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Afghanistan
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Sri Lanka
Statement:2021
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Date
Incidents
January - 3 
Former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leader turned politician Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman, the leader of the Tamil United Freedom Front (TUFF), speaking at a media briefing held in Kilinochchi on January 3 said that while many LTTE leaders and other members of the LTTE
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Former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leader turned politician Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman, the leader of the Tamil United Freedom Front (TUFF), speaking at a media briefing held in Kilinochchi on January 3 said that while many LTTE leaders and other members of the LTTE were released under a general amnesty, all other Tamil political prisoners should also be released under a general amnesty, reports Colombo Page. “I am of the view that all Tamil political prisoners must be released. At the end of the war, the then President and current Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa took a valuable decision to release all LTTE leaders, in accordance with a general amnesty. A group of members have been released. At present there are very few people to be released and they too should be released. In fact, their lives are very painful. These political prisoners really belong to the category of ordinary people, they were not directly involved in the war. We are concerned about their release. The government should also answer the issue of missing persons. The government should answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the issue of missing persons so that the relatives of the disappeared will have the opportunity to perform the remaining duties,” Muralitharan said.
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January - 6 
Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekara on January 6 said that Police had completed investigations into 32 suspects who were directly or indirectly involved in the Easter Sunday suicide attacks and eight files have been submitted to the Attorney General (AG) in order to file cases against them,
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Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekara on January 6 said that Police had completed investigations into 32 suspects who were directly or indirectly involved in the Easter Sunday suicide attacks and eight files have been submitted to the Attorney General (AG) in order to file cases against them, reports Daily Mirror. He told Parliament that the AG would file cases against the suspects on charges of murder, vandalism and causing injuries after receiving the report of the Presidential Commission of Investigation on Easter Sunday Attacks. He said investigations are underway on another 246 suspects who are detaining or in remand prison in connection with offences of supplying weapons, training and instigating racism through Madrasas.
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January - 7 
The Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) appointed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to look into the terrorist attacks on Easter Sunday in 2019 is functioning independently and impartially, Justice Minister Ali Sabry said in Parliament on January 7, reports Colombo Page. The Minister of Justice
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The Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) appointed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to look into the terrorist attacks on Easter Sunday in 2019 is functioning independently and impartially, Justice Minister Ali Sabry said in Parliament on January 7, reports Colombo Page. The Minister of Justice said that the perpetrators of the terrorist attacks on Easter Day should be severely punished and no one is influencing the investigations. If there are any innocents arrested, they should be released, the Minister added. He was responding to a question raised by MP Hesha Vithanage seeking an oral answer.
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January - 8 
The United States Department of Justice on January 8 announced that three Sri Lankan citizens have been charged with terrorism offenses, including conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (ISIS) over the 2019 Easter Sunday suicide attacks, reports Colombo
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The United States Department of Justice on January 8 announced that three Sri Lankan citizens have been charged with terrorism offenses, including conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (ISIS) over the 2019 Easter Sunday suicide attacks, reports Colombo Page. The three defendants named in the criminal complaint, all of whom pledged allegiance to ISIS, are: Mohamed Naufar, the “second emir” for the group of ISIS supporters that called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka,” who allegedly led the group’s propaganda efforts, recruited others to join ISIS, and led a series of multi-day military-type trainings; Mohamed Anwar Mohamed Riskan, who allegedly helped manufacture the IEDs used in the Easter Attacks; and Ahamed MilhanHayathuMoahmed, who allegedly executed a Police officer in order to obtain the officer’s firearm, shot a suspected informant, and scouted a location for a separate terrorist attack. All the defendants are in custody in Sri Lanka, and the Justice Department said it will support the Sri Lankan investigation and prosecution in Sri Lanka and will continue to work with the authorities there to pursue the shared goal of holding these defendants accountable for their crimes.
