 18," Lokuge said.

The minister said the delegation will be headed by Sports Secretary S Liyanagama and Sri Lanka Cricket Chief Executive Duleep Mendis while representatives from the Board and the Sri Lanka Players' Association will also be a part of it.

The Twenty20 [Images] Champions League, headed by chairman and commissioner of Indian Premier League Lalit Kumar Modi, has agreed to pay 40 million dollars to the cash-strapped Sri Lanka Cricket for sending its team for league matches for the next 10 years.

Lokuge said the Board of Control for Cricket in India has also agreed to send the national team to the island country to play matches at mutually convenient dates when there are no other games scheduled for the Lankan team.

India has also agreed to play another tri-nation series in 2010 which will bring in additional money to SLC.

In the second major protest on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue, within a week after the CPI fast, MDMK leader Mr Vaiko, a staunch supporter of the island Tamils’ cause, was arrested today, alongwith his supporters, when he tried to proceed towards a Central government office here, as a part of the picketing agitation announced by the party.

Marking a significant change in AIADMK's approach towards the Sri Lankan Tamils’ issue, which also manifests the growing sympathy towards the cause of the island Tamils among the people, party supremo Ms Jayalalitha, declared her support to Mr Vaiko's protest “condemning the Centre for providing military assistance for the genocide of Sri Lankan Tamils”. This is the first time, after nearly two decades, the AIADMK is openly supporting a protest on the island Tamils issue.

AIADMK organising secretary and a former minister in the MGR Cabinet, Mr S Muthusamy, who was present, conveyed the support of his leader Ms Jayalalitha to Mr Vaiko's endeavour for the rights of Sri Lankan Tamils. Citing his party leader's statement on the issue, the senior AIADMK leader said that his party supported the self-determination rights of island Tamils and stressed the need for sending medicines and food to the suffering Tamil people. “The AIADMK is firmly behind Mr Vaiko's protest for Sri Lankan Tamils”, he declared.
High drama preceded Mr Vaiko's arrest, when the police removed the mikes, in a bid to prevent Mr Vaiko's speech, which has become one of the most dreaded things for the DMK government, for its impact on the people, especially youths. However, when Mr Vaiko, began addressing the gathering without a mike, in a loud voice, the police gave back the mikes.
Hundreds of policemen were deployed in the area, with numerous vehicles to transport the protestors and the whole area, at the heart of the city was fortified from early in the morning.
The MDMK leader, read a letter addressed to him by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, in which the former says that he was pained to read Mr Vaiko's earlier letter accusing him of aiding the Tamils’ genocide. Referring to one paragraph in the letter which said that the UPA government was providing the Sri Lankan government with weapons of defensive nature, to protect the integrity of the island nation, Mr Vaiko said: “The Prime Minister himself is admitting what I am saying. Dr Manmohan Singh says that the Centre is providing military aid to Sri Lanka to protect the island nation’s integrity. My warning is that the Centre should not endanger India's integrity, by hastily going to protect the integrity of Sri Lanka”.
Mr Vaiko, whose sustained campaign on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue had brought it to the centrestage of state politics, said that the injury to two Indian military technocrates during air raids by the LTTE had clearly revealed the hand of the Indian government in the island conflict and charged “the Indian government is behind the Sri Lankan civil war, providing advice, intelligence, training, radars and finance, besides military personnel, to the Sinhalese regime, which is engaged in a genocidal war against Tamils”.
“The UPA government did not allow supply of food and medicines through the International Red Cross to about three lakhs people, who had been driven out their homes, due to the military offensive and living in open air and facing severe shortage of food and medicine. But, it is providing military aid to kill them”, he said. As the people of Tamil Nadu had come to know about the involvement of the Centre in the Sri Lankan civil war, chief minister Mr M Karunanidhi, was enacting a drama of sending telegrams to escape the blame.
“Karunanidhi knows about Tamil sentiments. He knows that Tamil people will not forgive him, for being part of a government, which is responsible for killing of their brethern in Sri Lanka. It is too late for him to escape now. The UPA will not be pardoned. People are waiting to punish it, for the crime of aiding Tamils’ genocide”, he said.

Sri Lankan Air Force, MI-24 air and ground combat helicopter gunships launched simultaneous attacks at an LTTE bunker construction site, Saturday (Oct11), Northeast of the Akkarayankulma Tank bund, Kilinochchi, reportedly causing heavy damages to LTTE at around 1.30 p.m.

The air assaults were launched in support of the advancing 57 Division troops and intercepted enemy communication has revealed heavy damages to LTTE, Air Force Spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said, speaking to defence.lk.

Spotting an LTTE construction site with heavy earth moving vehicles, the MI-24 flyers made simultaneous raids engaging the enemy targets at close distance, the sources said. According to available information, a heavy vehicle was completely damaged which is believed to be an excavator used for the construction of the earth bund at the target site, the sources said.

Continuous pleas for casualty evacuation was heard through the LTTE communication circuits and this alone confirms a toll in the expected number of damages to LTTE, the sources further said.

The 9th squadron, MI-24 helicopter gunships have recently made decisive assaults at LTTE, engaging in close combat missions. The use of the MI-24's in close combats, supporting the advancing ground troops have been effective, during the past few months, defence observers state.

Fighting was reported between troops and LTTE in general area Akkarayankulma, since this morning (Oct 11), as security forces claimed killing 5 terrorists in separate confrontations including 2 in an ambush Northwest of Mankulama.
2 more terrorists were also reported killed when troops forced into LTTE positions, East of Akkarayankulama, Kilinochchi.

Security forces continued pushing into LTTE positions at the Wanni battlefront causing severe damages to LTTE on Friday. According to finalized military reports received, at least 16 terrorists were confirmed killed and 19 others wounded, in yesterday's (Oct 10) fighting at the Wanni battle theater. 3 more terrorists were also confirmed killed alone at the Jaffna front counting the LTTE death figures on Friday as 19, according to military.

The brunt of LTTE deaths and casualties were reported during fighting at Akkarayankulama, in the Eastern Kilinochchi front. Ground troops also confirmed 3 terrorists killed following a surprise assault at an LTTE tractor in general area Northwest of Mankulama.

Meanwhile, confrontations continued at the Mullaittivu battlefront North of Welioya, as troops confirmed killing 6 terrorists and injuring 5 others. The fighting was mainly reported in general area Andankulama, according to military sources. Troops forced into an LTTE bunker defence line at Andankulama, Friday at around 9a.m. and fighting was reported till 5p.m., sources said. Troops had to repulse an LTTE counter attack at the captured bunker line, killing 6 terrorists and injuring 14 others during the hours long confrontations, military sources reported.

3 soldiers have laid their lives and 7 others reported wounded at the Western Kilinochchi battlefront on Friday. According to reports, the fighting was reported in general area Vannerikkulama.

Meanwhile, 3 terrorists were killed during separate clashes ensued between troops and LTTE at the Jaffna theater of battle, yesterday. A terrorist was killed while attempting to infiltrate a civilian populated area at Thanankilappu, while 2 others were reported killed ahead of Nagarkovil defences, military sources said. In addition 4 soldiers were reported wounded at Nagarkovil.

Forty-nine passengers were injured in a head-on collission between two buses in Bingirya today.

One of the buses was plying to Kurunegala from Halawatha and the other to Munneshwaram, Halawatha from Dambulla, on the Halawatha-Kurunegala Road.

The injured were admitted to Bingiriya hospital. Nineteen of them who were seriously injured were transferred to the Chilaw hospital.

Vavuniya UNP Organizer T.M.Tavachelwam was shot dead by an unidentified gunman this evening when he was at his residence down Station Road, Vavuniya,UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake said.

The funerals of Maj.Gen. Janaka Perera and his wife were held in Colombo today. Here, the UNP front-liners including General Secretary Tissa Attanayake walk in the funeral procession to the Borella Cemetery.

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama will be on an official visit to Australia from October 13 to 16 on the invitation of his counterpart Stephen Smith. For the last time, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister had visited Australia only in 1999.

Development of Abhayarama Temple in Narahenpita has come to a halt following a dispute between its top monks over a sum of Rs. 33 million.
According to the reports the temple has received the money for the land the state has acquired for expanding the stretch of road between Narahenpita and Timbirigasyaya.

The Public Trustee's Department has paid the amount in two installments - the first being Rs. 15 m, to chief priest Ven. Muruttettuwe Ananda Thera in December 2007.

Chief incumbent Ven. Pathberiye Vimalagnana Thera has accepted the second installment of Rs. 18 m in February 2008.

Each monk claims he has the right to the temple and the money.

LTTE Sea Tiger Deputy Leader Chelian killed due to a Claymore mine explosion in uncleared area say Military sources.

The sacred city of Anuradhapura was turned in to a ghost town after traders and others put up shutters to protest against the recent killing of Maj.General ..Retd Janaka Perera and 34 others. The white flag is to mourn the dead while the black one is to denounce terrorism and related violence.

Palestinian Foreign Minister, Dr. Riad al Malki met his Sri Lankan counterpart Rohitha Bogollagama at the Foreign Ministry today for official talks. During the discussions, he conveyed the readiness of the Palestinian President, Dr. Mahmoud Abbas to support Sri Lanka's application for entry into the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) as an Observer.

Sri Lankan expatriate Sasikala Navaneethan was charged in the deaths of two of her children and the attempted murder of her six-month-old baby who survived multiple stab wounds.

Police has released the photograph of the female suicide bomber who had exploded herself targeting the vehicle convoy of Minister Maithripala Sirisena in Boralasgamua on Thursday (Oct 9).
Police suspect that the suicide bomber has lingered in the Colombo and its suburbs during past few days. Public can provide any information they know about the suspect .
Two civilians died and 5 others suffered injuries in the suicide bomb blast that took place on Tuesday afternoon.

The Board of Investment entered into an agreement with Solas Marine Lanka Limited to establish a project to manufacture Yachts and Boats for export with an investment of US $ 1 million. Mr. Dhammika Perera, Chairman / Director General signed the agreement and formally presented the BOI Certificate of Registrations to Mr PS Kamath, Chairman and Ms Preethi Kamath, Director of Solas Marine Lanka Limited.

Two decades of excellent service and experience is what culminates the portfolio of Solas Marine Services Co. LLC, a Dubai based multinational Company that has now ventured into the rapidly developing Sri Lankan market. Solas Marine Lanka will cater to the international Luxury Yacht and Boat market. Products will be manufactured and exported from the factory premises in Sri Lanka.

Solas is the creation of Dubai based chairman Mr PS Kamath and is managed by Mr Prashant Kamath (Managing Director) and Ms Preethi Kamath (Director). The organization is a major solutions provider for the Marine Industry particularly specializing in Life saving and survival equipment, fire and gas detection, breathing air cascade system supply, installation and maintenance, and navigation and communication. The business houses its flagship in Dubai, UAE with branches in other GCC countries such as Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia, and has also launched service stations in the Indian subcontinent.
Dubai is surrounded by water bodies and in rapidly expanding in the field of real estate hence catalyzing the growth and requirement of numerous Marinas. Waterfront properties along the coasts are growing exponentially thus creating a demand for luxury boats and yachts in the Middle East. Keeping this potential in mind, Solas plans to manufacture unique and customized luxury yachts based on individual customers’ prerequisites. State of the art technology acquired from USA and Canada will be utilized for the making of the same.
As a part of the expansion program, Solas has commenced operations in Wattala. The current workforce houses a staff of 60 people that has been allotted to build fishing boats, luxury boats, interisland service boats, crew boats, petrol boats, leisure crafts and luxury yachts.
The company anticipates significant expansion in operations in the next 6 months, by employing more personnel and acquiring various Quality standards.
By blending its International expertise with the promise it sees in the Sri Lankan boat manufacturing industry, Solas Marine Lanka Limited hopes that its endeavour will be advantageous both to the company and to the country.

Mr. Ajay Chhibber, UNDP Assistant Administrator and Director of the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific (RBAP) concluded a four day visit to Sri Lanka from 6 to 9 Oct, 2008. This was his first visit since he assumed his post in July and it served to familiarize him with the work of UNDP and that of its Regional Centre in Colombo.
During the visit, Mr Chhibber met and exchanged views with senior Government officials and a wide range of partners including donors, civil society and the United Nations Country team. He also met with staff of the UNDP country office and the UNDP Regional Centre in Colombo and shared his vision on how UNDP could best be a strategic partner to the countries of the region, particularly on pressing issues of the day such as poverty, inequality, rising food and fuel prices and disaster mitigation.
UNDP has a diverse programme in Sri Lanka ranging from Poverty Reduction, and Environment to Governance and Transitional Peace and Recovery. In addition, UNDP is involved in a number of projects in the East which address issues related to conflict recovery and help create sustainable livelihood opportunities. The current Country Programme (2008-2012), which has a financial volume of $ 70 million, focuses on further strengthening UNDP’s support to the country.
Mr. Chhibber’s visit included meetings with MP Basil Rajapaksa, Senior Presidential Advisor; Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Mr. Sumith Abeysinghe, the Secretary to the Treasury. Discussion focused on the Millennium Development Goals, the plight of plantation communities and the urgent need for improvement in their socio-economic status and the impact of the global financial crisis on Sri Lanka’s economy. Additionally, the meeting reviewed UNDP’s program in the East to support early-recovery efforts.
Discussions with the Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, Minister of Foreign Affairs, focused on relations between UNDP and the Sri Lankan Government and the strengthening of democratic institutions throughout South Asia. Mr. Chhibber noted with satisfaction the level of collaboration evident between UNDP and the Government. He commended UNDP’s efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals through a coordinated approach with other UN agencies and the Government.
During his visit Mr. Chhibber was accompanied by Mr. Nicholas Rosellini, the new Deputy Director and head of UNDP’s Regional Centres in Colombo, Bangkok and Suva, Fiji and Ms. Fadzai Gwaradzimba, the Division Chief, South and West Asia Division.

Fitch Ratings Lanka has today affirmed DFCC Vardhana Bank Limited's (DVB) National Long-term rating at 'AA-(lka)' (AA minus(lka)). The Outlook remains Stable.
DVB's rating is primarily driven by the strong implied support assumed to be available from parent DFCC Bank (DFCC, 'AA(lka)'/Stable Outlook). DVB, which was 95.58%-owned by DFCC at end-December 2007 (FYE07), enjoys the usage of the DFCC brand name, and high levels of operational integration and shared services. However, the agency notes that the implied support and rating is contingent upon the strength of the linkages, degree of ownership, and control structure post-DFCC reducing its voting stock in DVB to 15% by 2012, as per regulation.
DVB has historically recorded high levels on loan growth (FYE04-FYE07CAGR: 61.5%) supported by cross-selling by DFCC, albeit from a relatively small base. However, growth slowed to 26.4% at end-June 2008 (H108) as DVB curtailed growth in light of the prevailing economic environment. Retail loans accounted for slightly over half of the loan portfolio at FYE07, with the remainder consisting ofworking capital loans to SMEs and second-tier corporates.
DVB's asset quality is somewhat weaker than the sector owing to the concentration in the SME and retail sectors. Gross NPL ratio slipped to 10.7% at H108 from 5.9% at FYE06 on account of weakened macro conditions, and partially owing to the regulatory change in classification of NPLs in June 2008. However, the bank has since stepped up its recovery initiatives and was able to reduce this ratio to 9.9% at end-July 2008.
Due to the premium charged by DVB on its products from its relatively riskier client base, NIM has historically been high in comparison to the sector. However, despite a NIM of 6.5% at H108, DVB's profits were affected by significant provisioning for bad debts (1.4% of average assets at H108), rising operating expenditure, and higher effective tax rates. Hence, ROA dipped to 0.63% at H108 from 1.27% at FYE06. Fitch expects DVB's profitability along with the sector's to remain constrained by high credit and operating costs.
Assets are primarily funded by customer deposits which accounted for 71.7% of DVB's funding mix at FYE07 - growth has been strong with a CAGR of 65% from FYE04-FYE07.
An equity infusion by DFCC via a LKR893m rights issue in December 2007 enabled DVB to meet the regulatory LKR2.5bn minimum capital requirement for licensed commercial banks (LCB) by the stipulated deadline of end-December 2007. Despite DVB's strong equity/assets ratio (H108: 12.9%) and capital adequacy ratios (H108: Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios of 16.0% and 16.7%, respectively), rising delinquencies resulted in a sharp deterioration in the net NPL/equity ratio to 41.7% at H108 (FYE07: 21.4%). However, Fitch notes that focused recovery efforts enabled the bank to improve the ratio to 34.7% at end-July 2008.
In line with DFCC's long-term plans of diversifying its product and funding streams, in 2003 DFCC acquired the previous National Mercantile Bank Limited and re-branded it as DVB. DVB is still a small LCB largely due to its short operating history, and currently accounts for less than 1% of banking system assets. DVB accounted for 24.0% of DFCC's consolidated assets at H108.

Fitch Ratings Lanka has today affirmed Merchant Credit of Sri Lanka Ltd's (MCSL) National Long-term rating at 'BBB(lka)', reflecting the implied support assumed to be available from its main and ultimate shareholder, Bank of Ceylon (BOC, 'AA(lka)'). The Outlook is Stable.
The agency takes considerable comfort from BOC's strength and its effective ownership of 88% of MCSL's equity, as well as board influence through common directors. However, MCSL's rating is constrained by its weak asset quality and low capitalisation which has resulted in poor solvency.
MCSL's core business is the provision of vehicle finance in the form of finance leases and hire purchase (HP) which together represented 75% of its asset base at FYE07. Historically, asset quality has been weak on account of poor monitoring. Reflecting the impact of the challenging macroeconomic environment, the gross NPL ratio (NPLs are defined by Fitch as advances in arrears for more than three months) rose to 32.5% at FYE07 from 20.0% at FYE06 (14.5% at FYE07 from 9.9% at FYE06 at the six-month regulatory threshold). Consequently, net NPLs/equity declined to 169.7% at FYE07 from 127.9% at FYE06 (46.0% at FYE07 from 39.7% at FYE06 at the six-month level). Following the institution of fresh management and an increased focus on recoveries beginning from H208, the gross NPL ratio improved to 28.5% (14% at the six month regulatory threshold) and the net NPL/equity ratio improved to 142.4% (43.3% at the six month level) at August 2008 from the respective ratios at FYE07.
The company's profitability, as measured by ROA, increased to 2% in FY07 from 1.7% in FY06. This was supported by an expansion innet interest margins, reflecting the shift in the portfolio in favour of HP, but is still constrained by the NPL drag and high operating costs.
Funding from deposits decreased to 74.9% of the funding base at FYE07 from 82.1% at FYE06 due to the decrease in the deposit base by 15.4% in FY07. Deposit concentrations fell moderately, but remained high as the five largest deposits accounted for 18.1% of total deposits at FYE07 (FYE06: 23.5%). The capital base of LKR313m exceeded the minimum capital requirement of LKR200m with core and total capital adequacy ratios of 16.0% and 16.6%, respectively, standing above the minimum 5% and 10% threshold at FYE07.
MCSL is a registered finance company (RFC) that is effectively an 88% owned subsidiary of BOC, Sri Lanka's largest bank that is also the primary bank to the State. The company is 49% held by BOC and 51% held by Merchant Bank of Sri Lanka, a 76% subsidiary of BOC, that is a specialised leasing company, and as such, unlike in the case of MCSL, is not permitted to accept deposits. MCSL represented 0.5% of BOC's consolidated asset base as at FYE07 and 1.7% of RFC assets at FYE07.

At the invitation of the World health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka addressed a gathering of high officials of that organisation, scientists, ambassadors, civil society and NGO personnel at the launch of mhGAP (Mental Health Gap Programme) in Geneva at the Kofi A. Annan conference hall of the UNAIDS.

He stressed that Sri Lanka, a country suffering from a protracted conflict for more than three decades with only a two dozens of professionally qualified mental health medical consultants and few hundreds of locally trained mental health medical officers to care for 20 million people, requires indeed the urgent attention of the WHO in training mental health professionals.

Tabling the country’s profile in a conflict scenario where the public deals with combatants of both sides, suicide bombers and civilians who are being affected by the conflict every day, he pointed out that there is a considerable gap between the demand of the mental health need and the supply of the mental health skills in Sri Lanka.

Referring to a video message by late Dr. Arthur C. Clarke,. Dr. Jayatilleka said that when addressing the mental health concerns in Sri Lanka, the multi cultural diversity should also be taken into consideration.

In conclusion, Ambassador Jayatilleka said that the role of WHO in promoting the concept of reducing the mental health gap through the Mental Health Global Action Programme is laudable and requested the WHO to assist Sri Lanka in the area of mental health which has lagged behind despite the fact that the Sri Lanka’s primary healthcare system is known to be one of the best in the developing world.

Dr. Magaret Chan, Director General of the WHO stated that Governments around the world need to see mental health as a vital component of primary health care and added that political commitment is vital to see a progress in the area of mental health.

Assistant Director General of Non Communicable Diseases, Director of the Mental Health and Substance Abuse delivered statements at the launch. Representing their governments, Ambassadors of Brazil, Iran, Italy, Malaysia and Rwanda also addressed the gathering.

Intelligence sources say that a ship carrying mini multi barrel launchers and other arms and ammunition for the LTTE which is weakened in financially, in man power and fire power has left Kampuchea.

Sources say that since European financial network has weakened and an installment payment scheme has been arranged through a Singapore company for this arms deal. A LTTE financial division chief is expected in Singapore for this deal. Intelligence sources say that the organization has run dry of the financial sources as a result of repeated defeats in battle field.

Intelligence sources further state that the arms ship that left Kampuchea will transship the arms stock in a nearby country. Intelligence wings have taken all steps to avoid the stock going to LTTE hands by alerting all the relevant authorities in the related countries.

Sri Lanka Navy sank a number of arms ships of LTTE in the recent past.

The question of if the Prime Minister Rathnasiri Wickramanayaka and Ministers Mervin Silva, Dallus Alahapperuma and basil Rajapakse would lose their parliamentary seats on the same basis if Karuna Amman would lose his following the case filed by JVP was raised yesterday (09) at the cabinet press briefing.

Minister of Information and Media Anura Priyadarshana Yapa said that he could not comment on a case that is before courts.


Here are the questions raised by the journalists and the Minister's responses to them.

Question: What is the government's stance on the Supreme Court ruling pertaining to the Waters’ Edge land deal?

Answer: We admit the definition of the judiciary on any matter. It is a characteristic of a civilized country.

Question: How ethical is the use of a parliamentary seat belonged to the JVP to appoint Karuna to the parliament?

Answer: I do not comment on a problem before courts. However, the JVP is no more a party in the alliance.

Questions: Who are suspected for the killing of Mr. Janaka Perera?

Answer: Who has suicide cadres other than LTTE?

Answer: Aren't there suicide cadres with the TMVP? Can’t they be suspected?

Answer: I deny that statement totally.

KILINOCHCHI & WELIOYA: FORWARD-marching troops of the 57 Division in AKKARAYANKULAM and VANNARIKULAM areas smashed five Tiger bunkers, inflicting death on at least twenty-two terrorists in the clashes and bunker attacks during Thursday (9).

One valiant soldier laid his life during one of the confrontations in VANNARIKULAM at about 8.15 a.m. on Thursday (9). Three more soldiers received injuries during mortar firing directed by the terrorists around 6.15 p.m.

Meanwhile, three LTTE terrorists lost their lives and six more Tigers were wounded in the strategic ANDANKULAM area in the WELIOYA sector during clashes that lasted between 10.30 a.m.-5.00 p.m. on Thursday (9). At least six terrorists received injuries in those clashes. Two brave soldiers while fighting terrorists in ANDANKULAM made the supreme sacrifice on Thursday (9). Eight soldiers received injuries and were admitted to hospital.

One dead body of a Tiger terrorist was also collected from ANDANKULAM area on Thursday (9) at about 11.30 a.m. Explosion of an anti personnel mine and a confrontation in MONARAWEWA and KAMBILIWEWA areas wounded two soldiers.

During daytime search operations in ANDANKULAM area on Thursday (9) troops found ninety-nine anti personnel mines and three Improvise Explosive Devices.

VAVUNIYA: SEVEN LTTE terrorists trying to confront troops in the general areas of PANICHCHANKULAM, VEDAMAKULAM and NELLIKULAM on Thursday (9) met with their destiny, unable to face the fire-power of the troops.

Those clashes that claimed their lives took place between 9.50 a.m. – 1.30 p.m. on Thursday (9). Meanwhile, one soldier was injured in an anti personnel mine explosion in MUNDIRIPPU area, the same day (9) at about 8.00 a.m..

KILINOCHCHI: SRI LANKA Air Force fighter jets took three LTTE targets this morning (10) between 6.30 – 7.30 a.m..

The first air sortie was conducted at about 6.30 a.m. targeting an LTTE communication centre, about 3 km northeast of PARANTHAN.

Fighter jets later on conducted two more aerial attacks on an LTTE hideout, 2 km northeast of KILINOCHCHI town, where Tiger leaders regularly seek shelter.

Similarly, an LTTE Black Tiger camp, about 1.5 km west of PARANTHAN was pounded a few minutes later causing heavy damages to the target.

JAFFNA: A TIGER terrorist trying to creep into civilian-dominated areas in THANANKILAPPU, JAFFNA around 3.45 Friday (10) morning was gunned down along with his T-56 weapon, ammunition rounds, hand grenades, detonators and magazines.

The pre-dawn attack came just a couple of hours before the troops at about 6.25 a.m. in NAGARKOVIL area got rid of one more terrorist following a confrontation.

The subsequent THANANKILAPPU search found one T-56 weapon, three hand grenades, one cyanide capsule, one compass, one Global Positioning system (GPS) equipment, one hand phone and some medical items.

One more terrorist was reportedly injured this morning at about 9.05 a.m. when the troops directed an attack on a suspected hideout in PONNAR, JAFFNA.

The All Share Index in the Colombo stock market in early trade on Friday fell below the 2000 levels for the second time in two days with all the blue chips except SLT crashing, brokers said.

SLT saw a 50 cents rise to Rs 41.50. Stock analysts said this trend is likely to continue towards the market close today. The All Share Index lost 53.54 points to 1959.56 in early trade and Milanka saw a drop of 59.95 in the morning to 2171.98. The turnover was Rs 62 million.

Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman has been appointed a national list MP not to strengthen democracy in Eastern Province, but to brace up state terrorism of Rajapaksa regime, alleges Sri Lanka Freedom Party Mahajana Wing Leader Mangala Samaraweera.

Mr. Samaraweera, in a statement yesterday (Oct. 09th), charged the aim was to use Karuna to rig votes in EP at an upcoming presidential or parliamentary election.

He said 07th October 2008 would be marked in history as yet another shameful day of Rajapaksa regime on which it had disgraced dignity of parliament.

That is because it was the day of swearing in of Karuna, accused by international human rights groups of war crimes, including killing of thousands of civilians and recruitment of child soldiers.

Further, he is a person who had served a prison term in UK for having entered the country on a forged passport and subsequently deported, Mr. Samaraweera noted.
The SLFP (M) leader said he recognized the right of any person, who had earlier been involved in armed politics and terrorism, to enter democratic mainstream.

He said he would support honest attempts by any government to get such persons absorbed into democracy by politically addressing causes that had led to armed politics.

The statement by Mr. Samaraweera points out that Thamil Makkal Viduthalai Puligal (TMVP), to which Karuna gives leadership, had publicly declared that it had no intention of disarming.

Even today, the party has armed camps and hunts down its opponents and involves itself in extortion, he charged.

The appointment of a person, who is thus engaged in terrorist acts, to the country’s most sacred political institution is a complete disgrace of the people’s supremacy, Mr. Samaraweera said.

The statement also says the JVP should have the say in appointing national list MP positions that rightfully belongs to it in accordance with the memorandum of understanding that formed the UPFA.

It would be a humiliation for the SLFP if its political credibility is challenged in light of this incident, said the SLFP (M) leader.

His statement concludes with a call for all progressive forces to unite unconditionally against Rajapaksa regime that is moving towards a terrifying dictatorship by instilling the mirage of war in public minds and systematically breaking their democratic rights.

Benthota-Aluthgama bridge has been damaged due to a crack disrupting traffic. According to Police the road is closed and traffic diverted. The traffic from Galle is being diverted from Benthota, vehicles should reach Aluthgama, passing Elpitiya and Aviththawa through the Mathugama Road.

The Tamil Nadu State Government has decided to convene an all-party meeting on the Sri Lankan issue on October 14, the Indian media reported. Letters will be sent to all political parties in the State, urging them to participate in the meeting to be held at the Secretariat.

The Ceylon Electricity Board has disconnected power supply to the Anamaduwa home and office of late minister D.M. Dasanayake on October 08th due to the non payment of bills, sources say.

The Chilaw Electricity Engineer’s Office said that overdue bills of the house and the office amounted to Rs. 41,21,980.24 and Rs. 41,31,081.38 respectively.

The former minister died in a claymore attack near the Rukmani Devi statue in Ja-Ela on 08th Jan 2008.

Bad weather forced Sri Lankan tea production down 1.8 percent to 25.08 million kg in August from a year earlier, the Sri Lanka Tea Board said on Friday.
"It's not a serious drop but weather conditions affected tea output, especially the low-grown area," said board Chairman Lalith Hettiarachchi, adding that production had also been hit by growers' worries about the effectiveness of some fertiliser. Output in the period from January to August rose 14.1 percent to 222.94 million kg from 195.36 million a year earlier, boosted by better farming techniques and favorable weather.
High global tea prices also spurred producers to increase output, as the industry recovered from a labour dispute that had crimped production early last year. Output fell 2 percent to 304.6 million kg last year from 310.8 million in 2006, with officials citing inadequate fertiliser use due to high prices, unfavorable weather and the fallout of a strike. Sri Lanka's earnings from tea exports have risen 43.8 percent to $883.7 million in the first eight months of 2008 from a year earlier, thanks to higher productivity, prices and demand. The tea industry, which recorded export earnings of more than $1 billion for the first time in 2007, is expected to earn up to $1.4 billion this year.
Sri Lanka exported 309.8 million kg of tea last year,including re-exports of 15.6 million kg in imports that tea companies had purchased from overseas to meet client orders. Bulk tea accounted for nearly 60 percent of exports. Sri Lanka's record 2005 harvest of 317.2 million kg made it the world's fourth-biggest producer behind China, India and Kenya and second only to Kenya in exports that year. Tea is one of Sri Lanka's main foreign currency revenue earners, along with remittances, textile and garment exports.

Counterterrorism police searched a building in Montreal last month due to suspicions it was still being used to raise money for Tamil Tigers guerrillas two years after police first raided it for the same reason.

The RCMP searched the Montreal office of the World Tamil Movement on Sept. 3, seizing items allegedly linked to Tamil Tigers fundraising, according to documents recently unsealed by the Federal Court.

A judge authorized the search after police officers noticed collection tills and items bearing the Tamil Tigers emblem

inside the building . The building had been emptied of all such materials during a 2006 police raid.

"Some of those items are similar to the ones seized on April 13, 2006, and indicate that the same type of activities [are] still going on in the building in 2008," according to a police affidavit filed in the court.

The search is the latest development in a massive terrorist financing investigation that spans three provinces and is trying to unravel a network the RCMP says has raised millions to arm the Tamil Tigers.

The Tigers, also known as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, or LTTE, are a militant separatist group responsible for hundreds of suicide bombings and assassinations in Sri Lanka.

Yesterday, the Sri Lankan Agriculture Minister survived an assassination attempt near the capital, Colombo. The attack came three days after another suicide bomber killed 29. The Tamil Tigers are suspected in both cases.

The guerrillas are fighting for independence for Sri Lanka's ethnic Tamil minority. Since the civil war began, tens of thousands of Sri Lankan Tamils have fled to Canada.

The World Tamil Movement (WTM) purports to be an ordinary community group, but the newly unsealed police affidavit says it is actually a "foreign branch" of the guerrillas, used to collect money from Canadian Tamils to finance the civil war and the purchase of arms.

RCMP Constable Eric Boissonneault wrote in the affidavit that the "sole purpose" of the Montreal WTM office was "facilitating" the cause of the Tigers. He also accused the group of using aggressive fundraising methods.

"Our investigation has revealed that the World Tamil Movement and the LTTE have been demonstrated to utilize pressure tactics to elicit funds and donations as well as to participate in veiled threats," Const. Boissonneault wrote in the affidavit.

Steven Slimovitch, the lawyer representing the WTM, said he had only just received the new documents and had not fully reviewed them. "There's not much that I can say other than to maintain the standard line of saying that they don't raise money for terrorists."

The police investigation, known as Project Crible in Quebec and Project Osaluki in Ontario, began in 2002. The RCMP's Integrated National Security Enforcement Team raided the WTM office on Van Horne Avenue in Montreal in 2006.

The federal government padlocked the building six months ago after a judge ruled it was the property of a terrorist organization. But while police were seizing the premises, officers noticed it held "a number of objects related to the LTTE." Police went to court on Aug. 14 to ask for a warrant to seize those items.

Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day added the WTM to Canada's official list of banned terrorist organizations on June 16. It was the first time a Canadian non-profit group had been outlawed for terrorism. Mr. Slimovitch said his clients intended to challenge the designation but have not yet done so.

A former senior commander of the Tamil Tigers, Colonel Karuna Amman, told the National Post in an interview in Colombo last month that Canada was the guerrillas' top source of external income, followed by Switzerland.

More than 600 personalities from the accountancy and allied spheres gathered at the Cinnamon Grand in Colombo to take part in the colourful and gala inauguration of the 29th National Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (ICASL) under the distinguished patronage
of His Excellency Mr. Alok Prasad, the High Commissioner of India.

Former Precedent Partner of KPMG Ford Rhodes Thornton & Co, Mr. Rajan Asirwatham was the Keynote Speaker. The theme of this year’s conference was “RE imagine – creating a successful business in challenging times by thinking differently”.

As it has done in previous years, this year’s national conference provides a platform for professionals to gather, deliberate and confer issues that go beyond reading and writing. For over a quarter century, this national conference has added much value with themes ranging from economy, people skills, accountability, governance and ethics etc being deliberated by
eminent panels with an equally competent professional audience in an intellectually stimulating environment providing the much needed debate. The conference also provided a conducive base for networking, an invaluable tool in modern management.

The Conference’s Technical Sessions are conducted over two days (10 and 11 October) by a group of eminent and respected corporate personalities through six main presentations titled ‘Creating Opportunities’, ‘Developing a Blue Ocean
Strategy’, ‘The Differentiating Factor’, ‘Navigating the Vortex’, ‘Forward Focus’ and ‘Numbers to Strategy.

Among the speakers are Dr. Uditha Liyanage – Director, Postgraduate Institute of Management, Colombo, Mr. Rustom Jilla - Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Ansell Limited, USA, Mr. Phillip Satish Rao - Partner, Business Risk Services, Ernst & Young, Malaysia and Mr. Brendan Murtagh - Deputy President, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, United Kingdom.
Eminent CEOs and CFOs discussed current and future trends of the CFO’s role, based on the expectations from the organisation, the management as well as other stakeholders .

The Public Private Partnership Unit of the BOI arranged an interactive meeting on the 30th of September 2008 on the ‘Knowledge City’ at Henegama, Gampaha District. This meeting was arranged with the representatives of the education sector, construction sector and financial institutions. Ms. Pauline Matthias, Executive Director (Finance) & Head of the PPP Unit of the BOI made a presentation.

The proposed Knowledge City Henegama will be developed on public private partnership basis where the development of the infrastructure will be carried out by a selected developer on Design, Finance, Built and Operate Basis (DFBO basis). It is proposed that international and local educational institutes will locate their facilities at this city thereby catering to the tertiary education in Sri Lanka. Statistics reveal that there is a huge scope for commercial run educational institutes who can award foreign degrees with the affiliation of recognized foreign universities. It is also expected that this ‘Knowledge City’ will attract foreign students from abroad, such as Maldives and India.

The location selected is a 122 acre land plot belonging to the BOI situated 33 kms from the Colombo City having access through the Kandy-Balummahara Junction. The BOI propose to carry out a bidding process to select the developer through an international bidding process. The estimated investment is around US$ 75 Million. The self contained city is envisaged to have common library facilities, sports grounds, gym, health care facilities, food courts, hostels, super markers and residential units.

BOI’s vision is that the ‘Knowledge City’ Henegama will be a destination of education and position Sri Lanka as a centre of excellence for learning and innovation.

The Brandix Group’s world-first Platinum rated Green Factory provided a learning experience to apparel sector manufacturers in the region recently when it was chosen by global giant Marks & Spencer (M&S) for a factory visit by several senior apparel sector executives from India, and Bangladesh as well as the United Kingdom.

The visitors led by Marks & Spencer’s ‘Plan A’ Director Richard Gillies along with his Associates Paschal Little and Ian Morris as well as Ravi Seshadri the Regional Head of Technology for M&S South Asia undertook a two hour tour of the Brandix Eco Centre at Seeduwa for a first-hand look at how the plant has been redesigned to achieve global benchmark ratings in energy and water conservation, solid waste management and low carbon emissions.

Represented at the visit were well known apparel sector companies such as Orient Craft, Arvind Mills Limited, Farida Shoes, Crystal Martin, Hela Clothing, CREW BOS, Thomas Kershaw, MMS UK, and Marks & Spencer operations in UK, South Asia and Sri Lanka.

“Brandix takes great pride in its credo of being an inspired solutions provider for branded clothing, and we were very pleased to host several of our peers from the region,” Brandix Director AJ Johnpillai said.

“We hope our efforts will be an inspiration to others to seek the highest achievable levels of environment-friendly manufacture.”

The Brandix Green Factory in Seeduwa is the first and only apparel manufacturing facility in the world to be rated Platinum under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System of the US Green Building Council (USGBC).

The 130,000 square-foot complex is Brandix Casualwear’s lead manufacturing plant for Marks & Spencer, and supports M&S’ ‘Plan A’ a five-year, 100-point 'eco' plan to encourage suppliers around the world to make their supply chains carbon neutral through Green manufacturing processes.

Formally inaugurated on April 25 this year by Marks & Spencer CEO Sir Stuart Rose, the plant converted into an Eco Centre at a cost of US $ 3 million has achieved a reduction of carbon emissions by 80 per cent, an energy saving of 46 per cent, a reduction of water consumption of 58 per cent and zero solid waste to landfill, eco-friendly indicators as yet unmatched by any re-designed Green Plant anywhere in the world.

Brandix pioneered the concept of total solutions in the Sri Lankan apparel industry and has been recognized as Sri Lanka’s largest apparel exporter by the Export Development Board for the past two years.

Comprising of 25 fully-integrated manufacturing facilities backed by strategically located international sourcing offices, the Brandix Group specializes in casual bottoms, intimate and active wear, textiles, knitted fabrics, sewing and embroidery thread, accessories and hangers, and offers wet processing and finishing and fabric printing.

Brandix is a preferred solutionsprovider to some of the world’s best brands, including Gap, Marks & Spencer, Victoria’s Secret, NEXT, Lands End, Ann Taylor, Abercrombie & Fitch and Tommy Hilfiger.

Sri Lanka's veteran media person Kalakeerthi titled Edwin Ariyadasa who was linked with Sakvithi Ranasinghe's colossal money scam surrendered to Courts yesterday through a lawyer. He was released on a one million rupees bail.

Mr. Ariyadasa's lawyer M.L.M. Ameen stated that his client was only the paid director of the English education section of the institute and he had no connection with financial transactions.

Mr. Ariyadasa was ordered to give a statement to police and also to inform the Courts if he leaves the country.

The case was postponed to October 20.

The All Share Index in the Colombo stock market in early trade on Friday fell below the 2000 levels for the second time in two days with all the blue chips except SLT crashing, brokers said.

SLT saw a 50 cents rise to Rs 41.50. Stock analysts said this trend is likely to continue towards the market close today. The All Share Index lost 53.54 points to 1959.56 in early trade and Milanka saw a drop of 59.95 in the morning to 2171.98. The turnover was Rs 62 million.

The Palestinian people believed in living in peace with their neighbours in Israel, and similarly looked forward to the people of Sri Lanka living together in peace and harmony, said President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian National Authority in a statement after talks with Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa in Colombo .

He believed that President Rajapaksa is keen to achieve peace in Sri Lanka, and works hard towards achieving that objective, and admired their efforts that were being made by him in this regard.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his remarks said that Sri Lanka liked to assist Palestinians in their capacity building efforts, with support to training its human resources in the fields of culture, education, science, sports and tourism.

President Rajapaksa recalled the long association that Sri Lanka has had with the Palestinian people, and that he was the Minister in Attendance when the former Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat visited Sri Lanka. He said the people of Sri Lanka had always been supportive of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to their own sovereign state, and would continue to support them in all their efforts to achieve the goal sovereignty.

President Mahmoud said he was glad to be the Palestinian leader to visit Sri Lanka after the late Yasser Arafat, and thanked Sri Lanka for the continued support extended to the Palestinian cause.

The two leaders exchanged views on matters of mutual interest especially with regard to continued solidarity of the Sri Lankan people with the Palestinian people and related aspects of cooperation on education, health services, cultural affairs, vocational training as well as, tourism promotion for Sri Lankans in Palestine.

The Palestinian delegation at the bilateral talks comprised Foreign Minister Mr. Riad Malki, Former Foreign Minister Mr. Ziad Abu Amar and Adviser to the President Mr. Nabil Aburudainah.

Foreign Minister Mr. Rohitha Bogollagama, Minister of Healthcare Mr. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Education Mr. Susil Premjayantha, Minister of Cultural Affairs Mr. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Minister of Construction and Engineering Services Mr. Rajitha Senaratne, Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga and Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Palitha Kohona were in the Sri Lankan delegation.

Later the two foreign ministers signed a Framework Agreement on "Technical Cooperation and Practical Training" between Sri Lanka and the Palestinian Territory.
Statement by the President Rajapaksa:

Let me take this opportunity to say how happy we are to welcome President Mahmoud Abbas of Palestine. It is a great honour for us.

Excellency, when your late leader Yasser Arafat came to Sri Lanka I was the Minister in Attendance. I recall that opportunity with happiness.

As a former President of Sri Lanka Committee for Solidarity with Palestine for 28 long years, I must say that we have had very cordial bilateral relations with the Arab World, especially with Palestine. Our relations with Palestine have been unique.

It is no secret throughout the whole world that we had consistently supported the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and their right to an Independent Sovereign State based on the UN Security Council Resolutions.

Sri Lanka has chaired the UN Committee on Human Rights of Palestinians for 38 years continuously. It is a unique record, especially Sri Lanka being a non-Muslim country.

We also wish for peace in Palestine for all its peoples. This has been our wish for a long time.

I am very happy to state that we like to assist Palestinians in their capacity building efforts, with support to training its human resources in the fields of culture, education, science, sports and tourism.

Several of our line Ministries such as Education, Health Care & Nutrition, Tourism, Vocational & Technical Training are ready to undertake this responsibility.

May I now have the pleasure of inviting President Mahmoud Abbas to say a few words.

Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets launched 4 air strikes targeting 3 vital encampments of LTTE terrorists this morning (Oct 10), air force sources said.

Air Force spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara speaking to defence.lk said that the first of the 3 air raids was taken at 6.30 AM targeting an LTTE communication centre located 3Km , northeast of Paranthan.

In addition, two air raids were taken at 7 AM targeting an LTTE leaders' hideout located 2km northeast of Kilinochchi town, he said.

At the same time, the third air strike was taken targeting a den of LTTE suicide bombers, also known as Black Tigers located 1.5 Km west of Paranthan, he added.

Speaking further, Wing Commander Nanayakkara said that all three targets were effectively engaged.

The much publicized financial scam of the year involving infamous English tutor Sakvithi Ranasinghe topped Rs.1 billion yesterday.

Police Media Spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara said that Western Province South Special Crime Detection Bureau investigating into the scam had received 1916 complaints of unlucky depositors by last evening.

The total sum of money so far reported to be involved in the outrageous financial scam is estimated at Rs.1,123,000,000 (Rs.1.1 Billion).

The detectives daily receive fresh complaints related to the scam and the initial documents of registration of the Sakvithi Financial Institute revealed a database of 4100 depositors in the scheme.

“Therefore the total amount of money being allegedly duped by the Sakvithi Ranasinghe will rise up to many more millions in near future,” SSP Gunasekara said.

The JVP told Parliament yesterday that criminal laws should be amended now to punish those robbing posts of MPs belonging to other political parties.

JVP Parliamentary Group Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake was referring to the appointment of TMVP Leader Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan as a national list MP by the ruling UPFA filling a seat which fell vacant upon the resignation of a JVP MP.MP Dissanayake said this National List slot belonged to the JVP according to the agreement which it signed with the SLFP in 2004.

He said the JVP was compelled to sign such a deal with the SLFP to topple the previous UNP regime, which, he said, was leading the country to a serious crisis both on the national question and the economic front.

“The UPFA Constitution clearly says that the JVP should be given seats on the National List,” he said.

He said the JVP volunteered to offer two such seats to the SLFP so that it could give a chance to accommodate two others,” he said.

The JVP, he said, did it upon a request made by then President Chandrika Kumaratunga shortly after the 2004 General Election.

“We made such a sacrifice in a political culture where politicians are wistfully waiting till sitting MPs die so that they can enter Parliament. After sacrificing these seats, we still have three seats on the National List,” he said.

At this time, government members Nirmala Kotalawala and Salinda Dissanayake interrupted Mr. Dissanayake saying he was raising points irrelevant to the topic which was about the Education Ministry Supplementary Estimate.

Deputy Speaker Priyankara Jayaratne also requested Mr. Dissanayake to stick to the topic.

However, Mr. Dissanayake continued to attack the government in an indirect and subtle manner.

“Through education, we learn how to be grateful to people. It is taught in the main religions practiced in our country. At the same time, we learn at schools that it is wrong to steal or rob things belonging to other people,” he said.

“This crime is not covered by the criminal code. Legal experts do not draft laws on hypothetical issues and when the criminal law was introduced, the problem of robbing MP posts did not exist. So, the time is ripe to amend it so that such robbers also can be punished,” he said.

A group of sixty Indian fishermen were allegedly attacked in Palk Straits in the wee hours of yesterday, the Indian media reported and blamed the Sri Lankan Navy over the incident.

Police said the fishermen, who were travelling in 15 mechanised boats, were attacked with iron bars, sickles and nylon ropes by Lankan navy personnel who also fired over 50 rounds in the air.

The Lankan Navy also destroyed GPS equipment and nets of fishermen, worth over Rs 15 lakhs, PTI quoted Indian police as saying. The fishermen claimed they were thrown into the sea and struggled in the waters for over three hours.

One fisherman Balamurugan suffered injuries and was admitted to a hospital at Rameswaram, PTI reported.

This is not the first time such allegations had been leveled against the Navy but the Navy has often said that the LTTE are likely the ones involved in attacks on the Indian fishermen with the intention of creating a rift between Sri Lanka and India.

The Kilinochchi Medical Association which represents doctors from the Kilinochchi district have requested the support of the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) to assist in handling the humanitarian crisis in the Wanni region.

The KMA said the Kilinochchi General Hospital premises including the glass windows of the intensive care unit were been damaged by the shrapnel from the aerial bombing of the area.

“Most of the people are living in temporary shelters located in the paddy fields and areas prone to flooding. As the monsoon season has started already, there are a huge number of babies suffering from with dysentery and gastro enteritis seeking treatment at the hospital,” the KMA said in a letter to the GMOA. It highlighted the shortage of drugs and requested the GMOA to visit the area.

It said there have been proposals to move a part of the hospital to a Government school known as Visuvamadu Maha Vidyalayam but apart from some 100 displaced families being housed at this school, students from 11 other schools which have been damaged were also attending the Visuvamadu Vidyalayam.

The KMA said the displaced needed to be resettled away from the school as the Vidyalayam needs to carry out its normal teaching functions without interruption.

Upul Gunasekara, Assistant Secretary of the GMOA confirmed that he has received a request for support and the request will be discussed at an executive council meeting convened for yesterday.

“Once civilians cross in to the government controlled area there is a plan to take care of them” said Dr Gunasekara.

Ex-Governor of Sabaragamuwa Province Dixon Dela Bandara took oaths as Northern Province Governor a short while ago- President's office.

The UNP says it has information that indicates that the suicide bomber that killed Maj. Gen. Janaka Perera had arrived for his mission in a white-coloured van.

UNP National Organizer S.B. Dissanayake, speaking to the media in Colombo today (Oct. 09th), alleged a government hand in the incident four days ago, noting that police were still clueless about the attacker.

According to him, the bomber had been both physically and mentally handicapped, and such a person could not have carried out a suicide bombing without assistance of others.

Mr. Dissanayake questioned as to why police have found nothing so far about those perpetrators.

More than the opposition leader of the north central province, it was UNP organizer for Anuradhapura Dr. A. John Pulle who could have been the target of the suicide attack, he said.

The UNP national organizer alleged it would have been an attempt to prevent the exposure of those responsible for the arson attack on Dr. John Pulle's home during the recent provincial polls.

He also noted that human rights lawyer J.C. Weliamuna's home, located near two police posts, had come under a hand grenade attack with the knowledge of the government.

Also speaking at the media briefing, UNP MP Palitha Range Bandara said the government was taking revenge even from the remains of the late Maj. Gen. Perera.

The independent police committee probing the incident had been suspended last night, and the inquiry taken under Senior DIG K.P.P. Pathirana, which are all indications of a government hand in the attack, he added.

Fitch Ratings Lanka has today affirmed the National Long-term rating of DFCC Bank (DFCC) at 'AA(lka)'. At the same time, the agency has affirmed DFCC's senior debentures at 'AA(lka)' and subordinated debentures at 'AA-(lka)' (AA minus (lka)). The Outlook on the ratings remains Stable.
The ratings reflect DFCC's strong capital base and sustained high profitability, but also factors in the bank's inherent lack of product and funding diversity as a development finance institution (DFI), as well as its relatively large exposure to riskier long-term project finance.
Although DFCC acquired a licensed commercial bank (LCB) in 2003 with the view of broadening the bank's product, funding and revenue streams, Fitch notes that the contribution from its LCB subsidiary, DFCC Vardhana Bank Limited (95.58% stake owned by DFCC at end-December 2007), currently remains modest. DFCC's portfolio is still dominated by longer-tenure project lending, accounting for 52.5% of the bank's loan portfolio at end-March 2008 (FYE08), with retail loans and corporate loans accounting for 23.1% and 21.1%, respectively. Loan growth slowed considerably to 6.2% at FYE08 (CAGR of 24.4% in the period FYE04-FYE07), due to a lack of demand for long-term project loans in tandem with the current macroeconomic environment, as well as the bank's conscious decision to curtail credit growth.
DFCC's asset quality, along with the sector's, was impacted by the high inflationary, rising interest rate environment that prevailed since the latter half of 2006. As such, the bank's gross NPL ratio increased sharply to 8.6% at end-June 2008 (Q109) from 5.0% at FYE07. Nevertheless, Fitch observes that while asset quality tends to slip in the first couple of quarters, it should improve towards the end of the financial year as recovery efforts are typically stepped up.
As a DFI, DFCC has enjoyed concessionary-rate credit lines from multilateral and bilateral donor agencies. This component amounted to 33.7% of DFCC's funding base at FYE08. However, Fitch notes that since one of the main criteria for securing such funds is the country's stage of development, and as Sri Lanka has shifted from a low-income nation to a middle-income nation, securing such funds would become increasingly difficult. Therefore the bank is likely to place greater reliance on institutional and retail funds at market rates to fund growth in the future.
The bank has been successfully maintaining high levels of profitability owing to the significant component of concessionary-rate credit lines, as well as the support it gets from its large capital base. The contribution to DFCC's profit from its 27%-owned associate, Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC (CB, 'AA+(lka)'/Stable Outlook) was substantial, amounting to 18% of pre-tax profit at FYE08. Under a Central Bank of Sri Lanka regulation, DFCC is required to reduce its stake in CB to 15% of voting stock by 2008. However, Fitch notes that DFCC's ROA, excluding the share of CB's profit, at 2.2% at FYE08 compares favourably against its peers.
DFCC's capital position is strong. The equity assets ratio at 21.9% at Q109 is significantly above the peer average of 7.8% during the period, and Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios at 19.4% and 17.6% respectively at Q109 were well above the statutory requirements of 5% and 10% respectively. Although rising delinquencies resulted in the net NPL/equity ratio increasing to 19.5% at Q109 from 13.6% at FYE08, it still compares well against its peers. Fitch observes that DFCC's strong capital base would provide the bank with a significant equity buffer to withstand rising delinquencies in periods of economic stress.
DFCC was established in 1955 as a licensed specialised bank under the recommendation of the World Bank to foster economic growth in Sri Lanka through the provision of long-term project finance. The bank was listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange in 1956. Entities related to the Stassens Group held 30.5% of DFCC's equity at FYE08, with Bank of Ceylon ('AA (lka)'/Stable Outlook) holding a 14.6% stake at FYE08.

The assassination of Opposition Leader of the North Central Province, retired Major General Janaka Perera is an act of terrorism which shows utter contempt for the democratic process. This bombing took place at the opening of the new UNP party headquarters in the city of Anuradhapura. A suspected suicide bomber killed 28 people, including Mrs Perera, and the UNP election coordinator for the district, Dr Raja Johnpulle and Mrs Johnpulle and injured over 90 others, some of them very seriously. The National Peace Council condemns this attack especially as it targeted a large civilian gathering and killed and injured so many of them.

Major General Perera was a former Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army and one of its most successful officers in the battlefield. Although his period as a commanding officer in the northern battlezones was critiqued on human rights grounds, in more recent times he held to a moderate and progressive position on a political solution to the ethnic conflict. He made several requests to the government for adequate security. We regret that more action was not taken to safeguard his life. The National Peace Council calls on the government, which is responsible for ensuring security to all citizens, to make a greater and more sincere effort in its responses to the security needs of politicians and others who need such security, regardless of their political affiliation.

Suicide bombing has long been the trade mark of the LTTE, which has killed those who have opposed them even after long periods. Regardless of who is responsible, the consequences are clear: the bombing indicates both the deterioration of the law and order situation in the country and the growing absence of confidence in the integrity of government institutions. The UNP has highlighted the government’s refusal to provide Major General Perera with adequate security and also criticized the government's partnership with the breakaway LTTE group, the TMVP, which has joined the political mainstream as a government ally while remaining an armed paramilitary group.

This latest act of violence and the further demoralisation of democratic society in Sri Lanka necessitate the reaffirmation of non-violence in the country's political life. Responsible political parties must work together to resolve the country's problems through the political process instead of abdicating their responsibilities by pursuing military solutions to the current conflict. The National Peace Council is mindful of the immense suffering of the civilian population in the north due to the ongoing military operations there and the refusal of the LTTE to permit the civilians to leave those areas. While the government needs to show greater sincerity in protecting people from unlawful and terrorist attacks the opposition needs to cooperate with the government and put pressure on it to work out political solutions to outstanding problems, foremost of which is the ongoing ethnic conflict.

Air Force MI-24 helicopter gunships launched twin air assaults at identified LTTE strongpoints located at the Thannimurrippukulama Tank bund, North of Welioya, today (Oct 09) at 4p.m.

The air assaults were made in support of the advancing troops of the 59 Division, Air Force sources said.

Sri Lankan Ambassador to the European Union, Mr. Ravinatha Aryasinha in a statement delivered at the session of the South Asia Delegation of the European Parliament on Tuesday (Oct 7) stated Robert Evens MEP has attempt to sully the good name of Sri Lanka in the European eye. Referring to a speech made by Robert Evans at an event organized by LTTE front organization British Tamil Forum in London, the Ambassador highlighted that the MEP had tried to gain political mileage for the coming European Parliamentary election by tarnishing Sri Lanka's good name.

Also, commenting on a draft report furnished by the MEP , Ambassador Ariyasinha called the report is replete with unsubstantiated allegations, deliberate distortions and blatant falsehoods and seeks merely to highlight negatives, ignore positives, and disregard the context and environment prevailing in Sri Lanka today

The statement in full:

Statement of H.E. Mr. Ravinatha Aryasinha, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the EU at a discussion on Sri Lanka at the Session of the South Asia Delegation of the European Parliament - 7th October 2008

Mr. Chairman, I thank you for affording the Government of Sri Lanka an opportunity to be heard, as you exchange views on the 5th European Parliament/Sri Lanka Inter Parliamentary Meeting (IPM) which took place on 20 - 26 July, 2008. I do so in the context that Sri Lanka values the cordial relations it has with all European Institutions and, as you are aware, has in recent times intensified its engagement with the European Parliament.

Mr. Chairman, so much has been said about this visit, mainly by yourself, that I am not sure whether I should respond here to the press statement and comments you made in Colombo on 25th July, to your widely reported speech on 25th August 2008 at an event organized by the British Tamil Forum (BTF), a front organization it would seem of the proscribed LTTE, held in Harrow, South London, a part of your EU Parliamentary constituency, or to this draft report which has been placed before this body.

At the outset, I am instructed by my Government to place on record our strong protest about the damage which may have been done to the good relations between my country and the European Union through the aspersions cast on the Government of Sri Lanka through your statement issued and comments at the Colombo press conference, which I note is also part of this report. Among other matters, it stated in relation to the planned visit to the Eastern Province "the last minute cancellation and a catalogue of chaos and confusion meant that the delegation did not fly to Trincomalee. Despite repeated assurances; endless complications resulted in the party being turned back from Ratmalana Airport, destroying months of preparation, time and expense". I note that your draft report itself, is less critical in explaining the reasons for the delegation aborting the scheduled two-day visit to the East in saying "when the authorization (for the UN plane) was eventually received, in a best case scenario, the field trip would have had to be shortened drastically". These however do not correspond with your statement at the pro-LTTE rally in Harrow, where you gallantly explained amidst cheers it seems, that the EU delegation did not visit the East because "I refused to give only a photo opportunity of shaking hands with Pillayan, the Chief Minister of the Eastern Province".

The Government of Sri Lanka sees these contradictory messages communicated to different audiences as an attempt to sully the good name of Sri Lanka in the European eye, and an exercise at scoring brownie points with a constituency due to vote in the upcoming European Parliamentary election.

Let me state categorically that the Government was very keen to ensure that the delegation had the opportunity to experience first-hand the transformation that had taken place in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka over the past year. As I stated even prior to your embarking on this visit, it was particularly keen that you did so, as it seemed that the EU had been reluctant to appreciate the 'winds of change' blowing through Eastern Sri Lanka in recent times and in June 2008 the European Commission (EC) office in Colombo, , had prevented a member of the EC delegation attending the Joint Commission from even interacting with the newly elected Chief Minister of the Eastern Province.

For your visit the Government had initially offered air-transportation but this was refused by you Mr. Chairman on the basis of wanting to "demonstrate impartiality" (although between whom it is unclear). Nevertheless the Government did everything within its power to make the journey possible to your satisfaction. What it did not know was that, instead of flying with a local company which had earlier been booked by the EC office in Colombo (to be cancelled with a 'cancellation fee' of US$ 2,500/-, paid by the European taxpayer doubtless), you decided to embark on a "UN plane" flown all the way from South Africa, arriving in Sri Lanka 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure to Trincomalee, which incidentally is only five hours by road.

You would understand that the Sri Lankan aviation authorities were obliged as per international civil aviation safety regulations to assess the air-worthiness of this rather old aircraft and familiarize a foreign crew that had never flown in Sri Lanka with the route to be taken. This they did in record time and, as your draft report now confirms, authorization for the flight was granted only 45 minutes later than your estimated departure time. You were assured of this, but you chose to leave the airport and return to the hotel. Why you chose to abort this journey, when you could still have had a clear day and a half in the East, and done all you wanted, will remain known only to you.

However, Mr. Chairman, to the Government of Sri Lanka it would seems obvious that by avoiding the visit to the East, members of the delegation were deprived of experiencing first-hand one of the proudest achievements of Sri Lanka in recent times. We have not only cleared the East of any significant terrorist presence, our forces did this without any civilian casualties during their operations, and our citizens who were displaced were almost all resettled to the satisfaction of UNHCR, followed by democratic elections and restoration of the provincial council- all within a year. Such a record is unparalleled, , in other theatres of the fight against terror and the Sri Lankan example has been commended not only as an instructive model in transforming former terrorists to the democratic way of life, but also as a case study in post-conflict development.

Turning to your draft report, it is disappointing that, despite what you acknowledge to have been "a substantial and extensive program", the report is replete with unsubstantiated allegations, deliberate distortions and blatant falsehoods and seeks merely to highlight negatives, ignore positives, and disregard the context and environment prevailing in Sri Lanka today - a country fighting one of the most dangerous terrorist groups in the world - the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). This is terrorist group the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has described as "among the most dangerous and deadly extremists in the world". A truism once again demonstrated only yesterday in Anuradhapura, through the dastardly LTTE terrorist attack on the Opposition Leader of the North Central Provincial Council who belonged to the United National Party (UNP) Major General Janaka Perera and several others. Despite these challenges we have maintained a resilient economy in an inhospitable international climate and above all ensured levels of socio-economic development akin to developed nations, keeping apace in meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) towards which development partners, including the EU have made significant contribution.

I will address the report section by section.

With reference to Section A - "the peace process collapses...", Let me make very clear that, contrary to your report, the Government of Sri Lanka has not chosen an "all - war strategy" nor "abandoned any idea of peace talks before a complete military victory". As President, Mahinda Rajapaksa stated at the 63rd session of the UNGA on 24th September 2008 "our Government has always been ready to address the causes of these issues and effectively implement political and constitutional solutions to meet the aspirations and rights of all communities. What the Government would not, and could not do is to let an illegal and armed terrorist group, the LTTE, to hold a fraction of our population, a part of the Tamil community, hostage to such terror in the Northern part of Sri Lanka and deny those people their democratic rights and free elections...'' The problem is that some people still believe that peace talks can only be with terrorists, forgetting that in Sri Lanka there are several pluralist democratic Tamil forces which are happy, and in fact now emboldened, to discuss with us the political reforms that are essential. We will not let them be intimidated again by the forces you addressed in London, we will not let them be killed by the LTTE as so many Tamil political leaders have been over the last several decades.

With reference to Section B - "..... followed by a clear deterioration of the humanitarian situation", the unsourced assertion in the report that "in July 2008 there were approximately 610,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) in Sri Lanka" is an exaggeration. The correct current figure of IDPs- which accounts for those displaced and living in Welfare Centers or with family and friends, is far less, and includes approximately 300,000 displaced before 2006. When the Eastern Province was cleared of the LTTE in 2006/2007, it is true that the IDPs in the East came to over 200,000 but, following prompt action by the Government, certified by the UNHCR as having satisfied international standards, today only 28,000 remain as IDPs this too is because their places of residence are yet to be cleared of the landmines laid by the LTTE. All others have been re-settled in their original homes or in alternate dwellings. With regard to IDPs in LTTE dominated areas in the Killinochchi and Mullativu districts, the current estimate is around 250,000, of which there are 110,000 pre- 2006 IDPs brought to the Wanni by the LTTE at the time they fled the Jaffna peninsula, another 90,000 who were displaced between 2006 and June 2008 and the rest displaced due to the on-going operations.

There are about 200,000 IDP's in Jaffna, Vavuniya and Mannar districts, two thirds of them of the pre-2006 category. There is also a significant number of pre-2006 IDPs in the Puttalam District, resulting from the deliberate policy of ethnic cleansing by the LTTE in 1990 when some 75,000 Muslims were overnight driven out of Jaffna by the LTTE. The process of finding durable solutions for them was begun by this government, assisted by the World Bank with a housing project, and most recently by the Prof. Walter Kalin, the Representative of the UN Secretary General on the Human Rights of IDPs, who contributed to a national consultation on the subject. Merely citing figures does not do justice to the fact that, in the midst of dealing with our terrorist problem, the current government has shown itself determined to deal with these tragic victims of LTTE atrocities. Whatever your constituents in Harrow might say, Mr Chairman, we will care for these are our citizens.

In discussing IDPs in the present context, it is important that we bear in mind that those displaced due to the on-going military operations in the Wanni are, as previously in the case of the East, merely a temporary dislocation. They are being encouraged to move out of these areas through "humanitarian corridors" created in order that the security forces can put an end to terrorism in Sri Lanka and in order that they avoid being used by the LTTE as "human shields". If the authors of this report had any genuine concern for those people who have for decades been exploited in the clutches of the LTTE, It remains a question why they have not, either in this report or in their many public utterances, joined the chorus of international opinion including British Foreign Office Minister Lord Malloch Brown and International Development Minister, Shahid Malik, the Catholic Bishops' Conference and even organizations including Amnesty International, that has called upon the LTTE to take urgent action "to allow free movement of civilians" and "not to hold them as human shields". Instead of joining in our plea to let our people go, the import of the draft report in this section is tantamount to putting pressure on the Government to stop its military operations against the LTTE terrorists - effectively throwing a lifeline to the terrorists.

The draft report goes on to describe as "an extremely disturbing move", the Government's instruction to NGOs and the UN to relocate their staff and equipment from the Wanni (where military operations are on-going, development work is not possible and the LTTE was known to be conscripting staff of these organizations and forcefully taking over their assets) to Vavuniya, where a new Humanitarian hub has been established and they can continue their work. It fails to acknowledge that the ICRC continues to remain in the operational area playing an important role, and that the UNHCR and WFP, though they too were initially meant to remain, chose to leave the area on the grounds that other UN agencies were not permitted to remain. However, at their request, their staff will be permitted to go into the Wanni with convoys transporting supplies to the displaced. The Wanni continues to be looked after by our government, also provides free education health and other social services to all our people.

Naturally, we are deeply troubled by the fact that, , a section of our people have had their lives for many decades disrupted by the continuing conflict situation, and that this will persist only for a little while longer. But I want to allay the fear raised in the draft report, about the "conditions" of the IDPs presently in the Vanni, held by force by the LTTE.

It was former UNICEF Executive Director James Grant who described the Sri Lankan example as "uniquely humanitarian in a conflict situation", while Dr. Francis Deng, former UN Secretary General's Special Representative on IDPs who noted that "Sri Lanka represents the unusual situation of a central government providing relief aid to persons under the control of the main opposition group. In a world replete with examples of Governments and rebel groups using food as a weapon against civilian populations, the situation in Sri Lanka is one that deserves closer attention if not more publicity as an important precedent". Sri Lanka is proud that, not withstanding the on-going intensive military operations in the North against the LTTE, it continues to live up to these cherished values. This was re-confirmed in comments made during a visit to Colombo on 26 September 2008 by Prof. Walter Kalin, who commended the "political will" at various levels of Government in Sri Lanka to find durable solutions to the concerns of IDPs, and that "despite facing many challenges", Sri Lanka "is heading in the right direction overall". Obviously, the authors of this report didn't want to see it that way.

I am glad to report to you that on 2 October 2008, 07 UN staffers and 3 persons from the Consortium of Humanitarian Agencies (CHA) accompanied a convoy of 51 trucks with 650 MT of food, clothing, shelter and medical needs to the Wanni. I can assure you that the Government of Sri Lanka is committed to ensuring that at least one convoy per week will be undertaken with an approximate delivery of around 3,500 MT of food per month. The government will do so, while not compromising on security and with limited restrictions to avoid material used in the conflict from reaching the LTTE. In fact, I wish to note that 3 of the trucks that were scheduled to make the journey to Wanni last week did not do so, as the security forces found concealed in them 2.5 kilo grams of plastic explosives, batteries and GPS systems respectively - acts the UN has also condemned. Although not pointed out by your selective sources, these are the realities average Sri Lankans have to grapple with on a daily basis, as Sri Lanka continues to care for its people, amidst facing terrorism.

With respect to Section C, "Human Rights situation", the report states that the Sri Lanka constitution "nominally" ensures the protection of fundamental human rights. It fails to acknowledge that in Sri Lanka, fundamental rights are fully justifiable and the exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine related questions is vested with the Supreme Court, which has in recent years vastly enhanced its jurisdiction by giving wide and purposeful interpretations - including reversing policy decisions taken by the security forces. The draft report also ignores the Sri Lanka Government's consistent policy of openness, transparency and constructive engagement with the international community, including receiving rapporteurs and voluntarily submitting itself to the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the UN Human Rights Council.

Let me reiterate the Sri Lanka Government's firm conviction that those who violate human rights or break laws will not be excused. Such persons will be prosecuted according to the law and the Government is committed to ensuring investigation into and prosecution of alleged offenders within the legal framework operative in Sri Lanka. It is in this spirit that the Government established a Commission of Inquiry (COI) in 2006 to inquire into 16 incidents of alleged serious violations of human rights, including the ACF case referred to in the report. However, the report fails to acknowledge the action being taken by the COI, which in respect of the cases of the Trincomalee students and the ACF have since early this year held public hearings. The investigation into the Trincomalee case has been concluded and the COI is expected to submit a report to the President shortly. The investigation into the ACF case is continuing and a representative of the French Government is observing the proceedings.

The draft report makes much of Sri Lanka's not being re-elected to the UN Human Rights Council in May 2008 when, as members should know well enough, failure to be re-elected means nothing in a context in which a more popular competitor got more votes. It is pertinent to note that in terms of actual numbers of votes Sri Lanka got only a few votes less than some European countries who were also engaged in tight competitions,.

With regard to the COI, contrary to what is stated in the report, four members did not resign from the COI "saying that the GOSL had shown little willingness to help them in their work". Mr. U. Yapa, a former Solicitor General, resigned due to ill health and later passed away; Mr. K.C. Logeswaran resigned for personal reasons as he wanted to be out of the country and upon his return continues to function as a member; Dr. D. Nesiah resigned after his role as a Commissioner was challenged by private Counsel on the grounds of conflict of interest; Mr. Javid Yusuf also resigned as he had other personal commitments. As for the Independent International Group of Eminent Persons (IIGEP) which was mandated to observe the workings of the COI, it certainly did not claim that "it was interfered with by the Attorney General's office". The claim was that the COI was interfered with, whereas the COI has made it clear that this is not its view, and that it continued to require the assistance of the AG's Department in certain respects.

It must be noted that unlike in the US, the Attorney General is not a political appointee in Sri Lanka and cannot according to the law of the land be replaced in such proceedings by a private lawyer as is done in some countries. It should be further noted that the COI has exercised the liberty to additionally choose lawyers from the official or unofficial bar in the conduct of its inquiry. With respect to the IIGEP, it is the Government's position that the mandate given to the Eminent Persons was abused by their Assistants, who took upon themselves authority they did not have, to the extent of issuing statements contrary to agreed guidelines and timed to embarrass Sri Lanka before meetings of the UN Human Rights Council and other International fora. The report's reference to the final IIGEP withdrawal, and claims by some of its members about "a lack of political will", should be seen in the context of the final statement by Justice P.N. Bhagwati, Chair of the IIGP who in a letter addressed to the President of Sri Lanka on 26th April 2008, categorically stated "you will find that the IIGEP has not accused the Government of Sri Lanka of any lack of political will in so far as the functioning of the COI is concerned. What has been recited in the Public Statement is about IIGEP's apprehensions regarding absence of political will".

Relating to media freedom, it is important to note that of over 25 media outlets in Sri Lanka, only 4 are state owned. Despite the intensity of the conflict, there is no media censorship and a reading of most newspapers in Sri Lanka, or viewing of most television programmes should provide a useful 'litmus test' for one to ascertain the veracity or otherwise of "what the delegation heard" on what "is expressly forbidden for journalists to do". This is not to claim that journalists have not fallen victim to assassins nor been arrested when suspected of wrong doing that needed to be clarified. Pursuing such investigations transparently is in the interest of all concerned, as well as the country. With reference to the case of journalist J.S. Tissanayagam which the draft report refers to, following a period of detention he was produced before judicial authorities who authorized his further detention. He was subsequently indicted, and the case is pending before the High Court. While in detention Mr. Tissanayagam in a petition to the Supreme Court challenged his detention. This case is currently being heard. Let me also assure you that Mr. Tissanayagam has been examined and treated by eye specialists at the Colombo National Hospital and has been produced before the Judicial Medical Officer at the Colombo Judicial Medical Office for check-ups.

In relation to alleged abductions and disappearances, the position of the Government is that the situation has considerably improved from what was highlighted in the latter part of 2006 and early 2007, when following the earlier decimation of non-LTTE Tamil groups at the hands of the LTTE, these groups re-established themselves following the weakening of LTTE authority, and responded as they thought appropriate. The government was soon able however to bring that situation under control, and though internecine attacks continue, these are far fewer than before. As for exact numbers, the Government faces difficulty in arriving at a figure due to the multiplicity of lists provided by many agencies - often without any rationalization, supporting evidence or even details of those alleged to have disappeared, that could give investigators a starting point.

Further, investigations in areas in the North have been hampered due to the security situation and lack of access to the LTTE dominated areas. It must also be noted that since mid 2007 following vigorous operations mounted by the Government against a number of groups operating in Colombo who had been allegedly responsible for disappearances, and abductions for the extortion of money, a downward trend was noted. However, it is regrettable that agencies such as Human Rights Watch which is quoted in the draft report, having produced figures for a year in 2007, in 2008 produced figures for an 18 month period, which deliberately ignores this downward trend. As was pointed out with regard to its last report, it is no coincidence that, in claiming that there were over 1500 disappearances in the two years that ended in December 2007, HRW records 1300 of them as having occurred in 2006 or the first four months of 2007. Again, of the 97 cases documented in detail in its full report, just three occurred in the calendar year before the report was issued, early in 2008.

As to the allegation of the "prevalence of impunity", the statistics quoted in the draft report as stated by Sri Lankan spokespersons is accurate over a period, which includes the past few years. Since 2004, it is noted that indictments have been served by the Attorney General of Sri Lanka against nearly 100 persons for human rights violations (including allegations of torture). Among the prominent recent cases where indictments had been served are that of an Army Corporal and Police Constable alleged to be responsible for the murder of 5 students in Thandikulam on 18th November 2006, and 6 members of the police and the armed forces including a Wing Commander (both retired and currently serving), who were arrested in June 2007 for a series of abductions for ransom and murder.

With respect to Section D, "Talks on Power Devolution", the draft report makes much of the absence of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) from the APRC process at present, which I am informed by APRC Chairman Prof. Tissa Vitharana, was perfectly well explained to you during your discussions with him. Since the draft report avoids mentioning it, let me repeat the very simple explanation for this. The setting up of the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) was primarily intended to build a consensus within the southern polity of Sri Lanka on the nature and extent of devolution of power that could be put forward in negotiations with the LTTE. The original non-inclusion of the TNA in this process, was since the TNA had acknowledged their dependence on the LTTE, it made no sense to negotiate twice with the same perspectives. However, as Prof. Vitharana told you in Colombo, mid-way in the APRC process, he had explicitly asked the TNA leader whether they would be willing to join the process and that the President was ready to extend an invitation to them. The answer was that they felt it inadvisable at that time, and would consider it when talks were held with the LTTE. While the United National Party (UNP) and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) have withdrawn from attending sessions but remain engaged with the Chairman of the APRC, the Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Pulikal (TMVP) which recently entered the political mainstream has recently joined the process.

It is important to note that it is the termination of the Ceasefire Agreement (CFA) which ended the LTTE monopoly of Tamil politics, that enabled the Government to introduce a political process to the North and East as recommended by the APRC and embark on ensuring the full implementation of the 13th amendment to the constitution, in the areas for which it was most intended but where it remained unimplemented for 20 years following the categorical rejection of it by the LTTE. The re-establishment of the Eastern Provincial Council through the holding of elections in May 2008, measures to ensure proper implementation of the constitutional provisions relating to official languages, the recruitment of Tamil speaking police officers, interpreters and translators are all tangible results of the "full implementation" policy the draft report questions.

With respect to Section E, "The Situation in the East", having avoided experiencing first-hand the developments on the ground, the draft report obtusely refuses to acknowledge the massive strides that have been made by the Government, along with all communities that share the East- the Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims, to restore normalcy in an area where just over a year ago, the LTTE held the people's lives to ransom. Even as many international development partners have become engaged with this process, the European Union continues to stay aloof, refusing to accept that, when a fact does not fit a theory, it is the theory that must change. The draft report makes no effort to contribute to the winds of change; instead it prefers to stand against the tide of history. Incidentally, it should be noted that a year ago, the European Commission had the temerity to call in my predecessor and advise against holding elections in the Eastern Province, claiming that the EU report on the 2004 parliamentary election indicated that fair elections could not be held. The ground reality has disproved this misperception.

The draft report also goes on to allege that "the TMVP has not completely stopped its former practice to recruit child soldiers". In this context, it is noteworthy that, according to UNICEF, as of 31st January 2008, the number of children recruited by the 'Karuna' faction was reported as 234 which included 164 children who were yet under 18 years. According to a report of a Committee set-up to monitor the recruitment of children chaired by the Justice Scretary which includes UNICEF, only 66 child recruits of the 'Karuna' faction remained as at September 2008. While 20 child recruits have been located and released with the assistance of UNICEF, the others could not be located, the TMVP had earlier facilitated the release 39. The US Ambassador in Sri Lanka, as well as UNICEF, has commended the progress made by the Government in securing the release of child soldiers held by the TMVP. The TMVP claims that there are no more in its custody and has invited UNICEF and the Government to visit and investigate all alleged cases. The logistics of this are still being worked out, but as UNICEF itself has declared, this is not a major problem. The tears shed in the draft report then seem ironic, since it makes no reference to the main culprit of child recruitment in Sri Lanka - the LTTE, who since 2002, had recruited over 5,700 children and that according to UNICEF, there were 1,430 outstanding cases of child recruitment by the LTTE as of 31st January, 2008.

With respect to Section F, "GSP+ Issues", in comparison to the strident statements made by the Chairman in Colombo that if he had the choice Sri Lanka would not be given GSP+ and, at the pro-LTTE rally in Harrow where he stated that Sri Lanka would lose its GSP+ concessions, the observations made in the draft report are more measured. However, the authors of the draft report are deliberately distorting the truth or being badly misled when they state that "it would be extremely difficult to accept that "Sri Lanka has been making progress" if the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) remains non-ratified through domestic legislations, or indeed, if need be, by way of a constitutional amendment. Such a development would pave the way for rights recognized in the ICCPR to find real protection in Sri Lanka courts - which the Delegation knows is not the case today"

How could the drafters of this report pretend they did not know the most crucial fact about the operationalization of the ICCPR in Sri Lanka, namely that earlier this year, upon President Mahinda Rajapaksa seeking its opinion on the recognition and justiciability of the ICCPR in Sri Lanka, the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka expressed its opinion following public hearings held on 17th March 2008 affirming the following:

(i) The provisions of the constitution, the ICCPR Act and other laws, including decisions of the Superior Court of Sri Lanka give adequate recognition to the civil and political rights contained in the ICCPR, and adhere to the general premise of the Covenant that individuals within the territory of Sri Lanka derive the benefit and guarantee of rights contained in the ICCPR;

(ii) Rights recognized in the ICCPR are justiciable through the medium of legal and constitutional processes prevailing in Sri Lanka.

On the basis of the above, it would be fair to conclude that the Delegation clearly does not know.

Furthermore, footnote 23 of the report relating to this section states that "the EP Delegation welcomes the proposals made by the business community of Sri Lanka such as the Joint Apparel Association in this respect and notes that at least one of the two major political parties has decided to support this initiative, making the necessary 2/3 majority easier to obtain in the Sri Lankan Parliament". I have checked this information with the Joint Apparel Association and have been told that the Joint Apparel Association at no stage made any proposal to anyone regarding seeking support to change the constitution, which suggests that the delegation is going on the basis of a false premise. It must be noted that in any event a constitutional amendment does not become necessary in view of the clear ruling of the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka that the rights recognized in the ICCPR are justiciable.

With respect to "Final Recommendations" while the status of journalist Mr. J S Tissanayagam has already been referred to, I want to assure you that active investigations into the cases involving Parliamentarians, including the assassinations of former Foreign Minister, Lakshman Kadirgamar, of MP, Joseph Pararajsingham and MP, Nadarajah Raviraj which are additionally before the Commission of Inquiry, are being fully investigated.

On the 'Constitutional Council', it should be noted that the 17th Amendment introduced hastily in 2001 was flawed from the start, with some appointments recommended by a fully constituted Council not being made in the early years of this decade, while the Council itself could not be constituted for a long time because of uncertainty over membership, and the inability of the Speaker to resolve the issue. A Parliamentary Select Committee has recently been appointed to review this matter and once this process is completed, action would be taken to constitute the body.

In relation to Witness Protection Legislation, I am glad to bring to your notice that following concerns raised at the time the draft legislation was introduced in the Parliament earlier this year, revisions have now been made and the legislation is scheduled to be re-introduced in Parliament shortly.

In conclusion, I wish to re-iterate the considerable damage done to the good relations between my country and the European Union, and to the high esteem the European Parliament was held in Sri Lanka, following the visit of the delegation to Colombo.

This situation appears to have been compounded by this draft report, which as I have documented is replete with unsubstantiated allegations, deliberate distortions and blatant falsehoods, and underlines the patent bias of its authors against Sri Lanka.

Even at this late stage, Sri Lanka hopes that the concerns that have been flagged in my presentation, of which a comprehensive submission will be shared with those present here, will be carefully considered by the members of this committee before finalizing this report.

Without being guided by parochial self-serving interests of the authors of the present document, I trust you will take it upon yourselves, the task of making a more objective evaluation of developments in Sri Lanka, in order that the damage caused by the present action is repaired, and the Government of Sri Lanka can continue to engage with the President and Members of the European Parliament, as a credible body.

The focus of the Wanni liberation operation turned to Mullaittivu front yesterday (Oct 8) as troops of 59 division crushed an LTTE counter offensive in the Andankulama area. According to finalized military reports 49 terrorists were killed and another 32 wounded in yesterday's fighting both at Wanni and Northern battle theaters.

Troops following a capture of a terror bunker line around 9 AM were attacked upon by the terrorists aimed at regaining their lost positions. After a pitched battle that lasted till 9PM, troops overpowered the terrorists and consolidated their positions. Eight soldiers laid down their lives and 54 others suffered injuries in the incident. Intercepted LTTE radio transmissions confirmed 15 terrorists were killed and 26 others suffered injuries.

In separate confrontation reported elsewhere in the Andankulama forest, troops attacked an LTTE bunker around 10.20 AM. The terrorists responded with heavy mortar and small arms fire. A soldier was killed and another injured in the retaliatory fire. Intercepted LTTE radio transmissions confirmed one terrorist was killed.

In the Gajabapura area on the same Mullaittivu front, a soldier was killed in a confrontation around 9.50 AM. Meanwhile, troops continued pushing LTTE away from the Eastern battlefront at Kilinochchi, reportedly killing 10 terrorists and injuring 4 others. According to Wanni military sources, the fighting was reported from Vedamakilam, Akkarayankulama and Irananmadu general areas. Also, a soldier has received injuries while engaged in clearing operations in Thunukkai, at 3.50p.m.

Separately, security forces mounted heavy attacks at LTTE at the Western Kilinochchi battlefront, gaining total control over 3sqkm of land area at Manniyakkulama. 21 LTTE terrorists were killed during the day's confrontation in the area, according to finalized military reports. 2 soldiers were also reported wounded in the confrontation.

At the Jaffna theater of battle, a terrorists was reported killed and another 2 wounded during limited confrontations between troops and LTTE at the Kilaly defences. A soldier has also received injuries due to an anti personnel mine(AP) explosion in the area. Meanwhile, troops have recovered 9 AP mines during search operations conducted in the same area, according to military.

Five LTTE terrorists were killed and similar numbers reported wounded during two separate confrontations erupted between troops and LTTE at Muhamalai, Jaffna, today (Oct 9).

According to MCNS sources, troops operating ahead of the Muhamalai forward defences have directed an attack at an LTTE strongpoint killing two terrorists at 4.50a.m. Troops have also found 2 x T-56 assault riffles, 2x micro pistols, 01x GPS, a compass and few dry rations during a subsequent search operation conducted in the area.

Later, troops forced into another LTTE strongpoint killing three while injuring five others at 6.am., at Muhamalai,the sources said.

Major General Jayasuriya, went to the extreme forward base of his troops and closely inspected the LTTE earth bund which now remained pierced from several places by the advancing troops. He talked to a cross-section of the soldiers on duty at those strategic places and shared a couple of views with them.
Commanding Officer in the 58 Division, Brigadier Shaveendra Silva on receipt of the visiting Wanni Commander warmly, accompanied him to the FDLs where he saw for himself, how the previous day battles were fought and results achieved. He also inspected the Forward Defenec Line area in Vellankulam which was recently captured by the troops.During several rounds of discussions, the Wanni Commander has had with Divisional and Brigade commanders in the 58 Division, reminded them of the alertness and importance of maintaining the security status-quo, causing maximum damage to the enemy.

He also instructed ground commanders to take steps for speedy dispatch of dead Tiger cadres to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) officials at the earliest. By Thursday (9) afternoon, troops have collected two dead Tigers left behind by Tigers after the fighting. All company commanders also had an exchange of views with the visiting area chief which was a surprise to them.

Palestine President Mohammed Abbas expressed his deepest gratitude to the people of Sri Lanka for the moral support given right through for the struggle carried out by the Palestine people to protect their rights for several decades.

Sri Lanka has slammed an EU report on the country saying it contains unsubstantiated allegations, deliberate distortions and blatant falsehoods.
The draft report, prepared by an EU delegation which visited Sri Lanka recently, was discussed at the Session of the South Asia Delegation of the European Parliament in Brussels.

Police media spokesman confirmed that a female suicide cadre had jumped at the convoy of Minister Maithripala Sirisena when he was returning from Bandaragama. The minister’s vehicle was not damaged. Two vehicles of his convoy sustained damages. Six persons were injured from the blast.

AIADMK leader Jayalalithaa today said India should send relief materials to the "suffering" Sri Lankan Tamils caught in the ongoing military offensive in the north of the island nation. She also criticized Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's call to the people of the state to send telegrams to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh asking him to step up efforts to find a solution to the ethnic strife in Sri Lanka, saying that such moves would be of no help.

Colombo stocks hit the dumps on Thursday when most share prices plummeted at unprecedented levels and the benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI) sank to its lowest in nearly three years before recovering.

The ASPI fell to its lowest level – below 2000 – for the first time since January 2006 but regained some ground to close at 2013.10, down 30.03 points from Wednesday’s close. The Milanka fell by more than 20 points to 2231.09. The turnover was Rs 142 million.

Dialog which hit an all time low to close at Rs 6.75 – down by Rs 1 yesterday, remained flat on Thursday at Rs 7 but was the most traded stock with over 1.6 million shares transacted. CTC also traded more than 800,000 shares. “This is because stocks such as CTC and Dialog are those that see a lot of foreign exposure and foreigners may have been buying to hedge their exposure to the foreign markets they normally invest,” Thakshila Hulangamuwa, Vice President Business Development at Asha Phillips said.

Stock analysts said the market will show similar trends on Friday.

The UNP is calling for an international level investigation into the bomb blast in Anuradhapura that killed North Central Province Opposition Leader retired Maj. Gen. Janaka Perera. The attack left 27 UNP activists dead and 80 others wounded. UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake said they suspected foul play, adding that the investigation by the government could not be trusted. The LTTE, Pillayan Group or any other group or politician may have killed Maj. Gen. Perera, but the foundation for his murder was laid by a top official in the Defence Ministry and the Rajapaksa regime, Mr. Attanayake alleged.


Therefore, the incident should be investigated at international level, he said.

"Top terrorist Pillayan travels in bulletproof vehicles courtesy Rajapaksa government. LTTE breakaway Karuna Amman is given state protection. However, General Janaka Perera who had rendered a great service to the country and nation died as a civilian without any protection."

The government should take full responsibility for the killing, following repeated safety concerns raised by him due to threats from the LTTE, Pillayan Group and government politicians, Mr. Attanayake said.

Days before the killing, east chief minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan had been seen in several areas of Anuradhapura and a major search was conducted at the weekend.

"So, how can a suicide bomber enter the town? Whose fault is it that the bomber could not be caught during the search?," the UNP General Secretary asked.

When he had been serving in the army, Maj. Gen. Perera was a hero for the government, but as soon as a he was announced as the UNP's election candidate, he suddenly became a traitor.

His rival candidate Berty Premalal Dissanayake was given hundreds of security personnel, while Maj. Gen. Perera lost even his handful of bodyguards after the election, Mr. Attanayake claimed.

Speaking further, he condemned DIG K.P.P. Pathirana for his statement that the police had not been informed of the opening of the UNP office in Anuradhapura.

Pursuant to a log entry (4149/2008) at Anuradhapura Headquarters Police, sergeant Udaya Kumara (24993) and constables Bandara (61967), Wijesinghe (54410) and Bandara (34825) had been sent to the location, Mr. Attanayake revealed.

Therefore, DIG Pathirana should resign immediately or the IGP should suspend him, for having misled the country by making false statements, the UNP General Secretary added.

Havelock City, Colombo’s landmark luxury residential and commercial complex has been awarded a prestigious five star award for the ‘Best Development in Sri Lanka’ and a four star award for the ‘Best High Rise Development in Sri Lanka’ at the recently concluded Asia Pacific Property Awards 2008, held in association with CNBC networks worldwide.

The Awards are accolades of global repute, handed out in recognition of quality design, construction and architecture of individual properties and property developments. They are also an acknowledgement of the expertise and professionalism of the property developer.

The Asia Pacific Property Awards are the earliest established international property awards programme in the world and are open to residential property development professionals from any business based within the Asia Pacific region. Entries from around the world are judged by a panel of well-respected experts from various disciplines relating to the design, development and marketing of properties.

Havelock City brings state-of-the-art, international standards of design, construction and architecture to introduce Sri Lankans to a new age of integrated modern living. Constructed on 16 acres of land, the mega project will include eight towers, each rising from 22 to 29 levels in height, surrounding a lush landscaped paradise.

The project offers 1 - 4 bed-roomed apartments and penthouse suites, each with its own spectacular view of the city, sea and Havelock City’s own landscaped gardens. Common facilities will include function rooms, a gymnasium and swimming pool.

Phase one of the project, the Park and Elibank residential towers comprising 226 apartments, is nearing completion with 60% of the apartments already sold.

The project is developed under the expert leadership of Mireka Capital Land (Pvt) Limited, a joint venture between Overseas Realty (Ceylon) PLC and Bank of Ceylon.

Chairman of Asia Pacific Golf Courses (Pvt) Ltd Sumal Perera asserted yesterday that the Urban Development Authority (UDA) owed him and his company Rs. 2.5 billion for the Water’s Edge property following the landmark Supreme Court judgment which determined the project illegal and void.

“My company has invested Rs. 2.5 billion and it is up to the UDA to reimburse these funds when we hand over the property next February as that was the worth of the project,” Perera told Daily News Business when contacted for his response in the aftermath of the Supreme Court judgment.

“We do not know on what basis the UDA valuers will value the property and we do not know whether they will pay us the market rates,” he said.

However, when pointed out that the project was illegal from the start going by media reports which highlighted it over the years, he said that he made the investment trusting the bonafides of the then Government of former President Chandrika Kumaratunga and added that he was not aware of the implications until the judgment was given.

He said he had not read the judgment at the time this newspaper contacted him but added that the Asia Pacific Golf Courses Board of Directors will study the judgment and its implications in detail.

The judgment had also said the golf course company had to return the property by February 2009 and the Water’s Edge will continue as the Urban Development Authority property.

He also said the Court has allowed him to continue the operation until the UDA acquisition in February but he stressed that he did not know what to do under the circumstances.

The Board of Directors of the company will have to study all the aspects of the practicalities of running the Water’s Edge under the present circumstances, he said.

Asked what his sentiments were about losing the prime leisure and entertainment property, he sounded philosophical when he said that all was impermanent. He also said that he was not going to make any more investments in Sri Lanka.

However, when pointed out that there was ample scope for golf courses in the rest of the country without going into controversial projects and state owned land, he said he has to consider the investment climate in the country at that stage.

Sri Lanka Army (SLA) conducted cordon and searches Tuesday and Wednesday deploying hundreds of soldiers in several schools in Vadamaraadchi, Thenmaraadchi and Valikaamam, sources in Jaffna said. The school offices, stores and other sections were subjected to search but no objects or weapons were recovered in these searches, the sources added.
SLA cordon and search operations began a week ago, first with Saiva temples following three SLA soldiers being seriously injured in Maasiyappiddi attack, and then Government offices and corporation buildings.

SLA has turned the attention to searching schools in the peninsula.

Soldiers in their hundreds entered the schools while the children were engaged in educational activities and searched schools in Point Pedro and Thumpa'lai areas.

Similar cordon and searches were conducted Tuesday and Wednesday in Thenmaraadchi schools and in some of the schools in Valikaamam.

Petroleum Minister A. H. M. Fowzie says it is too soon to reduce domestic petroleum prices until world market prices moderate to a stable range.

"Prices are still volatile and we don’t want to reduce prices yet until we can be sure world prices will remain at the low levels they are today," he said.

He said, however, that he hoped to revise prices within three weeks time if not the 2009 budget is expected to propose a downward revision when it comes up for debate in parliament in November.

"At the moment we are making a profit of about Rs. 6 to a litre and this is not a significant benefit we can pass on to the people. We have to be able to make a significant downward revision if we are to demand reductions in transportation costs and other related prices that are affected by oil prices," Fowzie said.

"If we reduce prices now we would lose what little profits we are making at the moment," he said.

Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation Ashantha De Mel said that prices can only be revised when the 2009 budget is passed.

"The government subsidized fuel for the first eight months of the year and we made a Rs. 23 billion loss, so we cannot immediately reduce prices unless the government says so in the budget," de Mel said.