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January - 9 
A tense situation continued at the Jaffna University on January 9, as dozens of locals, students, and politicians gathered overnight, protesting the removal of a war memorial on campus, reports The Hindu. According to students and eyewitnesses, on January 8 university authorities bulldozed a sculptu
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A tense situation continued at the Jaffna University on January 9, as dozens of locals, students, and politicians gathered overnight, protesting the removal of a war memorial on campus, reports The Hindu. According to students and eyewitnesses, on January 8 university authorities bulldozed a sculpture erected in memory of several thousand civilians brutally killed in the final phase of the civil war in 2009, in Mullivaikkal in Sri Lanka’s northern Mullaitivu District. Jaffna parliamentarian S. Shritharan described the developments as “very disturbing.” “This is a deliberate, provocative act, knowing well that memorials are to do with people’s emotions. After a relatively peaceful period here, this act will trigger much pain and anger, especially among our youth. That is very worrying,” he said. “I also feel the state has tactfully used the VC to carry out this, pitting some Tamils against others, while achieving what they want,” he added.
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January - 11 
Education Minister G.L. Peiris addressing the media on January 11 said that no permission was obtained from the Jaffna University to build the war monument in the university premises, reports Daily Mirror. He said "It is not relevant to have debates or arguments regarding the value or the meaning of
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Education Minister G.L. Peiris addressing the media on January 11 said that no permission was obtained from the Jaffna University to build the war monument in the university premises, reports Daily Mirror. He said "It is not relevant to have debates or arguments regarding the value or the meaning of any type of monument or statue to exhibit, if it is built without permission of the relevant university. There is no political interference with the demolishing of the monument. It has only the law of the university, but for the unity of the students."
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January - 12 
Chairman of the Election Commission (EC) Attorney-at-Law Nimal Punchihewa at a discussion held with the media chiefs at the EC Office on January 12 said that the Provincial Council elections should be held as they are a part of the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The Chairman of the EC pointed
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Chairman of the Election Commission (EC) Attorney-at-Law Nimal Punchihewa at a discussion held with the media chiefs at the EC Office on January 12 said that the Provincial Council elections should be held as they are a part of the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The Chairman of the EC pointed out that the non-holding of the Provincial Council elections has only prevented the appointment of people's representatives to those institutions and that the functions assigned to the Provincial Councils are being carried out as usual. “Some parties point out that the expenses incurred by the Provincial Councilors are a waste of money. However, according to the reports of the Finance Commission, the expenditure incurred on the staff and members of the Provincial Councils is only about 0.3 percent of the total expenditure of those Provincial Councils,” said the Chairman of the Election Commission. He further pointed out that a large role pertaining to various fields is being played through the Provincial Councils.
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January - 13 
Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on January 13 in its World Report 2021 that Sri Lanka’s human rights situation has seriously deteriorated under the administration of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, reports Colombo Page. According to the report, Government security forces have increased intimidation and
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Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on January 13 in its World Report 2021 that Sri Lanka’s human rights situation has seriously deteriorated under the administration of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, reports Colombo Page. According to the report, Government security forces have increased intimidation and surveillance of human rights activists, victims of past abuses, lawyers, and journalists. Minority Muslim and Tamil communities have faced discrimination and threats. The Government pushed through passage of a constitutional amendment that undermines judicial independence and weakens oversight institutions, such as the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka. In February, Sri Lanka withdrew its commitments to the 2015 United Nations Human Rights Council for truth seeking, accountability, and reconciliation following the country’s long civil war.
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January - 16 
Education Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris speaking to the media after meeting Ven. Kappetipola Sri Vimala Nayaka Thera in Kandy on January 16 said that Government will present the draft for a new Constitution to Parliament before the end of this year, reports Daily News. He pointed out that a Committee h
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Education Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris speaking to the media after meeting Ven. Kappetipola Sri Vimala Nayaka Thera in Kandy on January 16 said that Government will present the draft for a new Constitution to Parliament before the end of this year, reports Daily News. He pointed out that a Committee headed by Romesh de Silva, PC has been appointed for the purpose, adding that the 1978 Constitution needs to undergo comprehensive changes to suit the contemporary times.
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January - 21 
Police Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana said that 268 suspects had been arrested in connection with the Easter Sunday terror attacks and 195 suspects have been remanded on court orders, reports Daily News on January 22. In addition, 73 suspects have been detained as per the provisions of the Prevention of
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Police Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana said that 268 suspects had been arrested in connection with the Easter Sunday terror attacks and 195 suspects have been remanded on court orders, reports Daily News on January 22. In addition, 73 suspects have been detained as per the provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Terrorist Investigation Department (TID). The Police Spokesman noted that several investigations had already been completed successfully, especially with regard to the eight attacks which took place at Kochchikade, Katuwapitiya, Batticaloa, Shangri-La Hotel, Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Kingsbury Hotel and the Dehiwala blast.