He said that oil prices are expected to increase in coming months.

The Asian Development Bank said last month that oil prices, peaking at US $ 148 a barrel earlier this year, currently below US$ 95, is expected to remain high and volatile.

"The recent drop in oil prices will be short lived," the multilateral bank said.

When the government decided to cut fuel subsidies Naoko Ishii, Country Manager, World Bank commended the decision to do so.

"The decision was extremely difficult but if it was not done it could have lead to a widening of the fiscal deficit which would lead to an increase in public debt and taxation," she said at the Sri Lanka Economic Summit organised by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce earlier this year.

Economists believe that subsidies should be removed as it tended to benefit those who did not need it, while such benefits are better targeted to those who do.

The fuel subsidy benefited the rich who could afford vehicles at the expense of the poor.p

"The annual consumption of fuel is about 2,500 million litres and out of this public transport and freight accounts for only 800 million litres. The balance is consumed by private vehicles," Prof Kamal S. Kumarage, Chairman, National Transport Commission (NTC), said earlier this year.

Targeting welfare and subsidies to those who need them is an issue in this country. Consider for example the Samurdhi programme, a welfare programme designed to take people out of poverty.

The Central Bank Annual Report 2007 says that previously about 40 percent of the population received Samurdhi relief although the existing poverty level is around 15.2 percent.

A new selection process was adopted in 2007, but the Central Bank says that an estimated 38 percent received welfare benefits.

The total allocation for the Samurdhi programme in 2007 was about Rs. 9.6 billion. In 2006 it was about Rs. 12.1 billion and averaged around Rs. 10 billion a year since 2002.

"Given the high budgetary cost of the programme, it is necessary to link the poor to properly designed safety ropes programmes to enable them to exit poverty.

"It is time now to revisit the Samurdhi programme with improving it on the basis of the ultimate goal of eradicating poverty," the Central Bank said.

Fertilizer subsidies to farmers are also criticized for not reaching the farmers directly.

While the government spends on education, health, subsidies and welfare they are not sufficiently targeted to those who need them the most.

Sixty percent of the population received some stipend from the budget allocations in the form of subsidies or welfare, Dr. R. M. K. Ratnayake, Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Marketing Development, Cooperative and Consumer services, said at the annual sessions of the Sri Lanka Economic Association last month.

"This is wasteful and the public ought to debate these issues. They seem to be afraid to talk about these things," he said.

The government has firmly rejected allegations made by the opposition and certain newspapers that the government did not facilitate to convey the remains of Major General Janaka Perera from Colombo to Anuradhapura.
Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa pointed out that political differences do not enter into the government’s responsibility to protect the people. Speaking at the cabinet press briefing in Colombo on Thursday the Minister said the UNP has made no request seeking police security for the location of the blast.
They had only requested police assistant for traffic arrangements. He said even though the government provided eight VIP security officers Janaka Perera had rejected them. The Minister also rejected allegations that the TMVP is connected to the assassination.
He said the party has entered the democratic path and is not a terrorist group.

Local Police say several special teams are investigating on Thursday Suicide blast at the Pirivena junction in Boralesgamuwa in Thursday evening.
The bomber targeted a Minister Maithreepala Sirisena. Minister Sirisena who was returning from a function in Bandaragama. The attack was carried out by a female suicide bomber. Even though she blasted herself targeting the vehicle carrying Minister Maithreepala Sirisena the targeted vehicle had already passed the place. Therefore, the Minister was unharmed.
Deputy Minister Siripala Gamlath received minor injuries in the blast. Eight others received injuries. Secretary to the Agriculture Ministry Ranjith Wijethilaka is among those critically injured.

Around five people were injured due to a bomb blast occurred at the Privena Junction , Boralasgamuwa a short while ago.Police say the terrorists targetted Minister Maithreepala Sirisena's convoy.However the minister is safe , said our sources .

Bomb blast at the Privena junction in Boralasgamuwa. Two persons injured.Await for details.

Air Force jets attacked two LTTE camps in Puthukudirippu today morning, SLAF sources confirmed.

According to Air Force spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, the air sorties were made following precise information received.

The Supplementary Estimate of Rs. 441 million for the Department of Exams, which falls under the Ministry of Education, is being debated in parliament today.

Seeking the approval of the house, Deputy Minister of Education, Nirmala Kotalawala said that from the allocated amount of Rs. 692 million from the 2008 budget, a sum of Rs. 592 million has been spent on annual exams (O/L, A/L and grade five scholarship exams), evaluation processes and other competitive exams.

The deputy minister also said that the department also held exams for the Sri Lankan refugees settled in India which cost a considerable amount.

The Chief Magistrate of Colombo ordered the Colombo Fraud Bureau to probe into a complaint of fraudulent use of the photograph of Minister of Livestock Development Arumugam Thondaman and his grandfather in a bogus housing project ticket.

The Bureau filing a report before the Chief Magistrate Nishantha Hapuarachchi informed the court that the administrator and the Vice President of Ceylon Workers Congress Ponnan Marmuttu had complained to the Bureau that Mannikkam Illangovan of Gonakelle Group Passara had fraudulently issued ticket with the photographs of the Minister and his grandfather Soumyamoorthy Thondaman to collect funds for a bogus housing project.

Mrs. Indra Devi, of Kalubowila , a victim of the fraud had informed the Minister about the racket and on the advice of the Minister the complainant had made the complaint to the Bureau.. Indra Devi had told the minister that she had been victimized by the suspect by collecting Rs 50,000 to reserve a house for her and issued a ticket with the photograph of the Minister and his grandfather for the advance payment made.

She had come to know the suspect through an advertisement that appeared in a Tamil newspaper. The advertisement advertised by Roma Property Developers and Shoba Real Estate (Pvt) Ltd had invited prospective property seekers to contact them at a telephone number that appeared in the advertisement. When she did so the suspect who attended the call had later contacted her and collected Rs 50,000 to reserve the house and issued the receipt.

Thereafter as she was not able to find his whereabouts, she had complained to the Minister. On the direction of the Minister, the complainant had complained to the Police and the Police is conducting investigations.

The Magistrate ordered the Police to arrest the suspect and to produce him in court.

Jathika Hela Urumaya leader Parliamentarian Ven. Dr. Ellawala Medhananda Thera expressed his personal displeasure and detest while holding a different view on the party line on the appointment of Vinayagamoorthy Muralidaran alias Karuna Amman as an MP by the government.

“Personally I detest and oppose his nomination as an MP. But as a party, the collective view of the JHU is that he is acceptable as an MP if he enters the democratic way of politics and distance himself away from terrorist acts. Do not forget that Angulimala attained an Arhath after killing 999 innocent people,” Ven Medhananda Thera said.

NUA leader, Housing and Common Amenities Minister Ferial Ashraff said it would have been more appropriate if the new MP declared his remorse and regrets for the atrocities committed by him and his outfit.

“However it is a relief now that they have chosen to enter democracy. This will also auger well for the two major communities in the East the Tamils and Muslims to live with mutual respect and understanding on each communities,” she said.

Expressing same viewpoint Science and Technology Minister Prof. Tissa Vitharana said that the LSSP is glad that Karuna Amman distanced himself from terrorism and accepted to resolve their problems through the exchange of views.

JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva said that his party had no grievance of appointing Karuna Amman an MP but it has been done on the expense of his party.

“If he accepts the democratic process and denounce violence we have no grudge on his coming to politics. We have nothing against individuals, but their policies,” Mr. Silva said.

A milk powder container imported from China has been apprehended by the Customs Department under suspicion of containing melamine.


Detained milk powder, imported to make chocolates by a prominent local brand, is under investigation by the Food Control Branch of the Health Ministry. Food Control Director A. Madarasinghe told The Bottom Line that samples from the suspect container had been sent to the Industrial Technology Institute in Colombo and SGS in Singapore for testing.


“Usually, the report takes between 10-14 days to reach us. Since it is an extremely expensive process that takes Rs. 30,000 per sample, we monitor internet reports about what other organisations and governments are doing internationally, so that the relevant importers can be requested to cancel their orders, if the need arises. So far, we have only had to notify one company and all importers and officials have been extremely cooperative,” he said.


Madarasinghe insisted that there was no cause for alarm as most of the imports were from New Zealand, India and Australia. Moreover, once the report arrives in Sri Lanka, early next week, a Food Technical Committee would be appointed to evaluate the results and decide what steps would be taken. He added that future directives would be sent to importers depending on future recalls of imported products.


“If the report is positive and the milk powder is contaminated, then the committee will decide how it should be destroyed. They might consider burial or using the powder for animal feed, which would not be the case here, but it must first come under the committee. Even if it is to be released, then there must be committee approval,” he explained.


The Director noted that all possible selling points from the airport departure lounge, which is a popular point for purchasing chocolate, to supermarkets have been told to remain vigilant.

Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) states that only one unauthorized financial institution out of the six black listed so far has sought registration process before the grace period given for registration expiring in two weeks.

According to CBSL sources, Sakvithi House Constructions of No. 08, Nawala Road, Nugegoda, Okanda Finance of no. 22/1 A, Vaidya Road, Dehiwela, Nadini Finance of no. L-02/17, Reality Plaza, Ja-ela, D.K. Udayasiri of no. 412/2, Gala Junction, Kiribathgoda and 187/B, Wedisinghe Trade Complex, Kurunegala, Piyadasa Ratnayake alias `Danduwam Mudalali` of Gurupokuna in Hungama, and Sriyavi Homes, Lands and Investments of no. 283, Dandugama, Ja-ela are included in the list.

CBSL plans to take legal action if those businesses are not registered before the end of the grace period on October 24th.

The funeral of Major General Janaka Perera and Mrs. Perera who were killed in an explosion in Anuradhapura will take place in Colombo on Saturday, October 11, the funeral organizing committee said.

The remains now laying in Anuradhapura for the public to pay last respects are to be taken back to Colombo today and will be placed in late Major Perera’s residence on Poorvarama Road, Colombo 06 until Saturday.

Meanwhile, the funerals of late Dr. and Mrs. Raja Johnpulle are also to be taken place on Saturday at Anuradhapura.

Funerals of many other bomb victims also have been scheduled to be held on Saturday.

Twenty seven persons including North Central Provincial Council Opposition Leader Major General Janaka Perera, United National Party Anuradhapura district Manager Raja Jonhpulle and their spouses were killed by a suicide bomber at a function held to open an office of the Opposition party in Anuradhapura on Monday (06).

Sri Lanka's government plans to allocate 18 percent of a 2009 state budget of 980.6 billion Sri Lanka rupees ($9.09 billion) to defence to continue a costly war, an appropriation bill submitted in parliament on Thursday showed. The 2009 defence budget is estimated at 177.06 billion rupees, 6.4 percent higher than the estimated 166.45 billion rupees to be spent in 2008.

Sri Lanka's total local and international borrowings will rise 20 percent in 2009 to 849.9 billion Sri Lankan rupees, the bill said. Sri Lanka in its 2008 budget had planned to borrow 708 billion rupees.

Rating agencies have voiced concern that the Central Bank has been taking too many commercial loans at high rates.

Analysts have also said the bank is continuously financing its debts by offering new debt issues at increasingly higher rates, raising questions about the sustainability of the policy.

The central bank has responded by saying that its overall lending pattern is improving and expects its debt-to-GDP ratio to be at 78.5 percent by end 2008, compared with 85.8 percent in 2007.

Today, at the invitation of Mr Nirj Deva, MEP, and introduced by Mr Abdullah Kabir (Litton), the Honourable Mr. Amir Hossain Amu and Mr Suranjit Sen Gupta, Presidium Members of the Bangladesh Awami League addressed Members of the European Parliament from the EU-Bangladesh Friendship group, the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Development Committee including Vice President Mr Edward MacMillan-Scott, Dr Charles Tannock, Mr Gay Mitchell, Mr Pomes Ruis, Sir Robert Atkins, Mr Manolis Mavrommatis, Mr Ioannis Kasoulides, Mrs Neena Gill, Mr Sajjad Karim, Mr Johan Van Hecke and Mrs Mariela Baeva concerning recent political developments in Bangladesh.


Mr Amu and Mr Sen Gupta stressed the importance of the elections scheduled by the caretaker government for the 18th of December and urged that the local elections currently planned for a week after the parliamentary election should be moved back a full month so that the importance of campaigning for local elections is not lost in the national process.


Mr Amu stated - "Whilst not all of the political parties in Bangladesh have agreed to participate in the election those represented by a majority of people in the country will take part and are enthusiastic that it goes ahead. If the will of the people is for the elections to be held we should not allow a small political minority to block the entire process."


When speaking about Sheikh Hassina Mr Amu demanded -

"Sheikh Hassina must be unconditionally released. As leader of the party her contribution over the course of the upcoming election will be invaluable."


Following the meeting Mr Nirj Deva, MEP commented -

"While remaining completely neutral on the political party issues, and having full respect for the constitutional importance of maintaining a state of emergency, a wider truth must not be forgotten; the General Election must be free and fair and basic freedoms must be upheld. This election is a step forward for the democratic processes in Bangladesh and must be welcomed."

Britannia launched its premier Indian Brand of biscuits, in Sri Lanka recently. With a focus on healthy snack time treats Britannia hopes to bring a new experience to the Sri Lankan consumer.

Speaking at the press conference the vice president of new business development Britannia India Mr.Atul Sinha said Britannia chose Sri Lankan due to the “discerning and sophisticated” nature of its consumers. He further went on to say that he saw great scope for growth in Sri Lanka; “With Sri Lanka having one of the highest per capita biscuit consumption in Asia, ( 4kg’s per capita when compared against the 1.1kg’s in India) Britannia Lanka aims to combine great taste and great nourishment for our consumers. Through our manufacturing and marketing efforts, we are committed to bring customers a range of biscuits at an affordable price”

Under the banner of “Eat healthy and think better”, Britannia hopes to provide a range of biscuits that parents and children can enjoy together knowing that they are being both nourished and satisfies. To further this focus they have employed Lasith Malinga as their Brand Ambassador. Speaking at the conference Mr. Malinga elaborated on his attention and commitment to a healthy lifestyle; “I’m a health conscious person who knows the benefits of eating right and exercise that requires as much discipline as controlling your delivery of a Cricket ball! Most people think eating healthy is a sacrifice that deserves indulging in a tasty treat as a reward. Britannia is the kind of brand that will be the correct choice for anyone looking for great taste and great nutrition, giving you all the nutrients you need to lead a healthy lifestyle.”

Britannia Lanka has employed the services of Luckyland biscuits in Kandy to carry out their manufacturing operations. Britannia has invested in upgrading and modernizing the Kandy factory and has imported state of the art machinery including high speed packing machines, to ensure the superior quality and food safety standards characteristic of Britannia biscuits. The Luckyland factory workforce has tripled since Britannia’s manufacturing process began. The factory also houses special laboratory facilities, supervised by Britannia’s own experts, to check the quality parameters of ingredients and finished products.

The brand will be distributed nationally by J.L Morison Son and Jones (Ceylon) Ltd.

The Britannia Lanka range includes differentiated products to suit different consumer preferences and eating occasions; from the smiley-face shaped creamy Milk Smileys that will delight children, to the melt-in the mouth-Taste rich butter cookies.

Britannia first started in Culcutta with an initial investment of US $ 6 in 1918. It has provided Indians with nutrition in many food sectors for the past 90 years. According to the Managing Director of Britannia India Vinithy Barly “Britannia isn’t just in the business of mixing wheat and milk it is in the business of creating a moment of shared pleasure”.

At least eight soldiers and 48 LTTE cadres were killed in fighting in the north yesterday, the Media Center for National Secruity (MCNS) said.

Six soldiers were killed and 44 were injured when the LTTE attacked a bunker set in Aandamkulum which was previously captured by the Sri Lanka Army , the MCNS said.

In heavy clashes in Muhamale, Killinochchi, Vavuniya and Weli Oya killed 48 LTTE cadres and injured 22, the MCNS said.

Appropriation bill for 2009 was presented in parliament a while ago by goverment with a Defence budget of Rs.177 billion.

Sri Lanka Air Force MI-24 helicopters raided 3 separate LTTE gathering places located in Mullaittivu front this evening, 8 October.

The air raids were carried out around 5.40 p.m. targeting identified LTTE gathering places located in general area Kumbulamunai, western edge of Nayaru lagoon in Mullaittivu, Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said.

Air raids were carried out in support of 59 Division operating in Mullaittivu front, spokesperson added.

Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights, who addressed the Executive Committee of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees on Tuesday 7 October, also had a bilateral meeting with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Antonio Guterres, on the same day.
During this meeting, He explained to the High-Commissioner of the UNHCR, the government’s efforts, under complex and difficult circumstances, to provide all necessary humanitarian assistance to the internally displaced persons. The minister appreciated the role and assistance of the UNHCR in complementing those efforts.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees Mr. Antonio Guterres appreciated the government’s commitment in providing humanitarian assistance to the internally displaced persons and reiterated the UNHCR’s willingness to further assist the government in that regard.

Can the Government stand idle and watch its Ministries dissipating people’s monies particularly when the ordinary citizen is unable to have a square meal a day. The Foreign Ministry which has always been in the news for its massive squandering of tax payers money and high handed expenditure bills has hit headlines once again for draining away precious public funds. It is reported that the Minister, Bogollagama and his family busted Rs. 8 million on a recent tour of Brazil. His wife, daughter and her boy friend were included in the trip. The Minister has also spent twice the budgetary allocation limit of Rs. 21 million.

This is not all. His cash strapped Ministry owes more than Rs. 46 million to the Bank of Ceylon (BOC) Travels, for Air tickets issued. Gerard Victoria, CEO of BOC travels has lodged a complaint, stating that they are unable to issue tickets to its customers as its limit has been swallowed by the Foreign Ministry alone.

How shall we wish the Minister?

Sri Lanka, October 8, 2008: A national seminar titled “Nutrition today, Future Response,” held on October 3, in Colombo, put forward recommendations on how to improve Sri Lanka’s nutrition status. The audience heard from the Ministry of Health Care and Nutrition presenting its National Nutrition Policy and National Nutrition Action Plan, and the World Bank, who launched the report Malnutrition in Sri Lanka.
The nutritional status of Sri Lankans has improved during the last 50 years, but there is a need to strengthen the coverage and the quality of nutrition intervention programs. Sri Lanka is on track to achieve several of the health Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) however, malnutrition remains a challenge, posing the twin burdens of both under-nutrition and obesity.
“The need to address this has been recognized by the Government of Sri Lanka and the focus will be on integrating nutrition with other sectoral activities, including health, agriculture, education, economic reform, and rural development,” stated the Honorable Minister of Healthcare and Nutrition Nimal Siripala De Silva.
The recently completed Demographic and Health Survey 2006/7 (DHS 2006/7) showed that
22 percent of Sri Lankan children below five years of age are underweight, 18 percent being too short (stunted), and 15 percent too thin (wasted) as measured by weight for height. There is an improvement, when you compare these figures with figures in 1987, when38 percent of children under five were underweight, and 28 percent stunted. However, nutrition indices need to improve considerably more for Sri Lanka to achieve the Millennium Development Goal of halving the proportion of people who suffer from malnutrition.
According to the World Bank report poverty reduces the ability of the poor to purchase nutritious food and maintain a balanced diet. While poverty is traditionally measured in terms of income, it is often manifested as under-nutrition and hunger. Although under-nutrition, is greater among the poorer population groups, it persists among children of wealthy households in urban areas.
However, Sri Lanka has a growing number of overweight people among the higher income
groups leading to higher incidence of diabetes, cardio-vascular diseases, strokes and certain types of malignancies. This has resulted in the seeming paradox of under-nutrition and over-nutrition.
“The issue is not just one of food or poverty. It has to do with socio-cultural factors and household behaviors, including gender issues,” said Naoko Ishii, World Bank Country Director for Sri Lanka. “With strong political will, and community-based interventions, there is no reason why Sri Lanka cannot control malnutrition as effectively as it has dealt with other health challenges."
A National Nutrition Surveillance System will commence for the first time under the National Nutrition Action Plan that will use secondary data from many other sectors in addition to the health sector.
“This data will provide timely and relevant information to implement the correct
interventions in the most nutritionally vulnerable 30 Divisional Secretary areas in Sri Lanka,”said Dr. Athula Kahandhaliyanage, Secretary Ministry of Health care and Nutrition.
The World Bank report recommends following combination of strategies to improve the
country’s nutrition status: (a) Poverty reduction strategies specifically designed to reduce income inequalities; (b) Strategies to improve access to safe water and sanitation (and good hygiene behaviors); (c) Strategies to reduce food insecurity, especially among the poor in the plantation sector and in rural areas; and (d) Strategies to scale-up direct nutrition interventions through the health sector that would help to fast-track the improvements in nutrition outcomes.
The report also points out that a very basic, well-targeted package of nutrition services through a multi-sectoral approach to develop institutional capacity, monitor and evaluate will improve the nutrition level of people.
“Malnutrition is not only the result of poverty, but also a cause of it,” said Dr. Sundararajan Gopalan, Senior Health, Nutrition and Population Specialist, World Bank, “Under-nutrition leads to reduced educability and productivity, and causes many health problems. Nutrition programs thus make sense from an economic as well as a social perspective. It is not a question of whether Sri Lanka can afford to invest in nutrition programs; rather, it is whether she can afford not to.”
Staff from the Ministry of Health care and Nutrition and the World Bank, and nutrition experts in government, academia, non-governmental organizations, policy institutes, and UN agencies participated at the seminar.

The president and two members of Chee'ra'ni Amman Temple arrested by Sri Lanka Army (SLA) soldiers, in the cordon and search launched in the temple following the Maasiyappiddi attack seriously injuring three soldiers, have been admitted to Jaffna Teaching Hospital with injuries due to torture, hospital sources said. The three elderly persons were admitted to the hospital five days ago.
The trustee board president is Nagarasa Nadarasa, 66, and the two members who suffered torture injuries are Thambiah Paramsothy, 59 and Kanthaiah Satkunarasa, 69.

SLA soldiers handed the three to Maanipaay police.

Maanippaay police produced the three arrestees in Mallaakam magistrate court and sought permission to admit them to hospital for treatment of their injuries.

The magistrate directed the police to admit the arrestees in Jaffna Teaching Hospital.

SLA Jaffna head office claimed that a large cache of explosives had been found during the search conducted in Chee'ra'ni Amman temple in Valikaamam.

Meanwhile, SLA soldiers arrested a young woman Sunday around 5:30 p.m in a cordon and search conducted in A'laveddi area in Valikaamam claiming that the National Identity Card she showed was false.

The arrested young woman, Arumugam Jeyamalar, 26, was handed over to Thellippa'ali police by the SLA soldiers.

The police produced her in Mallaakam court where its additional magistrate directed the police to detain her in remand prison.

Dr Sarath Amunugama, Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion formally opened the new state of the art factory of Benji Ltd located at Bingiriya, Chilaw.


The investment of this BOI project totals Rs.1.75 Billion and employment generated will soon reach 2,000. Hence Benji Ltd will play an important role in creating new opportunities for the people of Bingiriya. The factory is part of the BOI’s 300 Enterprises Programme, which is a progressive scheme of the Government of Sri Lanka to bring employment and other economic benefits to the less favoured areas. It is an integral part of the Mahinda Chinthana Programme of the Government. Benji’s products, essentially lingerie, will be exported to European and North American markets under world renowned brand names such as Calzedonia, Intimissimi and Tezenis and other reputed brands.


The Minister, who was the Chief Guest at the opening of this company, part of the renowned Calzedonia Group from Italy, lauded the garment industry’s contribution to the National economy. “We owe a great deal to the Garment industry in terms foreign exchange earnings and jobs created which have improved the standard of living and upgraded skills”. Dr Amunugama said that there was in 2007 a 15% growth in Sri Lankan exports for which garment industry had played a major part.


The Minister added that the 300 Enterprise Programme under which this project came was doing extremely well. ”Every month 2-3 factories are opened. This has resulted in considerable growth outside the western Province. Currently, there is 12% economic growth in the Western Province, which is comparable to what was achieved by East Asian economies. The Eastern Province when developed can add another 2% growth to the national figure and this is likely as the ongoing conflict is coming to an end soon”.


He added that the energy shortage currently faced by Sri Lanka will be partly resolved by 2010 when the power plant in Puttalam will become operational and add 300 MW to the National Grid. This will encourage further investment into the country.


Dr Amunugama also stated that the area around Chilaw was emerging as the “lingerie capital of the World “ with a number of major manufacturers represented in the area. This was a good example of niche marketing, a practice that would help the Sri Lankan garment industry succeed in the face of growing competition. The Minister also stressed the need for new thinking adding that garment factories were the “new Sigiriyas, Anuradhapuras and Polonaruwas”.


Currently bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Italy totaled Euro 430 million in 2007. However the First Secretary of the Italian Embassy, Mr Luca Fratelli, said that it was more than double than what was achieved in the previous 3 years. Much of this growth was the result of exports of Sri Lankan manufactured garments to Italy.


Mr Dhammika Perera, Chairman/ Director General of the BOI said that in 2007 Sri Lanka had achieved US$ 734 million in Foreign Direct Investment. This was the highest figure ever. Ultimately investment depends on the motivation of workers and their ability to be productive. He told the workers at the factory that they had the chance to work in excellent conditions and learn modern skills.


Dr Sandro Veronesi, President and founder of the Calzedonia Group praised sri Lanka as a destination for investment. His company first came 10 years back and had successfully met the challenges faced by adapting to Sri Lankan conditions. World-class standards are followed in the Group’s 5 plants and he added that Italian and Sri Lankan staff were working well together and learning from each other to the greater benefit of his company.

Sri Lanka's Tamil Tigers on Wednesday said they were beating back an army advance into their northern territory and had killed 52 soldiers, though the claims were disputed by the government.

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) also said 50 soldiers were wounded in Tuesday's heavy fighting across several fronts in the Kilinochchi district, the pro-rebel Tamilnet website reported.

It did not give rebel losses but said the guerrillas had seized arms and ammunition from the military.

The defence ministry, however, said troops killed 31 rebels while losing only two soldiers in fighting around Kilinochchi on Tuesday.

The ministry said eight other rebels were killed in clashes across other northern fronts.

Casualty figures from either side cannot be verified as the defence ministry blocks independent journalists from travelling to the frontlines.

Some 7,258 rebels have been killed by troops since Sri Lanka pulled out of a Norwegian-brokered truce in January, while 707 soldiers have died in the same period.

The LTTE have been fighting for a separate Tamil state since 1972.

Troops acting on information found a complete explosive jacket worn by LTTE suicide cadres, 2 claymore mines and 3 AP (anti personal) mines from a jungle area in Nilappanikkanmalai, Kuchchiweli in Trincomalee district, this morning (Oct 8).

Investigations are in progress.

Security forces have averted an LTTE infiltration attempt killing an LTTE terrorist breached the security forces defence line in general area Thanankillappu, Jaffna in early hours this morning, 8 October.

According to the defence sources, troops, deployed in the defence line, have observed a movement of an LTTE cadre and opened fire around 1.30 AM. In a subsequent search operation conducted troops have found the body of the LTTE infiltrator killed in security forces' attack along with few other LTTE military items.

An Army soldier also sustained injuries in LTTE mortar fire, sources said.

ANURADHAPURA: FOUR CIVILIANS, suspected to have been chopped to death by suspected Tiger terrorists in the deep jungle areas off DEKETHIPOTHANA, HOROWPATHANA were found last evening (7) while they were lying in the jungles.

Those four civilians, according to a Police complaint, have entered jungle areas for some purpose on 27th September but failed to return home as expected. One of the wives of the victims finally had reached the Police seeking help to trace those who had gone missing.

A combined Army/Police team combed the area and found all those four civilians hacked to death with cut injuries all over their bodies. The remains were taken to the mortuary at ANURADHAPURA hospital for further investigations.

WANNI: AS THE FINAL PHASE of the battle for liberation is drawing nearer, troops operating in the general areas of VILAKKAVITTAKULAM and NALLIKULAM in VAVUNIYA had a string of confrontations with LTTE terrorists throughout Tuesday (7). Four terrorists died due to those clashes on Tuesday (7). Four terrorists were killed during those confrontations.

Meanwhile, troops of the 57 Division operating in the general areas of MURIKKANDI and west of AKKARAYANKULAM gunned down four terrorists during their confrontations with the LTTE terrorists on Tuesday (7).

A soldier was also injured during those confrontations.

In the meantime, troops of 58 Division operating in VANNERIKULAM area had fierce fighting from time to time during Tuesday (7) and destroyed a well-fortified terrorist bunker in the area. Troops were able to recover two T-56 weapons from the area. Five soldiers also sustained injuries due to enemy mortar fire.

Moreover, troops of 59 Division operating in ANDANKULAM area killed at least two terrorists and wounded thirteen more during their confrontations with LTTE terrorists on Tuesday (7). Two LTTE bunkers were also destroyed in those confrontations. The LTTE mortar fire wounded three soldiers in GAJABAPURA area, the same day.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi has threatened to withdraw support to the UPA if the Delhi Centre does not intervene to stop the alleged genocide of Lankan Tamils, says a NDTV Chennai news report.

The Sri Lankan army's fight to storm LTTE's stronghold in Kilinochchi is having its repercussion in India.

This latest threat from TN CM comes after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh assured him of intervention and the National Security Advisor R.K. Narayanan expressed India's concerns to the Sri Lankan envoy.

"If this atrocity against Lankan Tamils does not stop, then we will have to find an answer to the question, whether we require this government? I tell you with all humility that this meeting is to tell you this," said Karunanidhi.

While reports from Colombo indicate the Sri Lankan forces are closing in on the LTTE, just 2 kilometres away from their political capital Kilinochchi, political observers say this has forced Karunanidhi to up the ante to stop the Sri Lankan offensive.

With talks of early Lok Sabha polls in the air, it is a political tightrope walk for both the DMK and the Centre.

Any failure to stop the genocide against Lankan Tamils will only make the anti-incumbency wave caused by inflation much stronger in Tamil Nadu.

Meanwhile, national secretary of India's Communist Party D. Raja has said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should talk directly to Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa to resolve the ethnic Tamils issue instead of dealing through bureaucrats.

"Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister must take up the issue at the government level. They should not leave it simply to the bureaucrats to handle the situation," he has said.

Sri Lanka's former Treasury Secretary P B Jayasundera was ordered to apologize to Supreme Court for having remained in public office after a judgment and assure that he would not remain in government, lawyers said.
Though Jayasundera resigned shortly after the original court order which reversed a land transfer and a tax holiday given to the bunkering firm Lanka Marine Services when it was sold to John Keells Holdings, his resignation was not immediately accepted.

The resignation was later accepted, following a second court order on a motion filed by the original petitioner, leftist politician Vasudeva Nanayakkara.

Chief Justice Sarath Silva then ordered Jayasundera to be present in court amidst reports that he was working as an advisor to the president.

On Wednesday Jayasundera was told to apologize to court for remaining in office after the court order and to also submit an affidavit assuring Supreme Court that he was severing all ties with public service, lawyers said.

Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa has deliberately misled the judiciary by producing false information to show that the late Gen. Janaka Perera had no threats to his life, head of the UNP media unit, Lakshman Kiriella said.

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo this morning (Oct. 08th), the Mr. Kiriella said the party would seek other means if the IGP and the Attorney General fails to look into the matter.

Speaking further, he said that on a request by Maj. Gen. Perera, he had raised the issue in the media on July 18th, and asked whether the government deliberately intended to refuse him security until some danger befell him.

The defence secretary survived a suicide terror attack due to the heightened security provided to him, the UNP media head added.

Noting that five government ministers telephoned Maj. Gen. Perera shortly before being named as chief ministerial candidate of the UNP, urging him to change his decision, Mr. Kiriella said that he had threatened not only by the LTTE, but also by certain segments of the government.

In addition to the terrorists in the north, terrorists who formed MoUs with the government also existed, he said.

Adding that a majority of terrorists in the east has formed agreements with the government, the UNP frontliner said that former LTTE military commander of the East, Karuna Amman was able to obtain a MP seat as a result.

Despite the government’s claims that Maj. Gen. Perera did not require security, a pro-government newspaper has reported 12 attempts on his life, he said.

Arrangements had been made to airlift the remains of Maj. Gen. Perera to Anuradhapura at 10.00 am, but the body had to be kept outside the Rathmalana Airport until past 11.30 am as the Defence Ministry had not permitted it, he added.

This is like taking revenge on his mortal remains, MP Kiriella said.

UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake told journalists today that the convoy carrying the body of Late Major General (Rtd) Janaka Perera to Anuradhapura was kept waiting for four hours at the Ratmalana airport.

Mr. Attanayake said he requested Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayake to make arrangements to fly Major Gen. Perera's body to Colombo and was provided an aeroplane as requested.

Yesterday, Mr. Attanayake had called Prime Minister Wickramanayake again to ask for a helicopter to transport the body back to Anuradhapura. Mr. Wickramanayake had told him that he contacted the Air Force Commander and made the necessary arrangements, he said.

However when the convoy carrying the body went to the Ratmalana airport today they were kept waiting for four hours because they didn't have written permission, Mr. Attanayake said.

The last time, they brought the body to Colombo without permission, and this time they were not informed that approval would be necessary, he said.

Mr. Attanayake expressed his displeasure over the treatment given to Major Gen. Janaka Perera, who he said was a national hero.

Chief Justice Sarath N. Silva on Wednesday drew reference to the umpire on the sports field in reprimanding former Treasury Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera for not stepping down immediately from office after being implicated in a fraudulent deal.

“You don’t have to wait until the umpire orders you to go after ruling you out. Compliance with the judgment should be substantial, not theoretical,” he told Dr Jayasundera and ordered him to apologise in court. The once-powerful public official then apologised to the court.

Colombo stocks fell drastically on Wednesday with the main benchmark index down by 3.04 % on the back of major new-breaking events the same day where former President Chandrika Kumaratunga was ordered by the Supreme Court pay compensation to the government and former Treasury Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera apologized in the same court in another case.

The All Share Index fell by 64.05 points to 2,043.13 with brokers saying it may fall below 2,000 in the next few days. The Milanka slumped by 3.56% or 83.33 to 2,259.40. Turnover was Rs 215.9 million.

Among the major falls was Dialog, down by 75 cents or 9.68 % to Rs 7 and Distilleries down by Rs 4.25 to Rs 65.75. A large stock of 8.7 million shares of Janashakthi gained by 50 cents to Rs 9.50 but it was unclear as to the reason for large scale interest in this stock. Maskeliya Plantations, whose owner (the Richard Pieris Group) wants to sell out, gained by 50 cents to Rs 28.75. Richard Pieris & Co on the other hand lost Rs 1.75 to Rs 45.25 for a stock of 87,400 shares.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court overturned the Water’s Edge Golf course transaction and ordered the buildings and land to be returned to the state. President Kumaratunga was ordered to pay compensation of Rs 3 million. In the LMSL privatization case which resumed today, the court ordered Dr Jayasundera to apologise for continuing in office as Treasury Secretary ever after the privatization of this former state company was declared a corrupt deal.

The second COPE report which looked into corruption of 20 state institutions would be sent to the Bribery and Corruption Commission, Speaker W. J. M. Lokubandara said.

A national policy to put an end to alcohol and liquor usage should be introduced very soon, Speaker W. J. M. Lokubandara said.

Legal advisers would be obtained from the Attorney General's Department in order to introduce the new policy, he said.

UNP MP Ravi Karunanayake said that a proposal in this regard will be brought to parliament tomorrow.

Chief Opposition Whip Joseph Michael Perera said in Parliament today that the Defence Ministry has not provided a helicopter to transport the bodies of Late Major General (Rtd) Janaka Perera and his late wife from Anuradhapura to Colombo.

Therefore, their bodies will be brought to Colombo by road, he said.

Four decomposed bodies belonged to an Army soldier, a Civil Defense Force personnel and two Sinhalese civilians, were recovered from a jungle hut in Horowpathana in Anuradhapura district.

Reportedly the soldier was on leave and had gone to the jungle with two others on September 29.

A T-56 rifle and four magazines belonged to the Civil Defense Force personnel have gone missing.

All the bodies except the corpse of the Civil Defense Force personnel were in a highly decomposed state. Police believe the Civil Defense Force personnel had been killed later than the others.

Postmortems were conducted this morning in Anuradhapura hospital. Police are conducting investigations.

Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 8: An integrated command and control system commissioned here Wednesday has enabled the real time networking of all military and civil radars in south India to qualitatively enhance the surveillance capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in a broad swathe from the Bay of Bengal to the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and large parts of Sri Lanka.


"This system will help in carrying out real time networking of civil and military radars and will act as a force multiplier for the IAF in the southern peninsula," Air Marshal S. Radhakrishnan, the air officer commanding-in-chief of the Southern Air Command, said at the commissioning ceremony here on the IAF's 76th anniversary.

The system integrates IAF, Indian Navy and civilian radars in the southern peninsula through a multi-radar data fusion software that presents a bird's eye view of all aerial operations at the Southern Air Command headquarters.

The system also provides facilities to support air defence functions like automatic surveillance, identification, threat evaluation, interception and recovery.

"This would also increase the operational preparedness of the Southern Air Command and aid in the optimum utilisation of our air defence resources," an officer explained.

AFP reports Sri Lanka's Tamil Tigers have said they were beating back an army advance into their northern territory and had killed 52 soldiers, though the claims were disputed by the government.

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) also said 50 soldiers were wounded in Tuesday's heavy fighting across several fronts in the Kilinochchi district, the pro-rebel Tamilnet website reported.

It did not give rebel losses but said the guerrillas had seized arms and ammunition from the military.

The defence ministry, however, said troops killed 31 rebels while losing only two soldiers in fighting around Kilinochchi on Tuesday.

Senior urban planning major Marino Solorio went to Sri Lanka expecting to help villagers cope with the wreckage left by a 2004 tsunami. Instead he found them to be self-sufficient when given the proper equipment and gained a new perspective from the experience.

"It's important to know that in any profession you sometimes have to change or mold your perspective when traveling to other places," he said. "We changed both as professionals and as people and want to open people's minds to these opportunities."

CapAsia, an immersive learning program at Ball State University, will present their findings from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday in the College of Architecture and Planning Room 100.

The director of the project, Nihal Perera, said the goal of the trip was to study the recovery efforts of a 2004 tsunami that left villages in the region damaged.

The group of 18 students divided their 11-week trip among five villages collecting interviews and surveys in an attempt to better understand the lifestyles of people in the area before the tsunami hit, Solorio said.

After doing research the team was able to provide hands-on help with projects that included rebuilding a bridge, cleaning up the communities and sponsoring a festival.

Solorio helped to orchestrate the Peacock Festival in the Ya Ya Watte village.

"The best part of it was showcasing the talents and crafts of people from the village," he said. "It was great; really awesome."

In the wake of this morning's suicide bombing, Amnesty International calls again on all parties in the conflict in Sri Lanka to comply with their obligations under international law to protect civilians.

A suicide bomber killed at least 27 people, including retired Major General Janaka Perera, the United National Party leader (the country's main opposition party) of the North Central Provincial council, in northern Sri Lanka. The explosion occurred in a civilian area of Anuradhapura town during the opening of the United National Party office. Civilian deaths included MTV reporter, Rashmi Mohammed, aged 31, with at least 60 other people injured, including a child.

The government has accused the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) of the attack. The upsurge in hostilities between government security forces and the LTTE in the last year has seen a dramatic rise in attacks by the LTTE targeting the civilian population. The LTTE has not responded to the current allegation.

All parties to the war in Sri Lanka are legally bound to obey the rules of International humanitarian law, also known as the laws of armed conflict or the laws of war. These rules have been developed in order to mitigate the effects of such conflicts. They limit the means and methods of conducting military operations. They oblige combatants to spare those who are not taking active part in the hostilities, such as unarmed civilians and combatants who have been wounded or captured.

Amnesty International calls on the LTTE and government security forces to immediately and unconditionally stop any direct or indiscriminate attacks on civilians. Such attacks are prohibited at all times and constitute war crimes and urges the international community to support the call to establish an independent, international monitoring presence on the ground without delay.


Since the end of the ceasefire in January this year, the Sri Lankan military has launched a major offensive to reclaim areas of the north and east previously controlled by the LTTE. Restricted access for the media and independent monitors to conflict-affected areas means it is impossible to verify the extent of casualties.

As a result of recent fighting over 220,000 people are displaced in the Wanni in northern Sri Lanka including 30,000 schoolchildren. On 9 September the government issued an order for United Nations (UN) and non-governmental aid workers to leave the war-torn northern Wanni region. Since 29 September the government has allowed some international UN workers to accompany food convoys into the Wanni but humanitarian access remains limited.

Stung by Indian accusations of growing casualties of "unarmed" Tamil civilians, Sri Lanka counseled New Delhi to "perceive marginalization of the Tamil Tigers in the correct perspective" and not to be "influenced by malicious propaganda" against the military campaign of the government targeting the Tigers, media reports said.

The move came after India's National Security Adviser M K Narayanan summoned Sri Lankan Deputy High Commissioner G G A D Palithaganegoda to convey New Delhi's concerns to him and asked the government in the island nation to "act with greater restraint" -- following threats from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Karunanidhi of withdrawal of support to the Congress-led government over the Sri Lankan military offensive in the north of the country.

In a suo motu statement on the floor of Parliament, Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama Monday specifically referred to the move by Narayanan to summon the Sri Lanka Deputy High Commissioner in New Delhi.

Taking a dig at Karunanidhi, he said that while the security forces were engaged in an operation to free people from the "fascist and dictatorial control" of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE), critics of Sri Lanka and LTTE sympathizers were attempting to portray a "totally false notion" that the government was opting for a military solution.

"It is very important that all those who are concerned about Sri Lanka, including the welfare of the Tamil community, should perceive the marginalization of the LTTE in the correct light," he said.

"LTTE does not represent the Tamil community in Sri Lanka. Therefore, military action against the LTTE should never be perceived as action against our brethren, the Tamil community. We are concerned about them and will work with them to ensure their welfare, security, and aspirations since they are our fellow citizens," he told the House.

Bogollagama said the Anuradhapura suicide attack makes it clear that the LTTE is "firmly and irreversibly entrenched in the path of violence and terrorism" and it is not the time for recrimination or finger pointing.

"No attempt should be made to whitewash the LTTE and throw it a lifeline, as it faces imminent and certain defeat at the hands of our valiant security forces. All political parties who subscribe to democracy should unite and join hands with the government to once and for all rid Sri Lanka of the scourge of terrorism," the statement said.

Etihad Airways is to provide customers with access to the the Maldives following an extension of its existing codeshare agreement with Sri Lankan Airlines.
Under the deal the Abu Dhabi-based airline will place its two-letter 'EY' code on all of Sri Lankan Airlines' services between the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo and Mahe, the main city in the Maldives.
Etihad has code-shared with Sri Lankan Airlines since September 2007, an agreement that up until now has only applied to flights between Abu Dhabi and Colombo.

By Kshama Ranawana
If the declared purpose of successive Sri Lankan governments has been to ensure the unity of the island nation, then recent events seem to aim at achieving just the opposite.

On Sunday, September 21, ethnic minority Tamils hailing from the north and east of the country and living in the South Western region were required to register themselves with the police. The ruling this time was specific to those who had lived in the South during a five year period or less and was described by police as a census of Tamils living in the western region.

Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse’s comments on the exercise were more candid. He was quoted in The Nation: “Anyone remaining in Colombo without a proper reason should head back to the north and east, since it will create a threat to the security situation.” Certainly, this is a contradiction of the country’s constitutional guarantees of freedom of movement.

Police estimated at least a 100,000 people of Tamil origin had moved to the south of the country in the past five years, most fleeing the economic deprivations and excesses of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the war zones. A total of 10,820 registered themselves that Sunday. With the government forces reported to be knocking on the LTTE stronghold known as the Vanni, authorities claim LTTE cadres could move south along with the civilians and carry out retaliatory attacks.

Registration of Tamils visiting the south and its environs has been in practice for nearly a decade, in a nation which has been battling a war with the LTTE who seek an independent state, Eelam in the north of the country where a majority of the Tamils live. Despite the practice, the government of President Mahinda Rajapakse has begun a more aggressive sweep and search of areas populated by Tamils outside the north and the east of the country, as well as in places termed “High Security Zones”. Those suspected of having links with the LTTE or whose identification does not satisfy the authorities are often kept in detention.

In June 2007, scores of Tamils living in lodges in the capital of Colombo to attend to business, medical or personal matters were rounded up and bussed back to a border point, an act which drew the ire of civil society groups and others calling for a negotiated settlement to the ethnic conflict. It resulted in the Supreme Court issuing a directive that such arbitrary actions be stopped.

In a country where the best of facilities are available in the Western region, where the administrative and commercial capitals are located, it has become a necessity for its citizens to travel to Colombo to attend to most of their personal or business needs. To suggest that Tamils visiting the capital should return to their respective homes in a bid to ensure the safety of the rest, would then necessarily mean that the government accede to the demand of a Tamil homeland.

As Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, of the independent think-tank The Centre for Policy Alternatives, told the Washington Post newspaper, "At the end of the day, you are only instilling some sense of second-class citizenship and deepening a perception of discrimination."

This perception was underlined by the Sri Lankan Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka when he told the National Post recently that he does not believe minorities have a right to make demands. "I strongly believe that this country belongs to the Sinhalese (majority) but there are minority communities and we treat them like our people," he said.

"We being the majority of the country, 75 per cent, we will never give in and we have the right to protect this country. We are also a strong nation. They can live in this country with us. But they must not try to, under the pretext of being a minority, demand undue things."

The conflict between the majority Sinhalese and the minority Tamils began nearly 25 years ago and stems from agitations that have been simmering for more than five decades for parity of status between the two communities. The mostly Buddhist Sinhalese make up nearly 75 per cent of the 21 million people. Tamils make up around 18 per cent. Following the conflict scores of Tamils have left the country, many moving to Canada.

The situation has been cynically exploited by leaders of both groups and ordinary people, whether they be Sinhala, Tamil or Muslim, have been the worst affected.

The LTTE, who claim to be the chosen liberators of the Tamil people, expect them to conform to their regulations; children are abducted and used as cannon fodder, while even the elderly are often pressed into battle. Those wishing to even temporarily travel outside the area require a pass from the LTTE, and if a family needs to travel, at least one member must remain at home. Funds sent in by relations living outside are almost always taxed to fatten the LTTE war chests.

On the other hand, civilians from the north and the east are also required to obtain travel permits from government forces, produce police reports and register themselves; carrying such valid documentation, though is in no way a guarantee of being above suspicion.

The recent escalation of the war has resulted in nearly 200,000 Tamil civilians being trapped in the conflict zone, easy prey for the LTTE who even on earlier occasions had no compunction in using them as human shields. And could Tamils trust a regime where comments of its Army Commander and Defence Secretary reveal its ideological beliefs?