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January - 24 
Minister of Justice Ali Sabry said a preliminary draft of the proposed new constitution would be tabled in Parliament within a month, reports Colombo Page on January 25. The Minister said the preliminary work of the Constitution is being carried out successfully at present. The Minister of Justice s
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Minister of Justice Ali Sabry said a preliminary draft of the proposed new constitution would be tabled in Parliament within a month, reports Colombo Page on January 25. The Minister said the preliminary work of the Constitution is being carried out successfully at present. The Minister of Justice said that the views of various parties are being sought for the preliminary draft of the proposed new constitution and that various parties had been consulted on the basis of the advertisements made so far. He said that this preliminary draft will be prepared taking into consideration all the ideas and suggestions.
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January - 25 
Former Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Director Shani Abeysekara on January 25 testified before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) probing Easter Sunday attacks said that there was no concrete information on foreign links that involved in the Easter Sunday suicide attacks at the t
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Former Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Director Shani Abeysekara on January 25 testified before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) probing Easter Sunday attacks said that there was no concrete information on foreign links that involved in the Easter Sunday suicide attacks at the time he was serving as the Director of the CID, reports Daily Mirror. Appearing before the Commission, former CID Director Abeysekara said that he was not aware of the present status pertaining to the investigation into the Easter Sunday attack, but said immediately after the suicide attacks that took place during his tenure as the CID Director, there were no verified or concrete information on any foreign links to the attack.
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January - 29 
Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations (UN), Mohan Peiris in his speech at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)’s Arria Formula Meeting on Children and Armed Conflict held in New York on January 29 said that Sri Lanka rehabilitated all 594 of child soldiers recruited by th
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Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations (UN), Mohan Peiris in his speech at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)’s Arria Formula Meeting on Children and Armed Conflict held in New York on January 29 said that Sri Lanka rehabilitated all 594 of child soldiers recruited by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) without prosecuting them, reports Daily Mirror. He said the plight of children is worsened by the prolonged effects of poverty, all forms of violence and conflict.
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January - 29 
The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), at its upcoming session, should act on the recommendations of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and adopt a new resolution to enhance scrutiny of Sri Lanka’s deteriorating human rights situation and pursue accountability for past and recent v
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The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), at its upcoming session, should act on the recommendations of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and adopt a new resolution to enhance scrutiny of Sri Lanka’s deteriorating human rights situation and pursue accountability for past and recent violations, the Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on January 29, reports Colombo Page. In her report released on January 27, 2021, High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said she was ‘alarmed’ by Sri Lanka’s deteriorating human rights situation and set out steps that the Human Rights Council should take to confront the growing risk of future violations.
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January - 31 
Highways Minister Johnston Fernando said Sri Lanka will not be governed according to the dictates of other countries and organizations, reports Daily News on February 1. He said “The UN Human Rights Commissioner who accused Sri Lanka on various matters has not seen how the previous Yahapalana govern
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Highways Minister Johnston Fernando said Sri Lanka will not be governed according to the dictates of other countries and organizations, reports Daily News on February 1. He said “The UN Human Rights Commissioner who accused Sri Lanka on various matters has not seen how the previous Yahapalana government harassed and jailed opponents by influencing the Police and the Judiciary. It is obvious that this Human Rights Commissioner is acting to the Opposition’s stance. Ministers and MPs of the former Yahapalana regime worked against the independence of the Judiciary by making various influences on Judges and Police officers. However, this Human Rights Commissioner did not utter any word against them. Today, military officers are engaged in administration in various fields. That is really a good move. We know how Security Forces personnel contributed to eradicate terrorism and also minimizing the spread of COVID-19 pandemic here. We cannot forget how the Security Forces acted in protecting people during the Easter Sunday attack.”
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February - 3 
Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila on February 3 said that the Government has decided to reject the Report by the United Nations Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet on alleged human rights violations in Sri Lanka as it has acted in violation of the mandates and non-submission of reliable evide
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Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila on February 3 said that the Government has decided to reject the Report by the United Nations Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet on alleged human rights violations in Sri Lanka as it has acted in violation of the mandates and non-submission of reliable evidence, reports Daily News. He made this observation during a press conference held in Colombo. Bachelet’s report which alleges HR violations in Sri Lanka has been published in several media outlets on January 27.
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February - 3 
The 27th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team of United Nations (UN), released on February 3, 2021, said that the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has followers in Sri Lanka, reports Colombo Gazette on February 7. The report said that the Member States expressed
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The 27th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team of United Nations (UN), released on February 3, 2021, said that the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has followers in Sri Lanka, reports Colombo Gazette on February 7. The report said that the Member States expressed concern at the rising number of ISIL sympathizers in cyberspace in South Asia. The report said that ‘Voice of Hind’, the only regional ISIL English-language outlet, was started in early 2020 and is published regularly, and has followers in Sri Lanka. In June 2020, Shahab al-Muhajir, also known as Sanaullah, was appointed by the ISIL core to lead ISIL-K. According to a Member State, al-Muhajir was also appointed chief of the Al-Sadiq office of ISIL, which covers the “Khorasan” region, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Central Asian States.
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February - 4 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa addressing the nation marking the 73rd anniversary of Independence on February 4 pledged not to let extremism to rise ever again in the country, reports Colombo Page. The President said he has now received the final report of the Presidential Commission appointed to inqu
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa addressing the nation marking the 73rd anniversary of Independence on February 4 pledged not to let extremism to rise ever again in the country, reports Colombo Page. The President said he has now received the final report of the Presidential Commission appointed to inquire into the Easter Sunday Attacks and has already given instructions to implement its recommendations. Simultaneously, taking into account the recommendations of the previous Parliament’s Sectoral Oversight Committee on National Security, action will be taken against all parties involved in this tragedy, President Rajapaksa said.
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February - 4 
Thousands of Tamils on February 4 marched in northern and eastern regions to demand the release of prisoners and seek information on thousands of Tamils missing since the end of an ethnic war 11 years ago, reports CNA. The legislator for the main opposition Tamil party, the Tamil National Alliance (
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Thousands of Tamils on February 4 marched in northern and eastern regions to demand the release of prisoners and seek information on thousands of Tamils missing since the end of an ethnic war 11 years ago, reports CNA. The legislator for the main opposition Tamil party, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), M A Sumanthiran said "The reason for this protest walk is to draw attention to the rights of the Tamil-speaking people that have been denied in this country." The legislator also said the group also wanted to draw attention to the military occupation of private land in the 1972-2009 civil war.
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February - 5 
United Nations (UN) Human Rights experts on February 5 urged the Sri Lankan authorities to stop rolling back hard-fought progress made in recent years on rebuilding democratic institutions, and to press for accountability for past crimes and deliver justice for victims and promote reconciliation bet
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United Nations (UN) Human Rights experts on February 5 urged the Sri Lankan authorities to stop rolling back hard-fought progress made in recent years on rebuilding democratic institutions, and to press for accountability for past crimes and deliver justice for victims and promote reconciliation between communities, reports Daily Mirror. “We are dismayed at the emerging trends setting back the promotion of reconciliation, accountability and human rights, reducing civic space and eroding important institutional safeguards for the protection of human rights, issues also raised in the High Commissioner’s report,” they said, pointing to the Government’s increasingly majoritarian rhetoric threatening victims and minority communities.
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February - 6 
Foreign Affairs Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on February 6 said the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has gone beyond its scope in urging the member States to impose sanctions on sovereign nations, reports Daily News.The Minister said the UNHRC had issued reports against 10 countries urging
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Foreign Affairs Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on February 6 said the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has gone beyond its scope in urging the member States to impose sanctions on sovereign nations, reports Daily News.The Minister said the UNHRC had issued reports against 10 countries urging the Member States to impose sanctions.The Commission does not have a mandate to do so and such a decision should be taken by the UN General Assembly, he said.
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February - 7 
Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekara said that all eight files of the Easter Sunday attack have been forwarded to the Attorney General and charges have been filed against 30 persons on charges of conspiring to commit murder,reports Daily News on February 8.He said “So far, we have detained 25
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Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekara said that all eight files of the Easter Sunday attack have been forwarded to the Attorney General and charges have been filed against 30 persons on charges of conspiring to commit murder,reports Daily News on February 8.He said “So far, we have detained 253 suspects on Detention Orders and they are in remand custody for further investigations.”