While Canada and many other nations have banned the LTTE and somewhat blunted its power over the Tamil diaspora, the international community’s attempts to raise the issue of human rights with the government of Sri Lanka has only resulted in its snubbing them and aligning itself with Iran and China.

Perhaps Canada, which is home to the largest Tamil community in the West, could give serious thought to Liberal Party Foreign Affairs critic Bob Rae, who states on his website that Canada’s aid and diplomacy “need to be focused on a renewed push for a ceasefire, for a demobilization of the conflict and a commitment to parliament democracy, the rule of law and human rights.” Rae wants Canada more engaged, not “a Canada on the sidelines or a Canada wagging its finger 10,000 kilometers away.”

Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam general secretary Vaiko has alleged that the United Progressive Alliance government at the Centre had a role in “perpetuating violence” on Tamils in Sri Lanka.

“The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, a constituent of the ruling UPA, is also responsible,” he said, releasing a book on Kachatheevu here on Tuesday.

Mr. Vaiko alleged that the Indian Government was behind Sri Lanka’s war against the Tamils in the island nation. Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, who had earlier supported the joint patrolling by the Indian and Sri Lankan Navies, reversed his stand after stiff opposition from political parties in the State.

Had Kachatheevu been with India, there would not have been any attack on Tamil Nadu fishermen.

He blamed the then Congress government for giving up India’s right to Kachatheevu.

Communist Party of India leader R. Nallakannu said that it was unfortunate that the Indian government was least bothered about the “atrocities” on the Tamils in Sri Lanka.

Tamil Nationalist Movement leader P. Nedumaran said the Chief Minister had the responsibility of protecting the Sri Lankan Tamils.

Russia yesterday condemned the Anuradhapura terrorist attack as barbaric and merciless.
The Russian Embassy in Colombo in a statement expressed its profound condolences to the family members of Major General Janaka Perera and others who were mercilessly killed and injured as a result of the barbaric suicidal terrorist act committed in Anuradhapura on Monday.

Among those killed was UNP district coordinator Rajah Johnpulle who was at one time Sri Lanka’s Ambassador in Moscow.

“We strongly condemn terrorist activities in any part of the world, whatever slogans are used to justify it, and express our confidence, that the friendly Sri Lankan people will soon secure peace and stability throughout the island,” the embassy said

Hasitha Samantha UNP Provincial council member wanted by the Kalawana police in connection with a murder and assault on two persons following the recently concluded Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council election surrendered to the Ratnapura court yesterday.

The suspect who surrendered through his lawyer was remanded till October 15 by the Ratnapura Additional Magistrate M.M.M. Mihail.

At the last Provincial Council election, the suspect won the second highest number of preferential votes for the UNP. However, he has not been sworn in yet, a Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council spokesman said.

Police have filed a B report on the suspect’s alleged involvement in the murder of Jayasuriya Bandara, a Depot Inspector of the Kalawana SLCTB Depot, residing in Ayagama in Poragala and assault on the conductor K.H. Kusumapala of the same area and a driver Sandun Nishantha Senanayake a resident of Weddagala, Kalawana on August 29.

Police requested the court to issue an order for the suspect to surrender and in default acquire the suspect’s assets as he was absconding.

Accordingly the Additional Magistrate issued the order and directed that the order be given due publicity over loudspeakers in the area and also have the order posted on the wall of the house occupied by Hasitha Sanmantha.

The OIC of Matugama Special Crime Unit, who solicited Rs 25,000 and accepted an illegal gratification of Rs 15,000 to withhold from jailing a family health nurse was remanded till October 21 by the Chief Magistrate of Colombo.

The Chief Magistrate Nishantha Hapuarachchi remanded the suspect Madagoda Ralage Parakrama Gunaratne of Graceland Estate Horana till October 21. The Commission to Investigate to Allegations of Bribery or Corruption conducted the raid following investigating to a complaint of the family health nurse Ms.Raigam Liyanage Padma of Yatihela Estate, Kadawatha Matugama.

The complainant who was affiliated to the Dodangoda Government Hospital had told by the OIC that she had taken a loan by forging a signature. He had told her that he wanted to record a statement of her's. When she denied it and told that she obtained the loan to settle by monthly installment basis from a private establishment and never deceived anybody. The OIC had told to the complainant that Dr.(Mrs.) Malwenna had complaint that she obtained the loan by tendering forged documents. The OIC had inquired from the complainant about her pay day and asked her to meet him with the pay packeton the pay day.

On that day he complainant had gone to the Police with her attorney at law. She was told by the OIC to come to Matugama courts on the following day. Later the OIC, he had demanded a bribe of Rs 25,000 to withhold jailing the complainant.

The complainant had complained to the Commission and the Commission after inquiry arrested the suspect while he was accepting the bribe at his office. The Bribery officers K.J. Jayaweera and Sergeant Ranjith Bandara produced the suspect in court and objected for bail.

The Magistrate remanded the suspect till October 21 and ordered the Commission to file their report on that day.

(Lanka-e-News, ) United national Party (UNP), Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) and Sri Lanka Freedom Party People's Wing (SLFP-PW) charged the President in his caliber as the Minister of Defense and the Secretary of the Ministry of Defense for not providing security for Major General Janaka Perera giving opportunity to assassinate him.

The three parties summoned the press briefing in the parliamentary complex yesterday (07) to clarify their position regarding the terrorist attack that killed 27 UNP activists and injured around 100 at the opening of the office of the Opposition Leader of North Central Provincial Council.

Addressing media, Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe said, "We have suspicions over this bomb attack and the investigation regarding it.

"Until the assassination, the stance of the Defense Ministry was that Mr. Janaka Perera had no threat to life. They made a false charge against him stating that he was preparing an assassination of elite as he attempted to initiate a private security organization with several retired Army officers. CID recorded a statement from him in this regard.

"The Deputy Inspector General, North Central Provincial Council insisted that Mr. Janaka Perera had not requested security from police for the opening ceremony. But the Coordinating Secretary of Mr. Janaka Perera has sent letters in this regard to Senior Superintendent of Police of Anuradhapura and Head Quarters Inspector, Anuradhapura police station with faxed copies to the DIG on October 03 and here I show you these letters. (See photo)

"Why is police insisting that Mr. Janaka Perera did not request security in this backdrop? Aren’t they trying to hide the fact that they did not provide security? The visitors of a function of this sort are examined by the security of the VIP or by police. That is the reason for the bomber entering in freely. Both sections failed in their duty.


"The Defense Ministry informed to the Supreme Court too that Mr. Janaka Perera had no threats from LTTE and within hours of the assassination they decided that the assassin was a LTTE suicide cadre. How did this happen?

"We point finger to the Ministry of Defense regarding this assassination in this backdrop. Two days ago Mr. Janaka Perera informed me that the President had invited him to join the government with a pledge to provide all facilities. The Defense Ministry was adamant in its stance that he had no threats from LTTE despite Mr. Janaka Perera lodged a complaint on September 19 after swearing in as the Opposition Leader of the North Central Provincial Council stating that he had threats from LTTE.
"Therefore, we have no trust on the investigations of the government and we believe they will lead to hide the culprits. Therefore, an independent investigation is essential and we urge to appoint an international probe."

Rauf Hakeem, the leader of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress said, "All the political killings of the recent history had a similar pattern. Without any probe the culprit was named as LTTE. The police that should commence the probe with an open mind, first of all ruled that the killing was carried out by LTTE. This stance is not in favor of an independent investigation."

SLFP-PW leader Mangala Samaraweera said. "We are not definite if this killing was carried out by LTTE. When the suspect is not specific, those who advantaged from the assassination also should be suspected. Officials from the Defense Secretary to down are accused in the case of setting fire to the house of Dr. John Pulle. The case is now being heard. We were in an attempt to open an alternative media center for security with the assistance of Mr. Janaka Perera to reveal the truth regarding war to the public. Therefore, the Rajapakse regime that creates a war fantacy benefits from this killing.

"Those who were killed in this attack are a few that were headaches to the government. It is exposed that the government had hand in the killing of MPs also. Karuna Group provided people to that act. Therefore, there is a reasonable doubt that the shadow of state terror is behind this murder. The government should prove if it is not so. An independent probe in which the Defense Secretary and the Police Chief cannot interfere is essential here."

Former Treasury Secretary Dr.P.B. Jayasundera was ordered by the Supreme Court on Wednesday to furnish an affidavit proving that he doesn’t hold public office and any 'share' in a company where the government has a substantial interest, court officials said

This came when the once-powerful official appeared in court to explain whether or not he is still a public officer as defined in the Constitution.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered land and buildings at the Water's Edge Golf course to be returned to the Urban Development Authority (UDA), holding with the petitioners in the Water’s Edge case where former President Chandrika Kumaratunga is one of the respondents, court officials said.
The Supreme Court also ruled in favour of the petitioners in the ‘Water’s Edge’ case where former President Chandrika Kumaratunga is one of the respondents<, court officials said.

In this case, two retired public servants, S. Medis and Raja Senanayake filed a Fundamental Rights petition stating that the former President was instrumental in illegally transferring state lands meant for a 'public purpose' to a private company to build a golf course (now know as Water’s Edge) near the Parliament Complex at Battaramulla.

The petition said she misled the Cabinet into believing that foreign investment was coming in for the project when in reality no golf course was built by those who obtain permission to do so by the Cabinet.
Supreme Court also ordered Ronnie Peiris to pay two million rupees and the former President Chandrika Bandaranayake Kumaranatunga ordered to pay Rs.three million to government over the Waters Edge land transfer.

Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga is expected to relinquish his position at the end of the year when he reaches the retirement age of 60 years, reliable government sources said on Wednesday.

While his term can be extended by the President under a contract formula that is available, the sources said Mr Weeratunga is unlikely to accept any extention. The President’s Secretary is a senior civil servant and has served extensively in the public service.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UK Government have launched three projects worth a aggregate UK£229,593 to support Sri Lankan Government efforts to combat human trafficking and strengthen the country’s border management capacity.

The IOM, in close co-ordination with the relevant government agencies, will develop a comprehensive database containing details of all cases of human trafficking in Sri Lanka. The data, which will be provided by the Government will be used to collect information about past and ongoing trafficking cases and trends, with a view to supporting more successful prosecutions. The IOM identified the need for this type of data through an earlier project that provided counter-trafficking training to some 470 Sri Lankan law enforcement officers. The training was designed to help the officers to identify, investigate and prosecute cases of human trafficking and sensitize them to the special needs of victims. The IOM will also work with the Department of Immigration and Emigration to improve the Computerized Passenger Clearance System at the Bandaranaike International Airport by introducing a machine-readable sticker to be used with the existing Exit Stamp. The sticker will be generated once a passenger is formally cleared through the Border Control System.


It can then be read at the time of boarding or at a fixed Secondary Control Point or by a mobile checker to verify that the passenger has been formally cleared.

Over the past six years The IOM has worked closely with the Government to build migration management capacity, including support for the Department of Immigration and Emigration’s efforts to reduce irregular migration by strengthening border controls. The new UK funding will also support a unit set up in 2007 by the IOM at the Department of Immigration for a further two years. The ‘Integrated Enquiry Management System’ (IEMS) unit responds to inquires about Sri Lankan nationals made by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Colombo-based foreign diplomatic missions, Foreign Immigration Services and national law enforcement agencies.

The Department of Immigration holds information on passports, visas, border crossing records, citizenship and birth registration.

The Sri Lankan Parliament should reject, through a vote of no confidence, the membership of Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan, otherwise known as Karuna, who is alleged to have committed war crimes and crimes against humanity, Amnesty International said in a statement.

Two anti-aircraft shells along with 24 ammunition rounds were recovered near the Maharagama Ayurveda hospital today morning, police confirmed.

UNP MP Lakshman Kiriella told a media briefing today that the government has refused to give a helicopter to airlift the remains of Retired Major General Janaka Perera and his wife to Anuradhapura.

With the killings of Tamils in Sri Lanka stirring a political storm in Tamil Nadu, India yesterday condemned the death of Tamil civilians in the military action against the LTTE, reported 'Indiaenews.'
In the strongest denunciation in recent months of the war in Sri Lanka, New Delhi urged Colombo to show 'greater restraint' and voiced "serious concern" over the continuing attacks on Indian fishermen in the sea.

National Security Adviser M.K. Narayanan summoned Sri Lanka's Acting High Commissioner Palitha Ganegoda and conveyed to him India's "grave concern and unhappiness at the growing casualties of unarmed Tamil civilians as a result of military action".

"The escalation of hostilities in the north and the resultant fallout was leading to a great deal of concern in India," the external affairs ministry said in a statement, reporting Narayanan's meeting with the Sri Lankan diplomat.

Mr. Narayanan underlined the need for Sri Lanka to act with "greater restraint and address the growing feeling of insecurity among the minority community.

"To stem the deteriorating humanitarian situation, the need to revive the political process was highlighted. It was essential that vital supplies to the affected population were not disrupted in any manner," the foreign office added.

He also asked Colombo to restrain the Sri Lankan Navy from such attacks.

Narayanan drew attention to a recent incident in which the Sri Lankan Navy allegedly attacked several Indian fishermen and threatened them with dire consequences.

"This was not in keeping with the spirit of the understanding reached between India and Sri Lanka and recently reiterated in meetings held at the highest levels," it said.

"The Sri Lankan Navy should cease such attacks and not lose sight of the humanitarian and livelihood dimensions of this issue," the foreign office said.

New Delhi's decision to summon the Sri Lankan diplomat came after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh assured Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi that his government would take all steps to stop the "genocide" of Tamils in Sri Lanka.

Mr. Karunanidhi has urged the people of Tamil Nadu to write a million letters to the PM seeking Indian intervention on behalf of the Sri Lankan Tamils.

The chief minister has also reportedly written to Manmohan Singh and opposed the proposal of joint patrolling by India and Sri Lanka in the sea dividing the two countries.

Mangala Samaraweera says he has strong doubts as to whether Janaka Perera murder is a result of state-sponsored terrorism that had victimized several opposing political figures in the past.

The leader of the SLFP Mahajana Wing says he grieves over the loss, as a member of the very government that he has helped to power.

Mr. Samaraweera was speaking at a media briefing organized by the joint opposition at the Parliamentary Complex today (Oct. 07th).

He said the suicide attack that killed the ex-military commander and 27 others while wounding over 90 should not be brushed aside as an attack by the LTTE, and should be considered as to who would gain by his elimination.

According to the SLFP (M) leader, Maj. Gen. Perera had consented to serve as national spokesman at an alternative media centre for national security.

At a recent meeting with him, the slain soldier-turned-politician has said the defence secretary had come to know of the plan and that his close friends in the army had come under threat in recent days, Mr. Samaraweera said.

Therefore, it is evident that he had been facing a serious threat to his life, and added to it, the court was considering a petition filed by him against the arson attack on UNP's Anuradhapura manager Dr. John Pulle, who also died in yesterday's bomb blast.

Mr. Samaraweera said that there were justifiable fears that all these were results of state-sponsored terrorism that had preyed previously on MPs Joseph Pararajasingham, Nadaraj Raviraj and T. Maheswaran.

That state-sponsored terrorism was supported by Karuna and Pillayan with the knowledge of a top official in the Defence Ministry, the SLFP (M) leader alleged, adding therefore that Maj. Gen. Perera too, would have fallen victim to it.

Speaking further, he said the police probe into the incident could not be trusted, and said the joint opposition would urge an impartial investigation which cannot be influence by the president, the defence secretary or the attorney general.

Also addressing the media briefing, opposition leader Ranil Wickremesinghe reiterated the same points he had made in a speech to parliament earlier in the day.

SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem said the finger cannot be pointed at the LTTE over this attack, and described it as an attempt to cover it up just as the other high-profile killings in the past.

Mr. Hakeem blamed the government and the police for this loss of lives and called for an impartial investigation.

JAFFNA: A PRE-DAWN attack on a few Tiger terrorists moving at about 1.00 a.m. Wednesday (8) morning in the general area of SANGUPIDDY, JAFFNA got rid of one terrorist and found his T-56 weapon, two claymore mines, six hand grenades, ninety ammunition rounds, three T-56 magazines, field dressings, one pack of 9-V batteries and a few more items from his possession.

The dead body of the terrorist was to be handed over to the JAFFNA hospital mortuary once the post-mortem and other legal formalities are over.

It is believed the Tiger terrorist leading a few more who were following him has been trying to cause a bloodbath in the dead of the night in the area either by harming Security Forces or any other civil target.

With security arrangements being streamlined and further relaxed and movement of civilians further facilitated, Jaffna troops are well geared to maintain the status quo, in relation to civil affairs as well as maintenance of law and order in the peninsula, Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka was told by his ground commanders when he visited Jaffna Security Forces Headquarters Tuesday (7) morning.

Major General G.A Chandrasiri, Jaffna Commander and all Divisional and Brigade Commanders during their meeting with the visiting Army Chief at the Security Forces Headquarters, briefed him on current security developments in their respective sectors with precise details.

Enhanced facilitation of the movement of fishermen with less restricted hours on specific dates, Increased supplies of Jaffna grown or produced items into outside markets and vice versa, Security arrangements connected to new power plant, coming up in Chunnakam, Operational and administrative matters, pertaining to security concerns, Civil participation in security related programmes in the peninsula, Measures in place to prevent LTTE infiltrations to conduct sabotage and terrorist acts and several other specific issues, were taken up before the visiting Army Chief for discussion during this session.

Lieutenant General Fonseka after receipt of a comprehensive account of all security and other developments, apprised his ground commanders of the sustained alertness in the wake of Wanni operation, now in its full swing. He also gave certain guidelines and specific instructions on matters of importance to the Security Forces before the meeting came to an end. Major General G.A Chandrasiri received the Commander on his arrival at Palaly.

At least 19 LTTE terrorists were killed and 9 others reported wounded during battles ensued between troops and LTTE in general area Akkarayankulama, in the Southwestern perimeters of Kilinochchi on Tuesday (Oct 7), according to Wanni military sources.

Hours long fighting was reported in the area military said, adding that heavy artillery were engaged, further pushing LTTE elements from the Akkarayankulama Tank bund. The LTTE casualties are expected to soar as troops claimed to have repulsed an LTTE counter attack East of Akkarayankulama. 13 terrorists were killed and 9 injured in the fighting ground sources said citing intercepted LTTE communication. 2 soldiers also have laid their lives in the fighting, Wanni military sources said.

Meanwhile, 4 terrorists were reported killed during fighting with security forces Northeast of Akkarayankulama, in addition to 2 others killed sniped West of Akkarayankulama.

Filing a petition in the Supreme Court, the JVP has sought a nullification of the appointment of Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman as a MP.

In the petition, JVP Secretary Tilvyn Silva is naming UPFA Secretary Susil Premajayantha, Elections Commissioner Dayananda Dissanayake and Karuna as respondents.

The petition points out that Karuna has been appointed a MP through gazette 1570/1 of October 05th.

It claims that according to the MoU signed between the JVP and the SLFP to form the ruling UPFA, the JVP has the rightful claim to fill the position vacated by its member Wasantha Samarasinghe.

Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, condemns the suicide blast in Anuradhapura (Sri Lanka) which killed 27 and injured more than 80 people

"I am deeply shocked by the suicide attack at the United National Party office in Anuradhapura this morning. I condemn in the strongest possible terms this appalling act of terrorism which cannot be justified under any circumstances. I send my sincere condolences to the relatives of those killed and injured and sympathy to the Government and people of Sri Lanka for the tragic loss of life.”

CaFFE unequivocally and totally condemns the ruthless usage of a suicide bomber to assassinate the North Central Province ’s Opposition leader Janaka Perera and cause the deaths of over 25 people and injuries to over 60 people.



CaFFE notes the lethal use of violence to silence the voices of Citizen representatives and political leaders. This is a deadly blow to the very foundations of Democracy. The use of violence to eliminate and kill those that politically opposed to certain groups must be stopped immediately. The inability to provide a political solution to the ethnic conflict and the emergence of a ruthless and un ethical political culture has definitely contributed in detrimental manner to this situation.



Our country has lost a large number of people representing different political perspectives because they have been swallowed up by a culture of violence and intimidatory politics. Because of this violence we have not only lost the services and abilities of valuable citizen representatives, but we have also lost the right to express our ideological differences on the political stage without being subjected to violence. This is a disturbing development.



CaFFE continuously stressed the importance and essentiality of providing security to politicians who were under death threats and intimidated with violence during the last North Central and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Elections. The denial of security to politicians based on their ideological and political differences is a disappointing situation. Today, we have collectively lost many lives because of this. CaFFE calls on all forces and people who believe in Democracy to come together to defeat any organization or group that uses violence to accomplish their political objectives.



CaFFE wishes to express its deepest sympathies to all the family members who lost their loved ones in the dastardly Anuradhpura attack. CaFFE also wishes those injured and hospitalized in the attack a speedy recovery.

Colombo 06 October 2008. Ravi Liyanage, General Manager - Sales & Marketing at Janashakthi Insurance PLC was awarded the prestigious Asian Brand Leadership Award at the recently concluded Brand Excellence Awards Ceremony in Taj Lands End Hotel in Mumbai, India. This award was presented by the renowned global institute Brand Asia at its 17th Asian Brand Congress, themed “Communicating a Brand that Connects, Engages and Inspires Audiences”. With a membership of 60 countries across the globe, Brand Asia is a body committed to raising the standards of marketing and brand management across all industries in Asia.

The glittering Brand Excellence Awards Ceremony was placed in line with 17th Asia Brand Congress held end-September 2008, and was followed by the awards ceremony to recognise Brand Excellence in Asia.

The criteria for the Awards includes the applicant’s professional achievements during the past five years, awards and accolades received, contribution to brand building and stewardship, papers/articles published, contribution to the organisation and industry. All applications and subsequent nominations were short-listed by an eminent panel of international personalities representing diverse sectors.

Liyanage was previously awarded with the prestigious “Marketer of the Year” Award from the world's largest professional body for marketing – the Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK. He also won the “Brand Champion” Award in the Best New Entrant Category at the SLIM Brand Excellence 2005 and again the “Brand Champion” Award at the SLIM Brand Excellence 2006.

Currently the General Manager of Sales & Marketing at Janashakthi Insurance PLC, Liyanage also led his organisation to win Gold for the ‘Best New Entrant’ and Bronze for the ‘Service Brand of the Year’ at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards 2005.

He also led Janashakthi Insurance to win the Gold as the No.1 Service Brand of the Year, Gold for the Most Innovative Brand of the Year, Silver for the Local Brand of the Year at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards 2006, and also Bronze for the Local Brand of the Year and Silver for Turnaround Brand of the Year at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards 2007.

A distinguished old boy of Isipathana College Colombo who excelled in rugby football and captained both the Colombo University and National Universities team, and, represented CR&FC, Liyanage holds a Bachelor of Science (Bsc) degree from the University of Colombo. He also hold two post graduate qualifications- Diploma in Marketing (Dip.M, UK) and MBA from the Postgraduate Institute of Management of University of Sri Jayawardhanapura. He is also a fellow of the Life Underwriting Training Council of USA and a resource person for the MBA program of Manipal University, India and North Wood University, USA.

Among the speakers were many leading brand marketing professionals and CEOs of the region including Nirmalya Kumar (Professor of Marketing, Harvad), David Wheldon (Global Director of Brand, Vodafone), Derek Turner Smith (CEO, JWT International), Michel Cao-Tuan Phan (Professor of Marketing ESSEC Business School Paris) and Jiggy George (Executive Director, Cartoon Network Enterprises, India).

A venture to establish a US $ 5 million higher education institute which has facilities to educate 1200 students was approved by the Board of Investment (BOI) last Wednesday. The institute will provide higher education in Communication, Mass Media, Business Management, Engineering and Languages.


Mr. Dhammika Perera, Chairman / Director General signed the agreements and formally presented the BOI Certificate of Registration, to Dr. Neville Fernando, Chairman/President of South Asian Institute of Technology and Management Company.


The project carried out by South Asian Institute of Technology and Management Company is an investment of US $ 5 million and will generate employment for 50. “The venture will establish a higher education institute for Technology and Management studies at the IT Park, Malabe. The company has commenced construction of the 5 storyed building.” said Dr Fernando.


The BOI also signed agreements for several projects worth US $ 1.31 million last week :


Lanka Cat Limited signed an agreement for a project for web designing and software development for foreign clients. The venture expects to commence operations within 2 months. This project is an investment of US $ 210,000 sponsored by Tom-Cat from the Czech Republic. Mr. Tomas Plojhar, Chairman and Mr. Brian Kurera, Manager signed the agreement on behalf of Lanka Cat.


An agreement to set up a flying training academy was signed with Openskies Flight Training Limited. The academy will provide ground school classes and practical training for Private and Commercial pilot license. The academy expects to commence training in December. The project is an investment of US $ 610,000 located at Panadura, while training will be given at Air Force Bases at Katukurunda, Weerawila or Koggala. Mr. M. D. H Fernando, Chairman and Mrs. Kushla Fernando, Director signed the agreement on behalf of Openskies Flight Training Limited.


Oxigen Plantations signed an agreement to set up a project to grow forestry and cash crops. The venture will be to grow Teak trees and cash crops such as pulses, yams and bananas. The 25 acre plantation will be located at Puttlam. This project is an investment of Rs. 54 million and will create employment for 50. Mr. Josh Casttle, Chairman and Mr. Caniut Silva, Director signed the agreement on behalf of Oxigen Plantations.

Dr Sarath Amunugama, Minister of Enterprise Development & Investment Promotion will head the Sri Lankan Delegation to the Spring Sessions of the World Bank and IMF to be held in Washington DC later this week.


The other members of the delegation are Mr Nivard Cabraal, Governor of the Central Bank, Dr Ranee Jayamaha, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank, Mr R A Jayatissa, Deputy Secretary to the Treasury and Dr P N Weerasinghe of the Central Bank.


The forthcoming meeting of the IMF and World Bank is a major event particularly in view of the economic crisis in the United States and its consequences for the rest of the world. The Minister will be representing H.E. President Mahinda Rajapakse since this meeting is largely a gathering of Finance Ministers of the world.


On the sidelines of these meetings, Dr Sarath Amunuguama will be having bi-lateral discussions with the Finance Ministers of India, China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam and the EU countries. Further there will be a special session of the SAARC Finance Ministers’ Meeting which will be chaired by Dr Amunugama since Sri Lanka is now the Chairman of SAARC. At this meeting, many issues regarding both global and regional development will be discussed.


This meeting will also review the aid architecture for Sri Lanka which will be unveiled in the forthcoming Budget.

TMVP leader Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna was sworn in as a Member of Parliament in a ceremony boycotted by most of the Opposition members.

Muralitharna attire in a black suite was sworn in at 9.30 a.m. at the commencement of parliamentary sittings amidst applauses from the UPFA, SLMC, JHU and Wimal Weerawansa’s National Freedom Front (NFF) members, but the UNP, JVP and TNA boycotted the event.

Eastern province Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan was among those present in Parliament for occasion.

Meanwhile JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva today filed a petition in the Supreme Courts chellenging the appointment of Muralitharan.

The petition said that according to the electoral arrangement reached with the UPFA the vacant seat should be allocated to the JVP.

Parliamentary group leader of the JVP, Anura Kumara Dissanayake has sent a letter of demand to Chairman of the National Freedom Front, Wimal Weerawansa, accusing him of making defamatory charges and seeking Rs. 100 million as compensation.

Mr. Weerawansa had made insulting and resentful remarks against the top JVP leader in an interview with a Sunday weekly newspaper, the letter charges.

Speaking to ‘Lanka Dissent’, a JVP spokesman said the letter of demand says legal action will be initiated against the NFF chairman if the compensation is not paid by October 21st.

Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe today called for an international investigation on the suicide attack which claimed the lives of Major General (Retired) Janaka Perera and 27 others in Anuradhapura.

The opposition leader in a statement made in parliament said that they were not satisfied about the manner in which the investigations were being conducted and therefore wanted a foreign police to carryout the probe.

Mr Wickremasinghe produced a letter in which the UNP had sought security for Monday’s event of opening a UNP office in Anurdhapura office where the suicide attack took place.

The letter was produced in the wake of police and government denials that security had been sought for the event.

Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayaka assured that a full inquiry will be held into Monday's suicide attack.

Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna is tipped to be sworn in as a Nation Building minister on Wednesday, party sources said.

A Muslim man was taken into custody for possession of heroin worth Rs. 500,000 in Wattala yesterday, police said.

Police Spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara said the man was arrested at 3.30 pm yesterday in Mabola, Wattala by the Colombo Central Anti-crime Unit.

Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman making his first speech as a parliamentarian said today that it is time to leave aside bitter memories of the past and start building peace.

He said that the Tamil people do not accept terrorism and that defeating terrorism should be given priority.

The Tamil people have kept their trust on the parliamentary system and a decomacratic political approach.

MP Muralitharan stated that the deveolpment in the East had come to a standstill for the past 22 years and now they're able to continue with development activities by restoring the rights of the Tamil community.

Immediately after TMVP leader Karuna finished his maiden speech in Parliament, Minister Mervyn Silva who happened to sit right next to Karuna had got up and said “Well done Mr. Karuna Amman’ and the house had roared with laughter. Minister Silva was occupying Nation Building Minister Basil Rajapaksa’s seat in the absence of Mr. Rajapaksa in Parliament.

MI-24 helicopter gunships launched simultaneous attacks at identified LTTE resistance points located 6km Northeast of Akkarayankulma, Tuesday (Oct 7) at around 1.35 p.m.

According to Air Force Spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, the riads were made in support of the 57 Division troops.

TMVP Leader Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan, popularly known as Karuna Amman, took oaths before Speaker W.J.M. Lokubandara as a Member of Parliament today from the UPFA National List.

He filled the vacancy created by the resignation of Wasantha Samarasinghe, who contested the recent provincial council election.

Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan was born in Kiran, a village in the Batticaloa district in 1966. He joined the LTTE in 1983 and became a top commander.

He participated in several rounds of peace talks as a member of the LTTE delegation after the Ceasefire Agreement was signed in 2002.

In March 2004, he broke away from the mainstream LTTE along with thousands of cadres loyal to him after alleging that the LTTE leadership was favouring Northern cadres and people and ignoring the interests of the Easterners who had made huge sacrifices for the organisation. He has alleged that Prabhakaran intentionally dragged out peace talks so that the LTTE could use the cessation in hostilities to re-arm and re-group.

He claimed that the LTTE has lost 70 per cent of its fighting capacity after his group separated from the LTTE.

He formed a political party named the TMVP which contested local government and provincial councils polls in the East. The TMVP's deputy leader Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan is now the Chief Minister of the Eastern Province.

KILINOCHCHI: VALIANT 58 Division troops who captured the first bunker line on NACHCHIKUDA – AKKARAYANKULAM road during the weekend marched, about 1 km further eastward and dominated a three-way intersection where one more LTTE’s KILINOCHCHI stronghold was found.

Four LTTE strong points and one 81mm mortar point of the LTTE were brought under the troops at the end of Sunday’s (5) fighting which commenced on the previous afternoon. Terrorists earlier showed heavy resistance, but as mortars and Rocket Propeller Guns (RPGs), fired by the troops intensified, terrorists hurriedly withdrew into their interior locations with heavy casualties.

KILINOCHCHI: AN EFFECTIVE air assault was conducted by the Mi 24 helicopter gunships on identified LTTE position in KILINOCHCHI this morning (7) around 7.30 a.m.

A terrorist mortar launching pad, around 500 m northeast of VANNARIKKULAM tank bund received heavy damages due to the air strike.

WANNI & NORTH: SOLDIERS of 56 Division, now raging on in deep jungles in NAVATKULAM, PUWARASAMKULAM and KUMILAKULAM areas in the north of VAVUNIYA killed two Tiger terrorists, destroyed eight overhead bunkers and one strong point of the LTTE during Monday (6).

Four more Tigers suffered injuries during those confrontations. Troops also destroyed one 120 mm mortar point and one LTTE strong point with eight overhead bunkers during the clashes.

Meanwhile, Troops in KILINOCHCHI destroyed three LTTE bunkers killing nine LTTE terrorists and injuring five more in an attack carried out on Monday (6) in AKKARAYANKULAM area.

In addition, Task Force (I) troops under the 59 Division destroyed four LTTE bunkers killing at least nine LTTE terrorists and injuring twenty-seven more during their confrontations with LTTE terrorists on Monday (6) in the general areas of ADAMPANKULA, MADAM, KIDIPPIDIKULAM, TERANKANDAL, ALANKULAM, ODRATTAKULAM, ANDANKULAM and GAJABAPURA.

One soldier also sacrificed his life during the confrontations. Six more soldiers received injuries, following explosion of LTTE anti personnel mines and during confrontations in TERANKANDAL and WADDAKATTU during Monday (6).

Meanwhile, troops in KILALY, JAFFNA killed one LTTE terrorist during a confrontation on Monday (6) at about 3.15 p.m.

France strongly condemned here Monday the suicide attack that was carried out this morning in Sri Lanka, calling in this regard for a political solution in that country.
The French Foreign Ministry said in a statement that France condemns with "deep firmness" the attack that targeted offices of the main political party in Sri Lanka, and which once again targeted the civilians in Sri Lanka. "France reiterates its condemnation of terrorism and insists on the need for a political solution in Sri Lanka in order that all people of Sri Lanka find peace and prosperity," the statement stressed.
A suicide bomber killed at least 27 people, including provincial head of the United National Party, a retired army chief of staff, and injured 80 others in the northern town of Anuradhapura.

A 26-year-old Tamil youth from Kaithadi in Jaffna, temporarily staying Colombo, was reported missing after going out on an errand 22nd September, according to a complaint registered by his mother with the Human Rights Commission (HRC) office in Jaffna. Meanwhile, another 24-year-old Tamil youth has disappeared in Cha'ndilippaay Jaffna after being arrested by the Sri Lanka Army (SLA) soldiers while he was on his way to a closeby Saiva temple, his mother said in a complaint to the HRC.
Kanagaratnam Matheep from Kaithadi Junction was staying temporarily in a lodge on Vivekananda Road in Wellawatte before traveling to a foreign country when he disappeared, his mother urther said in her complaint.

Perinpanayagam Paramanathan was on his way to the Cha'ndilippaay Cheerani Naakammaa'l Temple on the 30th of September when he was allegedly arrested by the SLA.

IT’S a frightening thought that professional human smugglers are peddling people from the war-torn country of Sri Lanka the chance to settle here . . . illegally!
Another revelation of breaches of our porous borders by gangs of criminals, intent on making money from the human tragedy afflicting the victims of civil war in their homeland.
National security advisers spilled the beans on the latest immigration scam besetting Papua New Guinea when confirming that 13 Tamils from Sri Lanka, caught in a Moresby nightclub, had been deported.
Sadly, they have been flown back to the place they were fleeing, Sri Lanka. We will probably never hear of their fate back there. Tamils are not the flavour of the month with the Sinhalese majority government there.
The two groups are involved in a desperately bloody struggle for ascendancy. Ambushes, air attacks and many killings have made life hard for many people in Sri Lanka.
That having been said, it should also be noted that Sri Lanka is the home to many well qualified professional people who have made new homes in Australia, New Zealand and other developed countries. It is not the professionals living there or in PNG that the focus is on.
It is those who have paid big money to human smugglers to get in our back door and to get jobs they are not entitled to.
Our government must up the pressure on government agencies, and provide them with the resources to do so, to prevent any unwanted, illegal aliens from slipping in and taking jobs they are not entitled to.
There is a strong groundswell of public opinion on this issue and the Government would be well advised to take note and show it is serious.
We don’t mind when people come in the front door, checked and approved with working skills that we need. But we deeply resent people being smuggled in, possibly without needed skills and qualifications, to add to the hordes of “mislaid’’ labourers, cooks and truck drivers from further North. These are the people who add to the plight of hundreds of thousands of our own people, who are dumped on the streets of our cities and towns after 12 or more years of education without much chance of getting a decent living.
It would be fair and just if our government ministers, fresh and revived from their overseas travels, could stand up and say clearly what they intend to do about this national disgrace.

Two Indian nationals who were alleged to have duped students promising to award Degree Certificates in Computer from a foreign university were last Thursday discharged by the Fort Magistrate’s Court.

The suspects Hani Kumar Chopra and Munish Dheer were discharged from the case subsequent to the withdrawal of the applications by the complainants. The prosecution informed court that no plaints will be filed against the suspects.

The suspects were earlier taken into custody by the Kollupitiya police on a complaint of cheating and breach of trust and remanded. Kollupitiya police conducted investigations into the complaint made by Pasin Madushan de Alwis of Kotte.

Complainant in his statement to the police stated that he joined the said institution which was said to be a BOI approved institution funded by Hani Kumar Chopra and Munish Dheer.

The complainant stated that he came to know about the said institution through newspaper advertisements. According to the advertisements, the said institution which was called Advance Cine Matrix and housed in R.A. de Mel Mawatha, Kollupitiya assured a foreign university certificate to the students on completion of a three dimensional graphic computer degree programme.

The Mayor of Kandy L.B Aluvihare is to bring out a special tax, a “Fire Hazard” fee to cover the illegal constructions and haphazard ‘wiring’ built over the years in the by-lanes in congested areas of the Central limits of Kandy.

The Mayor said ’ that the fire which occurred a few days ago right behind the Bank of Ceylon Super Branch, was in a congested area and that the reason for the fire was the haphazard manner in which electricity supply wires were connected within these premises. He said that this fire had been caused due to faulty electricity ‘wiring’, according to the fire report.

The illegal constructions were such that the two fire engines could not be moved over to the areas of the fire and it was a hazardous task for the firemen to quell the fire; yet they managed to do so and bring the fire under control without spreading it to other buildings.

He also said in future all ‘wiring’ in business organizations should also be checked and a report obtained from the Fire Officer of the Council.

Indian officials met with a senior Sri Lankan diplomat today to express grave concern and unhappiness about growing civilian casualties in Sri Lank

A fundamental rights petition that challenged teachers' boycotting of G.C.E. Advanced Level answer script marking has been withdrawn.
Filed by the mother of an A/L student in the Supreme Court, the petition cited the Education Minister and teacher union leaders among the respondents.

The Education Department informed the court today (Oct. 06th) that all evaluations, except a 40 per cent of science papers, now remained to be marked.

Thereafter, the petitioner withdrew the case.

Attorney Upul Jayasuriya, who represented Ceylon Teachers Union Chairman Joseph Stalin, told the SC that the Education Ministry and Department, Salaries Commission and teacher unions should collectively take a decision on eliminating salary anomalies of teachers.

He noted the recommendations that have been submitted do not have the consent of teacher unions.

Chief Justice Sarath N. Silva said he would close the hearing although the CTU chairman had reportedly said that he would not accept court rulings.

The three-day long strike by railway workers ended this afternoon (Oct. 06th) following mediation by Transport Minister Dallas Alahapperuma.
The work stoppage by locomotive drivers and railway guards concluded after Minister Alahapperuma held talks with trade union representatives.

Meanwhile, the Railway Superintendent has said only 50 trains, out of 300 on schedule, had operated today.

The strike was launched after the suspension of four railway workers following a fatal collision between two trains at Ganemulla Railway Station.

Colombo stocks were mixed at the close on Monday amidst gains by Richard Pieris & Co (RPC) and its subsidiary, Maskeliya Plantations where rumours on Friday of a takeover in this plantation company swept the market, brokers said.
Maskeliya Plantations gained by Rs 4.50 to Rs 34.50 for 1.6 million shares that were traded accounting for a sizable amount of the day’s turnover of Rs 131.4 million. RPC traded 469,000 shares at a price of Rs 47.75, up Rs 3 from previous levels.

On Friday, RPC Group officials rejected reports of a take-over bid at Maskeliya as the market reacted to a large stock of this share being traded. John Keells Holdings, much in the news these days, didn’t trade much … just 3,100 shares at an unchanged Rs 86.75.

The All Share Index fell by 0.34 points to 2,155.19 while the Milanka gained marginally by 1.79 points to 2,418.70.

ANURADHAPURA: A TOTAL of eighty-six injured civilians continue to receive treatment in the ANURADHAPURA hospital as post-mortems into death of twenty-seven civilians in the Monday (6) morning suicide attack got under way and some of their remains were delivered to the next of kin as the dusk fell.

Seventeen seriously injured civilians, admitted to Intensive Care Unit in the hospital underwent surgeries with the help of medical specialists and a neuro-surgeon, flown from COLOMBO with additional medical stocks.

An eye –witness to the explosion was quoted saying to the media that a short-haired guy with dark complexion was seen removing something from his chest side as Major General JANAKA PERERA (Retd) was finishing his brief address to the occasion.

Following personnel have been so far identified according to the Police;
a. Major General JANAKA PERERA (Retd)
b. Mrs. JANAKA PERERA
c. Dr. RAJA JOHNPULLE
d. Mrs. R JOHNPULLE
e. Mr. A.C.S HAMEED (Lawyer)
f. Mrs. JESIMA HAMEED (Lawyer)
g. Mr. SUNIL DISSANAYAKE (Provincial Councillor)
h. Ms. THANUJA RAJAPAKSA (Lawyer)
i. Mr. SHANTHA KUMARA PUNCHIHEWA (Former MP)
j. Mr. C.J RATHNAYAKA (Former Coroner)
k. Mr. M ANVARDEEN (Provincial Councillor)
l. Mr. A.C ABUBAKAR (House owner)
m. Mr. RASHMI MAHAROOF (Sirasa Journalist)
n. Mr. UPALI DABARE
o. Ms. BANDARA MENIKE

VAVUNIYA: SIX more lorries, trying to smuggle various items for the LTTE in secret compartments on the pretext of carrying food stocks into un-cleared areas were taken into custody with their drivers on Sunday (5).

Two thousand and nine hundred (2900) pen torch batteries, twenty eight (28) motor cycle batteries and a large quantity of vehicle spare parts were found kept hidden in those lorries (WPLC 9255, WPLC 9455 and NPJH 9699).

A similar checking conducted by the troops on a tip-off apprehended four more vehicles, remained parked at the THIRUNAVAKULAM vehicle park Sunday (5). According to initial investigations, three of them (NPJQ 2720, NPGY 8646 (fuel tanker) and 47-9915 (fuel tanker), belonging to LTTE’s finance wing were also taken into custody on reliable information. One more lorry (28 Sri 2145), believed to have been hired by Tiger terrorists was also taken into custody on suspicion.

Troops have meanwhile conducted a search and clear operation in the general area of ILLUPAIKULAM, north of VAVUNIYA on Sunday (5) at about 5.10 p.m. and recovered one suicide belt, one field dressing, one cap, three military type uniforms, two water cans, a few garments, eight packets of biscuits, two packs, two 9-V batteries, one military-type belt, two masks and some other personal items.

The same day (5), confrontations in the general areas of VEDAMAKULAM, CHAMALANKULAM and north of PALAMODDAI killed one terrorist and injured four. The explosion of a terrorist anti personnel mine in CHAMALANKULAM area injured one soldier.

JAFFNA: DURING confrontations between troops and terrorists in MUHAMALE and NAGARKOVIL on Sunday (5), one terrorist was killed and three were injured.

WELIOYA: LTTE terrorists, now furious and dejected over their continuing humiliating defeats in the WANNI battle fronts, appeared to have resorted to bloodbaths once again.

This was proved late Sunday (5) night at about 9.35 p.m. when infiltrated Tiger terrorists activated a claymore mine targeting a van that was carrying fish from PADAVIYA to KEBITIGOLLEWA area while it was in the general area of MAHANATIYAVA in ABIMANAPURA.

Two innocent civilians inside the van (NC-LE 0651) transporting fish from PADAVIYA to KEBITIGOLLEWA died on the spot following the explosion of the claymore mine. One more civilian injured in the blast was admitted to KEBITHIGOLLEWA hospital with critical injuries. Troops cordoned the area and commenced a search in the area.

Meanwhile, fighting in ANDANKULAM, WELIOYA area killed three terrorists on Sunday (5). Troops monitoring terrorist transmissions confirmed that at least nineteen terrorists were injured in day’s confrontations.

TRINCOMALEE: THE SERUNUWARA Police Sunday (5) morning recovered 500 g of C-4 explosives and one T-56 cleaning rod, kept wrapped in polythene and buried near the POONAGAR school. Security Forces maintain that LTTE has brought those items to the area and kept hidden to be used later for another criminal mission.

The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the terrorist attack on October 6 in Anuradhapura that claimed the lives of Major General (retired) Janaka Perera and Dr. Raja Johnpulle and their spouses. Also killed in this heinous suicide bombing, which occurred during the ceremonial opening of the office of the North Central Province opposition leader, were several members of the provincial council and numerous other innocent bystanders. We express our deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and the people of Sri Lanka.
Major General Perera led a distinguished career in the armed forces of Sri Lanka and subsequently as a diplomat in Australia and Indonesia. Dr. Johnpulle, a medical practitioner and the district manager of the United National Party for Anuradhapura, served his country as a diplomat in the former Soviet Union.
The United States denounces this reprehensible attack on civilians. Its perpetrators have advanced no cause other than to bring further suffering to the people of Sri Lanka. Only a political solution, not further violence, can provide a way forward to ending the country's deadly conflict.

Fitch Ratings Lanka has today affirmed People's Bank (Sri Lanka) (PB) at National Long-term 'A-(minus)(lka)' with Positive Outlook Fitch has also affirmed the bank's other ratings at Support '4' and Individual 'E'.
The Long-term and Support ratings reflect the expected level of support available to the bank from the Government of Sri Lanka (GOSL) due to its state ownership, systemic significance as the second largest bank in Sri Lanka, and strategic importance to the state. The Individual rating reflects the weak capital position of the bank, which is inadequate to meet regulatory capital adequacy ratios (CARs).
The Ministry of Finance and Planning (MOF) of the GOSL, in the form of a letter issued to PB, committed to an independent capital injection plan to inject LKR3.5bn in three installments of LKR1bn in October 2007, LKR1bn in December 2007 and LKR1.5bn in 2008. Fitch observes that the MOF infused only LKR1.5bn in December 2007 out of a total infusion of LKR2bn expected by end-2007. Management expects further infusions from the MOF by end-2008 as per the aforementioned letter.
Impacted by the operational risk charge under the Basel II framework effective in FY08, core CAR at the bank level fell below the regulatory minimum of 5% to 4.5% at H108 from 5.3% at FYE07. Total CAR remained below the regulatory minimum of 10% at 6.8% at the bank level and 8.4% at the group level at H108. PB relies on the 'Letter of Comfort' first issued in FY 1999 by the GOSL undertaking to support the bank with equity to the extent required meet minimum capital requirements.
The Positive Outlook reflects Fitch's expectation that the bank will receive capital infusions from the MOF by end-2008, and the implementation of other measures on the part of the bank, to meet the regulatory minimum core CAR of 5% and total CAR of 10% at the bank level by FYE08. Failure to do so would result in a revision of the Outlook to Stable and the National Long-term rating remaining at 'A-(minus)(lka)'.
PB's post-tax return on asset (ROA) decreased to 0.94% in FY07 from 1.19% in FY06, mainly due to the rise in effective taxes (FY07: 58.6%; FY06:45.1%), although pre-tax ROA increased slightly to 2.3% in FY07 from 2.2% in FY06. ROA is constrained by lower net interest margins and substantial operating costs (cost/income ratio of 59.7% in FY07). Internal capital generation is also hampered by the high payouts to GOSL in the form of special levies. The equity/asset ratio rose to 4.1% at FYE07 from 3.4% at FYE06 but nonetheless remains relatively low compared to the average 7% reported by the six systemically important banks, excluding PB.
PB's gross non-performing loan (NPL) ratio decreased to 5.9% at FYE07 from 7.1% at FYE06 on account of focussed recoveries, but increased to 6.4% at H108 due to the challenging macroeconomic environment. The bank's net NPL/equity ratio improved to 17.9% at FYE07 from 24.5% at FYE06, mainly on account of an increase in equity, but declined to 22.5% at H108. Fitch expects asset qualityand solvency to decline due to the more stringent regulatory classification of NPLs and the impact of prevailing economic conditions.
PB is one of the main bankers to GOSL and state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Consequently, credit exposure to the state sector (GOSL and SOEs) constituted 14% of loans at FYE07. Total balance sheet exposure to the state sector (including government securities and loans) accounted for 26% of assets at FYE07.
PB is the second largest bank in Sri Lanka, and accounted for 15.8% of banking system assets at FYE07. The bank is 92.27%-owned by GOSL and 7.73%-owned by co-operative societies.