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February - 8 
The Core Group on Sri Lanka has confirmed on February 8 it will be submitting a Resolution on Sri Lanka at the upcoming session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, reports Daily Mirror.The British Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UK in Geneva, Julian Braithwaite, informed
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The Core Group on Sri Lanka has confirmed on February 8 it will be submitting a Resolution on Sri Lanka at the upcoming session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, reports Daily Mirror.The British Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UK in Geneva, Julian Braithwaite, informed the UNHRC y of the decision to submit the Resolution. The confirmation was made as the UNHRC met to discuss its plans for the 46th Session of the UNHRC which will be held from February 22, 2021 to March 23, 2021. The Core Group on Sri Lanka consists of Canada, Germany, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and the United Kingdom. Braithwaite said that a Resolution will be submitted to the Council on promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka.
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February - 9 
Attorney General Dappula de Livera on February 9 instructed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) CD Wickramaratne to conduct a more comprehensive formal investigation into the Easter Sunday attack on Catholic churches and luxury hotels by an extremist Muslim group and to conduct a formal investiga
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Attorney General Dappula de Livera on February 9 instructed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) CD Wickramaratne to conduct a more comprehensive formal investigation into the Easter Sunday attack on Catholic churches and luxury hotels by an extremist Muslim group and to conduct a formal investigation into the incident, reports Colombo Page. The Attorney General has emphasized that the investigation conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) into the Easter Sunday bombings on April 21, 2019, are inadequate. The Attorney General has sent a 30-page set of instructions to the IGP on how to investigate the Easter attack.
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February - 11 
Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith on February 11 said he will be compelled to call for a probe by an international court over the Easter Sunday attacks if justice is not meted out to victims of the mayhem and their families, reports Daily Mirror. Cardinal Ranjith told a pre
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Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith on February 11 said he will be compelled to call for a probe by an international court over the Easter Sunday attacks if justice is not meted out to victims of the mayhem and their families, reports Daily Mirror. Cardinal Ranjith told a press conference that he is not satisfied with the investigations carried out by some, including the CID. "I hope I would not have to seek the assistance of any international institutions, but would be compelled to call for such assistance if justice is not meted out to us. Those who were affected by the carnage expect some kind of redress from me. Also, I believe that that government would not allow the Easter Sunday issue as another international topic as it has already faced with some international pressure in Geneva" he said.
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February - 12 February - 15
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s Office on February 15 strongly denied a claim by former US Ambassador for War Crimes and Global Criminal Justice Stephen Rapp (2009-2015) that wartime Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa had admitted to killing Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leaders following
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s Office on February 15 strongly denied a claim by former US Ambassador for War Crimes and Global Criminal Justice Stephen Rapp (2009-2015) that wartime Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa had admitted to killing Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leaders following their surrender to the Army in 2009, reports The Island. Rapp made the allegation on February 12 at an online panel discussion organised by a group of organizations targeting Sri Lanka led by the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) on Justice and rule of law in the run-up to the 46th sessions of the Geneva-based United Nations Human Rights Council. Rapp recalled a conversation with the then Defence Secretary and now President Gotabaya Rajapaksa regarding LTTE leaders who surrendered to the Army. “I remember raising this issue with defence secretary Gotabaya, now President Rajapaksa when I was there.I remember the defence secretary saying, Oh, trials, trials, you know they go on so long and people get off.I killed them, I killed them, I killed them,” Rapp said at the webinar.Rajapaksa had told him so when he met the latter in Colombo.
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February - 21 
Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena speaking to media on February 21 said Sri Lanka is ready to face a resolution against Sri Lanka before the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, reports Colombo Page. Minister Gunawardena said the report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Right
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Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena speaking to media on February 21 said Sri Lanka is ready to face a resolution against Sri Lanka before the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, reports Colombo Page. Minister Gunawardena said the report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights is biased and added that Sri Lanka with the support of friendly countries will answer the UNHRC at its forthcoming session. The UNHRC will hold its 46th regular session from February 22-March 23, 2021 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. On February 24, it will hear the presentation of report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka.