The Government of Japan has provided US$ 185,071(approximately Rs. 20
million) to JEN, a Japanese humanitarian organization under the NGO Grant
Aid Scheme to support the livelihood of returnees in the Kiran Divisional
Secretariat area in the Batticaloa District. The objective of the project is
to assist these returnee’s resettlement through supporting their
self-reliant livelihood both economically and psycho-socially.



JEN was established in 1994 and implements emergency and rehabilitation
assistance in areas where people are affected by conflict or natural
disaster in the world, such as in Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran,
Sudan, India, Pakistan, Eritrea, Chechen, Lebanon, Myanmar, Mongolia, and
Japan. In Sri Lanka, JEN started its operation in the aftermath of the
tsunami in 2004. Since completing Tsunami operations, JEN has been focusing
on the people who were affected by the conflict and has successfully
implemented livelihood and psycho-social programs in the South and in the
East part of Sri Lanka.



The project will provide livelihood rehabilitation and psycho-social support
from October 2008 to August 2009. The livelihood rehabilitation support
includes 3 activities; 1) agriculture livelihood support, 2) in-land fishery
livelihood support, and 3) home gardening. It will provide seeds for
cultivation, agriculture tools, technical training, canoes and fishing nets.
Under this project the fisheries cooperative society will be further
strengthened through capacity building workshops. The psycho-social support
provides conflict affected persons with individual and group/mass counseling
conducted by competent psychologists and social workers. Moreover, children’s emotional needs are also taken care of through recreation activities. The
psychologists and a social workers will monitor the children and provide
counseling, when necessary.



The official signing ceremony of the Grant Contract took place on 6th
October 2008 between Mr. Kaoru Shimazaki, Chargé ď Affaires of Embassy of
Japan, and Mr. Shu Nishimaru, Head of JEN Colombo Main Office in the
presence of other officials at the Embassy of Japan in Colombo.

The new World Bank Country Assistance Strategy for Sri Lanka was discussed at a workshop today where its emphasis on participation by communities across the war-torn island was welcomed as critical to achieving equitable development.

The new strategy, prepared in broad consultation with Sri Lankan communities, will guide the development institution’s work from 2009 to 2012. Its main strategic objectives are threefold. The first is to create opportunities for equitable growth and economic development, especially in lagging regions of the country. The second is to help Sri Lanka accelerate economic growth by fostering a competitive investment climate and the third is to help the country ensure that service delivery is effective and accountable to citizens.

A new feature of the strategy is a “conflict filter” designed to help the World Bank ensure that its support to the government is insulated from possible distortions by the ongoing conflict. Just as important, opportunities to address the causes and consequences of conflict will be proactively identified during the implementation of the strategy.

“The conflict filter will require projects to demonstrate that benefits are transparently distributed based on objective criteria and potential tensions are mitigated through broad-based consultations and credible grievance redress mechanisms,” said World Bank Country Director for Sri Lanka Naoko Ishii. “And to check that we are meeting these requirements we have set ourselves we will use third-party monitoring to shed light on any tensions or irregularities around issues like beneficiary selection for example.”

Ishii said the North and East of the country had been most severely affected by the last 25 years of fighting and there had been a massive displacement of people. The Bank would emphasize efforts to improve access to public services and help create livelihood opportunities in these areas, with a particular focus on the rehabilitation of roads, irrigation networks, water supply, housing as well as health and education services.

She added that the Bank would also support efforts designed to address the causes and consequences of conflict. This could be achieved, for example, in education programs by supporting English as a link language and working towards mixed Tamil-Sinhala schooling and teachers’ education.

She said the Bank was mindful of the risks in an extremely complex environment like the Eastern Province where work had begun with the new provincial council. The application of the conflict filter to ensure that communities were equitably served and could come together around common goals was all the more critical to govern work in difficult circumstances, she said.

The discussion on helping lagging regions picked up strongly on the theme of community participation, empowerment and ownership of development efforts. Speakers cautioned the Bank to remember the lessons of the Integrated Rural Development projects of the ‘80s and early ‘90s where supply-driven rural infrastructure was doomed to become unsustainable as there was little or no local ownership. The need to involve local communities and local political leaders in development decisions, particularly in the North and East, was emphasized during this session.

The workshop agreed that improving the investment climate and competitiveness was critical for growth and poverty reduction. Efforts to boost competitiveness should focus on areas like public infrastructure, targeted support to key sectors like small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ICT and tourism and a stronger framework for public-private partnerships.

The International Finance Corporation, the private sector window of the World Bank and a partner in the new strategy, also underlined the importance of helping Sri Lanka address its infrastructure needs while making more room for the SMEs that were critical to building economic opportunity for Sri Lankans.

“For many communities access to SME finance can be the beginning of a path out of poverty,” said Per Kjellerhaug, IFC Regional Manager.

Speakers were also concerned to emphasize the importance of macroeconomic stability if foreign investors were to find Sri Lanka attractive. High inflation was hurting Sri Lankan wage earners while high public expenditure was curbing growth. And there was some frustration that many of the impediments to improving the investment climate – like access to SME finance, electrification costs and low levels of Research and Development spending – were not new, but have been holding Sri Lanka back for many years.

The third strategic objective of the Bank strategy, enhancing quality services and accountability was of central importance to Sri Lanka's human development and social progress, participants agreed. The Bank’s program focused on education at not only basic and secondary levels but sought to strengthen higher education institutions to deliver programs in areas relevant to the economy. Support to the health sector focused on non-communicable diseases and Sri Lanka’s ageing population. Capacity building of environmental agencies was designed to underpin efforts to ensure environmentally sustainable economic growth and social protection needed better targeting and cost effectiveness to meet the citizens’ needs.

Participants noted that the main challenge to the implementation of the program would be the complex governance arrangements at the national, provincial and local authority levels of the government.

Ishii called on participants to see this workshop as the first of many such consultations in future which the Bank would seek in order to more effectively implement the objectives of its strategy and see ideas turned into real development results on the ground, she said.

by Jehan Perera

The belief that victory on the military battlefield is imminent is bringing out inner feelings that are often suppressed by gentility and the desire not to offend others. Things not commonly said before in public in recent years are now being said so publicly with victory believed to be in sight. This is not unique to Sri Lanka, nor is it new to us. When the Tamil militancy seemed to be on the winning track there were those who referred to the militants as their boys, much to chagrin of their ethnic counterparts.

Now the opposite seems to be the case. Army Commander Sarath Fonseka's much quoted public statement that Sri Lanka is a Sinhalese country and the ethnic minorities should not make undue demands is only one expression of Sinhalese nationalism. The Army Commander's sense of national pride quite possibly has a wider Sinhalese consensus behind it. It is a Sinhalese construct. But it is not one owned or professed by either Tamils or Muslims, and in fact it has been denounced by the political leaders of those communities. It is not only the ethnic minorities who should not make undue demands of the state.

When Army Commander Sarath Fonseka speaks today there is a strong national and international inclination to listen to him. This is because he has promised much and also delivered much. He has given leadership to a resurgent Sri Lankan military and to the majority of Sinhalese who believe that a military victory over the LTTE is achievable. The LTTE's strongholds that seemed impenetrable even a few months ago have been falling one after the other. Also the blame or credit for equating Sinhalese nationalism with Sri Lankan nationalism cannot be given to the Army Commander alone.

The inability or the unwillingness of the political leadership of the government to contradict General Fonseka is revealing. It indicates that the dominant beliefs of the present government may be in conformity with those of Sinhalese nationalism. So General Fonseka is not speaking alone. He is speaking along with the government. But he is not only speaking for the government. He is also saying what government allies such as the JHU and opposition parties such as the JVP have also been saying.


SINHALESE BELIEF

The opinion that Sri Lanka is a Sinhalese country is not a new one. It is also there in the ancient history of the Sinhalese, compiled in the historical chronicle, the Mahavamsa, more than 1500 years ago. The Mahavamsa records that Lord Buddha himself directed the Gods to protect Lanka and the Sinhalese with the duty of safeguarding Buddhism in the millennia to come. This thinking is deeply ingrained in the belief system of many Sinhalese including, it appears, the country's political leaders.

When I was a student doing research on the ethnic conflict many years ago, I stayed in a Sinhalese village in the North Western province. The farmer I stayed with was named "Ravul Dharme" on account of his long beard. He explained to me that he had made a promise not to cut his beard until the government of the day was removed from power. As that government stayed in office for 17 years, his beard was exceedingly long. One day I asked him what was the cause of the ethnic conflict. He said it was easy to understand, and immediately launched into his explanation.

Ravul Dharme had given me the front room of his house to stay in which was like an annex and could be separated from the rest of the house simply by closing the main door. He said, "You are my guest and I have given you the front room of my house to stay in for as long as you like." I thanked him. Then he went on to say, "Suppose that after staying here for six months you suddenly announced that this front room now belonged to you, would that not be unfair?" I agreed with him. He replied that this was what the Tamils were trying to do to the Sinhalese.

The relative absence of protest or dissent from members of the Sinhalese community to the words of the Army Commander either indicate that they also agree with him or they are not prepared to challenge him. Either way this would be a blow to the ethnic minorities who number about a quarter of the country's population. They too are legally equal citizens of the country, with Sri Lankan identity cards and voting rights, and passports if they travel abroad. They are neither intruders or outsiders. They too belong to the country, and the country belongs to them.


DISSENTING VOICE

In the recent past there has been only a handful of prominent leaders from amongst the Sinhalese people who have been prepared to publicly challenge the forces of Sinhalese nationalism. One very special leader was former President Chandrika Kumaratunga. Unfortunately she delayed too long to have a real and lasting impact on the people. It was only in her last years in office that she rose most magnificently to the great duty she had before her, to educate the country about its being a multi ethnic and multi religious one. She delivered speech after speech, but before she could convert words into deeds, her time at the top was up.

At the time that President Kumaratunga left office, more than 70 percent of those polled in public opinion polls expressed support for a political solution to the ethnic conflict rather than a military solution. But three years later, the good work that the former President did has been eroded by the nationalist propaganda of the present time, and the proportions are almost reversed amongst the majority Sinhalese component population. This support for militarism over political reform is also due to the LTTE's intransigence and predictions of total victory over the LTTE that is said to be near at hand.

Those who are in agreement with General Fonseka's assessment that Sri Lanka is a Sinhalese country need to put his statement in context. In an earlier statement, General Fonseka said that even if the LTTE is militarily defeated and the territory under its control is got back, the ethnic conflict will not end. He predicted that a thousand cadre from the remnants of the LTTE could remain active to destabilise the country for another twenty years, and it was even possible that the ethnic conflict would continue indefinitely.

Obtaining conditions of peace in a multi ethnic, multi religious and politically dynamic country requires a measure of consensus not only within the largest community, but also between the different communities. It is unlikely that the Tamil political consciousness that has sought power sharing, autonomy and equal rights for over seventy years, since the time of the Donoughmore Constitution of the pre-Independence period, can be suppressed by military means. It is more likely that resentment will permeate the Tamil people in the absence of a negotiated political solution that they believe is just to them. In such a situation, even in defeat, the LTTE is likely to retain sufficient Tamil support both locally and from the expatriate Tamil community to continue to survive to fight, destabilise and impoverish Sri Lanka for the foreseeable future.

Regardless of the battles to come, and to be won, there is a need for a political solution that will bring an end to the ethnic conflict. The willing consent of the ethnic minorities is necessary for such a lasting and stable solution. A political solution that is based on military victory and Sinhalese supremacy cannot be acceptable to any self respecting member of the ethnic minorities. This is the type of thinking that can lead to everlasting war. A viable political solution can only based on the position that Sri Lanka belongs equally to all its citizens, be they from the ethnic majority or minorities, and finding ways to accommodate all of their reasonable aspirations.








I

The Police and the Army are jointly conducting an extensive investigation into the suicide blast occurred in Anuradhapura this morning. Police spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara says ten special teams have been deployed to probe the blast.
Senior DIG Jayantha Gamage is now in Anuradhapura to investigate the incident under advice of the IGP. Two SSPs have also been appointed to conduct investigations. The Magistrate’s enquiry is now being held. The police spokesman said the government’s analyst is also in the area to examine the site of the blast.
27 persons including Opposition leader of the North Central Provincial Council Major General Janaka Perera and his wife have been killed in the suicide blast occurred in Anuradhapura .

Dr. Raja John Pulle and his wife have also been killed in the attack. The police say four lawyers and the UNP organiser of Vavuniya also died in the blast. Rashmi Maharoof, a provincial reporter of Sirasa TV was also killed. 80 persons were injured. Director of the Anuradhapura General Hospital Dr. Sarath Weerabandara said that 15 of the injured are in critical condition. Name lists of the injured persons have been prepared. He requests the public not to enter the hospital unnecessarily disturbing the treatment of patients.
The blast occurred at the opening of a new UNP office at Priman Road in Anuradhapura. The suicide bomber blew him self inside the office after invitees lighted the traditional oil lamp.

Major General Janaka Perera joined the Sri Lanka Army as a Cadet Officer in 1966. He retired from the service in 2001 after serving 34 years. The Major General received RWP, RSP, VSV, USP, rcds and psc during his carrier. He then acted as the Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Australia and the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Indonesia. He is coincided as one of the most distinguished generals in Sri Lanka who launched successful operations against terrorists.
He was played a major role during Operation Riviresa which lead to the liberation of the Jaffna peninsula, during which he commanded the 53 Division. Following the fall Elephant Pass in April 2000 which forced the SL Army units in Jaffna to fall back due to lack of fixed defence positions, Perera was appointed Overall Operations Commander and tasked with countering the LTTE offensive.
Launching several effective counter-offensives that halted the LTTE advance, removing the treat to the Jaffna peninsula and succeeded in established the current defense line in the Jaffna peninsula.

The government vehemently condemns the LTTE suicide blast occurred at the opening of a UNP office in Anuradhapura in Monday.
Minister of Information and Media Anura Priyadarshana Yapa extended condolences on behalf of the government to the blast victims including Major General Janaka Perera. He said all these deaths are a great loss to the country. The Minister pointed out the need of the public to act wisely at this crucial moment.
The LTTE facing severe defeat at the hands of the security forces in the north are attempting to create a chaotic situation in the south. Minister Yapa said the suicide blast in Anuradhapura is one of such attempts by the terrorists and the public should be cautious regarding this situation.

CHENNAI: Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on Sunday exhorted party cadres and others to send telegrams to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh urging him to intervene immediately and stop the genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka.

In a press release, the Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam (DMK) chief said the time had come for every Indian to demand a ceasefire in the island nation to end the ethnic conflict and safeguard the lives of Tamils there.

He wanted the Centre to act immediately and stop the ongoing military attack on Tamils in Sri Lanka so that peace could return to the troubled regions.
Chief Minister M Karunanidhi must capitalise on the unity factor among all political leaders in the state on the Sri Lankan issue and prevail upon Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to find a lasting solution to the ethnic problem, PMK founder leader Dr S Ramadoss said on Sunday.

Welcoming Karunanidhi’s proposal on sending lakhs of telegrams to the Prime Minister on the issue, he wanted the DMK president to make use of his good offices with External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee and if possible lead an all-party delegation to New Delhi.

Ramadoss said he sent a telegram to the Prime Minister in response to the Chief Minister’s request on Sunday.

He had also asked his party cadres to send similar telegrams to the Prime Minister.

Minister of Urban Development and Sacred Areas Development, Dinesh Gunawardena has sealed a 15 million Euros worth of credit from Spain's Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA) to build a warehouse complex fitting to international standards.

This credit facility which will be provided on a flexible interest rate is repayable in 15 – 20 years.

Spain's second-largest financial company by market value, BBVA is a multinational financial services group operating in 32 countries.

Asian elephants are renowned as highly social animals and the reservoir meetings demonstrate their complex group dynamics in action.As evening falls, a female elephant and her pink-skinned baby emerge from the jungle for a leafy snack around an ancient artificial lake in Sri Lanka.

They are just two of hundreds of wild elephants that gather each evening along the banks of the Minneriya reservoir for food, water, shelter -- and match-making.

From July to October, "The Gathering" -- as it is known -- gives humans the chance to observe the elephants feasting and frolicking on the water's edge.

Mothers encourage their off-spring towards the water, making sure that no calf is left stranded. Young males use their trunks to wrestle each other, while adult bulls sniff the air to scent fertile females.

Tucked away in the island's north central province, Minneriya provides an ideal venue for hungry elephants during the dry season when waterholes in the forests evaporate into cracked mud patches.

A shade-loving animal, the Asian elephant is not blessed with as good a cooling system as its bigger African cousin, which has large ears.

So it is only in the cool of dusk that the elephants emerge from the scrub to relax by the lake.

During the season, 300 elephants can be found along the Minneriya reservoir, built by Sri Lankan King Mahasen in the third century.

The reservoir fills during the north-east monsoon and gradually shrinks when the dry season sets in.

But instead of running dry, the receding water leaves behind a fertile, moist soil from which lush, nutritious grass quickly sprouts, said conservationist Srilal Miththapala.

The reservoir is also surrounded by scrub jungle which provides good cover to elephants to retreat into quickly if needed, he said.

"The atmosphere gives an ideal setting for a world phenomenon, where a high concentration of Asian elephants can be found in one small area," explained Chandra Jayawardene, a naturalist at Hotel Vil Uyana.

Sri Lankan wildlife defies conventional wisdom, said Gehan Wijeyeratne, who heads the country's Jetwing Eco Holidays.

"Small islands like ours are not supposed to have large animals," Wijeyeratne told AFP. "The gathering is one of the largest concentration of Asian elephants on Earth."

Local hoteliers are trying to cash in on the spectacle, as they struggle to fill hotel rooms amid an escalation in the war between government troops and separatist Tamil Tiger rebels.

The tropical island was expecting 600,000 visitors this year, up 20 percent from 2007, to boost tourism receipts to 550 million dollars.

But Sri Lankan Tourism said such targets would be missed as earnings for January to July 2008 were a disappointing 200 million dollars.

"Several bomb blasts around the country have played a major role in the reduction of tourist arrivals," said tourism ministry secretary George Michael.

Jayawardene said an increase in the number of foreign visitors would provide much-needed support for the local economy, but the balance between human activity and wildlife has proved hard to achieve.

Asian elephants, which live until about the age of 70, are increasingly straying into human settlement in search of food, as people encroach on their territory.

And some elephants are thought to have fled their habitats to avoid artillery duels between troops and rebels in the north and east.

According to Sri Lanka's wildlife department, 193 elephants died in 2007 and 171 died in 2006. Most of them were either shot, poisoned or electrocuted.

The population has now shrunk to 4,500 from 12,000 a century ago.

"You can't completely stop the human against elephant conflict," said Jayawardene, who worked for 30 years at the government's wildlife department.

"But, with education and money coming into local hands through elephant safaris, we can minimise the damage. Locals will treat the elephants with respect and learn to live alongside them," he said.

An LTTE suicide bomber blew up himself targeting a function organized by the United National Party (UNP) in Anuradhapura this morning (Oct 6).

According to the defence sources, over 25 civilians including, Opposition Leader of the North Central Province (NCP), Major General (Retired) Janaka Perera and his wife were killed in the bomb attack that was taken place around 8.45 AM.

Also, over 90 civilians were injured, out of which 15 are in serious conditions, said the sources. Among the diseased, UNP district manager for Anuradhapura, Mr. John Pulle , his wife and several other prominent opposition party activists were also there , the sources added.

The bomb attack was taken place at a ceremony organized to open the newly built UNP office situated near old bus stand in the Anuradhapura town.

Major General Janaka Perera joined Sri Lanka Army as cadet officer in 1966 and retired after 34 years of service in 2001. After retirement he was appointed as the Sri Lankan Ambassador in Australia. In 2008, he contested for the NCP as the Chief Ministerial candidate of the UNP.

Major General Janaka Perera (Retd), RWP, RSP, VSV, USP, rcds, psc also served as the Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army (2000-2001). He was educated at the St. Joseph's College. He received his basic training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in England. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Ceylon Engineers. Maj. Gen Perera is a graduate of the Royal College of Defence Studies.

LTTE is a ruthless terrorist organization that has been engaged in a brutal terrorist war against Sri Lankan citizen since 1983. Influenced by their psychopathic leader, Prabhakaran, LTTE terrorists have been unleashing violence against Sri Lankans by way of suicide bombings, bus bombings, train bombings, ethnic cleansing raids , village massacres etc during last 3 decades. Over 70,000 people have been killed due to the terrorist war during this time.

Also, LTTE has assassinated number of political leaders who took strong stance against terrorism including late President Ranasingha Premadasa, former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi , UNP Presidential candidate in 1994 Gamini Dissanayake , and many others.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa speaking at a ceremony to distribute lands to the landless at Uyanwatta, Matara today(Oct 6), condemned the covertly and brutal act of terrorism carried out at Anuradhapura, assassinating Major General Janaka Perera, Leader of the Opposition, North Central Provincial Council along with 28 others and injuring scores of others.

The President expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and called on blessings for the speedy recovery of those injured.

The President said this attack was a further proof of the need for everyone to unite for the success of the ongoing campaign to eradicate terrorism in the country. He added that in the context of severe setbacks the LTTE is facing in what were reportedly its strongholds in the North; it is now making every attempt to create violent backlashes in other parts of the country, and urged the public to act cautiously in the face of such provocation.

Major General Janaka Perera as a Military Commander in Welioya and Jaffna led several campaigns against the LTTE. Today's LTTE suicide killer attack took place at a ceremony to mark the opening of a new office of the UNP in Anuradhapura. Among the others dead are Mrs. Janaka Perera, Dr. Johnpulle, UNP Organiser for Anuradhapura and his wife and some members of the North Central Provincial Council. Investigations are in progress.

Air force fighter jets launched effective air raids at two LTTE artillery launching pads located 14km North of Nachchikudda, in Kilinochchi, Monday (Oct 6) at 11.15 a.m.

According to Air Force Spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, the air sorties completed successfully.

Defence sources in the frontlines reveal that troops during yesterday's operations (Oct 5) kept the momentum of their advance in the south of Kilinochchi and the west of Mankulam areas despite heavy resistance from LTTE.

According to the sources, troops of 57 division operating in the east of Akkarayankulam area confronted with a group of terrorist around 8.30 AM . A soldier was killed in this incident while the exact damage caused to the enemy was not known.

In a similar incident occurred in the same area, around 1 PM a soldier was killed and two others suffered injuries. Troops claimed heavy damages to the enemy.

Later, in the evening troops attacked two terror bunkers located in the west of Akkarayankulam area in separate incidents. Troops claimed 4 terrorists were killed and 4 more terrorists sustained injuries in one and confirmed 3 terrorists were killed in the other incident.

During a separate search in the east of Akkarayankulam, troops found a decomposed body of an LTTE cadre along with a T-56 riffle at 2.45 PM.

Meanwhile, 57 division troops operating in the eastern flank of the Kilinochchi front attack an LTTE bunker located in the Vannivilankulam area at 10.20 AM. 3 soldiers suffered injuries in this confrontation. During subsequent search, troops found 3 T-56 riffles. Troops claimed heavy damages to the terrorists. Also, a soldier suffered injuries due to a booby trap explosion occurred elsewhere, around 3.50 PM.

Intercepted LTTE radio transmissions revealed that 7 terrorists were killed and 9 others were injured due to artillery fire directed at the north of Akkarayankulam and west of Iranamadu areas during the day.

Disaster Management and Human Rights Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe yesterday urged displaced civilians living in the Wanni to follow suit making use of the proposed humanitarian corridor following the re-location of aid agencies from Kilinochchi to Vavuniya.

The Minister added that arrangements had been made to make Vavuniya a humanitarian assistance hub to cater to an expected exodus of IDPs who have been moving deeper into Mullaitivu due to LTTE pressure.

Authorities said the military had demarcated two No-Fire Zones in Oddusudan and Viswamadu for the Internally Displaced People to escape non-liberated areas as troops came within two kilometres of Kilinochchi town limits yesterday.

These zones, each of 10 square kilometre area in Mullaitivu, are to provide escape routes for fleeing civilians with military providing assistance when the IDPs reach their areas.

However assistance provided to the displaced in the Wanni would keep flowing uninterrupted, the Minister added with another convoy consisting of 750-1,000 tons of dry rations being transported to Wanni during the week with WFP help.

He said authorities would clear a secure avenue to help IDPs reaching Vavuniya, which would be protected from the conflict.

Commenting on the withdrawal of men and material by United Nations and other aid groups from Wanni in response to the Government's request to relocate considering safety reasons, Minister Samarasinghe said he had received comprehensive statements from these organisations with regard to their work and logistics movements.

While noting that most of the equipment these organisations possessed had been brought to Vavuniya according to preliminary reports, the Minister however stressed that authorities were in the process of perusing detailed descriptions of logistics provided by them to get a more clearer picture.

Ones left behind have been mentioned in these reports as either been given to the GAs to facilitate humanitarian needs or has been disabled to prevent from being put to military use by the LTTE.

However there were reports regarding some stolen equipment as well in these reports, the Minister added.

The Government allowed these equipment to be taken to these areas purely on the understanding that these would be used to facilitate humanitarian needs and not otherwise, Minister Samarasinghe said adding that submitted reports by aid agencies would be compared with an inventory which authorities possessed to verify details.

While noting that the whole exercise had been done in a systematic and professional manner the Minister said this would enable continuity and would also lead to a better understanding between the two parties in addition to strengthening ties.

These organisations would be given assistance to continue their work unhindered by directing operations from Vavuniya, Minister Samarasinghe said.

LTTE terrorists carried out a cowardly claymore attack targeting a civilian vehicle in Mahametiyawa , on the Padaviya- Kebethigollawa road, last night (Oct 5).

According to the defence sources, the terrorists exploded two remotely operated claymore mines targeting a mini-truck transporting fishery products around 9.30 PM. Two civilians were killed and another suffered injuries in the explosion.

A search operations has been launched in the area.

Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna will be sworn in as a National list MP of the UPFA on Tuesday, a spokesman for the TMVP (Thamil Makkal Vidudalai Pulikkal) said.

He will be replacing JVP Wasantha Samarasinghe who resigned to contest the North Central Provincial council elections.

Lanka Ecom Technologies Limited (LET) recently signed an agreement to provide Palmtop Banking Solutions to Ceylinco Investments & Realty Ltd and thus facilitate the smoother operation of its activities island wide. This application will henceforth be used by CIR’s strong mobile staff and business development officers to promote their savings products among customers all over Sri Lanka.

Executive Director of Lanka Ecom Technologies Shanaz Sheriff said that with the novel concept of Palmtop Banking rapidly gaining popularity all over the world, its use in Sri Lanka was a logical step. “The concept of Palmtop Banking was first introduced to Sri Lanka by Chairman of Ceylinco Consolidated Deshamanya Dr. Lalith Kotelawala and initially used by the Seylan Bank PLC and The Finance Company PLC. It has since revolutionised business operations with customers”.

JT. Executive Director of Ceylinco Investments & Realty Ltd Hiran Gunasekara said, “Our staff members will henceforth be equipped with a palmtop gadget commonly known as a PDA, along with a mobile printer. This PDA application has been enabled to interact with the core banking application to invoke account related activities as and when our staff visits customers on location. The advantage of this application is that it can reach far off and remote locations which normal banking operations find difficult to reach. This is also an ideal solution for customers since they no longer need to waste time coming to us. On the contrary we are able to provide them with a speedier and more personalised service”.

The latest BOI Company to open under the 300 Enterprise Programme is the garment manufacturing plant of Benji Ltd., constructed at Bingiriya, Chilaw .


Dott. Sandro Veronesi, President of Calzedonia Spa, an Italian company will formally open this factory on 8th October. Benji’s decision to open 5 manufacturing plants in Sri Lanka is proof of their confidence in the island’s investment climate. The latest factory, located at Bingiriya, is state of the art.



Dr. Sarath Amunugama, Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion will be the Chief Guest at the factory opening ceremony.


The investment of this project totals Rs.175 Billion and employment generated is 2,000. Hence Benji Ltd with plays an important role in creating new opportunities for the people of Bingiriya. The factory is part of the 300 Enterprises Programme, which is a progressive scheme of the Government of Sri Lanka to bring employment and other economic benefits to the less favoured areas. It is an integral part of the Mahinda Chinthana Programme of the Government. Benji’s products will be exported to European and North American markets under world renowned brand names such as Calzedonia, Intimissimi and Tezenis and other reputed brands.

The UNP is calling for an international level investigation into the bomb blast in Anuradhapura that killed North Central Province Opposition Leader retired Maj. Gen. Janaka Perera.

The attack this morning (Oct. 06th) left 27 UNP activists dead and 80 others wounded.

Speaking to the media in Colombo, General Secretary of the party Tissa Attanayake said they suspected foul play, adding that the investigation by the government could not be trusted.

The LTTE, Pillayan Group or any other group or politician may have killed Maj. Gen. Perera, but the foundation for his murder was laid by a top official in the Defence Ministry and the Rajapaksa regime, Mr. Attanayake alleged.

Therefore, the incident should be investigated at international level, he said.

"Top terrorist Pillayan travels in bulletproof vehicles courtesy Rajapaksa government. LTTE breakaway Karuna Amman is given state protection. However, General Janaka Perera who had rendered a great service to the country and nation died as a civilian without any protection."

The government should take full responsibility for the killing, following repeated safety concerns raised by him due to threats from the LTTE, Pillayan Group and government politicians, Mr. Attanayake said.

Days before the killing, east chief minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan had been seen in several areas of Anuradhapura and a major search was conducted at the weekend.

"So, how can a suicide bomber enter the town? Whose fault is it that the bomber could not be caught during the search?," the UNP General Secretary asked.

When he had been serving in the army, Maj. Gen. Perera was a hero for the government, but as soon as a he was announced as the UNP's election candidate, he suddenly became a traitor.

His rival candidate Berty Premalal Dissanayake was given hundreds of security personnel, while Maj. Gen. Perera lost even his handful of bodyguards after the election, Mr. Attanayake claimed.

Speaking further, he condemned DIG K.P.P. Pathirana for his statement that the police had not been informed of the opening of the UNP office in Anuradhapura.

Pursuant to a log entry (4149/2008) at Anuradhapura Headquarters Police, sergeant Udaya Kumara (24993) and constables Bandara (61967), Wijesinghe (54410) and Bandara (34825) had been sent to the location, Mr. Attanayake revealed.

Therefore, DIG Pathirana should resign immediately or the IGP should suspend him, for having misled the country by making false statements, the UNP General Secretary added.

Five media organisations have expressed their deep sorrow over the death of TV journalist Rashmi Mohamed this morning in Anuradhapura in a suicide blast.

Rashmi, provincial correspondent of Sirasa TV, was covering the opening ceremony of the new office of the United National Party in Anuradhapura, close to the old bus stand.

The explosion at the ceremony killed more than 20 people including the Leader of the Opposition of the North Central Provincial Council, Major General Janaka Perera, and other leading UNP figures in the area.

Nearly 80 people were injured.

"Our organisations have time and again expressed our complete rejection of the use of violence as way of resolving social and political issues. We condemn this heinous attack on unarmed civilians as a crime against humanity," a statement by five media said.

"While expressing our deepest sympathies with the families and friends of the deceased, we urge the government to initiate an impartial and speedy inquiry into the circumstances of this dastardly act."

"We would also reiterate the need for more awareness and safety training for journalists working in challenging security environments," it added.

The statement has been signed by Sri Lanka Working Journalists Association, Federation of Media Employees Trade Union, Sri Lanka Muslim Media Forum, Sri Lanka Tamil Journalists Alliance and Free Media Movement.

Nugegoda Magistrate has issued arrest warrants for Sakvithi Ranasinghe and seven others including veteran media personality, Edwin Ariyadasa.

Major General Janaka Perera , his wife , Dr.Raja Johnpulle and 22 others were killed due to a bomb blast near the old bus stand in Anuradhapura this morning .

The police say opposition leader of the North central Provincial Council Janaka Perera was participating in the opening of a UNP office at Priman Road in Anuradhapura. Around 80 persons have also been injured.
Meanwhile our sources say Sirasa Correspondent of the Anuradhapura area Rashmi Maharoof was killed due to the blast.

A protest picketing campaign will be held on Monday at 12.00 noon opposite
the Canadian High Commission, Colombo against the irresponsible attitude of the High
Commission and the highhanded manner in which application made by Dr.
Wikramabahu Karunaratne for a temporary entry visa was rejected.
Political parties, Trade Unions and mass organization concerned with protection
of fundamental rights are expected to participate in this protest campaign, said
Ranath Kumarsingha , Propaganda secretary of the New Left Front's .

UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake, said in a press release that the statement made by Army commander Sarath Fonseka that the minorities have no right to make unnecessary demands is a violation of the constitution.

All Nationals have contributed to the struggle to secure independence for Sri Lanka. There are National heroes among all races, he added.

The constitution ensures the right of every citizen of all races to live in harmony sans discrimination. Hence, the Army commander has either betrayed his ignorance of the constitutional rights or is irresponsible, he asserted.

The opposition parties yesterday (04) decided to write a letter denying the statement made by the Army Commander to a Canadian newspaper was against the constitution of Sri Lanka and the stance expressed by the President addressing the UN General Assembly.
"I strongly believe that this country belongs to the Sinhalese but there are minority communities and we treat them like our people...We being the majority of the country, 75%, we will never give in and we have the right to protect this country...We are also a strong nation ... They can live in this country with us. But they must not try to, under the pretext of being a minority, demand undue things,” said the-Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, General Sarath Fonseka in an interview with Stewart Bell of the National Post newspaper of Canada, published on 23rd September 2008.

The meeting of the opposition parties was summoned by Colombo former Deputy Mayor Asath Sali and it was held in Asath Sali Foundation in Barns Place.

United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party People’s Wing, Left Front, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress, All Lanka Muslim Congress, Western People’s Front, Muslim Media Forum and United Socialist Party representatives participated in the discussion.

The leader of Democratic Left Front Vasudeva Nanayakkara, Tamil National Alliance leader R. Sambanthan, Vimal Rodrigo of Lanka Samasamaja Party and D.E.W. Gunasekara of Communist Party were also invited to this meeting but they did not participate in it.

Vasudeva Nanayakkara and Tamil National Alliance General Secretary expressed the view that they would agree to the decisions of this meeting citing the inability to participate in the meeting due to unavoidable circumstances.

D.E.W. Gunasekara informed that he could not participate in the meeting since he was a Minister of the government whilst Lanka Samasamaja Party remained silent.

A decision was also taken to consult legal experts to look into the possibility of filing a fundamental rights case against the Army Commander’s statement.

Sri Lanka Freedom Party People’s Wing leader Mangala Samaraweera stated that he would ask for a parliamentary adjournment question regarding this problem.

The convener of the meeting Asath Sali said to Lanka-e-News after the meeting that the discussion was also focused on the steps taken against the Muslims citing examining the Muslims going to mosque on Ramazan day as a recently caused insult.

Sri Lanka's major opposition, the United National Party (UNP), plans to hold the meetings of its politburo, Working Committee and parliamentary group in the coming week.
The implementation of proposals put forward by the party seniors' committee to restructure the party is to be taken up for discussion at these meetings, UNP sources said.
The reform proposals include the appointment of a deputy leader and an assistant leader for the UNP.

The census conducted by the Sri Lanka Police Department on migrants from the Eastern Province to the Colombo District was reported to have concluded successfully today.

The census was conducted today in centers located in Negombo, Gampaha, Kelaniya, Wellawatte, Colombo North, and Colombo South from 8 AM to 6 PM to register Tamil civilians from the East who have been living in Colombo for the past five years.

Saiva Organizations in Jaffna peninsula has called all the priests of Saiva temples, trustee board members of the temples, and Saiva organizations to attend a meeting Sunday to explore difficulties raised by current SLA searches in the Saiva temples in the peninsula, civil society sources in Jaffna said. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Army (SLA) in Jaffna launched a search operation Saturday mornings in the Jaffna Teaching Hospital, hospital sources said. One side of the Hospital boundaries lies behind the SLA's 51-2th division head quarters premises.
No one was arrested, nor any suspicious articles recovered, in the searches conducted several times at the hospital buildings, and staff-quarters, close to the SLA head quarters' boundary, hospital sources said.

SLA's 51-2 head quarters encompasses Gnanam Hotel, Subash's Hotel, Power House road, Clock Tower road and Victoria road areas, in central part of Jaffna town.

Meanwhile, SLA soldiers searched the Agriculture and cattle department buildings in Point Pedro in Vadmaraadchi Saturday.

SLA searches are being conducted daily in several areas of Vadamaraadchi.

The Police Department has registered around 600 Tamil families by noon today, who have come from the Eastern Province to the Western Province for permanent residency during the last five years, DIG Colombo H.M.D.Hearath said.

Two persons who went to collect firewood in the Atimale forest in the Monaragala district on October 1, are believed to have been abducted by an unidentified group, police said.

The London based Amnesty International (AI) has urged the authorities to conduct a full probe into the attack on human rights lawyer J.C. Weliamuna and bring those responsible to justice.

AI urged the authorities to protect J.C. Weliamuna and his family, who survived a grenade attack on September 27, using all measures deemed appropriate by J.C. Weliamuna himself.

It also asked the authorities to ensure that human rights defenders are able to continue their legitimate work without fear of harassment or intimidation.

Human rights lawyer J.C. Weliamuna has gone into hiding since the incident as he remains at risk of further attack, AI said.

The grenade attack came at 11.40pm as J. C. Weliamuna, his wife and two sons, aged 2 years and the other 2 months old, were asleep. The grenade exploded on the balcony of their bedroom though luckily they were not harmed. However, the explosion caused extensive damage to their home. Police found a second, unexploded grenade in the compound of the house and which they managed to defuse.

J.C. Weliamuna is the head of the Sri Lankan branch of Transparency International, an international NGO which campaigns against government corruption. On September 23, the NGO published a report naming Sri Lanka as 92nd out of the list of 184 corrupt governments around the world. He also represents a number of citizens, who claim that state officials have violated their “fundamental human rights” under the Sri Lankan Constitution.

During 2008, at least 5 human rights defenders have reported receiving death threats, often in the form of threatening phone calls. The threats have been intended to stop them from speaking out on human rights issues, AI said.

AI claims the Sri Lankan authorities have failed to prosecute any perpetrators for attacks on Human Rights Defenders in 2008. “The latest attack on a prominent human rights lawyer sends a chilling message to anyone prepared to stand up and expose human rights violations.”

The Colombo High Court Judge W. A. T Ratnayake further postponed the journalist Sivaram Dharmaratnam's assassination trial for December 15.

On the last date of the trial, the Magistrate informed court that the case would be postponed for yesterday since the Sinhala speaking jury in the murder trial of slain journalist Sivaram Dharmaratnam was dissolved as the prosecution witness was not present for the case nor his whereabout was known . It was revealed that the prosecution witness Prasanna Pubudu Ratnayake had gone abroad and the court dissolved the Sinhala speaking jury on the request of the defense.

The journalist Sivaram Dharmaratnam was killed on or about January 05, 2005 and the suspect Arumugam Sri Skandaraja was indicted for the killing before the Colombo High Court.

The hearing was fixed for December 15.

Cross-examined by the defence on the alleged confession made by journalist J. S. Tissainayagam, Assistant Superintendent of Police of Terrorist Investigation Division (TID) admitted that the TID had made a mistake when submitting theJMO reports in the case.

During the voir dire inquiry conducted before the Colombo High Court to ascertain whether the confession by senior journalist J. S. Tissainayagam was made voluntarily or not, ASP Sri Lal Ranasinghe stated that he had signed a statement stating that the Judicial Medical Officer’s report was given on May 9. However, the JMO’s report attached to the statement stated that Tissainayagam was examined on May 8.

Questioned by Defence Counsel Anil Silva, the witness ASP Ranasinghe admitted that he had not checked the statement that he himself had signed nor had he asked the journalist when he was taken to the JMO. But he had simply signed the statement. May 9 was the day Tissainayagam had allegedly made his “confession.” “It is only after checking the records today that I know that there is a mistake in the statement,” said the ASP.

Continuing the cross-examination, the defence suggested that the ASP was not there at the time the alleged confession was said to have been recorded and the witness ASP said that he was there and it was he who recorded the statement. Defence Counsel: Do you know that United Nations Specials Rapporteur for Detention and Torture, Manfred Nowak came to visit the accused?

Witness: I don’t know.

Defence: There are six rooms to keep the detainees in the male wing and one room is of size 1.5 meters by 2.5 metres.- They are different in sizes. In certain cells, nearly 10 could be detained.

Defence: There is no natural light and ventilation is low?- There are no natural light in the cells but twice a day they are being taken out where there is sun light.

Further trial was put off for October 6.

Printcare PLC, a major supplier to the tea bag industry, has branched into India to meet the packaging requirement of the Indian tea bag industry through a new company, Printcare India (Pvt) Ltd., Group Chairman Merrill J. Fernando has reported to shareholders in the company’s annual report.

"We see this as a long term investment that will help cement our position in one of the largest and fastest growing tea bag markets in the world as their premier supplier of tea bag tags and envelopes," he said.

"I am hopeful that in the years to come this move will prove to be providential."

Printcare PLC, are manufacturers and printers of tea bag tags, envelopes and different types of cartons, had boosted both turnover and profitability during the year ended March 31, 2008 but seen its bottom line affected by a debt provision following a major local customer going into liquidation during the year.

Fernando said turnover had grown 38% to Rs.2.9 billion and the pre-tax profit 26% to Rs.132 million while the profit attributable to shareholders was up 5% to Rs.86 million.

Business anticipated from investments the company had made to cater to new nylon tea bags had not materialized, he said. However, they believed that this would be a requirement of the future and were hopeful that the situation would correct itself in the short-term.

A shortage of filter paper for tea bags was expected to dampen production.

"Our overseas markets have stabilized and we continue to win reputable customers enhancing the group’s position as the premier supplier of tea bag packaging globally," Fernando said.

Their carton division which had been facing problems the previous year due to customer resistance to price revisions necessitated by higher cost of raw materials had returned to profit thanks to careful cost control, inventory management and increased productivity, the chairman said.

During the year they had signed an agreement with Ceylon Tobacco Company (CTC) to manufacture CTC’s entire requirement of previously imported packaging supplies.

"This is a demonstration of confidence by the tobacco major in the local packaging industry in general, and our group in particular." Fernando said noting that CTC business brings with it many best practices which will greatly benefit Printcare.

"The plant and equipment ordered for this project was successfully commissioned in a newly expanded section of our Kadawatha factory and the business has greatly improved the turnover of the company," he said.

Fernando admitted that the cost of additional financing and depreciation charges on expenditure incurred on this plant had considerably impacted on their bottom line. But given that this was a long-term and sustainable business with a reliable customer, he expected that the results of this major investment will be seen in the medium term and will add much stability to their own business.

He also reported the turnaround of their security printing division which had contributed considerably to their financial performance. Customer response had been positive enabling the factory run to full capacity during the year prompting investment on another production line to stay ahead of customer demand and ensure more reliable supplies.

Fernando also said that they were a prominent player in the growing telecom sector both in the domestic and export markets acquiring a good reputation as a quality supplier to this industry.

The directors have recommended a first and final dividend of Rs.2 per share for the year under review.

Fernando said that the tea bag industry was going through a crisis as a result of the shortage of filter paper in the world market as a result of a shortfall in the output of then abaca plant producing the prime raw material for making filter paper. Fernando expected their sales to be dampened as a result.

"In retrospect it was prudent that we have, through our diversification over the last few years, reduced our once complete dependence on the tea industry," he noted.

Printcare has a stated capital of Rs.271.9 million, group reserves of Rs.24 million and retained group earnings of Rs.502.4 million. At company level, reserves were Rs.11 million and retained earnings Rs.162 million. The group carried Rs.389.3 million interest bearing liabilities in its books as at last balance sheet date.

Segmentally the group’s profits came from printing (Rs.40.6 million) and packaging (Rs.42.8 million) during the year under review with printing profits marginally down from Rs.43.8 million while packaging profits were up from Rs.33.6 million the previous year.

Net assets per share had grown to Rs.46.43 from Rs.42.42 the previous year and the company’s share traded at a high of Rs.70 and a low of Rs.50 during the year under review against a trading range of Rs.68 to Rs.50 the previous year.

MJF Holdings with 26.87%, Mr. M.T.T. Al-Nakib (25.38%) and Mr. K.R. Ravindran (23.16%) are the major shareholders. MJF Exports too has 3.04% of the company.

The directors of the company are: Messrs. Merrill J. Fernando (Chairman), Abbas Esufally, K.R. Ravindran, Ejaz Chatoor, Dayasiri Warnakulasooriya, Simon Scarff and Ms. Anushya Coomaraswamy.

WELIOYA: ARMOUR TROOPS assisted fellow infantry soldiers in their operations mounting heavy attacks on Tiger bunkers in ANDANKULAM area Saturday (04).

Assault by armour tanks flattened two bankers forcing terrorists at the location to withdraw from the area with severe injuries.

Meanwhile, two Tiger bankers in the same area were captured by the troops Saturday (04) morning.

Two terrorists were killed and twenty five injured during clashes in ANDANKULAM area Saturday (04).

At the same time, terrorist mortar fire and explosion of a grenade injured three soldiers serving in ANDANKULAM area.

VAVUNIYA: TROOPS OPERATING in the areas north of PALAMODDAI destroyed two LTTE bunkers Saturday (4) afternoon. Four Tigers suffered injuries, troops confirmed.

Explosion of an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) in the same area killed one soldier and injured another at about 4.15 p.m.