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February - 21 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP M. A. Sumanthiran speaking to the media at a TNA meeting on the proposed new Constitution said TNA will support Government if it resolves national issue, reports Daily News on February 22. He said TNA will not hesitate to support the Government if it is committed to
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP M. A. Sumanthiran speaking to the media at a TNA meeting on the proposed new Constitution said TNA will support Government if it resolves national issue, reports Daily News on February 22. He said TNA will not hesitate to support the Government if it is committed to provide a long-lasting solution to the national question through a new Constitution. He said that there had not been any Constitutional Amendment to provide a political solution to the issues of the Tamil speaking people in the North and the East. He said that the 13th Amendment to the Constitution made an effort in this regard. He said that if the Government is willing to give a long-lasting solution for the national question, then not only the TNA but also all other Tamil parties would not hesitate to work with the Government.
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February - 21 
United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Palitha Range Bandara on February 21 said the Ministerial Committee not qualified to study report of Easter Sunday attack, reports Daily News. “The ruling party highlighted its Viyath Maga Movement prior to the Election. Yet, it has been unable to find l
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United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Palitha Range Bandara on February 21 said the Ministerial Committee not qualified to study report of Easter Sunday attack, reports Daily News. “The ruling party highlighted its Viyath Maga Movement prior to the Election. Yet, it has been unable to find learned members for the Committee. Two members appointed to the said committee do not even have even Ordinary Level qualifications. It is not acceptable to submit the report to a committee composed of politicians instead of submitting it to the Attorney General for relevant action,” he commented.
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February - 22 
The Core Group on Sri Lanka on February 22 tabled the draft resolution at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, reports Daily Mirror.UNHRC spokesman Rolando Gómez said that this was the first resolution to be tabled at the ongoing 46th Session of the UNHRC in Geneva.He said that
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The Core Group on Sri Lanka on February 22 tabled the draft resolution at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, reports Daily Mirror.UNHRC spokesman Rolando Gómez said that this was the first resolution to be tabled at the ongoing 46th Session of the UNHRC in Geneva.He said that all resolutions will be considered on March 22 and 23, the last two days of the 46th Session.The resolution tabled by the Core Group on Sri Lanka to ensure the prompt, thorough and impartial investigation and, if warranted, prosecution of all allegations of gross human rights violations and serious violations of international humanitarian law including for long-standing emblematic cases.
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February - 23 
Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardane, in his statement to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on February 23, called for the member states to reject the resolution sought to be moved against Sri Lanka by the elements working against its interests, reports Daily Mirror. In his address, he
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Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardane, in his statement to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on February 23, called for the member states to reject the resolution sought to be moved against Sri Lanka by the elements working against its interests, reports Daily Mirror. In his address, he said the need of the hour, in the face of an unprecedented pandemic, is solidarity rather than rancour and acrimony arising from divisions within this council.
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February - 24 
Sri Lanka ‘categorically’ rejected the report presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) at the 46th session in Geneva on February 24 and called on the members of the Council to reject any resolution based on the repo
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Sri Lanka ‘categorically’ rejected the report presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) at the 46th session in Geneva on February 24 and called on the members of the Council to reject any resolution based on the report, reports Colombo Page.Delivering a statement at the Interactive Dialogue on the OHCHR Report ‘Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka’ (A/HRC/46/20) Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena noted that the OHCHR Report emanates from the Resolution 30/1 and 40/1, from which the Government of Sri Lanka announced its withdrawal of co-sponsorship, at the 43rd Session of the Council in 2020.
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February - 24 
The United Kingdom (UK) on February 24 welcoming the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)’s detailed and most comprehensive report on Sri Lanka shared its concerns regarding the reversal of progress on issues of accountability, and also the current human rights situation, and the
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The United Kingdom (UK) on February 24 welcoming the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)’s detailed and most comprehensive report on Sri Lanka shared its concerns regarding the reversal of progress on issues of accountability, and also the current human rights situation, and the risk and recurrence of past violations, reports Colombo Page.Lord Tariq Ahmad, the UK's Minister for the UN and Human Rights, delivering a statement during the Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka at the 46th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) expressed “We are also concerned at the increase in surveillance and indeed harassment of civil society actors, the militarisation of these civilian governmental functions, and the impact of the government’s forced cremation policy on different communities in Sri Lanka, particularly the Muslim community, who continue to face persecution.”