Similarly, confrontations in the general areas of PANDIVEDDIKULAM and CHAMALANKULAM killed two terrorists and injured two more Saturday (04).

Troops recovered one hundred and fifty (150) rounds of ammunition and one poncho cape from CHAMALANKULAM area.

JAFFNA: ONE SOLDIER was injured in explosion of a terrorist anti personnel mine while he was serving in the general area of MUHAMALE Saturday (4) at about 12.50 p.m..

He was admitted to PALALY Army hospital for treatment.

The Central Bank last Friday said in a press release that a barrel of Brent crude oil cost US$ 89.46 and OPEC basket US$ 89.28.

As for the prices of refined products in the Singapore market, a barrel of petrol cost US$ 99.20, diesel US$ 108.60 and kerosene US$ 112.47.

A litre of diesel and petrol is currently sold at Rs. 110 and Rs. 157 respectively.

The actual price of a litre of diesel in the local market when a barrel was purchased at US$ 133 was calculated to be approximately Rs. 102.

The price of a litre of petrol in the local market when a barrel was purchased at US$ 108 was calculated to be approximately Rs. 111.

CPC unions have charged that the government is in a position to sell a litre of petrol at Rs. 111 inclusive of all current taxes.

Sources from the CPC said that a litre of petrol when imported to the port costs Rs. 73. Even after adding various charges and levies, a litre of petrol costs a total of Rs. 111 a litre.

According to sources, if the government so wished, the price of a litre of petrol could be brought down even further as 550 mt. of the 1,100 mt. of petrol used for daily consumption is refined in the country.

CPC statistics reveal that the country consumes 1,100 mt. of petrol and 4,300 mt. of diesel on a daily basis.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon Corporate Social Responsibility Trust (CSR Trust) started a project last year to rehabilitate and reconstruct the stretch between Seethagangula and Thenna at Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak), the only mountain in the world considered sacred by the followers of many different faiths.

This followed a request by the Chief Incumbent of the Sri Padasthanaya, Handapangoda Wimalabhidana Thera and the Chief Incumbent of Uda Maluwa, Dampahala Seelananda Thera.

The Trust began with a startup capital of Rs 25 million and the Bank contributes up to one per cent of its post tax profits every year towards it.

"The Sri Pada path-way through Hatton was in a dilapidated condition and we were informed that there were delays in obtaining the necessary funds for the reconstruction of this stretch which was in a particularly bad condition. Our CSR Trust responded by undertaking the project to rehabilitate and reconstruct this pathway with the consent of the authorities," Commercial Bank’s AGM-Plan Implementation Richard Rodrigo said.

He said that subsequent to the Bank’s offer, government authorities and several other private establishments had come forward to assist in the rehabilitation of different stretches of this pathway.

A public meeting was organized recently in Hatton by the authorities to acknowledge the contributions made towards this project by Commercial Bank and the Government.

Work on the stretch undertaken by the Bank is progressing fast despite

the many challenges of working during the "Off Season" which is also the rainy season. Another difficulty is carrying the building materials manually to the place of work located at high elevations. "Notwithstanding all these, the work is nearing completion and we expect to handover the rehabilitated roadway to the authorities in the near future. This would ease the hardships faced by pilgrims visiting Sri Pada at least to some extent," Rodrigo added.

CSR Trust empowers communities and individuals to help them become self-reliant and independent, to motivate people, to encourage individuals to think out of box, to capture and preserve heritage & folk wisdom.

Recent CSR initiatives by the Trust include granting scholarships to undergraduates, building homes for the Tsunami affected, assisting Children’s Homes, donating equipment and essentials to the Colombo National Hospital and refurbishing the Dental Clinic of Deniyaya Base Hospital.

The Supreme Court Thursday granted leave to proceed with a fundamental rights violation petition against SriLankan Airlines Ltd filed by its Senior Manager Commercial (Projects) S.A. Gunawardana.

The Bench comprised Justice Raja Fernando, Saleem Marsoof and PA Ratnayaka.
Gunawardana stated that the respondents’ refusal to promote her to the post of Head of Service Delivery is unfair, unreasonable, irrational, arbitrary and discriminatory.

SriLankan Airlines Ltd, its Chairman P.B. Jayasundera, Chief Executive Officer Manoj Gunawardena, Capt. Milinda Ratnayaka and Attorney General have been cited as respondents by the petitioner.

The Petitioner states that the fourth respondent, Capt. Milinda Ratnayaka, a professional pilot with no experience in ground and airport services or in-flight services, had been made the Head of Service Delivery. He had however, held the position of Senior Manager Flight Operations, prior to being made the new head of Service Delivery.

Claiming a long list of discriminatory practices adopted by the first respondent against her, the petitioner states that she is presently the only senior manager in the entire company who possesses the relevant experience with regard to the aforesaid position of Head of Service Delivery.

During the time in which the fourth Respondent was posted as Senior Manager Flight Operations, the fourth Respondent was also proven to have committed several irregular and wrongful acts.

Petitioners respectfully pray the court to quash the appointment of Capt. Ratnayaka and declare that her fundamental rights have been infringed. The court fixed the hearing for December 16.
M.A. Sumanathiran with Gehan Gunatilaka appeared for the petitioner instructed by Raj Mohan Balendra.

Dialog GSM achieved a 5 million subscribers target this week, cementing its position as the premier mobile telecommunications service provider in the country. With over 50 per cent of the mobile market share, Dialog has now connected a quarter of Sri Lanka’s population. As part of a celebratory offer, the company introduced an unprecedented call charge regime through a brand new post-paid package, plus, per-second billing for its pre-paid segment through yet another package.
Group Chief Executive of Dialog Telekom PLC, Hans Wijayasuriya, attributed the milestone to his company’s philosophy of, ‘Innovation for Inclusion’.

“Dialog is today truly a company for all Sri Lankans, as we have aptly demonstrated by connecting with 5 million customers. Segment specific solutions drive increased levels of inclusion across multiple layers. Bringing mobile telephony within reach of every Sri Lankan puts in place a vehicle for digital empowerment, and Dialog will continue to be that catalyst,” he said.

Group Chief Marketing Officer of Dialog Telekom, Nushad Perera, said, “This is a proud moment for all at Dialog, to know we are connected with and have empowered 5 million Sri Lankan lives. Customer-driven technology solutions and unparalleled service have been the key facets of our success, and would continue to be so when we connect the next million. It was Dialog GSM that changed the face of mobile telecommunications in Sri Lanka and South Asia, and in today’s fast-evolving environment we would continue to lead by example.”

Dialog GSM is celebrating 5 million connections with groundbreaking offers for post and pre-paid subscribers, with unmatched benefits. Dialog pre-paid customers could avail themselves of the Kit Per-Second Package with no peak off-peak belts and enjoy the benefits of per-second billing. Outgoing calls to Dialog numbers from Kit pre-paid are now just Rs. 3.00 a minute at any time of day, whilst new rates are also applicable for My10 and Kit-Double customers. The Lifetime Discount would continue to apply for those who pay for the service.

Also, for every Rs. 50.00 reload all Dialog Kit pre-paid users could get five days of free incoming calls, plus, an additional day for every extra Rs. 10.00. There is no additional charge for incoming calls.

Per-Second Blaster is the exciting new package for post-paid users, which offers 1,000 minutes of free outgoing calls to Dialog numbers at any time of the day. With incoming totally free from any network, customers can also enjoy per-second billing and My10 services for no monthly rental. All this for a nominal package transfer fee of Rs. 500 (plus tax), while new connections would could be obtained for Rs.1,000(plus tax). On all post-paid packages, outgoing call rates and SMS to My10 Dialog numbers have been slashed to just 50 cents a minute and Rs. 1.00 to fixed lines.

Chief Operating Officer of Dialog Mobile, Supun Weerasinghe, said, “This new structure is a tribute to our 5 million customers for their confidence in Dialog. We take pride in having constantly delivered the best value service not only in Sri Lanka, but in the region. Our product development efforts are dedicated to delivering technology and value for lower cost, and the possibilities are endless.”

Former MP and present Leader of the Opposition in the Colombo Municipal Council, Vasudeva Nanayakkara of the Democratic Left Front, who is one among many presidential advisors, is to be removed from his position as presidential advisor, says well informed DLF sources.

The recent FR petitions by Mr. Nanayakkara on privatization of Lanka Marine Services Ltd and Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation have paved the way for an apparent collision between the Executive and the Judiciary.

The resignation of Treasury Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera, much against the wishes of the President as reported, from all public offices he held, was triggered by the FR petition filed by Mr. Nanayakkara against the LMSL privatization deal.

Mr. Nanayakkara was also very vocal with his opposition to the relocation of the Glennie Street, Slave Island slum dwellers on a special decision by the government, prior to the SAARC Summit.

Since of late, Mr. Nanayakkara, a lawyer himself, has taken up critical positions against the government on issues of democratic rights and was present when Colombo lawyers protested against the grenade attack on senior lawyer and human rights activist, J.C. Weliamuna’s home.

“He cannot continue as a presidential advisor opposing the government at every corner. He is not advising, he is only protesting” said a political observer to ‘Lanka Dissent’.

DLF sources say the parting of ways between the two old pals would not be long and Mr. Nanayakkara has accepted the time is ripe to move out, if removed from the position.

The Kilinochchi Hospital is to be shifted to another location following attacks near its vicinity last week, hospital officials said.

Director of the Kilinochchi Hospital Dr. Thangamuthu Sathyamurthi said that he would write to the Ministry of Health with regard to the shifting of the hospital.

Hospital activities however continued despite attacks around its premises and nearby areas last week, Dr. Sathyamurthi added.

The hospital employees have been asked to be in safe areas when there are air and artillery attacks.

"They have been asked to be near the walls in order to protect themselves from fragments from the blasts."

Attacks targeting LTTE administrative buildings in Kilinochchi increased during last week. The LTTE Peace Secretariat and the main office of the Tiger Police also came under attack last week by the air force on two consecutive days — October 2 and 3.

President Mahinda Rajapakse on Friday decided to withdraw the Gazette notification, which was introduced in August giving him the authority to extend the retirement age of any public servant he considered necessary.

The President extended the retirement age of Attorney General C.R. de Silva in terms of the said Gazette No.1563/7.

The legal validity of the Gazette was subsequently challenged in the Supreme Court by the Centre for Policy Alternatives with the Chief Justice informing court that an order on the validity of the Gazette would be given on Monday, October 6 unless it is withdrawn by the government.

The court also indicated that all indictments signed by the Attorney General from August 26, the day the Attorney General was due to retire would be rendered a nullity if the Gazette is invalid.It is learned the Attorney General on Tuesday met President Rajapakse and informed his decision to resign without coming into conflict with the Judiciary and with a view to maintaining the dignity of his Office.

The President, it is learned decided Friday to repeal the Gazette and introduce a new Gazette which was earlier in force giving the Chief Executive the authority to retain a public servant in office after he retires from service. The Attorney General however had indicated he does not wish to continue in office under controversial circumstances and submitted his papers to retire from October 8.

It is learned the intention of repealing Gazette No. 1563/7 and introducing the new Gazette is to save at least 125 indictments, which were filed after August 26 including the case against journalist J.S. Tissainayagam. Informed sources said if the indictments are declared invalid those in custody on the basis of the indictments will have to be released.

Meanwhile, legal sources said the President will have to make an acting appointment for the Attorney General's post by October 9.

These sources said outgoing Attorney General de Silva will leave a void in the department that would be hard to fill.

European Commission has invited Civil Monitoring Commission Convener and Western Peoples Front Leader and Parliamentarian Mano Ganesan to participate at a conference titled ‘60 years of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights: The defenders take the floor’.
The conference will take place at the European Parliament, Brussels on October 7 and 8.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem Pillay and President of European Parliament Hans-Gert Pöttering are expected to participate along with many other European parliamentarians and international human rights defenders.

Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas will visit Sri Lanka on Thursday (9) as a mark of gratitude to President Mahinda Rajapaksa, for his numerous acts over the years to spotlight the plight of Palestinians under Israeli occupation and to espouse their cause.
President’s Advisor A.H.M. Azwer said that, the main reason for the visit of the Palestine President is to show his appreciation to President Rajapaksa for his enormous support extended to the Palestinian people.

“The Palestinians are grateful to the President of Sri Lanka for the contribution he made during the past many years to strengthen the ties between the two countries, and apart from paying gratitude, bilateral talks are scheduled to be held during his state visit,” Azwer added.

He also said the role played by President Rajapaksa to make the world aware of the Palestine issue is no small measure. “Therefore, the purpose of the visit of the Palestinian President is to shower goodwill and blessings on the President, as well as on the entire nation,” he said.

Meanwhile, commenting on a recent request made to President Rajapaksa by Mahanayake of the Asgiriya Chapter of the Siyam Nikaya Ven Udugama Buddharakkitha Thera on behalf of UNP strongman S.B. Dissanayaka, seeking a pardon on his behalf, Azwer said President Rajapaksa will be looking into the matter soon after the state visit of President Abbas.
“The President just got back after attending the United Nations Annual General meeting in New York; therefore, he is busy with other urgent issues and the state visit of the Palestine President, since only four days are left for the visit. Hence, he will look into the issue soon after the visit of the Palestinian President,” he added.

Conflicting reports and claims of ignorance were shrouding the Health Ministry, Friday, regarding the banning of local sale of liquid milk products manufactured by Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad, Malaysia. Dutch Lady Milk products were banned by the Maldivian and Singaporean Governments during the week, fearing potential lethal melamine contamination.

East West Marketing (Pvt) Ltd who is the distributor of Dutch Lady Products in Sri Lanka, yesterday claimed that they stopped importing the Malaysian company’s products several months ago. “We stopped importing this product because of the high price and back then there was no talk of contamination,” said Roshan Perera of East West. “Anyway, the stocks we brought down must have been sold out many months ago and I am not aware of a new supplier and distributor,’ he added.

But a leading supermarket in Colombo said that, a new shipment of Dutch Lady Milk products will arrive next week and that East West is their supplier. “Our stocks were sold out some time ago and we are set to receive a new shipment next week,” its manager said.

When contacted, both the Minister of Trade, Marketing Development, Co-operatives, and Consumer Services, Bandula Gunawardane and Consumer Affairs Authority Chairman Rumy Marzook stated that they were not aware of such a ban.
“We can only take action about powdered milk and we have already sent samples of milk powder to Singapore for testing,” Gunawardane said. “We will get the results in the next two weeks but no cases of contamination have been reported in the country,” he added.

Dutch Lady Milk Products said products from Malaysia are safe to consume but those marketed in Singapore originate from China and could pose a threat.

Former ZOA Kilinochchi Programme Manager, Giovanni Puerto is believed to have left the island yesterday, ahead of a government directive that he leaves Sri Lanka’s shores before October 5.
Puerto’s visa was cancelled by the government after he initially refused to return to Vavuniya with the rest of his ZOA colleagues, ahead of a Defence Ministry deadline for UN and INGO pullout of the Kilinochchi area.

When ZOA refused to take any further responsibility for him, Puerto submitted his resignation to the Netherlands based NGO.
Puerto, who was claiming he could not leave the displaced people of Kilinochchi in what he called their ‘darkest hour’, finally arrived in Vavuniya on September 26, ahead of the September 29 deadline by the Defence Ministry. However, the government had by then had his visa cancelled and ordered him to leave the country by today.

NGO sources told The Nation that Puerto had been recognised as a deviant by more reputable organisations including the UN working in the Kilinochchi area during his tenure in the embattled region. According to NGO and government sources, Puerto had been excluded from meetings about security while engaging in humanitarian work in the area conducted by the UN because of his overzealous remarks and behaviour.

Speaking to The Nation, ZOA Chief Bernard Jaspers Faijer declined to allow Puerto to address media personnel, but said that his organisation and Puerto would abide by the dictates of the Sri Lankan Government. “We are here on their invitation, so whatever instructions they give us, we will follow them,” Faijer said, confirming that ZOA had in fact made an appeal to the government for a renewal of the errant officer’s visa.

Human Rights Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe on Friday revealed that while his Ministry had forwarded ZOA’s appeal, the Ministry of Defence had refused to change its position on the Italian’s visa.

Government plans to introduce a scheme to blend bio-fuels with fossil fuels to improve energy efficiency and reduce harmful emissions to the atmosphere, a senior official said.
Harsha Wickramasinghe, head of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority of the power and energy ministry, said they want to encourage development of bio-fuels for transport that can be done without any engine modifications.
“We are now developing guidelines and regulations which will allow petroleum retailers, Lanka IOC and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, to blend bio-fuels on a buy-back guarantee,” he said.
“We are now urging them to buy back bio-diesel and ethanol, if the private sector is ready to produce it, up to a maximum of five percent of their diesel sales volume.”
Wickramasinghe said producers of bio-diesel could supply to the storage complexes of the fuel retailers, blend it there and distribute island-wide.
“Initially, it will not be available at all fuel sheds but later availability can be increased.” Wickramasinghe said the government aims to have 10 percent of transport energy coming from indigenous non-petroleum fuels.

Attorney General C. R. de Silva, who is set to retire this week, declared yesterday that he has no plans of accepting any new plum positions from the government.
The statement comes amidst speculation that President Mahinda Rajapaksa was planning for de Silva’s appointment as Chief Justice once Sarath N Silva retires from the position next year.
“I am going back to practicing, and I have no plans of taking up any other position even if the government offers any to me. My primary interest now is to continue practicing and I hope to do that once I retire,” the outgoing attorney general said. In order to extend the services of the present attorney general, President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in a Gazette extraordinaire issued in August this year extended the compulsory retirement age of public officers appointed by the President.
However, the Supreme Court ruled against the presidential decision, and emphasized that an individual including the president did not have the authority to amend such as act and only parliament enjoyed the privilege to engage in such lawmaking. “Due to the Supreme Court decision, the president was unable to extend the period of de Silva and keep him on till Chief Justice Sarath N Silva resigned and make way for the present attorney general to take over as Chief Justice next year,” an analyst pointed out.

KILINOCHCHI: THE BUNKER LINE along NACHCHIKUDA-AKKARAYANKULAM road

was completely destroyed by the troops of the 58 Division by Saturday (4)

afternoon and continued their advance further northwards.

Defiant soldiers first crawled through the ditch dug on their way and

reached the earth bund closer to the PANDIVEDDIKULAM tank capturing all

Tiger bunkers along the earth bund which troops later occupied.

Attack on Tiger strong points along the tank bund was launched

subsequently by the troops who captured four strong points put up in a

distance of about 200 m from each other on the PANDIVEDDIKULAM tank bund

along which the NACHCHIKUDA-AKKARAYANKULAM rood runs.

Fighting that ensued west of AKKARAYANKULAM area including

PANDIVEDDIKULAM killed twenty terrorists and injured another fifteen.

Four soldiers scarified their lives and six others sustained injuries during

confrontations.

Mission of the ground troops was assisted by Air Force fighter craft which

shelled Tiger positions.

The previous day (3), at the end of fierce battle fought in the same area,

troops captured four LTTE strong points. (See Situation Report on 4th October

2008).

In the meantime, one soldier was injured in a confrontation at

VANNERIKKULAM the same day around 7.30 p.m.

Troops during their search and clear operations in VANNERIKKULAM and

PANDIVEDDIKULAM areas recovered fifty-eight anti personnel mines and four

IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices).

3 terrorists were reported killed when troops opened a surprise assault at a

small LTTE element moving in general area Pannikkankulama, Northwest of

Mankulama at the Mullaittiuvu battlefront, Saturday (Oct 4).

Combined troops of the 7th Light Infantry and 15th Sinha Regiment under the

57 Division are operating in this area, military said, adding that the attack was

launched at around 3.50 p.m.

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s Human Rights Commission will attempt to persuade the

mother of an infant who died in the care of a Sri Lankan woman hired as a

house cleaner but given nanny duties to cease pursuit of the death penalty.

The father, according to the mediators, has expressed his desire to forgive the

maid.

HRC President Turki Al-Sudairy conveyed the latest information in this much-

publicized case to Sri Lankan Ambassador Abdul Ageed Mohammed Marleen at

a recent meeting at the HRC headquarters in Riyadh.

Al-Sudairy said that HRC officials met the father, Naif Jiziyan Khalaf Al-Otaibi,

and he expressed willingness to pardon 20-year-old Rizana Nafeek. However,

the mother still claims her private right in the case and is not ready to forgive

the maid.

Al-Sudairy told Marleen that the HRC will meet the father and mother together

and persuade them to pardon the maid at the next hearing on Nov. 5 before a

judicial tribunal headed by Chief Justice Sheikh Abdullah Al-Rosaimi.

The local court in Dawadmi found Nafeek guilty in June 2007. Since then her

appeals process has bounced a number of times between the local court and

the Supreme Judicial Council via the Cassation Court. Her case is still in this

appeals process after the Hong Kong-based Asian Human Rights Commission

retained legal representation for Nafeek, with the help of contributions from

the Lankan community in Saudi Arabia.

Prior to the first verdict that sentenced her to death, Nafeek did not have any

legal representation.

Nafeek allegedly signed a confession, but her lawyers argue that the

confession was made under duress and, more importantly, Nafeek had no

access to a translator during the initial questioning after she was arrested in

2005. Confessions are typically written in Arabic and signed by fingerprint.

It later came to light that Nafeek was recruited illegally as a minor and

trafficked to Saudi Arabia on a forged passport.

Her birth certificate says she was 17 at the time she began working for the

Saudi family, but her passport states she was not a minor at the time.

It is illegal to bring in foreign workers to Saudi Arabia under the age of 18. An

unscrupulous recruitment agent in Colombo may have committed the forgery,

thus violating Sri Lankan law and engaging in the trafficking of minors and

racketeering. Nobody has been named a suspect in this crime.

Putting to death a person who committed a crime under the age of 18 would

violate Article 37 of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child that Saudi

Arabia voluntarily signed in February 1996.

Marleen said he told Al-Sudairy that whenever there are trials involving Sri

Lankan nationals, it is absolutely necessary for Sri Lankan Embassy officials to

know the progress of the case in order to avoid “misrepresentations and

misgivings.”

Embassy officials should be allowed as observers at the hearings, he added,

pointing out that an official representative of the Sri Lankan government was

not allowed to be present at Nafeek’s hearing at the Dawadmi court.

“An effective mechanism must be in place to ensure that the arrests of Sri

Lankan nationals are reported to the embassy on a priority basis so that we

can provide consular assistance to the detained (suspect),” Marleen told Arab

News.

Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to her parents, Nafeek said that this would be

her last Eid in the Kingdom since she would either be released and sent home

or executed before Eid 2009.

Sri Lanka Army (SLA) in Jaffna refused to allow students, teachers and workers, to enter the High Security Zone (HSZ) at the Thellippazhai entry point Friday, preventing them from attending schools and work places located within the said HSZ, sources in Jaffna said. Meanwhile, SLA conducted searches in several areas in the HSZ, following the Monday night attack on SLA soldiers at Maasiyappiddi in Jaffna, on suspicion of Liberation Tiger combatant's penetration into the HSZ, sources added.

Students and teachers of Union College, Mahajana College, Thanthai Chelva School, and Pon Paramaananthaa School were not permitted entry into the HSZ where their schools are located.

Employees of Kaangkeasanthu'rai harbour, Sri Lanka Petroleum Corporation (SLPC) Store too were not allowed to enter.

Devotees attending Friday worship in the historical famous Maaviddapuram Kanthasuvami Koayil and Kollankaladdi Pi'l'laiyaar Koayil also had to return home after being denied permission to enter the HSZ where these Saiva temples are located.

The sudden closure of the entry point at Thellippazhai without prior announcement has disrupted the educational activities of the students as well as the daily functions of the SLPC and Kaangkeasanthu'rai harbour, civil society sources said.

SLA authorities have not made any announcement on whether the entry point at Thellippa'lai HSZ will remain closed for public on Monday.

Sri Lanka will host the first Apparel South Asia (ASA) conference on November

5-6 this year, bringing together international buyers and apparel manufacturers

in the region.

“The conference theme ‘Beyond 2010; Challenges and Opportunities’ provides

the platform to discuss the rapidly changing nature of the apparel trade and

how SAARC manufacturers and exporters should respond, consolidate and

strengthen their share of the world market,” Conference Chair, Prof. Lakdas D.

Fernando is quoted as saying in a press release issued by the conference

organisers Lanka Exhibitions and Conference Services (LECS).

He said the overall objective of the conference is to support the

manufacturers and exporters of apparel in the South Asian region to keep

abreast of emerging trends and opportunities, in order to prosper as leading

suppliers to the World. The list of speakers includes leading international

brands like Nike and Marks and Spencer, and also industry leaders from the

region.

Head of General Merchandise Technology of Marks and Spencer, UK, Krishan

Hundal, will speak on ‘The Emerging Ethical Consumerism and Sustainability in

EU and the M&S Response’ while the Country Director South Asia for Nike, Atul

Ujagar, will speak on ‘Innovation into Action.’ Chief Information Officer of MAS

Holdings, Jay J Keller will speak on ‘Lean Thinking for Lean Manufacturing.’

Chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council of India. Rakesh Vaid, will

present a country paper on the Indian apparel industry while the Chairman of

the Joint Apparel Association Forum and a Director of Brandix Lanka Ltd, Ajith

Dias, will present a country paper on the Sri Lankan apparel industry.

The conference will examine emerging global concerns such as sustainable

manufacturing and the emerging ethical consumerism. Together with the

conference, the Apparel Industry Suppliers Exhibition (AISEX) and the Fabric

and Accessory Suppliers Exhibition (FASE) will take place on November 6 to 8.

AISEX is aimed at meeting machinery and technology needs of the apparel

industry, while FASE caters to apparel industry’s needs for fabric, accessories

and logistics services. Together, the two exhibitions are aimed at providing

total solutions for the garment industry.

TMVP leader Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman has told his cadres to pay special attention to improving their rapport with the civilians in the East as part of preparations to face the next general election, party sources said.
A meeting between Mr. Muralitharan and senior TMVP cadres was held in Batticaloa on Thursday to discuss political issues, but Eastern Province Chief Minister Sivanesaturai Chandrakanthan alias Pilliyan who reportedly is at loggerheads with the party leadership was a notable absentee.

Mr. Muralitharan, the former LTTE Eastern Commander, told Daily Mirror yesterday he instructed his cadres to build up their public image and referring to the absence of the chief minister, he said Mr. Chandrakanthan was attending another meeting with some government high ups regarding PC matters. Asked about his reported deal with the chief minister Mr. Amman said Mr. Chandrakanthan had a long way to go before successfully surviving in politics.

Meanwhile Minister and EPDP leader Douglas Devananda also met the TMVP leader recently, sparking speculation that he had intervened to settle the much talked about internal dispute among the TMVP leadership.

But the Minister said it was a routine meeting between the two parties to discuss the present political climate in the country and to improve relations with democratic Tamil political parties.

“It had nothing to do with any internal rift. There are such problems in every democratic political party. Even in the UNP and SLFP, we can sometimes see similar problems. It is not a new phenomenon. There are some problems between the TMVP and the EPDP in the East. These had to be sorted out,”Mr. Devananda said.

The Matara Police raided an unlicensed night club at Katuwegoda in Matara and arrested on suspicion 19 people including 3 young women including a mother and her teenage daughter, for questioning.

Police also took into custody nearly 100 bottles of foreign and locally manufactured alcohol and also some musical instruments and lighting sets.

The activities of this night club had been going on for a long time. The Matara police had raided it on a search warrant issued by the Matara Magistrate.

A team of police officers comprising sub-Inspectors S. A. L. Kodikara,and Anil Kumara and others conducted this raid under the direction of SSP, Matara, P. B. P. Ayupala SP Matara, D. S. Karunanayake and HQI Clement Fernando.

Representatives of nearly 4,000 depositors in ‘Sakvithi Investments’ have met Deshamanya Dr. Lalith Kotelawala and appealed to him to intervene and help them overcome the difficulties which they are facing at the moment.
Sources said Dr. Kotelawala had informed them that if the Minister of Finance and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka gave necessary encouragement and assistance he would settle the matter in the interest of all the parties. He had said that Central Bank at one time had requested him to reorganize the three financial institutions which had defaulted the depositors and had gone bankrupt namely, Asian Finance, Finance & Guarantee and Panadura Finance company. These companies were rehabilitated and now running and making profits.

He had also claimed when one time world famous International Bank named Bank of Credit and Investment had gone bankrupt, its Sri Lankan Branch was taken over by Seylan Bank which settled the dispute in the interest of the depositors.

Dr. Lalith Kotelawala had assured the participants that he would do whatever possible to help them. He also had said that financial institutions like ‘Sakvithi Investment’ could be reorganized, if guided properly.

Dr. Lalith Kotelawala opined that stringent rules should not be imposed on financial companies. "It would affect the national economy. The management and supervising of non registered financial companies should be done very carefully," he had said.

To overcome the present financial crisis faced by Sakvithi depositors, Dr. Kotelawala had said that he hoped to meet the President personally and discuss to seek a satisfactory settlement.

KANDY – Suminda Wickremasinghe, Deputy Mayor of Kandy, at the monthly general meeting of the Municipal Council, warned that he would quit the council if anybody tried to interfere with his position as Deputy Mayor. If the post of Deputy Mayor was taken away from him, he said, he would not remain a moment even as a member of this council.

Mayor L. B. Aluwihare chaired the meeting.

Wickremasinghe said "I will come forward to contest at any future municipal election only if the people of my ward make a request to do so."

However, He said, he would not leave the United National Party (UNP). "The UNP is only second to my religion," he asserted.

Wickremasinghe was responding to a statement by Aswin Marikkar (SLMC) regarding the post of Deputy Mayor of the Kandy Municipal Council.

The angry outburst of Wickremasinghe came as a response to an article published in a tabloid and read by Aswin Marikkar at the meeting. It said that the UNP had not acted on an agreement with regard to the period of office of the Deputy Mayor of the Kandy Municipal Council.

Deputy Mayor Wickremasinghe raising an objection to the statement by Marikkar said that it was not relevant to the discussion.

Marikkar said he was only saying what a newspaper had published.

Suminda Wickremeasinghe said there was no reason to take away the post of Deputy Mayor from him. He had done sufficient service during the period to justify his continued stay as Deputy Mayor.

He further said his father K. L. Edmund Silva held the post of Deputy Mayor of the Kandy Municipality.

Mayor Mr. Aluwihare did not allow the arguments to continue and asked to end the discussion.

The government has decided to deport with immediate effect ZOA Project Manager in Kilinochchiwho had refused to accede to the request by the government to leave Kilinochchi, Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights Mahinda Samarasinghe said yesterday (3).

At a press conference at his ministry, he said the Italian INGO official had refused to leave Kilinochchi for Vavuniya when all other foreign NGO personnel obliged.

It would be dangerous to allow persons like him who did not follow government orders to operate in the country, the Minister said.

Steps would be taken to cancel his visa and deport him immediately, the Minister said.

A stock of 650 tons of food had been dispatched to the Vanni for the benefit of the displaced civilians of the region and in the next few days a further stock of 5,020 tons of food will be dispatched to Kilinochchi and Mulaitivu Districts from Vavuniya. The policy of the government was to ensure that the civilians even in the terrorist controlled areas were supplied with adequate stocks of food Samarasinghe said.

Sri Lankan women will receive smooth and technically developed cotton sanitary pads after facing a number of health issues due to the available disposable sanitary pads.
Director of the Momiji Natural Corporation Japan , Mrs.Rie Ito who recently introduced Cotton sanitary pads to local women said disposable sanitary pads make a huge impact on human health .

The impact on human health can be illustrated by looking at a small part of the production process of these products. The chlorine that is used to bleach the cotton is toxic to workers and may cause cancer. In addition to this, the vestigial chlorine in the pad or tampon may cause irritation to or allergies in the wearer. For an intensive research paper on the environmental impact of sanitary product production, see Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Sanitary Pads and Tampons , she said.

Addressing local media she said the largest issue with both pads and tampons is disposal. The average woman probably uses about 7000 sanitary pads in her lifetime. “This is not a published statistic- it is one that I have just calculated based on the fact that a woman has her period for 30 years of her life, for a average of 60 days a year and uses an average of 4 pads a day. These pads and tampons go into landfills and since they are often made in part of non-biodegradable products like rayon they contaminate the soil and the aquifers as well as use up precious land, she noted.
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)is a disease associated with the use of tampons.
It is caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium.
The toxins that this bacterium produces cause fever, rigors, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle aches and rashes to start with, which rapidly deteriorate into extremely low blood pressure and a rapid breakdown of the body’s vital organs.
TSS affects between 1-2/100,000 women in the 15-44 age annually in the USA Statistic showed an 18% increase in the incidence of TSS in the USA from 2002 to 2003.
TSS is also associated with the use of inter-uterine contraception devices, people who have had nasal surgery, and people who develop this infection after an operative procedure.
Women in the USA put 11.3 billion "disposable" menstrual products per year into landfills or burn them.
500 years is the time that one "disposable" menstrual pad will take to partially biodegrade.
An individual woman throws away about ten thousand paper pads or tampons in her lifetime.
French nurses experimented with the first "disposable" menstrual products from cellulose surgical gauze during the First World War.
"Disposable" menstrual products are not sterilized.
Chlorine is used as bleach for paper pulp. 400-700 million pounds of toxins are dumped every year dumped into U.S. waterways, she said.
In World War 1, Chlorine was used as a weapon of war.
Dioxins are a bi-product of the chlorine bleaching process. They do not break down and are also suspected to be carcinogenic.
There is evidence to show that dioxins damage the liver and its functioning and also depress human immune systems.
The process that uses chlorine to produce plastics, paints, dyes, bleaching agents, cleaning solvents, aerosols, deodorants, refrigerants, and wood preservatives also produce CFCs that deplete the ozone layer.
She said recently introduced Cloth Sanitary pads could minimise these issues and end impact on human due to the disposable sanitary pads.

She said Green Menstruation is a philosophy that attempts to manage a woman’s monthly period in an environmentally friendly manner. It deals with the use of alternative sanitary products, alternative and natural remedies for stomach cramps, back and leg pains, oedema, PMS and irregular periods.


An estimated two million seabirds and one hundred thousand marine mammals die annually from swallowing plastics including tampon applicators.
“If you can afford it, pay the extra for the organic cotton products.If not, don’t throw away your pads to contaminate the earth.... burn them , she said.

Replying queries she said these pads are very popular in Japan and it is reusable pads .In the long term it is less expensive to buy and produce menstrual pads compared to disposable menstrual pads.

11 terrorists were killed, 21 reported wounded as intense fighting sparked out between troops and LTTE at Akkarayankulama, in the outskirts of Kilinochchi, since this morning (Oct 4).
Troops of the 57 Division, confronted elements of LTTE head-on during their forward push into the main garrison township Kilinochchi, also assisted with close-in air support from the SLAF jets and helicopters. Today, helicopter gunships continued air assaults at an LTTE bunker line, located 3.5km Northeast of the Akkaryankulama tank bund, at around 9.15a.m., according to Air Force sources.
The 4th Sinha Regiment infantrymen have now marched and positioned 2Km within the Southern perimeters of the Kilinochchi town, forcing a probable defeat to LTTE, worst since the loss of Mallavi and Thunukkkai.
Meanwhile, Army continued neutralizing identified LTTE fortifications, gathering points, and artillery and mortar launching pads with multi-pronged heavy gun attacks. According to military reports, 10 terrorists were killed and 21 injured in the attacks at LTTE, Northeast of Akkarayankulama, Saturday at 10a.m.
In addition, another terrorist was reported killed sniped by military in general area East of Akkaryankulama, at 7.45a.m.
Kilinochchi built-up area is considered to be one of the longest townships in the island that runs for about 6.5 km down the A-9 road. Also, the area stretched for about 7 km across the A-9 road from the East to West.

The Jaffna Peninsula will be supplied with 24 hour uninterrupted power from early November, Power and Energy Ministry sources said.
The construction of the 36 MW thermal power plant in Chunnakkam has been completed and would be commissioned in early November, a Ministry spokesman said.
According to the ministry source, the smooth functioning of civil administration, commercial activities and domestic industries has led to an increased demand for electricity.
The current supply of electricity cannot meet the demand of over 600,000 people and the Ceylon Electricity Board has to exercise power cuts of one to two hours during peak hours between 6 p.m. to 9 p.m, the sources said.
The total power generated by two private companies and the CEB accounts for 19 MW. The two companies generate 16 MW while the CEB thermal plant at Chunnakkam generates 3 MW. The official said once the new plant is commissioned, the CEB would give new connections to applicants.

Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) MI 24 Attack helicopters engaged LTTE bunkers three kilometres North East of Akkarayankulam tank bund today, SLAF Spokesman Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said.

This attack was carried out in support of the army's 57 Division, he said.

The Department of Examinations will complete the marking of Advanced Level answer scripts tomorrow, Commissioner General of Examinations Anura Edirisinghe said. While thanking the school teachers who participated in the process, he said that results could be issued in December.

The UN will send another convoy of vehicles carrying food supplies to Wanni next week, UN spokesman Gordon Weiss said. He said that the first fleet of trucks that carried food items to the area had already returned.

Chief Justice Sarath N.Silva inaugurated the Provincial Civil Appeals High Court of Batticaloa today. TMVP Spokesman Azad Maulana said that the Chief Justice had a meeting with Eastern Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan too after that.

The Airforce’ MI 24 helicopters attacked the LTTE bunkers three kilomtres north of the Akkarayankulam tank bund in support of the army’s 57 Division engaged in fighting there.

The military has declared No-Fire Zones in Oddusudan and Viswamadu, Mullaitivu for civilians to use as escape routes to flee Kilinochchi..

Sri Lanka earned over 2.3 million U.S. dollars at the recently held Hong Kong Jewellery and Watch Fair and was successful in obtaining continuous monthly orders for calibrated cut blue sapphires, worth 50,000 U.S. dollars, according to the Chairman, National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA), Hasitha Tillekeratne.
This was the 17th occasion that Sri Lanka participated in this widely-attended international exhibition held in Hong Kong. At the Sri Lanka pavilion organized by the NGJA, six selected entrepreneurs from the gem and jewellery trade represented the country. Medium and large scale Sri Lankan gem and jewellery businessmen who attended this event were able to obtain orders from the USA, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Russia and Thailand.

The Hong Kong exhibition is the largest of its kind held in the Asia-Pacific region.

Hence participation in such events gives a major boost to the expansion of Sri Lanka's gem and jewellery industry, the NGJA Chairman points out. He has already made arrangements for the NGJA's participation in the HK exhibition for the 18th time in 2009.

(Lanka-e-News,) In response to a query on the factual basis of the statement that the life of the President is at risk, Minister Mervin Silva said to Lanka-e-News, "Prime Minister Bandaranaike who wore sarong and banyan was assassinated due to a problem of a shipping company. President Premadasa who wore sarong and banyan was also killed. Next leader who wears sarong and banyan hailing from a village in south is President Mahinda Rajapakse. Ranil and others carry tales to the world against him stating that he violates human rights. Weren't there similar human rights violations in the country in the past? Weren't the media persons killed and intimidated? In one side the UNP carry tales to the world whilst the JVP that nourished from us are plotting against this noble leader."

Exposing the plot to destroy the President, Minister of Labor Relations and Human Resources Mervin Silva said that an owner of electronic media, UNP, JVP and others are behind this plot.


Addressing a press conference held in Labor Secretariat, the Minister stated that he would have to announce that the government lacks back bone if it does not act against Sirasa. He said that he showed this to the President at the Central Committee meeting held Thursday (02).

The railway strike started by the Sri Lanka Railway Locomotive Engineers Union and Railway Guards Union is to continue without reaching a settlement with the authorities.
Since the strike started midnight yesterday, authorities have managed to operate only 30 trains through out the country strangling innocent commuters.
Sri Lanka Railway, General Manager Dr. Lalithasiri Gunaruwan told media that the ongoing strike is not justifiable.
“The railway department will continue to use the existing signal systems despite the pressure made by these unions. There are no problems which we see as harmful for railway operations,” he said.

Sri Lanka's army chief said Saturday his troops are on the verge of capturing the key northern headquarters of the Tamil Tigers in Kilinochchi.

Army forces had advanced to within two kilometres (1.25 miles) of the rebel stronghold, Lieutenant GeneralSarath Fonseka said in a speech at a Buddhist ceremony in the north central town of Anuradhapura.
Wresting control of Kilinochchi would be a major military and psychological blow to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
As the political capital of the LTTE's northern mini-state, the town is where the rebels have hosted visiting foreign dignitaries and peace brokers in the past.
This week Sri Lanka warplanes bombed the offices of the LTTE's police, intelligence and "peace secretariat" in the town. The rebels said some of the bombs fell on houses, injuring civilians.
The LTTE did not comment on Fonseka's remarks and independent verification on the offensive is not possible as the defence ministry bars media access to the frontlines.
Foreign aid workers who evacuated the northern region three weeks ago said most residents of Kilinochchi had fled as the fighting moved closer.
The defence ministry said 26 rebels and three soldiers were killed during fighting across the north on Friday.
According to ministry figures, the Tamil Tigers have lost some 7,184 fighters since January. The military puts its losses at 700 soldiers during the same period. Casualty figures also cannot be verified.

About three thousand deserted soldiers of the Sri Lanka Army (SLA) including twenty one high ranking officers now under detention after arrest by the police are to be produced before military tribunal shortly, media sources reported quoting Military Spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara.

Military spokesman further stated that about 4000 deserted soldiers have rejoined their regiments in the last six months. About 10 thousand persons have already been recruited newly to the Sri Lanka Army and Sri Lanka Police. Another batch of about 24 thousand persons is to be recruited to the SLA within next few months, he added according to media sources.

The fourth recruitment drive to the SLA began last week is to conclude in December this year, sources added.

CALCUTTA, India (AP) - Hundreds of protesters rallied Saturday against Tata Motors' decision to shift production of the Nano, billed as the world's cheapest car, out of India's West Bengal state, calling the move a serious blow to the local economy.
Tata on Friday announced plans to pull out of impoverished West Bengal because of relentless opposition from a local political party that had organized violent protests by farmers. The farmers complain that land for the factory was taken from them without proper compensation.
On Saturday, supporters of the Tata plant burned tires, chanted slogans and railed against those who blocked the project, saying their opposition will cost the local population thousands of jobs.
More than 1,000 people protested in Singur, the site of the car factory, and briefly blocked local highways, said senior police official Raj Kanojia. There were no reports of violence.
Ratan Tata, chairman of Tata Group, said he is considering offers from three or four other Indian states to host production of the $2,500 Nano. He plans to launch the car by year's end.
Tata blamed the failure of the West Bengal project squarely on Mamata Banerjee, leader of the opposition Trinamool party, who led the fight against the plant.
"If someone puts the gun on my head, I say either you remove the gun or you pull the trigger. Ms. Banerjee has pulled the trigger," Tata told reporters Friday.
Banerjee and other Trinamool leaders pin the blame on the West Bengal government for favoring large companies like Tata over local farmers.
Dibakar Das, a local official with the ruling Communist Party who supported the Nano project, said the protests against the plant were "an attempt to destroy the prospect of industry in the state."
Ujjwal Saha, a local farmer, said he sold his land to the company "with the hope that Nano will change our lives."
"Our future is now bleak," he said. "We don't know what will happen to us."
Others celebrated the pullout.
"We are all very happy as this is a big victory for us," said Harisadhan Ghosh, a local farmer.
However, Ghosh said he feared retribution from supporters of the project and Tata employees who would lose their jobs.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on Saturday opposed the proposal of joint patrolling by Indian and Sri Lankan naval forces across the Palk Straits.
In a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh[Images], Karunanidhi said, "There is no requirement of joint patrolling at this juncture. The issue of joint patrolling was once discussed and did not find favour with our government due to a number of reasons."
Referring to the reported discussions between Indian and Sri Lanka [Images]n foreign ministers at New York recently, where the issue was once again brought by Sri Lanka, Karunanidhi said the Lankan request for joint patrolling need not be considered.
The reasons had been discussed at length with the National Security Advisor M K Narayanan by the then chief secretary of Tamil Nadu, he said.
During the meeting with him, Narayanan had confirmed that adequate steps were being taken to provide the navy and Coast Guard with the best equipment and other infrastructure as demanded by him, Karunanidhi said.

Doctors at state hospitals islandwide launched a one day strike today to protest the recent killing of a lady doctor in Hambantota; her funeral will take place today.
Updated @ 04

Under a new law signed yesterday by US President George W. Bush, leaders of military forces and armed groups in Sri Lanka who have recruited child soldiers may be arrested and prosecuted in the United States, Human Rights Watch said.

On an initiative of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Sri Lankan government has decided to retroactively promote the retired army, navy and air force commanders with effect from October 01 2007.

The commanders have been given the promotions to a rank above in recognition of their dedicated service safeguarding the territorial integrity and sovereignty of country.

Accordingly, as a mark of gratitude, the commanders will be entitled for pension rights relevant to the promoted ranks.

With this new decision, former army commanders, Lt. Genaral J.E.D. Perera and Lt. Genaral P.D.P.N. Senevirathne will be promoted to the rank of General. Former navy commanders, Rear Admiral D.E. Gunasekara and Rear Admiral A.W.H. Perera will be promoted to the rank of Admiral. Former air force commanders, Air Vice Marshal P.H. Mendis, W.H.S.W. Gunathilake, P.D. Perera, O.M. Ranasinghe, and J. Weerakkody will be promoted to the rank of Air Chief Marshal.

Troops of 57 Division operating in the east of Kilinochchi front had several confrontations with LTTE terrorists in Akkarakankulam and Murukkandi areas in yesterday (October 03) , defence sources in battlefront said.

Army snipers deployed in general area Murukkandi gunned down an LTTE terrorist last morning. Meanwhile, in a separate confrontation took place in east of Akkarayankulam, intercepting terror transmission it is revealed that 2 LTTE terrorists were killed in this attack. Two soldiers also sustained injuries in this battle. Another soldier reported wounded in a confrontation took place in general area Akkarayankulam.

Troops conducted a search operation in general area east of Akkarayankulam have found a body of slain LTTE cadres killed in recent battle along with one Multi Purpose Machine Gun (MPMG), defence sources added.

Fifty-one lorries with 650 tons of dry rations had reached the Wanni safely and had already started distribution among IDPs under the watchful eyes of the Government Agents, Essential Services Commissioner S.B. Divarathna said yesterday (Oct 3).

Divarathna said the consignment had been unloaded at warehouses in four locations namely Mulleivalu, Pudikudiruppu, Dhramapuram and Kandaveli.

With regard to the route taken by the Convoy Divarathna said they had used the A-34 (Mankulam-Odusuddan) road instead of the A-9 on the instruction of security authorities. The convoy was accompanied by seven expat aid agency workers with five representing the World Food Programme (WFP) and the other two from the UN and NGOs.

They were expected to return yesterday evening. However, nine lorries out of 60 sealed after being loaded at warehouses in Vavuniya had been prevented from proceeding to the Wanni as they had contained some illegal items. According to Divarathna two lorries had contained 250 grams of C-4 explosives and a load of batteries hidden inside them.

He said that 250 lorries which belong to traders in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu had been registered with authorities for transport purposes and the two apprehended lorries had belonged to them.

Another convoy of around 75 lorries consisting of 750-1000 tons of food would be sent to the Wanni during next week Divarathna added. This would be the norm during coming weeks with around 1,000 tons of essential items being delivered to the Wanni during the coming weeks Divarathna said. As a contingency plan another 5,000 tons had been stored in Vavuniya for emergency use.

Non food items categorised as being essentials too would be delivered to help the IDPs after the second convoy, Divarathna said. Food is being delivered first on a priority basis.

The normal supplies to traders in the areas which go in 20 lorries on a daily basis to the Wanni was continuing as usual Divarathna added.

Meanwhile Secretary to the Ministry of Resettlement and Disaster Relief Services A.C.M.Razik said that his Ministry was continuing with the support extended to IDPs in the region.

He said that 49,413 families from three districts namely Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu and Vavuniya had been provided with essentials worth of Rs.112 million.

"Our Ministry has planned to provide these families with enough stocks to last till December within the next two weeks as a contingency plan," he added.

Also according to Razik his Ministry has planned to provide newly displaced people with cooked food for one week till they find alternative shelter. This will cost Rs.48 million.

Locomotive operating engineers and railway guards are to go on strike from midnight tonight to highlight the faulty signaling system in use in Sri Lanka.

According to the Locomotive Operating Engineers’ Association and Railway Guards’ Association, the faulty signaling system was the key reason for the recent railway accident in which two express trains operating on the same railway line collided, killing one person while injuring many others on board.

“With this faulty signal system, we are not driving any of the trains. When things go wrong, authorities blame us. We are putting the lives of the railway commuters in danger. We will not drive any of these trains unless the signal system is replaced entirely,” they said.

CHENNAI - The current Rajapakse Government in Sri Lanka has become a rogue state for its continued military action against the Tamils on the island nation, said Communist party of India’s (CPI) national secretary D Raja.
Inaugurating a state-wide fast organised on Thursday by the CPI, along with other political parties in the state of Tamil Nadu, in support of Eelam Tamils, Raja said that the Rajapakse government had always talked about military solutions to the ethnic problem, unmindful of its consequences. This had only made Rajapakse turn into a dictator, he charged.
He also accused the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government of extending undeclared military support to the Sri Lankan Government in its war against the Tamils there. He also blamed the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Government for not raising its voice against the killing of Tamils.
Thousands of people Thursday took to the venues in Tamil Nadu's capital city Chennai and other district capitals in the southern state of India to participate in a fasting campaign on Mahatma Gandhi's birthday demanding New Delhi to withdraw military assistance to Sri Lanka.
“There is a need to protect the Tamils in Lanka. The refugee problem still persists. Thousands are living in camps in Tamil Nadu. The Tamils in Lanka should get their social, economic and political rights,” CPI national secretary D Raja further said.
The ethnic problem could be solved through talks at the diplomatic level, Raja said, and added that the Indian Government could facilitate this. He also voiced his concerns over the recent air raids in northern Sri Lanka, which saw three Indians injured and questioned the silence maintained by the UPA Government on the incident.
CPI state secretary D Pandian led the fast. Most of the leaders who spoke on the occasion had a word of praise for Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) supremo Velupillai Prabakaran for his sustained efforts to achieve Tamil Eelam.

Tamil Nadu CPI Joint Secretary C. Mahendran, Communist Party of India (Marxist) State Secretary N. Varadarajan, Chairman of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam led by Actor Vijayakanth, Panruti S.Ramachandran, MDMK General-Secretary Vaiko, Tamil National Movement Leader Pala Nedumaran, Viduthalai Chiruththaikal Kadchi (VCK, Liberation Panthers Party) President Thol. Thirumavalavan, Puthiya Thamizhakam Leader Dr. Krishnasamy, World Tamils Organization President, Ira. Janarthanan, former Congress leader Thindivanam Ramamoorthy and Latchiya Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (LDMK) Leader Vijaya T Rajendhar were among the political figures of Tamil Nadu who took part in the hunger strike at the stage and also addressed the audience.

Sri Lanka Army (SLA) in Jaffna which has been engaged in intensive searches in most of the Saiva temples in Jaffna peninsula and their surroundings from Tuesday, extended the search to Point Pedro Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) Thursday, which lasted for nearly two and a half hours. No one was arrested or any objects were recovered during the search, employees of the depot said. The searches follow the attack on SLA soldiers Monday night at Maasiyappiddi in Valikaamam.
The search began at 11:00 a.m when all employees of Point Pedro SLTB depot were made to vacate the depot.

SLA soldiers searched the depot thoroughly for nearly two and a half hours while no one was allowed either to enter or leave Point Pedro town where the depot is located.

All traffic in the area was suspended and people had to wait along the roads until the search was completed.

Government and Corporation employees fear that the SLA searches will extend to their places of work in the coming days.

Meanwhile, SLA which usually blocks the main roads in the peninsula around 9:00 a.m. for its convoy of vehicles to transport troops and military hardware to the Front Defence Lines (FDL) areas in Thenmaraadchi and Vadamaraadchi, closed all the main roads at 7:00 a.m Thursday for its convoy of vehicles to pass.

All traffic along the main roads were stopped.

The public was not permitted to use the main roads until noon, and the move signals a likely major offensive at the Northern FDL areas, residents speculated.

Large numbers of civilians are reported to be fleeing the northern Sri Lankan town of Kilinochchi in the face of more air force attacks.
Kilinochchi is the administrative headquarters of Tamil Tiger rebels fighting for a separate Tamil state.
On Friday the air force targeted the Tigers' police HQ, reports say.
Aid agencies estimate about 200,000 people have been displaced by the fighting. The government says it is on the verge of defeating the Tigers.
'Moving east'
Although Kilinochchi is the centre of the rebels' administration, the central government in Colombo still organises health, education and other services there.

The government's top civil servant, or government agent, in Kilinochchi district, Nagalingam Vedanayagan, confirmed that there were more attacks on Kilinochchi town on Friday.
"Shelling and other attacks are taking place in Kilinochchi," he told the BBC Tamil service. "To escape the fighting people are moving towards the east. Most of them have been moving out."
He also said six people were killed in air attacks on Thursday.
A local resident undergoing treatment in Kilinochchi's hospital said the situation there was very tense. "In the morning we heard a big noise of the fighter aircraft... in the late afternoon there was another air attack. We are very scared. Once the doctor comes and takes off the bandages, I am planning to get out of this place."
The Sri Lankan government is urging people to move out from the rebel controlled Wanni region to government controlled areas.
But the hospital patient said that was not an option. "There is no road. There is no public transport to (government-controlled) Vavuniya, we cannot go there."
'Taking little'
Another resident said nearly everyone had left Kilinochchi town. "Some people are paying 10,000 to 15,000 rupees ($90-135) to hire lorries and move out.

The UN has managed to unload a convoy of food aid
"But many people don't have that money and are moving out on bicycles or auto rickshaws. They are taking very little with them.
"All the shops and hotels are closed," he said. "People are living under trees. They don't even have a mat to sleep on. There is no electricity."
The army said earlier this week that it was moving closer towards capturing the town after "intensive fighting".
Meanwhile a UN aid convoy has managed to unload all its food in Kilinochchi.
Fifty-one trucks carrying around 650 tonnes of food passed through the crossing point at Omanthai into territory controlled by the Tamil Tigers on Thursday.
The food is the first to be sent by the UN since it and other aid agencies were ordered out of rebel areas by the government.
According to the military, soldiers are now only 3.5km (two miles) from the outskirts of Kilinochchi.
But with journalists barred from the area the claims cannot be independently verified.

The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka today issued an injunction taking into consideration a fundamental right violation petition filed by a Buddhist monk, preventing the Government from subsidizing the electricity bills of religious places.

The Supreme Court held that if the said subsidizing is allowed, the Ceylon Electricity Board will abuse the proposed subsidy of Rs. 395 million. It also held that all religious institutions which use more than 600 units should not be given such subsidies.

Fitch Ratings has today downgraded the National long-term rating of the Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC) Bank of Sri Lanka HDFC.CM to 'BBB+(lka)' from 'A-(lka)'. The rating Outlook remains Negative. Fitch has simultaneously downgraded the rating on the following outstanding senior unsecured debentures issued by HDFC to BBB+(lka) from A-(lka):

2005/2010, 2015, 2020 senior unsecured redeemable debentures of LKR250m

2005/2009 senior unsecured redeemable debentures of LKR125m

The rating action reflects Fitch's view that the continued escalation of HDFC's inherent interest rate risk has weakened its financial profile to a level that cannot sustain a higher rating over the medium term. However, Fitch derives comfort from possible state support, given the government of Sri Lanka's circa.51% stake in HDFC, and the bank's perceived importance to the state's housing policy. The rating also factors in HDFC's sound capital adequacy, and the relatively low ultimate credit risk in its loan portfolio. The Negative Outlook reflects Fitch's view that, while HDFC is currently in the process of implementing measures that could address its weak profitability, the bank could find it challenging to arrive at a sustainable level of profitability over the ensuing 12-18 months, if the present macro economic conditions were to persist.

On a consolidated basis, profitability as measured by return on assets progressively declined from 1.68% at year end 2006 to a negative 0.34% and negative 0.87% at year end 2007 and end-June 2008 respectively. This was largely driven by the deterioration in net interest margin (NIM), due to the bank's inherent interest rate mismatch. The bank intends to increase lending rates on its existing loan portfolio commencing in October 2008, in order to improve profitability. However, such increases are somewhat constrained by the nature of the bank's clientele, who are largely fixed income earners from the low and middle income segments of the population.

HDFC increased lending rates on new loans during FY07 in a bid to offset rising borrowing costs, and has maintained a NIM of around 5%-6% on incremental lending since end-2007. However overall NIM reduced to 2.6% at end-June 2008 from 3.3% at FYE07 driven by slower loan growth, while average borrowing costs continued to increase. HDFC's profitability is constrained further by its portfolio of low-yielding directed loans to state employees, which has been limited to LKR1bn (8.4% of gross loans at end-June 2008).

HDFC's statutory liquid assets ratio (SLAR) has been below the regulatory minimum of 20% since May 2008 due to a large repayment of institutional borrowings, while deposit growth slowed considerably. Fitch notes that liquidity could be constrained further by increased operating costs, and weak profitability. However the bank expects the SLAR to return to 20% towards FYE08 based on its decision to reduce loan growth since Q208.

HDFC is a licensed specialised bank whose main shareholder (c.51%) is the government of Sri Lanka. The bank is one of two that specialise in lending to the low and middle income segment. HDFC has a network of 21 outlets, and had an asset base of LKR13.2bn at end-June 2008.

The Free Media Movement has demanded the military spokesman respected the freedom of expression of the media and desist from attempting to impose their own interpretations on media content.

In a letter dated 25th September 2008 addressed to the Tamil language Sudaroli newspaper, military spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakakara writing in the name of and under the official aegis of Military Head Quarters has stated that a photo-caption in the newspaper “…will create tension among the people and confuse the Security Forces who are serving to safeguard the sovereignty of the country.”

The photograph in question was of five schoolchildren in the besieged Wanni cramped in a bunker looking at the sky with so much anxiety in their eyes.

It was first published by the BBC Sinhala website (see photo at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/7631365.stm ).

The Free Media Movement says it is seriously concerned about the fact that the military has taken upon itself the task of interpreting and requesting changes to even photo-captions in a newspaper.

While FMM is pleased that the newspaper stood by its caption, in the light of recent events which increasingly portend restrictions on the freedom of expression in the interests of military morale and a military establishment that is ominously sensitive to what it perceives as criticism, we regard it as wholly unacceptable that the military spokesperson should feel entitled to request a newspaper to change or withdraw any expression of opinion, photo-captions included.

This is clearly and squarely a violation of press freedom.

Sudaroli, a Tamil language daily published in Colombo reproduced the photograph with the caption, “Oh my God, don’t drop bombs on us.”

In his response the military spokesperson says, “This photograph publicizes that Air Force is carrying out attacks on wrong targets and in such a way as to endanger the children [sic].”

It is indisputable that in any war, air raids or long-range artillery attacks on ‘identified enemy locations’ sometimes hit civilian targets and cause death and destruction to civilian life and property.

It may not be the intention of the military to cause damage to civilian targets, but we would stress that intention notwithstanding, the result is the same.

The Sudaroli newspaper has every right to take up its own editorial position in respect of both the need for and the manner of prosecution of the war, and indeed, attach a caption of its choice on a photograph, as newspapers everywhere have done before and continue to do.

FMM demands that defence spokespersons respect the freedom of expression of the media and desist from attempting to impose their own interpretations on media content, with the unstated yet menacing expectation that their injunctions will promptly be heeded by the media.

The Parliamentary Select Committee appointed to look into the serious escalation of grave crimes, including murder, in every part of Sri Lanka has not met even once this year, said a JVP source and was confirmed by a government minister.

This PSC had been appointed in 2006 when the situation on crime was not as bad as now.

It had then met a few times, called in the IGP for consultation and presented an interim report too, said the same government source.

The situation has seriously degenerated in the country thereafter, that reflects in Nishantha Fernando, a complainant against torture by police and bribery, had been shot dead in broad daylight in Negombo and a medical doctor shot dead by a soldier in her service station, Bandagiriya Central Dispensary.

All this comes in the wake of serious threats to two lawyers who appeared for Nishantha Fernando and Senior Attorney at Law and HR activist J.C. Weliamuna’s home coming under a grenade attack.

Inquiries as to when this select committee is scheduled to meet next did not get any positive answer, even from the government minister.

This PSC comprises W.D.J. Seneviratne (Chairman), Gitanjana Gunawardne, P. Chandrasekaran, A.L.M. Athaulla, Tissa Vitharana, Dew Gunasekera, Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, M.H. Cegu Isadeen, Jayaratne Herath, M.S. Sellasamy, Hussein Ahmed Bhaila, S. Nijamudeen, John Amaratunge, Lakshman Kiriella, Wijeydasa Rajapakshe, V. Puthirasigamany, G.G. Ponnambalam, Ajith Kumara and former JVP MP Wasantha Samarasinghe.

Save the Children, a humanitarian agency which operated in Killinochchi has raised fears that children could again be forced to work for the LTTE following the withdrawal of INGOs and NGOs from the Wanni.
"There are more than 30,000 children who have been deprived of an education due to displacement over the past few weeks," said Senait Gebregziabher, country director of Save the Children in Sri Lanka. "The trauma of war poses a huge threat to their wellbeing."

Right up until the deadline to leave, Save the Children ran a relief operation providing food, basic temporary shelter materials and children's clothes. Save the Children also provided safe play areas and support for children recruited and released by the Tamil Tigers.

Save the Children was able to stop many children being recruited to fight for the Tamil Tigers, but the organisation fears that without staff on the ground children could again be forced to work for the rebels.

Although the area is extremely insecure and communication is restricted, Save the Children is trying to regain access and help displaced children and their families.

Save the Children urges the Government of Sri Lanka, the LTTE, and the international community to take immediate and lasting measures to protect children caught up in this ongoing conflict.

Save the Children has now been forced to stop its operations and withdraw staff based in its Kilinochchi Office. Staff has now been evacuated and it is unclear when they will be able to return.

More than 160,000 people have been forced to flee the fighting in the area, leaving crops to rot in the fields and disrupting livelihoods and the education of tens of thousands of children.

The main opposition UNP yesterday vowed to move a no-confidence motion against the government if it failed to reduce fuel prices in keeping with the drastic drop in world market prices.

Senior UNPer John Amaratunga who handed over a petition to the Treasury Secretary calling for the price reduction in fuel, told reporters that the bringing down of prices was essential as a means of easing the burden on the people.

Meanwhile, UNP media spokesman Gayantha Karunatilake said according to the present level of fuel prices in the world market, the government could reduce the price of petrol from Rs.157 a litre to Rs.110 a litre; diesel from Rs.110 a liter to Rs.92 a litre and kerosene from Rs.70 a litre to 60 a litre.

Mr. Karunatilake said the government had miserably failed to provide any relief because of rampant corruption.

“We will continue our struggle to force the government to bring down fuel prices,” he said.

Mr. Karunatilake accused the government of issuing fuel to some foreign shipping companies at Rs.95.14 a litre, and at this price 186,000 liters had been issued on October 1.

“This is a major fraud. We do not know why the government is providing fuel at concessionary rates to shipping companies while denying relief to people suffering from the escalating cost of living,” he said.

The Police Special Task Force personnel in Kalawanchikudy in Ampara district detected an Improvised Explosive Device in the form of a coconut which was brought along by two suicide cadres.

Half of the coconut shell was filled with powerful C4 explosives and was connected to an electronic detonator with several batteries was brought by two suicide cadres who were subsequently gunned down by the STF in a shoot out.

According to an STF officer the coconut bomb is one of the rare IED s which the LTTE use in their attacks.

The military have arrested over 2000 soldiers who deserted the service along with 21 officers during the past few months and they are to face court martial while some have already been imprisoned, Military Spokesman Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara said.
The military have arrested 2981 deserters including 21 officers during the period.

Out of that 896 have been produced before the military adjudicator and imprisoned. 536 cases are pending court martial, the Brigadier said.

The military is looking to recruit 14,000 fresh troops by December whilst 10,106 who have already joined the force are being given basic training, he said.

Meanwhile 4004 deserted soldiers have rejoined the force voluntarily since the amnesty period in June, he said.

The Colombo District Court yesterday issued an enjoining order preventing "Jathiya Surakeeme Sangamaya" from distributing and pasting posters that bring disrepute to Fonterra brand Lanka Pvt. Ltd, the company that imports milk powder products.

Colombo District Judge Sisira Ratnayake made this order following a complaint filed by the company which imports, process es and distributes milk powder brands such as Anchor, Rathee, Red Cow, Anlene and Newdale brand yogurt. It cited Chaminda Rohana Ubayasekera a member of the Jathiya Surakeeme Sangamaya as defendant

In this plaint supported by Romesh de Silva PC with Sugath Caldera on the instruction of Sudath Perera Associate stated that the defendant organization is carrying out a false and malicious campaign to bring disrepute to plaintiff company following an alleged news on contaminated milk in China. Fonterra Brands Lanka stated that it is a fully owned subsidiary of the Fonterra cooperative group of New Zealand and it never imports milk from China.

The plaintiff also stated that the crisis with regard to milk was limited to China and to the countries where the goods are manufactured using milk from China. In the wake of this situation several Asian countries which had imported China manufactured milk started several safety measures, such as withdrawal of milk products from China. The government as precautionary measure decided to test samples of milk powders sold in Sri Lanka by manufacturers and distributors. Subsequently the defendent organization has pasted posters in and around areas of Colombo complaining that the plaintiff milk product is harmful for the consumption and they should be banned.

The plaintiff claimed that the alleged poster campaign was carried out by the members of the organization called Jathiya Surakeeme Sangamaya and stated that they have no right to distribute and paste posters against the plaintiff products and it has caused damages to the goodwill and reputation of its enterprise. The plaintiff asked to issue orders preventing the defendant from engaging in false and baseless campaigns against its business and estimated damage at Rs. 1000 million. The court issued the enjoining order and issued notice on the defendant

Romesh de Silva PC with Sugath Caldera, Manoj Bandara and Eraj de Silva instructed by Sudath Perera Associates appeared for Fonterra Brand Lanka Pvt. Ltd.

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has condemned the act intended to cause harm and/or intimidate Mr.J. C. Weliamuna, Attorney-at-Law, a prominent advocate of good governance, transparency and human rights. Issuing a press release the CCC noted that this deplorable attack was carried out on the night of September 27 targeting Mr. Weliamuna’s residence in Kohuwala, an area that is under considerable amount of police and military protection with around-the-clock surveillance.
According to the release, the CCC believes that it is the duty of the Government to ensure that action is taken by the law enforcement authorities to bring the perpetrators of this act to book.

The CCC noted that while the demands for concerted action brings about a reaction in response, in the form of a commitment to investigate, in fact, the culprits are usually not apprehended. If this state of affairs continues, then the value of the contribution and the competence of those responsible needs to be seriously examined.

The CCC believes that it is particularly important for the authorities not only to be seen but as well as to act effectively if Sri Lanka as a country is to demonstrate that it subscribes to the values associated with good governance, transparency and human rights and that its people respect law and order.

The Government has a duty to create the necessary environment and protection to icons of good societal behaviour at least on par with the protection afforded to the several political personalities.

The Prisons Department was yesterday plunged into a crisis after the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) disconnected the power supply to the Welikada Prison over non-payment of bills running into millions of rupees.

Informed sources said CEB officials disconnected the power supply to the Welikada Prison and informed the prison authorities that it would be disconnecting the power supply to the Mahara Prison today.

A senior Justice Ministry official said the Treasury had failed to sanction enough funds for the payment of electricity bills, resulting in the disconnection.

However, electricity supply was restored last night, following Prison Chief Vajira Wijegunawardane assuring the Electricity Board that the dues would be paid within two weeks.

With the power supply out in the morning, prisons authorities had taken steps to increase the security at the Welikada Prison.

Prisons Chief Wijegunawardane admitted that there was an issue relating to the power supply, but declined to comment further.

There are some 11,000 inmates in the Welikada Prison, which also houses the women prisoners and the main administrative section of the Prisons Department. There were 2000 inmates at the Mahara Prison.

In another disaster waiting to happen, contractors supplying food to the prisons, informed the prisons authorities that in about a fortnight they would stop supplying food to the Welikada Prison owing to the non-payment of bills.

Sources said the food contractors were last paid in April.

Eleven students were chastised by the Colombo magistrate for allegedly smoking cannabis. The students from several different leading National and International schools were fined Rs. 2,000 each and advised to behave properly, for if caught in the future they would be jailed.

The Sri Lankan government has apppointed Nishanta Wickramasinghe as acting chairman of SriLankan Airlines after incumbent and former Treasury Secretary Dr P.B. Jayasundera resigned from the post, the airline said on Friday

Mr Wickremasinghe has been on the board of the airline since January 2006 and was appointed an executive director since April this year, after Emirates ended its management contract. He is currently the General Manager of James Finlay Plantation Holdings Ltd and is a brother-in-law of President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Dr. Jayasundera resigned from the post on October 2 after the Supreme Court said he was unfit to hold any public office due to his role in the controversial Lanka Marine Services Ltd which the court overturned, saying it was a corrupt deal.

The airline press release said the government has also appointed the following as directors of the national carrier --Dr U. N. B. Obeysekera, Nihal Jayamanne PC and Sanath Ukwatte. Mr Jayamanne and Mr Ukwatte have served on the Board of SriLankan, previously.

Colombo stocks were driven by speculation of a takeover bid on Maskeliya Plantations Ltd (MPL), a subsidiary of the Richard Pieris Group, on Friday but company officials rejected the reports. MPL was up by Rs 4 to Rs 30.

There were 548,900 MPL shares traded contributing to the second highest turnover with Distilleries as the top contributor. “There was a 482,400 share crossing at DCSL at Rs 71 per share which was bought by a foreign party,” a stock analyst said.

Blue chips such as Commercial Bank, Distilleries and Lanka IOC led the rise in the bourse indices. Commercial Bank was up by 25 cents to Rs 104.25, Distilleries was up Rs 1 to Rs 71 and Lanka IOC saw a 75 cents increase to Rs 24.75 at stock market close. The All Share Index increased by 6.92 points to 2,155.53 while the Milanka increased by 9.37 points to 2,419.91 at market close while the turnover was at Rs.110 million.

TRINCOMALEE: THREE Tiger terrorists, believed to have been infiltrated were gunned down in the eastern village of KOTTUKULAM, TRINCOMALEE Friday (3) morning around 7.10 a.m. after a confrontation with a combined Army-Air Force foot patrol on duty in the area.

Those three Tigers with the intention of harming the Security Forces opened fire on the foot patrol taking cover behind several houses in the area. But the troops tactfully pursued those T-56 weapon carrying terrorists and shot at them.

All three terrorists fell dead following the shooting. Troops recovered all three dead Tigers and three T-56 weapons they were carrying at that point of time. Those dead bodies are to be handed over to TRINCOMALEE hospital morgue after initial investigations and post-mortem.

JAFFNA: AN ATTEMPT by Tiger (LTTE) saboteurs to blast a power transformer in the general area of KOKUVIL, JAFFNA last evening (2) at about 7.00 p.m. was averted by troops providing guard to it, despite injury received by the troops in the grenade explosion.

Terrorists mingling with the public in the area lobbed a hand grenade towards the transformer and the troops from a distance, but the explosion could not achieve desired results since it fell a few yards away from the transformer. Three soldiers providing security to it however sustained minor injuries following the explosion.

Meanwhile, JAFFNA troops serving NAGARKOVIL area around 10.15 in the morning on Thursday (2) were compelled to direct fire on several Tiger terrorists who tried to attack the troops. However, troops overpowered their attempt and killed two of them.

VAVUNIYA: ADVANCING TROOPS fighting in the general areas of PANIKKANKULAM, NAVATKULAM, PANIKKANIRAVIKULAM, VILATIKULAM and NALLIKULAM in the deep north of VAVUNIYA caused further losses to the LTTE, depriving them of four more bunkers.

One of the bunkers was at NALLIKULAM, from where the Tigers used to direct fire on the troops.

Two terrorists attempting to defend their bunkers in the same area lost their lives while two more were severely injured. Troops recovered two hand grenades and one pouch from those bunkers.

Meanwhile, six more terrorists were killed and three injured during confrontations in PANIKKANKULAM, PANIKKANIRAVIKULAM and VILATIKULAM areas.

KILINOCHCHI: FIGHTING continued in AKKARAYANKULAM area Thursday (02) causing death to seven terrorists and injuries to a few more. Six of them were killed when the troops attacked a fortified LTTE bunker. Three soldiers who were injured in the LTTE gun fire were admitted to hospital for treatment.

In the meantime, confrontations at PARAIKANDAMADU, MADAM and VANNERIKKULAM killed six terrorists and injured over twenty five. Four soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice and three sustained injuries during fighting.

Search and clear operations conducted in the general area of KANDIVEDDIKULAM found thirty-six anti personnel mines and four booby traps.

In the MULLAITTIVU district fierce clashes broke out in the areas south of IRANAMADU as the troops were clearing their path towards Tiger strongholds Thursday (02).

Continuous exchange of fire between troops and terrorists killed two terrorists. Army troops during subsequent clearing operations recovered two LTTE dead bodies, two T-56 weapons, one MPMG (Multi Purpose Machine Gun) and one I-com radio set. Two soldiers laid their lives and one was injured in the same incident. Separate clashes in the area injured one terrorist and three soldiers.

Similar clashes in the areas south of MANKULAM, south of KOKAVIL, the same day morning killed eight terrorists and injured eleven more.

During the confrontation one terrorist was injured in the confrontation.

EAST: TROOPS conducted a search in the general area of ACHCHIBOKKUWA and recovered one hand grenade Thursday (02) around 7.00 a.m..

Similarly, a car traveling in the MAILAMBAVELI area was fired upon by an unidentified gunman, the same day around 5.35 p.m.. The firing incident injured one civilian inside the vehicle .

Another search conducted by the Security Forces in the general area of KANNAGIPIRA, AMPARA recovered three 80 mm mortar shells, two 40 mm cartridges and two hand grenades.

WELIOYA: ARMY TROOPS fighting in ANDANKULAM area in WELIOYA killed eighteen terrorists during confrontations Thursday (02). At least fourteen terrorists suffered injuries, troops confirmed. Troops recovered three thousand (3000) rounds of ammunition, one poncho cape and ration packets from the inside of the LTTE bunker.

One soldier who fell victim to an anti personnel mine and sustained injuries was taken to hospital.

During search and clear operations conducted in the WELIOYA area, troops recovered two hundred and sixty three anti personnel mines and two IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) Thursday (02).

Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets carried out air sorties targeting a secret passage of the LTTE's intelligence wing leader Pottu Amman located in the Kilinochchi area this afternoon, 3 October.

The well identified secret passage, which is used as terror intelligence headquarter in Kilinochchi, was located in general area Kanagapuram, 4Km west of Kilinochchi town and it was engaged around 2.30 p.m, the Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, said.

The target was precisely taken by the Air Force fighters, based on real-time information gathered through continuous ground and air surveillances.

Internews has given nearly 3,000 transistor radios to families who have been forced to flee their homes by the conflict in Eastern Sri Lanka with the support of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) and Save the Children in Sri Lanka. The radio distribution is part of Internews’ “Lifeline” project to meet the information needs of Sri Lankans living in camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Kowsalya Murugaiah, the local leader of the Alunkulam welfare camp in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Batticaloa District, calls out to her fifty-some constituents and then waits patiently under a shady tree. Mostly women and children emerge from small one-room huts where they seek shade from the unbearable heat that defines afternoon in this part of the island. The men are out doing physical work like cutting and hauling firewood from the local jungle.

Everyone in the Alankulam camp has been displaced from their original homes for more than two years because of the conflict that has killed an estimated 70,000 people since it began 25 years ago. More than anything, they want to go back to their home district of Trincomalee, a couple of hours north by road, to see what is left of the lives they knew before.

Most of them lost everything, from their rice paddies to their family photographs, when they fled intense fighting. Now they live in houses made from tarps and corrugated sheet metal, trying to survive on day laborer wages and rations.

The Alunkulam welfare center is more cut off than most, as it is set an hour from the nearest major town, Batticaloa, and does not receive the steady stream of assistance that many of the other Sri Lankan IDP camps receive.

The families at this camp are not just cut off from physical assistance; they are also cut off from the news and information that might help them improve their situation. These people have never owned radios and they cannot afford newspapers. They cannot access news on how to find work, how to improve their families’ health and nutrition, or how to replace essential documents lost in displacement.

But today, under a big shady tree, one vital need of the Alankulam residents is getting addressed. Each family is receiving a transistor radio from Internews.

“Today, we finally got something we really needed,” says camp leader Kowsalya Murugaiah. “Now we can get news and information to help us. Now we won’t be so lost.”

With a grant from USAID, Internews started its “Lifeline” project in Sri Lanka in December 2007 for populations like the people of Alankulam, to improve peoples’ access to vital information and knowledge and in doing so, help people to take more control of their lives.

“We hope that these radios will help you to make better decisions through this Lifeline program. We don’t want to tell you what to do but to offer some options available for as well as bring you some joy while you are here,” said Sue McIntyre, South Asia Regional Advisor for USAID, Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA), during the radio distribution held at the Cultural Hall IDP camp in Trincomalee town in September.

The “Lifeline” team produces a weekly newspaper and radio program in one of the local languages. These outlets tell the displaced and others about projects and services provided by the Sri Lankan government, humanitarian agencies, and local organizations.

The “Lifeline” radio program includes a popular radio drama that covers topics such as HIV/AIDS and dowry issues. A series of radio spots addresses the legal issues that displaced people face, such as how to replace birth certificates and how to insure their land and livestock. Recent interviews with government officials in the war-torn districts of Batticaloa and Trincomalee conveyed how the local populations were coping and what resources they most needed.

Back at the Alankulam camp, one local resident tuned his radio contently. Sitting in a sarong and no shirt, he listened to some music for a bit.

His wife mentioned the “Lifeline” radio program. She says she heard a drama about dowry issues, and that she liked it. Her husband smiles and says he liked hearing the sounds and voices from another IDP camp featured in the program.

As the morning moves along, the sound of many radios being tuned fills the air. Everyone, it seems, can finally listen. “Lifeline” airs for two hours on Saturday mornings as well as half an hour daily. Over the course of its existence, “Lifeline” has also organized live information events at IDP camps and welfare centers, where the team hosts talks, music, and street dramas that air on “Lifeline.”

Sri Lanka Center in Shanghai will lead to greater inflows Chinese Investment
As part of a greater strategy to attract investments from China, one of the fastest growing economies in Asia, the Board of Investment has taken the lead in the establishment of a Sri Lanka Center in Shanghai.
This project, which was a brainchild of Dr Sarath Amungama, Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion, will encourage promoting investment at the source by showcasing many of the products and services available in Sri Lanka. Hence Chinese Investors will be able to have a very clear idea of Sri Lanka’s potential for manufacturing high quality products of international standard.

Representing Dr Sarath Amungama, Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion, H.E Karunathilaka Amunugama, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Peoples Republic of China, ceremoniously opened the Center. Also present was the Deputy Director General (Investment) of the BOI, Mr. A.M.C. Kulasekera who briefed Chinese enterprises present on Sri Lanka’s investment climate.

The Center is located in the Shanghai Mart, which is a prestigious property built and owned by the Shin Kwan Group, a leading Singapore based conglomerate headed and owned by S.P Tao, the construction magnate who built and owns Colombo’s World trade Center and the Havelock City.
Minister Amunugama formally appointed Mr Lee Kang Ho, the Chief representative of the Shin Kwan Group in Shanghai as the Honorary Representative of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka in Shanghai. Mr Lee who is also Mr Tao’s grandson, has visited Sri Lanka on many occasions.

Mr Kulasekera emphasized that the BOI had selected Shanghai, as it has always been the economic focal point of that huge country being a window on the outside world. Shanghai is a city with an annual GDP growth of 10%, which has attracted investments from enterprises from over 130 countries that have invested in 50,000 projects. Hence there is no better location to set up a center in China.


The Sri Lanka Center features a wide range of products made in Sri Lanka including manufactured and value added goods such as tea, beauty care products, food products, apparel, ceramics and gems and jewellery. It will also serve as an information center and investors will be able to find out about the modalities to set up investment projects in Sri Lanka. The Center therefore has a wide selection of literature on investment and industries in the Chinese language and in English. Among the companies represented and Sri Lankan brand names are Nature’s Beauty, Mackwoods, Dilmah, Stassens International, Eswaran Brothers and Ceylon Biscuits (Munchee).

The distinguished delegates and diplomats who participated at the event and visited the Sri Lanka Center in Shanghai highly appreciated it as a window for trade and investment opportunities.

This importance of this service lies in its ability to tap Chinese investment at a crucial time when China’s massive economic growth is coupled with a growing demand for consumer goods. In addition, Chinese enterprises have begun some years back, to invest in many parts of the world, changing the traditional landscape of global investment.

Sri Lanka is in an excellent position to attract many such investments due to the friendly relations that have existed between the two countries since the establishment of the Peoples Republic of China in 1949.Many high-powered Chinese business and official delegations have visited Sri Lanka in recent years with the objective of expanding trade and investment. The importance of China’s economic presence is reflected by her participation in major infrastructure projects such as the Hambantota Port and the Colombo- Katunayake expressway.

Orion City, an IT Service Park, a private sector venture, located in the heart of Colombo will be the next big step in the Sri Lankan IT infrastructure development managed by St Anthony's Industries Group (Private) Ltd.
The Orion City is located next to the Baseline Road (Dr. Danister de Silva Mawatha) Colombo 9. With an estimated 4 million square feet to be developed in the 13 acre site within the next 10 years, Orion offers its tenants an ideal place to grow. It is a hassle free environment with ancillary and support services taken care of. Currently approx. 250,000 square feet have been developed.

Orion City is being built to work as a self contained city with modern facilities such as gymnasiums, shopping malls, swimming pools, food courts and in-house parking facilities etc where the employees of companies who have located themselves in the IT Service Park will be able to attend to their day to day family and personal requirements while working.

Other than providing IT facilitation to software development and BPO services companies, Orion City is also looking at the possibility of assisting and facilitating start-up companies by providing them with “incubation centres”. The incubation centres will have all the necessary infrastructure facilities required to start an IT /BPO operation. The Orion City officials were inspired by this novel concept of incubation centre that is being utilized by STPI (Software Technology Parks of India), while they were attending an IT/BPO/KPO Investment Promotion Mission in India organized by the Board of Investment (BOI) and Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka.

The BOI has identified the IT/BPO sector as one of the strategic growth areas and IT infrastructure as a primary area of focus. BOI is working to develop its own IT parks including the recently signed Private Public Partnership agreement with the Infinity Group of Companies in India to develop an IT park next to Sri Lanka Institute of Information and Technology (SLIIT) campus at Malabe where work is scheduled to start soon.

While commending the infrastructure initiatives of St Anthony’s Industries Group, Mr. Dhammika Perera, Chairman / Director General of the BOI said “Orion City which is a BOI project fulfills the need for a private sector IT park in the heart of Colombo”. He also said that the BOI is working closely with Orion City to identify potential investors in the areas of IT BPO and IT training.

Orion City is committed to increasing the pool of IT and BPO sector trained professionals in Sri Lanka by attracting training institutions for potential joint ventures. It is also willing to offer specialized training to BPO/KPO companies in the areas of accountancy process outsourcing, law process out sourcing etc.

According to Mr. Jeevan Gnanam, CEO of Orion Management Consortium, Orion City reflects the confidence of the St Anthony’s Industries Group in the future potential of Sri Lanka’s IT/BPO sector. Orion City is planning to build high end accommodation for overseas representatives who visit the city as this would be more cost effective and convenient than staying at a luxury hotel. Currently the phase two is underway due to the demand of many IT BPO companies. This is a scalable project to be completed in several phases based on the demand and the requirements of the anchored tenants, Mr. Gnanam said. Phase two will be completed with 1.5 mn square feet.

The establishment of Orion City is a vital part in the government’s overall objective of developing the IT/BPO sector, Mr. Perera said. IT BPO exports which totaled US$ 275 million in 2006 are expected to reach US$ 2 billion by 2012. Recently a Presidential Task Force on IT and English has been established under the Chairmanship of Dr. Sarath Amunugama, Hon. Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion. The Task Force seeks to address sector related bottlenecks.

A part of Orion City is already occupied by Virtusa with 1200 employees earmarked and a few other companies are in discussions to move to the IT Park.
For further information regarding Orion City, please contact Mr. Mario Offen, Marketing Manager on 2 692 255-7 or 0773 684 513 e mail: mario@orioncity.com

Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets carried out two successive air strikes, one of them engaged at the main office complex of the high profile LTTE leader, Nadeshan, located in the Kilinochchi town perimeter, this morning, 3 October.

The main office complex of terror leader Nadeshan was located at 500m West of Triarukulam and it was engaged around 9.20 a.m, Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said.

Meanwhile, in the same time SLAF fighters pounded an LTTE's military base located 1Km north of Triarukulam in general area Pravipanjan, the spokesperson added.

SLAF launched these air strikes on real-time information acquired through continuous ground and air surveillances conducted in these areas, defence intelligence sources revealed .

Both targets were engaged accurately, Air Force sources confirmed.

3 LTTE terrorists were reported killed and bodies recovered by troops, Friday (Oct 3) in general area Kottukulama, North of Morawewa, Trincomalee at around 7a.m.

Troops while engaged in a clearing operation had confronted with a group of terrorists, who are believed infiltrated into the cleared area to carryout sabotage activities, military said.

Subsequently, troops have also found 3 T-56 assault riffles, sources said.

Troops of Army 57 division, marching towards Kilinochchi - LTTE heartland have moved further northwards across east of Akkarayankulam area during yesterday's (Oct 2) operations.

According to the battlefield reports received so far, troops have been able to adjust their forward base line in the east of Akkarayankulam area by pushing it northward for about 1km distance. Due to the clashes prevailed during daytime, 2 soldiers have been killed and 7 others suffered injuries. Troops during search operations conducted in the evening hours have found four bodies of LTTE cadres, two T-56 riffles, one Multi Purpose Machine Gun (MPMG), and one radio communication set.

Meanwhile, troops of same 57 division operating in the Pannikankulam area, northwest of Mankulam have confronted the terrorists at several location during morning hours. Troops claimed at least 8 terrorists have been killed in these incidents.

On the western half of the Kilinochchi battlefront, Army Task Force 1 troops have confronted the terrorists around 1.30 PM in the East of Vannerikulam area. Intercepted LTTE communication has revealed that 6 terrorists were killed and 6 others were injured in the incident. Also, 4 soldiers have suffered injuries.

Separately, snipers deployed in the Vannerikulam forward area have claimed shooting down of two LTTE cadres during evening hours.

A detailed report on battlefield incidents will follow.

Eastern Chief Minister Pillayan was issued notice to appear before the Batticaloa court over case involving the suspension of Kattankudy Urban Council Chairman.

At lest 40 employees of a shoe manufacturing factory in Kadawatta were admitted to hospital this morning with suspected food poisoning.

Oil Bank facilities to bunkering firmsThe JCT Ltd. Oil Bank, a fully owned subsidiary company of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) which took over the Lanka Marine Services Oil Facility at Bloemendhal received its first parcel of Bunker Fuel Oil for storage on 26.09.2008.
Todate the JCT Ltd. Oil Bank has entered into agreements with seven of the eight Bunker Licence Holders for the utilization of the Oil Bank. Within a very short period of 16 days since Lanka Marine Services vacated the premises in keeping with the recent order of the Supreme Court and within three days of signing of the agreements with the various Bunker Licence Holders the JCT Ltd. Oil Bank has been able to accommodate their requests to allocate space within the tanks to store Bunker Fuel Oils.
To coincide with this momentous and auspicious day, the employees of the Oil Bank organized inter religious functions at the facility to invoke the blessings of the deities for the smooth and efficient functioning of the Oil Bank. The occasion was graced by Minister of Port, Aviation, Irrigation and Water Management, Chamal Rajapaksa, Actg. Chairman of Sri Lanka Ports Authority Dr. Priyath Bandu Wickrama, Managing Director of SLPA Capt. Nihal Keppetipola, CEO of JCT Ltd. Mr. W. G. Samaratunga, Harbour Master Capt. Ravi Jayawickrama, Senior Dy. Harbour Master Capt. A. Hewavitharana, Private Secretary of the Minister, Mr. A. T. K. Chandradasa and several higher officers of the licensed bunkering institutions.

One of the Bunker License Holders M/S Lanka Maritime Services will be discharging a parcel of almost 6500 Tons of Bunker Fuel oil consisting of IFG 180 cSt and 380 cSt to the facility for storage. The Tanker Nipaiya is expected to berth at the Dolphin Tanker Berth this morning for this purpose.

Indulakshin Wickramasinghe (Arthur) Senanayake takes over as Chairman of Sampath Bank. He has been a founder Director of the Bank and its Deputy Chairman since 1998. He will be the 5th Chairman of the Bank since its inception in 1986.

He is a Past Honorary Trade Representative for the Singapore Trade Development Board in Sri Lanka and is the Chairman of American President Line (Pvt) Ltd. He is an old boy of Mahinda College, Galle.

He is also the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of IWS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd – a conglomerate with diversified business interests in many industries in the country.

During the 1st six months of 2008 Sampath Bank’s income increased by 26.7% and net profit after tax increased by 17.3% over the corresponding period in 2007. Sampath Bank has 112 branches and has recently moved into setting up branches in the Eastern region.

Contrary to print and electronic media reports, police investigating a multi- billion rupee scam committed by suspected conman Sakvithi Ranasinghe has not recorded a statement from Edwin Ariyadasa, the Joint Managing Director of S. R. Property Sharing Investment (Private) Limited set up by the con-man.

Although Ariyadasa had visited Mirihana police (Nugegoda Division) twice, where he was shouted at by a section of the duped investors, investigators didn’t record his statement.

The prominent ITN official, who had received a monthly retainer of Rs. 100,000 for about 14 months for promoting the Sakvithi venture, said he was ready to give a statement.

Asked whether he had invested any money with his employer, Ariyadasa said that he wasn’t deceived by what he called attractive interest rates offered by the businessman. Claiming he didn’t have millions of rupees, Ariyadasa said that his money was safe with a reputed private bank.


"I didn’t invest a cent with him," he said, adding none of his relatives or friends, too, had been deceived.

Police Spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekera said that Ariyadasa would be questioned and his statement recorded if necessary. "We don’t want to act hastily," he said, emphasising that every aspect of Sakvithi scam would be investigated. According to him six Sakvithi employees had been arrested for their alleged involvement in the fraud.

Mass Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena said that that there was absolutely no evidence whatsoever at the moment to link Ariyadasa with the scam. He asserted that Ariyadasa’s position with the ITN shouldn’t be at risk due to his working relationship with Sakvithi Ranasinghe.

Ariyadasa said that millions would have been squandered at leading Colombo casinos.

The government will not come to the rescue of the duped investors a State official told The Island. Taxpayers money wouldn’t be spent to reimburse the investors, he said.

UNP Gen. Secretary , and M.P.,Tissa Attanayake speaking to the media blamed the Finance Ministry and the Central Bank for the Sakviti Ranasinghe ‘s colossal Rs. 700 million fraud . Following the COPE report which exposed massive Govt. frauds and corruption, the Central Bank Governor was warned to probe all illegal Finance companies.
The Governor who was summoned to Parliament undertook to ensure against financial frauds being perpetrated on the Public, Attanayake asserted. Despite it, in the case of Sakvithi scam , the Central Bank which got wind of the Sakvithi ‘s illegal Finance Co. fraudulent activities several months before it came to a head , did nothing even after starting investigations against him two months ago, he regretted. If the Central bank has taken timely action, the poor depositors’ money could have been saved, he added.

He asked why the Central Bank which has a special division for investigating operations of illegal Finance companies took no action against Sakvithi Ranasinghe , the owner of the Finance Company , and wait for so long until he had completed his 700 million fraud and make good his escape? He showed a photograph of Sakvithi with the President, Minister Lokuge and other top notch Govt. politicians published in the newspapers, and said , it can be guessed how he was able to escape even after the Central Bank instituted investigations ? Where did the Central Bank report on the investigation go? He asked.

The Finance Ministry and the Central bank were fully aware of the risks incurred by Depositors after the Pramuka Bank collapse and the Pyramid scam due to Central Bank negligence. The Central Bank gave a solemn assurance after these episodes that it will not allow similar incidents to occur . Yet, it allowed a biggest scam cheating the public to be successfully operated, he lamented.

If the Finance Ministry and the Central Bank had been more alert, 700 million of public money would not have gone down the drain, he exclaimed.

May be Sakvithi promised high interest to lure Depositors because he associated with people in high places who had higher interest in his transactions who could protect him, he concluded.

Various political outfits in Tamil Nadu today observed a day-long fast to protest the theoffensive in the northern part of the island and to express solidarity with the Lankan Tamils.

The UN says that a convoy carrying 650 metric tonnes of food crossed the Omanthai border at 10 am this morning, en route to 200,000 civilians displaced behind the lines of confrontation in the Vanni. The convoy will transport and distribute food to four locations to the east of Kilinochchi, where the majority of displaced civilians are thought to have concentrated.
The convoy is accompanied by 7 UN international staff, who will monitor the initial distribution. The convoy was reduced from 60 trucks to 51 after explosives and other illicit items were discovered on government-provided trucks that were due to join the convoy. The UN has reiterated that humanitarian convoys are protected under International Humanitarian Law, and has condemned the attempt by persons unknown to disrupt the aid effort. The UN plans to dispatch another convoy next week.

By Natnipha Vimuktanon


Asian Institute of Technology Ph.D. candidate Udaya Rathnayaka, a student of food engineering and bioprocess technology at the School of Environment, Resources and Development, says he has found a better way to detect the deadly pathogen salmonella found in chicken meat. Udaya’s peers would seem to agree. His academic presentation on the topic won him top prize at a recent international symposium organized by Sabaragamuwa University, Sri Lanka, from 8 - 12 July.

His presentation titled “Influence of antibiotic treatments on the detection of viable salmonella enterica from inoculated chicken samples by fluorescent in-situ hybridization” was based on earlier doctoral conducted under the supervision of professor Sudip K. Rakshit.

By finding the best and most reliable method to detect viable salmonella, a food-borne bacterial pathogen found in chicken meat products, Udaya won top honors in the symposium’s livestock production category. His talk won out over twelve international presentations from participants from across Asia. Udaya explains his central thesis: “In the study, I compared samples of chicken meat by using the Normal Fluorescent In-Situ Hybridization (FISH) Method with a Modified FISH Method that I developed myself. I then found that the normal FISH method cannot detect whether the salmonella in the chicken meat is actually live or dead. The modified method detects only the living cells. With my modified method, one can tell whether the meat contains living salmonella or not.”

Udaya says food samples can contain live and dead salmonella cells. By relying solely on the normal FISH method, differentiating live cells from dead cells is very difficult. “My method adds one extra step to this method—the antibiotic treatment step, which takes only 30 minutes extra,” he says. “The process is quite fast and takes only seven hours which is much quicker to that the methods currently available, which normally take 2-3 days.”

Udaya said his research provides benefits to both consumers and the manufacturers. He believes that by developing a rapid and reliable process for the detection of live salmonella cells from food samples, consumers will eventually be better protected from potential food poisoning.

The process could also have application for the food processing industry. Manufacturers can lessen the expenses they incur when forced to discard food products containing only dead salmonella cells. Applying this innovative approach, firms only need to discard meat found to contain live salmonella cells. At present, when salmonella can’t be detected, whether in live or dead cells, all meat in generally thrown out as waste. Udaya claims his modified FISH method can save many food manufacturers money. The modified method can be applied to other kinds of food samples, and environmental samples can be analyzed in this way for detection of microorganisms.

Currently Udaya is experimenting and comparing several other methods used in the detection of food-borne microbial pathogens, studying which one is optimal under different conditions. This study will form part of his overall doctoral dissertation.

In receiving the outstanding paper presentation award, the former AIT Student Union President was presented with a gold medal and certificate of recognition. The award is well known in Sri Lanka and should boost Udaya’s prospects to become a university lecturer. Following his graduation from AIT in one year’s time, he plans to return home and resume teaching at the university where he taught prior to enrolling. He hopes to gain promotion as a senior level lecturer, eventually. Udaya received a scholarship from his former university (with support from the World Bank) and a partial fellowship from AIT.

Military spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara today (Oct 2) told media that forward elements of 57 division troops are now consolidating their defences in the area, 3.5 km south of Kilinochchi outskirts.

Speaking at the weekly media briefing at the Media Centre for National Security (MCNS) he said that some elements of the 57 division have already crossed the Nachchikudha - Therumurukandi road at some locations in the Akkarayankulam area. Troops have been able to cut-off the road that connects northwestern coast and the Jaffna-Kandy (A-9) road at these locations, he further elaborated.

Kilinochchi built-up area is considered to be one of the longest townships in the island that runs for about 6.5 km down the A-9 road. Also, the area stretched for about 7 km across the A-9 road from the East to West. According to the latest battlefield reports the infantrymen of 4th Sinha Regiment are operating in an area just 3.5 km south of the southern border of the Kilinochchi built-up area at present.

Speaking further on the battlefield progress, Brigadier Nanayakkara said that another element of 57 division troops have captured the railway station that lies few kilometres west of the Kokavil town. He denied recent media reports claiming the Kokavil town was liberated by the Army and said that troops are yet to accomplish this task.

Commenting on the western half of the Kilinochchi battlefront, the military spokesperson revealed that troops of Army Task Force 1 are now operating in the Vannrikulam , Kariyalamodai and Manniyakkulam areas at present. According to him troops have bypassed the Nachchikudha area and are now tactically surrounding the strategically vital sea tiger stronghold from the west.

On the Mullaittivu battlefront, where troops of Army 59 division is operating , the military spokesperson revealed that troops have dominated about 80% of the Thannipurippu tank bund . Also , he said that troops moving parallel the coast have reached the southern and western regions of the Nayaru lagoon.

Speaking about the recent successes of troops , Brigadier Nanayakkara said that troops of 59 division have captures 8 satellite bases of the LTTE's 14 (One-Four) base compound. During last 2-3 weeks troops have captured two LTTE bases named Nizam and Castro and one sea tiger base named Pasari , he said .

Adding further he said that troops of 573 brigade moving towards Mankulam from A-9 road has captured a 500m long air stripe located 7 km west of Mankulam town.

Speaking about the attrition caused to the LTTE strength , Brigadier Nanyakkara told that 66 bodies of LTTE cadres have been found during the month of September. The total number of LTTE bodies found since January is 476 he added.

Finalized battlefield reports on yesterday's (Oct 1) clashes in the Wanni battlefront indicated 61 fatalities, and 25 casualties to the terrorists. Three soldiers laid down their lives on the frontline and 14 others suffered injuries, according to the reports.

In the Jaffna theatre, troops operating active defence at the Nagarkovil forward defence attacked two LTTE bunkers during morning hours. Troops confirmed 3 LTTE cadres were killed and a soldier injured in one incident and claimed 3 terrorists were either killed or wounded in the other.

In a separate incident, troops attacked an LTTE movement in the Nagarkovil forward area around 9 AM and confirmed 2 terrorists were killed 3 others wounded in the incident. During the subsequent search, troops found one T-56 riffle, one GPS device, one binocular, five hand grenades, one IED along with other military gear. Meanwhile, snipers deployed in the forward defence reported shooting down of two LTTE cadres.

In a confrontation occurred in the Eluthumadduwal area around 6 PM, a soldier was killed.

In the Wanni theatre of operations, troops continued their counter terrorist offensives in the Kilinochchi, Vavuniya and Mullaittiuvu battlefronts causing heavy damages to the terrorists.

Troops of 57 division operating in the Akkarayankulam and Kokavil areas, claimed 26 terrorists were killed in day's offensives.

Meanwhile, troops of Task Force 1 operating in the western half of the Kilinochchi battlefront had series of clashes with the terrorists in the Vannerikulam and Manniyakulam area during the day and claimed 11 terrorists were killed and 5 others wounded. In addition, a soldier was killed and 6 others suffered injuries during these confrontations.

On the Mullaittiuvu front, troops of 59 division conducted daylong offensives in the Andankulma forest reserve and claimed 4 terrorists were killed, 3 others wounded and 11 more were either killed or wounded. A soldier suffered injuries in one of the incident.

Meanwhile, troops of Task Force 2 operating on the Vavuniya front, in the West of A-9 road had several confrontations in the east of Navvi, Palamoddai Podunkanpila and Pandiyankulam areas during the day.

Troops attacked an LTTE strong point detected in the east of Navvi around 11 A:M. A soldier was killed and 3 others wounded in the incident. During the subsequent search, troops found a body of an LTTE female cadre along with a T-56 riffle. Intercepted LTTE radio transmissions later revealed that 6 terrorists were killed and 8 wounded in this incident.

In a separate incident, troops attacked and captured 6 overhead bunkers linked to each other by a battle trench in the Palamoddai area around 1 PM. Troops found one T-56 riffle during subsequent search. Intercepted enemy radio transmissions revealed one terrorist was killed and three others wounded in the incident.

In three separate clashes occurred in the Podunkanpila and Pandyankulam areas, troops claimed 9 terrorists were killed. Troops also found 3 hand grenades, 178 live ammo used for small arms, and one radio set.

Allowing a fundamental rights petition against the police filed by UNP's Anuradhapura district organizer Dr. Raja Johnpulle, the Supreme Court has fixed the hearing for October 15th.

The SC today (Oct. 02nd) considered submissions by the Attorney General and the petitioner's lawyers and granted leave to proceed with the case.

The petitioner claims the police had taken no action to prevent an arson attack his home on the day of the recent provincial polls.

Making submissions, the AG informed the court that no arrests have been made, but that statements have been recorded from 64 persons.

Respondents in the petition are the DIG of north central province, the Anuradhapura HQI, provincial chief minister Berty Premalal Dissanayake and his son Deputy Minister Duminda Dissanayake.

The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation is providing bunkering services to foreign ships at concessionary rates despite having no license to do such business, said UNP spokesman Gayantha Karunatilake.

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo today (Oct. 02nd), Mr. Karunatilake said that these ships sell the fuel thus obtained at a Rs. 50 profit.

This is a racket by the CPC Chairman, he charged, adding that the institution is selling them diesel at Rs. 95.14 per litre.

Why cannot the CPC do the same for the public, the UNP MP asked.

According to him, 186,000 litres of diesel sold to a foreign ship yesterday.

Saying the present regime has imposed numerous taxes on fuel, the UNP spokesman said that if not for this, a litre of petrol, diesel and kerosene could be priced at Rs. 110, Rs. 92 and Rs. 60 respectively.

Mr. Karunatilake also alleged the CPC was purchasing luxury vehicles each year, with its Chairman getting vehicles in 2006, 2007 and in 2008.

The promise in ‘Mahinda Chinthana’ not to adjust local prices with world market rates remains unfulfilled, he said.

During the UNP regime, fuel prices were revised according to the fluctuations in the international market, he added.

This morning, UNP General Secretary, Tissa Attanayake handed over a petition to the secretary of the treasury that calls for a decrease in fuel prices, he further said.

The UNP is to go to the Supreme Court against directors of Mihin Air for allegedly wasting three billion rupees of public money and to prevent the government from injecting more funds to the airline.

UNP MP Ravi Karunanayaka said a fundamental rights petition would be filed, citing directors of Mihin Air, President's Secretary Lalith Weeratunga, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, former Finance and Treasury Secretary Dr. P.B.Jayasundara and former Mihin Air CEO and Presidential Advisor Sajin Vaas Gunawardana.

"The UNP’s contention is that the board of directors must be held responsible for the collapse of Mihin Air and wastage involving over Rs. three billion of public funds," said Mr. Karunanayake.

"If the government wants to prop up a state institution which is sure to generate profits it is a different matter and the UNP would fully support it. But, the UNP does not want to let the government squander another three billion rupees of tax payers’ money on Mihin Air," he said.

A brave Sri Lankan Tamil family is being praised after overcoming a Samurai attacker in a shop in the British city of Bristol.

Reports said attacker Andrew Speed, an 18-year-old drug addict, was shocked by the spirited resistance put up by the shopkeepers at their grocery store in Southmead, Bristol.

Speed even begged police officers to arrest him quickly to spare him from the family's retaliation, a Bristol court heard this week.

Jailing Speed for three-and-a-half years for the June attack, Judge David Ticehurst said the self-defence of the staff was "entirely reasonable" given the terrifying circumstances.

Speed had burst in and leapt on to the counter before lunging at Rameshkumar Rasiah, the shop assistant, thrusting the 18-inch blade at him and threatening: 'I am going to stab you. I am going to kill you.'

But Rasiah, 31, said to have recently arrived from Sri Lanka, grabbed him and the sword and called for reinforcements.

At the call, Rasiah's sister Suragini Jeyanthan and her husband Nagaratnam Jeyanthan, who were upstairs, ran down armed with a broom and a metal pipe.

The three grappled with the robber for two minutes before bundling him into the store cupboard, and locking him inside.

When he was eventually escorted from the shop by police he pleaded: 'Please, keep them away from me, I will not play up, get me out of here.'

Rasiah, who suffered cuts and bruises to his palm and elbow, said the robber had 'picked on the wrong shopkeeper'.

'I was not backing down because I knew I had to protect the shop for my boss.'

Jeyanthan, who has a five-month old daughter, said outside court: 'We don't feel like heroes, we were protecting ourselves and our shop. I felt like closing the shop for good but now I think we will be staying because I feel we have the support of the community.'

Various political outfits in Tamil Nadu today observed a day-long fast to protest the theoffensive in the northern part of the island and to express solidarity with the Lankan Tamils.

The Central Bank (CB), in the aftermath of the Sakvithi finance company scam in which depositors lost millions of rupees and revelations of other questionable unregistered finance companies which sent panicked depositors demanding their money, on Thursday said the scandals were revealed due to the Bank's due diligence and told the public to take heed of its warnings of such spurious institutions.

At a press conference today, CB Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal said the public's greed for high interest rates led to the situation in which many people have lost money.

The Governor said this issue cropped up because the CB was active. On September 19 of this year, due diligence was done on six institutions, one of which was Sakvithi. Those institutions were visited by the CB which collected information and compiled into a report by the Director of Non- Bank Supervision. A few days later, the Monetary Board declared them to be illegal and informed the institutions they had one month to rectify their shortcomings and register themselves with the CB, in accordance with the laws.

"If we had not gone, nothing would have happened," the Governor said. He added that the CB spends Rs.1 million every month on advertising to the public so it is questionable as to how some have said they have never seen the warnings. According to the Governor, banks and finance companies have placed advertisements in the media totalling to over Rs.4.4 billion over the past two years. The Governor warned that higher returns also bring about higher risks and that in the future, the CB will continue to name institutions after performing due diligence. He said the President and the Ministry of Finance are being continually updated on its findings.

The Colombo stocks were driven at Thursday's market close by blue chips such as Commercial Bank, Carsons, Distilleries, John Keells Holdings (JKH) and Lanka IOC giving rise to the otherwise lackluster bourse Colombo saw during the past few months.

Commercial Bank was up by Rs 1.75 to Rs 104, Carsons was up Rs 4.50 to Rs 216, Distilleries was up by 25 cents to Rs 70, JKH was up by 50 cents to Rs 87and Lanka IOC saw a 50 cents increase to Rs 24.50 at stock market close.

The All Share Index increased by 6.35 points to 2,148.61 while the Milanka increased by 10.35 points to 2,407.54 at Wednesday's market close while the turnover was at Rs.84 million.

The Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka entered into agreements with Eagle Power and Ithopa Super Trust recently. The ventures are to establish small scale power projects and to undertake seed potato cultivation respectively.


Mr. Dhammika Perera, Chairman / Director General signed the agreements on behalf of the BOI and formally presented the BOI Certificate of Registrations to the investors.


The hydro power project carried out by Eagle Power (Private) Limited will set up three small scale power plants at Maduru Oya, Sudu Gaga and Kala Wewa. At the initial stage they will set up power plants at Maduru Oya Sluice, Drop 9 and Drop 10 to generate 7.7 megawatts of electricity. The project will also set up power plants at Sudu Ganga to generate 2.4 megawatts and Kalawewa to generate 1.2 megawatts of electricity to the National Grid.


Mr. Anurath Abeyratne, Chairman of Eagle Power stated “We have already commenced construction at Maduru Oya and expect to complete it within 14 months. The second phase which includes Sudu Ganga and Kalawewa projects will be completed within 3 years”.


“If we complete the Maduru Oya project within the scheduled 14 month completion time, we will be the first private company to generate electricity using the Mahaweli waters” said Mr. Abeyratne.


The company will invest Rs 750 million, Rs 300 million and Rs. 150 million for the power plants at Maduru Oya, Sudu Ganga and Kala Wewa respectively.


“The company expects to commence similar projects at Minneriya, Udawalawe and Girithale” said Mr. Abeyratne.


Mr. Anurath Abeyratne (Chairman) and Mr. S Karunaratne (CEO) signed the agreement on behalf of Eagle Power (Private) Limited


The BOI also signed an agreement with Ithopa Super Trust to undertake seed potato cultivation. The project under Nipayum Sri Lanka 300 Enterprises Programme is an investment of Rs. 35 million. The venture will be established in Yatiyantota and will generate employment opportunities for a workforce of 125.

COLOMBO (AFP) — Sri Lanka plans to raise its defence spending in 2009 by seven percent to maintain a massive ground, sea and air offensive against Tamil Tiger rebels, official data showed Thursday.

The Colombo government's initial budget estimates put to parliament showed defence spending would rise to 177.1 billion rupees (1.6 billion dollars) from 166.4 billion rupees (1.5 billion dollars) in 2008.

The military's capital spending reflects purchases of weapons and other equipment for the army, navy, the airforce and police, according to the budget appropriation bill.

Total government spending is forecast to increase to 1.7 trillion rupees (15.7 billion dollars) next year, from 1.5 trillion rupees (13.2 billion dollars) in 2008.

The military says the rebels have lost 7,086 fighters since January, when Colombo pulled out of a Norwegian-brokered ceasefire. The defence ministry has acknowledged the loss of 694 soldiers over the same period.

Tens of thousands have died and many more have been displaced since the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) launched a campaign for an independent state in 1972.

Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets bombed the LTTE's military headquarter complex in Kilinochchi this afternoon (Oct 2), Air Force spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said. Fighter jets launched from Katunayake carried out the air strike at 12.40 PM targeting the LTTE headquarter located 2 km northeast of Kilinochchi town, he added.

Meanwhile, defence intelligence sources revealed that the target was engaged on real time ground intelligence on a meeting of senior LTTE cadres at the location. The LTTE has maintained the targeted camp complex as its main military coordinating centre, the sources added. Elaborating further on the air strike, the sources said that the targeted camp is situated at Paravipanjan in Kilinochchi.

According to the Air Fore spokesman the target was accurately engaged. However, the exact damage caused to the terrorist has not been verified yet, he said.

Defence observers say that the recent string of air strikes on LTTE nerve centers located in the heart of Kilinochchi would soon create a huge problem for LTTE in maintaining the outfit under a centralized command and control mechanism.

The UNP today handed over a petition to the Finance Ministry Secretary demanding that action be taken immediately to reduce fuel prices, keeping with the reduction of oil prices internationally.

The petition was handed over by a group of UNP MPs led by party General Secretary, Tissa Attanayaka.

The three paged letter pointed out instances of mismanagement by the CPC among other issues.

Food convoys for displaced persons in the Wanni left Vavuniya town today morning, accompanied by World Food Programme officials, a spokesman for the GAs office in Vavuniya said.

Fifty lorries were carrying food and essential items to the displaced.

The food convoy is being accompanied by UN officials and the Government Agent for Kilinochchi, N.K.Vedhanayagam.

The food items are being taken to three locations in the Wanni.

The Government Agents office in Kilinochchi has been shifted to Kandavalai- 17 kilometres away from the present location - boardering the Mullaitivu district.

The new office will be operational from Monday, government sources said.

All valuable documents and records have already been taken for safety.

The move came as the air force on Wednesday took a series of targets in an around the Kilinochchi town.

Moves were also underway to shift the Kilinochchi hospital as well.

Mohan Ellawala was sworn in as the new Governor of the Sabaragamuwa Province before President Mahinda Rajapaksa at temple trees today.

Ex-Governor of Sabaragamuwa Province Dixon Delabandara confirmed that he will be sworn in as Northern Province Governor on October 10.

The murder suspect of the Badagiriya rural Hospital Dr. Lakshmi Indunil was arrested this morning at Unakuruwa by a combined team of Police and Army, SSP Tangalle Neil Daluewatta said today.

NORTH: JAFFNA Troops, now in a state of exceptional alertness with intensification of the war in WANNI, confronted terrorists in NAGARKOVIL area during Wednesday (1) and gunned down four of them while they were in two LTTE bunkers.

Destruction of the two bunkers and confrontations led to the capture of one T-56 weapon, seventeen hand grenades, one Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment, one binocular, one I-com set, two pouches, one improvised explosive device, two sarongs, some food and medical items afterwards.

Five more Tigers and two valiant soldiers suffered injuries in the fighting. Troops are now in full control of those areas after intensifying security arrangements.

Twenty-two Global Positioning Systems (GPS), which had been concealed amidst food stocks that were to make for un-cleared areas, were found while making further clearance on a convoy of Wanni bound lorries at the Vehicle park at Thandikulam in Vavuniya this afternoon, 01 October.

According to the defence sources, 22 Global Positioning System (GPS) equipments had been concealed in jaggery sacks and the lorry was taken in to custody around 4.30 pm.

Earlier, Security forces while making clearance on a convoy of Wanni bound lorries at the Omanthai Entry/ Exit point in Vavuniya, have found C-4 explosives and batteries in two lorries last evening, 30 September. C-4 explosives weighing around 2.5kg were found concealed under the driver's seat, while a total cache of 28,880 batteries (a prohibited item under security concerns) were found laden in a makeshift false compartment in two separate lorries which are expected to cross the Omanthai gateway by Thursday evening (Oct 2)

An island wide programme has been implemented by the recent Export Award Winner Kalhari Entreprises , Heyiyanthuduwa to purchase used PET bottles, Polythene, Heavy Duty Plastics , used Computers Electronic equipment ,any type of post industrial Latex Based or dry Rubber based scraps,used tyres,Tubes,etc which are hazardous to the environment .
Kalhari Entreprises which collects and recycles waste rubber and plastics says this programme is now with the communities
"We started this venture since 2003 and we are expanding our business to capture a big market share and earn plentiful foreign income through this venture. We buy used plastics and rubber products and pay handsome payments for the collectors who reside all over the island, said CEO of the company Kaushal Rajapaksa.
Speaking to media he said the company has commenced its operations and now processes the waste PET bottles and other plastics as well as Scrap and used tires and other rubber waste.

The company invested ten million rupees in the venture to collect plastic bottles and as well as creating awareness among consumers. While appreciating the guidance and assistance they receive from the Central Environment Authority, Waste management Authority[Western Province] and the Ministry of industries. Mr.Rajapaksa said that It is the prime responsibility as Private sector to support the Programmes that have been launched by the state authorities to usefully recycle the Plastic,Rubber and other waste which will not only generate income but also will solve the problems of waste.

"A lot of people are ignoring the issue of waste but as a company with a strong sense of corporate social responsibility we want to make the consumer and the private sector aware of this issue."
PET bottles are used for soft drinks, fruit juices, oils and other liquid products as the production cost is low and the containers easy to handle.
PET is one of the most common materials used to pack a wide range of food and beverages as well as other household products such as detergents, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Over six million PET bottles are improperly disposed every month in Sri Lanka leading to many environmental issues.
Sri Lankan consumers use over 6.5 million PET bottles a month and only 1.5 million are collected.
"We wanted to recycle all the PET plastic bottles in Sri Lanka as they are non-bio degradable," He said.
The company exports over 250 metric tons of processed plastic and rubber waste a month to India , USA, China,india,Malaysia and to Japan, where there are more demand for recycled plastics.
"There is about 350 metric tons of PET produced and consumed monthly in Sri Lanka, he said.
He said plans are underway to increase their monthly exports .
Consumers are encouraged to collect PET bottles and hand them over to the Company plant in Heyiyanthuduwa or a collector in all areas.
The recycled PET bottles can be turned in to fiber-based products, plastics, and carpets.
According to the Central Environment Authority the amount of plastics recycled has almost doubled to 48 percent in 2007.
Plastics are made from a resource not generally known for being environmentally friendly: petroleum. More than half that packaging is plastic. While some plastics are readily recyclable, and some are not. Plastics are used for an ever in increasing variety of disposable as well as durable goods. Plastics are inexpensive to produce are versatile. But tremendous energy inputs go into making plastics, and they break down slowly.
A network of collection sites, including rural collectors in Sri Lanka have been set up where consumers can drop in their old PET bottles and the collectors will pick them up and drop them off at Kalhari Entreprises.
Due to the rising cost of Natural and synthetic rubbers Industrialists venture into the usage of reclaim rubbers ,devulcanised or rubber Dust as a filler to bring down the cost of their per Kg cost. In this process the Used tires which are thrown all over is used for this purpose there by taking care of all the pollution that it could cause from Used tyres.. At present Kalhari enterprises is engaged in the usage of Crumb rubber from the retreading process and reducing the Size of the particles to obtain deferent Mesh sizes as it is a good quality granulated rubber that can be used for products such as automobile tyres,Solid tires for fork lifts,Wheel barrows, floor mats, shoe soles, , etc., and can be added to asphalt for road construction, where it improves the quality of asphalt and the life time too.

Mr.Kaushal said that they are in the process of setting up a BOI factory for the recycle of tyres in the Vewahenwatta Industrial Estate with the assistance of Ministry of industries with the collaboration of an Italian company Namely Michaelngelo.

According to the company a number of collectors are working with the company and also educates rural masses to help to make a green environment.
"We have our own propaganda arm to educate school children , public and the respective government officials and the Pradeseeya Sabhas .They can earn additional income if they involve this project, he said.
At present company maintains a healthy buyers network as a result the company have a steady potential to purchase any quantity of required plastics and rubber waste for recycling.

WANNI: IN A SEARCH conducted in the general area of east of AKKARAYANKULAM troops recovered one decompose body of an LTTE cadre with T-56 weapon, one ICOM radio set and one map on Tuesday (30) morning. One soldier was injured due to the anti personnel mine explosion.

Meanwhile, troops were killed seven terrorists and injured ten others during confrontations in the general area of WANNARIKULAM on Tuesday (30). Two soldiers were killed and six more soldiers and an officer injured in the same area in confrontations and enemy mortar fire.

Further more in battles erupted in the general areas of north of MANIYANKULAM, PALAMODDEI, PODUNKANPILA, WEMANKALLU, PANDIYANKULAM, thirteen terrorists were killed and four terrorists injured on Tuesday (30). One soldier sacrificed his life and three more sustain injuries in those battles.

In the battles in ANDANKULAM area six terrorists were killed and thirty one more injured on Tuesday (30). Troops also destroyed two terrorists bunkers and recovered seventy one anti personnel mine and two Improvise Explosive Devices (IED). Seven soldiers were also injured in the battles.

A soldier lost his life in a confrontation in RANABAPPPURA area on the same day.

A Sri Lankan man has become eligible for asylum in the U.S. after being detained for more than four years on allegations he was a member of a terrorist group, an American Civil Liberties Union spokeswoman said Tuesday.
The U.S. attorney general's office decided last week that it would not review an Immigration Appeals Board decision granting asylum to Ahilan Nadarajah, who was released from custody in 2006, ACLU of Southern California spokeswoman Tessie Borden said.

U.S. immigration judges twice granted asylum to Nadarajah, but the government appealed both decisions to the board, Borden said.

The attorney general's office did not immediately return a phone message seeking comment.

Nadarajah, 28, said he fled his homeland seven years ago after Sri Lankan government forces tortured him for allegedly being a member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, a separatist group listed as a terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department.

He arrived in this country in October 2001 but was detained after the U.S. government accused him of being affiliated with the Tigers.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ordered Nadarajah's release in March 2006, saying the government was violating federal law by holding him without being charged and without the possibility of deportation in the foreseeable future.

Almost all civilians have withdrawn from the Kilinochchi town after air force fighter jets bombed LTTE targets close to the town today.

The hospital and the government agents office has been remained uncontactable after the incident.

The Air force said they carried out five air strikes around Kilinochchi town on LTTE targets.

The hospital had suffered slight damages due to the bombing close to the hospital.

Ms. P.S.N.Charles assumed duties as the Government Agent for Vavuniya today. She is the first woman GA to be appointed for the post in Vavuniya.

Ms. Charles, 47 joined the Sri Lanka Administrative Service in 1991 and was first appointed to the North Central province as n Assistant Secretary.

Thereafter she held the positions of Assistant Government Agent, Divisional Secretary, Additional GA.

She was educated at Holy Family Convent, Illavali. She obtained her BA at the Jaffna University, the MSc at the Peradeniya university and also followed her higher studies in Italy.

The Sri Lanka Air Force claimed it took precision target hits on a female Tiger cadre camp and the Charles Anthony regiment headquarters this morning (Oct. 01st), in Kilinochchi, around 10.30 am.

Early in the morning, the SLAF also claimed it targeted a LTTE leaders’ hideout about 03 km from North-East of Piramanatalkulam in Mullaitivu.

Meanwhile according to TamilNet, the LTTE has released details of the damage on civilian life they claim were from SLAF air raids this morning around 10.30 am that targeted a civilian settlement close to Kilinochchi.

The location they say is 01 km South of Kilinochchi, close to the A-9 road.

Details of the damage say 02 civilians have been killed and 13 others wounded, due to this SLAF air raid.

A 02 year old infant girl and a 04 year old boy are among those admitted to Kilinochchi Hospital for treatment, says the TamilNet.

The report further states, 19 houses had been damaged while shrapnel from exploding bombs had reached the Kilinochchi hospital premises.

The wounded were identified by the medical sources as: Paranthaman Gowry (02), Tharmn Kokulavasan (04), Ramaiah Vijayatharsini (16), Chelliah Yogarani (68), Jebamalai Indrani (28), Aroljothi Arokiya (49), Kantharooban Subajini (28), Kandasamy Saththiyagnanathevy (57), Varnakulasingham Rajendran (47), Chellar Subramaniyam (55), Chelvanayagam Perumal (65), Vigneswaran Kamalathevi (26) and Velu Ladchumippillai (66).

UNP MP Lakshman Kiriella says despite the European Union's citing government militaristic stance for slashing GSP+, the true reason is the government's violation of 27 accords signed with the EU.

Speaking to the media in Colombo this morning (Oct. 01st), the UNP frontliner said that although the EU wanted to send a team to Sri Lanka and grant the concession, certain pro-government political parties attempted to portray it as a threat to the country’s sovereignty and independence.

Noting the government has violated certain accords signed with the EU, Mr. Kiriella said that abductions, media suppression and the lack of a solution for the ethnic conflict are at the top of the violations.

Saying that their would be around 200,000 job cuts in the apparel industry if Sri Lanka fails to obtain GSP+, he added that none of the countries issuing press releases on behalf of the government purchase a single apparel item.

UNP parliamentarian John Amaratunga questioned the penalty on state media institutions for having produced programs that criticized recent rulings of the Supreme Court.

Mr. Amaratunga told journalists in Colombo today (Oct. 01st) wanted to know what action the SC, which punished S.B. Dissanayake, would take against Rupavahina and ITN for having scorned the law.

Although the SC ruled that barriers should be removed from roads to ensure freedom of movement of the public, the state media is carrying programmes that say national security could be boosted by increasing the number of barriers, he said.

The UNP MP noted that despite the scores of barriers in Colombo, two bomb blasts were reported in high secured zones recently.

Defrauder of the public Sakvithi Ranasinghe had been able to cheat many due to negligence of the Central Bank, UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake said.

At a media briefing yesterday (September 30th), Mr. Attanayake said the Central Bank should be held responsible for this incident.

Saying that CB's Non-banking Supervision Department had conducted an investigation months before the scam was reported, he questioned what had become of the investigation report.

Due to the negligence of the CB and the Finance Ministry, a conman was able to swindle more than Rs. 700 million, Mr. Attanayake charged.

Police have received 1,200 complaints on the matter, he added.

The Pattali Makkal Katchi (Toilers' Party) in Tamil Nadu staged a protest rally in front of the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commission in Chennai yesterday (Sept. 30th), where more than 2,000 Tamil activists took part, reports ‘Tamil Net’.

Welcoming the Tamil Nadu leaders who have extended their support to Tamils at a critical juncture, S. Ramadoss, the founder leader of the PMK, urged others to support pressurizing the Centre to withdraw military support to Sri Lanka government, which is engaged in genocide against Eelam Tamils, the website said.

He also urged TN Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, who has earlier extended support to Tamils, to come forward disregarding any pressure from the Centre.

K.S. Mani, incumbent leader of PMK and several others addressed the protestors.

The two-hour long rally resolved support to self determination right of Tamils and condemned the Sri Lankan state for genocide and New Delhi for abetting its anti-Tamil agenda.

Sri Lanka Bar Association decided to meet the Defense Secretary and the Chief Justice to make them aware of the dangerous situation the lawyers are facing.

Following the attack at human rights lawyer J.C. Weliamuna, the Bar Association held an urgent meeting yesterday at the office in Hulftsdorp and came to this decision yesterday (29).

A petition was signed by over 350 lawyers and asked the Inspector General of Police to inform what steps would b taken within a week’s time.


Considering the attack as one targeted a person but the legal profession, the petition appeals from civil society and the pressure groups to join hands with Bar Association to act against the attempts to silence the dissent and the criticism.

The LTTE claims 2 civilians were killed and at least 13 others, including children, injured following air raids on Killinochchi this morning. The LTTE published photographs of the injured being rushed to the Killinochchi hospital which it says was also damaged.

The United Nations office in Colombo said that the lorry in which the explosives were recovered from yesterday in Vavuniya did not belong to them. "I emphasize, it was a Government Agent vehicle," UN spokesman Gordon Weiss said.

A three-wheeler driver who allegedly kept a parrot belonging to the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens in the Nedimala area was arrested by Police on information received from the public. The bird is of a rare genus of parrots called Macaw and is approximately worth Rs. 150,000.

The government is preparing to dispatch 60 lorries with essential food items to areas in the North where displaced people are being housed Resettlement Minister Rishard Bathiudeen said yesterday.
The decision was taken on Monday at a meeting presided by presidential adviser Basil Rajapaksa.

“Sixty lorry loads consisting of dry rations, drinking water, sanitary requirements etc will be dispatched to these areas. Empty lorries returning to Vavuniya from Mullaitivu will be loaded with essential food items and sent to welfare centres where the displaced people are living.

Lorries reaching Vavuniya will be under the direct control of the Government Agent and the full complement of essential items requested by the relevant GAs will be made available,” Minister Bathiudeen said.

He said arrangements were also under way to dispatch another consignment of essential items to the displaced people next week.

“These activities are taking place with the blessings of President Mahinda Rajapaksa under the aegis of the senior presidential advisor Basil Rajapaksa,” Minister Bathiudeen said.

Chief of Defence Staff Air Marshal, Donald Perera, Essential Services Commissioner General Divaratna, UN World Food Program Director Neil Bunhe, a WFP representatives and Ministry Secretary A.C.M Razik participated at the meeting.

Sri Lanka’s second international airport is to be constructed at Udamaththala in Lunugamvehera in the Hambantota district.
Six thousand acres of land have been identified as suitable for this construction.

Environment Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka and senior presidential advisor Basil Rajapaksa inspected the proposed construction site yesterday.

Mr. Ranawaka asked the relevant officials to prepare the environmental committee report pertaining to the construction of the airport before work began.

The airport was earlier to be constructed at Weerawila; but the plans were scrapped on account of environmental concerns.

Negombo police yesterday arrested two persons responsible for a major vehicle robbery carried out for a longtime in the area and recovered 11 vans and a trishaw.
Police Spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasekara said the two suspects were arrested on a tip off and the robbed vehicle was recovered after questioning them.

The owners of all the robbed vehicles had identified their vans yesterday at the Negombo police station.

The suspects had reportedly changed the paint and the chassis numbers of the robbed vehicles before selling them to new customers at a cheaper rate.

It was reported that several more suspects connected with the same robbery are evading arrest.

The former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and the Leader of All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, J. Jayalalitha has extended her support to a fasting campaign being organised by the Communist Party of India (CPI) to be staged tomorrow.

In a letter to D. Pandyan, the general secretary of the CPI in Tamil Nadu, Ms. Jayalalitha said her party extended wholehearted support to the success of the campaign, which highlights the problems and urges to safeguard the lives, properties and the rights of the Tamils in Sri Lanka.

The CPI organised fasting campaign is to take place in all the district capitals of Tamil Nadu state tomorrow which falls on the date of Mahatma Gandhi's birthday.

The CPI has urged the Centre in India to pressurise the Sri Lankan government to immediately halt the killings and to return to the path of negotiations, stating that the war being waged by the Sri Lankan government is against Tamil speaking population in general and that it was not viewed as a war against a militant movement.

The leftist parties in Tamil Nadu, which aim to form a third front in the coming elections, have extended their support to Eelam Tamils. Tamil Writers Association also voiced for the rights of Eelam Tamils.

In the meantime, Dr. S. Ramadoss, the founder-leader of Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) in Tamil Nadu has also announced a protest.

The president of the movement Dravidar Kazhagam (DK), K. Veeramani and Thol. Thirumavalavan, the leader of the political party Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Kadchchi (VCK), courted arrest last Tuesday along with five hundred of their cadres while attempting a rail blockade in Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, to protest against Indian aid to the Sri Lankan state.

The reports of the engagement of Indian military radar operators in the wake of an attack by the Tigers on the Sri Lankan Forces Vanni Headquarters (SF-HQ) in Vavuniya, in which at least two Indian personnel were wounded, have fuelled the protests in Tamil Nadu against Indian military aid to Colombo against Tamils.

Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) has sent a special team to facilitate the return of Sri Lankans illegally living in Kuwait.

This follows the decision of the Kuwaiti Government to grant a six week of amnesty period for illegal migrants residing in the country to return to their country of residence until the 15th of October.

According to sources the State of Kuwait requested all migrants without a valid visa or a permission of the Kuwaiti immigration authorities to leave the country on or before the 15th of this month.

Sources added that persons staying illegally in Kuwait can leave for their home country without paying any fines or facing any legal action.

Previously those who overstated in Kuwait were required to pay KD 2 per day for a maximum fine of KD 600, except for visiting visa holders, online edition of Kuwait Times Newspaper reported earlier last month

Sri Lankan migrants overstaying in Kuwait are advised to contact the Sri Lanka Embassy in Kuwait to obtain necessary documentation for the return, sources said.

With the view of catering to the growing demand for employment, the Government will set up 12 new "Trade Zones" in several parts of the country, the construction work related to five of which will commence its construction works in the upcoming months.

The Government has allocated Rs. 11 billion for the construction and infrastructure development activities of the first phase of this mega project, Secretary to the Minister of Enterprise Development & Investment Promotion, P.H.M. Rathnasiri said.

Speaking at a media briefing held in Colombo today (29), Mr. Rathnasiri said that initial arrangements have been made to commence the first phase in Trincomalee, Hambantota, Matara, Dambulla and Puttlam shortly.

Both local and foreign investors have expressed interest in being part of this development project, and accordingly the setting up of the "Trade Zone" in Trincomalee has been already assigned to Indian investors, he said.

Discussions pertaining to the establishment of Trade Zones in Puttlam and Hambantota are underway with the respective parties, Mr. Ratnasiri added.

The project, after completion, will provide thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities to the people in these areas, especially the youth, he said.

Speaking about the current potential of foreign investors seeking investment opportunities in Sri Lanka including involvement in mega development projects, Secretary Rathnasiri said that Italy, Germany and Japan are placed on top of the list of countries seeking Sri Lanka as an investment destination.

The enhanced facilities granted for the foreign investors, extended infrastructure facilities for lucrative investments, and the skills of the young employees available in the country have been key in this particular interest of the foreign investors, he claimed.

During the last year (2007), the "trade zones" have benefited 4,13,478 people in direct employment. This number has increased to 4,51,985 this year.

Secretary Rathnasiri said that the indirect job opportunities are five fold this figure.

Kingsley T. Wickramaratne Ex- Governor of the Southern Province passes away at a private hospital , in Colombo a shortwhile ago.He was a powerful minister during the Chandrika Bandaranayake regime. He was also Advisor on International Trade to the President of Sri Lanka Her Excellency Chandrika Bandaranike Kumaratunge. He assumed duties from 1st February 2002.

He served as the minister of Internal and International Commerce and Food in the Sri Lanka Government Cabinet of President Her Excellency Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga From 1994 to Aoguest 2000. Seventeen(17) departments/ Corporations, in trade, Commerce and Food sectors of the country came within the purview of his Ministry. By virtue of this key ministerial portfolio and his expertise, he was actively involved in cabinet Committees to foster International Trade and Investment, Industrial infrastructure and Socio-Economic Development. he was elected as a member of Parliament for the District in 1989 and served as a Parliamentarian up to August 2000.

He has led Trade Mission to the United Kindom,Russia,United States, People's republic of China, Iran, Egupt, Italy, New Republic of Yugoslavia, australia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Maldives,India, Nepal, thailand, Chile,Sweden, Germany, Portugal and UAE. He also led Sri Lanka's delegation to the SAARC commerce Ministers meeting in India in 1995-2000 and to the WTO meetings from its inception in singapore.
As advisor on international Trade he was specializes on matters related to W.T.O.He was educated at Wesley college, Colombo. He was a fellow of the British Institute of Management(UK). He was the First Sri lankan to be admitted to the Young President's Organization USA. He was a founder member of the institute of Markrting, the institute of Packing and the International Advertising Association(SL - Chapter).His professional career has been as a Management and Markrting Consultant. He became the first Sri Lankan to be elected as Executive Vice President, Junior Chamber International and sixty four (64) countries, came under his jurisdiction. He has traveled widely. As CEO and JCI Senator he has been invited to lecture on business Management, Advertising and Marketing.
Before enterring Parliament he was private Sector Entrepreneur. He Had been the Chirman of the serendib Group of Hotels and of the Wicks Group of Companies. He also served on the Board of Directors of several leading companies in Sri Lanka.

Twenty six years ago in 1975, he presented a comprehensive paper on " One Economy - One Market - One world " at the JCI World Congress in Nice France which was vigorously debated by represtatives of eghty- four(84) countries. He also the author of the book Tomorrow's Economics.
His politicalaffiliation with SLFP ( Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike's Party) began in 1974.
He was electe4d as Assistant Secretary of the SLFP in 1978. In 1983 he was appointed as Treasurer. in 2001 he was elected as the Senior Vice president of the Sri lanka Freedom Party.

he is an avid reader and keeps up-todate in World Trade and International markets Privatization and Entrepreneuship His Philosophy, life and times are committed to bring an advocate of the free market system and the role of private sector in economic Development

He is a family man, married to Helen. They have three daughters.


As advisor on international Trade he is specializes on matters related to W.T.O.He was educated at Wesley college, Colombo. He is a fellow of the British Institute of Management(UK). He was the First Sri lankan to be admitted to the Young President's Organization USA. He is a founder member of the institute of Markrting, the institute of Packing and the International Advertising Association(SL - Chapter). his professional career has been as a Management and Markrting Consultant. He became the first Sri Lankan to be elected as Executive Vice President, Junior Chamber International and sixty four (64) countries, came under his jurisdiction. Hr has traveled widely. As CEO and JCI Senator he has been invited to lecture on business Management, Advertising and Marketing.
Before enterring Parliament he was private Sector Entrepreneur. He Had been the Chirman of the serendib Group of Hotels and of the Wicks Group of Companies. He also served on the Board of Directors of several leading companies in Sri Lanka.

Twenty six years ago in 1975, he presented a comprehensive paper on " One Economy - One Market - One world " at the JCI World Congress in Nice France which was vigorously debated by represtatives of eghty- four(84) countries. He also the author of the book Tomorrow's Economics.
His politicalaffiliation with SLFP ( Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike's Party) began in 1974.
He was electe4d as Assistant Secretary of the SLFP in 1978. In 1983 he was appointed as Treasurer. in 2001 he was elected as the Senior Vice president of the Sri lanka Freedom Party.
He was a family man, married to Helen. They have three daughters.

Sri Lanka Air Force supersonic fighter jets carried out three air raids simultaneously targeting LTTE administration and logistic bases located in the Kilinochchi area this afternoon, 01 October.

The targeted LTTE bases were located west of A9 road, in 3 1/2 Km south of Kilinochchi town and the bombardment carried out around 2.40 p.m, air force spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara said.

All three targets were engaged accurately, spokesperson added.

Fighter jest launched simultaneous aerial raids at two key LTTE facilities with precision, located North of Thiruvaiaru in Kilinochchi, on Wednesday (Oct 1), at 10.25a.m.

A target engaged was identified as a major foothold of the LTTE's 'Charles Anthony unit', while the other was described, a hardcore female terrorist training facility. The targets were acquired on real-time ground and aerial reconnaissance information received, Air Force sources said.

SLAF fighter jets launched air raids at an LTTE gathering point located 3km North East of Piramanthalkulama, Kilinochchi, Wednesday (Oct 1) at around 5.30a.m.

The target was well identified, Air Force Spokesperson Janaka Nanayakkara said, adding that the site was a prominent hideout of senior LTTE terrorists.

Security forces while making clearance on a convoy of Wanni bound lorries at the Omanthai Entry/ Exit point in Vavuniya, have found C-4 explosives and batteries in two lorries yesterday (Sep 30), evening.

According to military, a total of 60 lorries are expected to cross the Omanthai gateway by Thursday evening (Oct 2), with essential food items to displaced in Wanni. 30 lorries were hired by the Vavuniya District Secretariat, while the rest have been hired by the WFP.

The C-4 explosives weighing around 2.5kg were found concealed under the driver's seat, while a total cache of 28,880 batteries (a prohibited item under security concerns) were found laden in a makeshift false compartment. The compartment had been fixed after welding it thoroughly, military said.

The lorry drivers were taken into custody for interrogation and apparently, a suspect has admitted concealing the explosives, Vavuniya Police said.

A bush fire destroyed more than two and half acres of forest in the Hunuwala area, Opanayaka in the Ratnapura district today afternoon, Deputy Inspector General of Police for Sabaragamuwa Province, Upali Hewage said.

The cause of the fire was not knownn immediately and more than three hours were taken to control the fire, he said.

Persons living close by had been told to vacate their homes.

However, there was no damage to houses or persons.

A hand grenade, a T56 magazine and eight rounds were found burried near a house in 4th Mile Post, Trincoamalee last night, police said.

Meanwhile another four hand grenades, a pressure mine, a T56 magazine and an LTTE camouflage kit were found in Uppuweli, Trincomalee at 3.30 pm yesterday.

The items were discovered in the outskirts of a jungle area, police said.

Three Seylan Bank executive directors including its deputy chairman R. Renganathan resigned on Tuesday in keeping with new Central Bank regulations dealing with the ages of the directors and the number of directors in Licensed Commercial Banks (LCBs), Seylan Bank sources said on Wednesday.

“Mala Sabaratnam and A. D. Jegasothy have also resigned,” a Seylan source told TimesOnline. He said this decision was taken to balance the proportion of the executive and non executive directors on the bank board. The three directors are executive directors. Banks and stockmarkets are on holiday today owing to the Moslem Ramazan festival and thus this decision was not intimated to the Colombo Stock Exchange where Seylan is a listed stock.

This is probably the first time directors of a bank are stepping down to conform to the new Central Bank rules.

Under the new corporate governance rules, Section 3 (2) deals with the director board's composition in LCB's, where it is said that the total period of service of a director other than a director who holds the position of CEO shall not exceed nine years and that such period in office shall be inclusive of the total period of service served by such a director upto January 1st , 2008. In the case of two or more directors whose service is in excess of nine years as at this date, the directive says that the longest serving shall resign by the end of 2008 and thereafter, at the end of each succeeding year, the remaining directors need to vacate office in sequence at least one director each year, on the basis of the longest to the shortest length of service as a director, until all who served in excess of nine years as at January 1st, 2008 resign.