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February - 24 
The United States (US) on February 24 shared the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)’s concerns and urged Sri Lanka to make public a strategy and timetable for implementation of the report’s recommendations, reports Daily Mirror.While making the US Statement at the Interactive D
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The United States (US) on February 24 shared the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)’s concerns and urged Sri Lanka to make public a strategy and timetable for implementation of the report’s recommendations, reports Daily Mirror.While making the US Statement at the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s Sri Lanka Report, Daniel Kronenfeld said “We remain concerned about the lack of accountability, including high-level appointments of military officials credibly accused of conflict-era abuses. The Sri Lankan government’s efforts to address concerns raised in OHCHR’s report via a domestic process need to be meaningful and credible. We note that the Sri Lankan Commission of Inquiry does not include a mandate to pursue accountability, and that the Office of Missing Persons and Office of Reparations need to operate without political interference,we note that respect for the human rights of all Sri Lankans is critical to Sri Lanka’s long-term peace, security and prosperity, and call on the Sri Lankan government to take meaningful, concrete steps to promote accountability, justice, and reconciliation.”
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February - 25 
Sri Lanka on February 25 reiterated it concern over the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) practice of selectively adopting country specific resolutions and suggested the Universal Periodic Review as the appropriate mechanism to address the human rights situation of all countries, reports C
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Sri Lanka on February 25 reiterated it concern over the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) practice of selectively adopting country specific resolutions and suggested the Universal Periodic Review as the appropriate mechanism to address the human rights situation of all countries, reports Colombo Page. Replying to the report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on the situation of human rights in Belarus in the run-up to the presidential election and its aftermath at the Enhanced Interactive dialogue of the 46th Session of the UNHRC in Geneva, Sri Lanka encouraged the Council to engage constructively and objectively when addressing human rights situations. “We reiterate our concern over the continuing discriminatory practice of selective adoption of country specific resolutions in the Human Rights Council, which breaches the principles of universality, impartiality and non-selectivity stipulated in GA resolution 60/251 and the IB package,” Sri Lanka said.
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February - 25 
The Government tabled the final report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) on the 2019 Easter attacks in Parliament on February 25 (today), reports Daily Mirror. Leader of the House, Dinesh Gunawardane, said the government was ready to debate the report for three days. “We have already
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The Government tabled the final report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) on the 2019 Easter attacks in Parliament on February 25 (today), reports Daily Mirror. Leader of the House, Dinesh Gunawardane, said the government was ready to debate the report for three days. “We have already agreed to a debate on the Presidential commission report on the Easter Sunday attack and we are ready for it,” Gunawardane said, adding that arrangements will be made to convert the report into a public document.
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February - 27 
Former General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Prof. Rohana Lakshman Piyadasa while participating in a media briefing held in Kandy on February 27 said that a conspiracy to destroy the SLFP and its leaders is in progress, reports Colombo Page. He said the allegations levelled agains
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Former General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Prof. Rohana Lakshman Piyadasa while participating in a media briefing held in Kandy on February 27 said that a conspiracy to destroy the SLFP and its leaders is in progress, reports Colombo Page. He said the allegations levelled against former President Maithripala Sirisena by the report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) into the Easter Sunday Attacks were part of the conspiracy.
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February - 28 
Leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) parliamentarian R. Sampanthan has said that every country participating in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva should support the oppressed Tamil people in Sri Lanka, reports Colombo Page on March 1. Speaking to the media, the TNA Lea
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Leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) parliamentarian R. Sampanthan has said that every country participating in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva should support the oppressed Tamil people in Sri Lanka, reports Colombo Page on March 1. Speaking to the media, the TNA Leader has said that a firm resolution must be adopted at the ongoing 46th Session of the UNHRC to punish those who committed war crimes during the war. The leader of the TNA said that the resolution submitted by a number of Tamil political parties in this regard should be supported by other countries and added that a number of Tamil political parties have decided that the proposal submitted by Britain is not so significant. MP Sampanthan noting that 11 years have passed since the end of the war but no one has intervened to bring justice to the victims of the war, said at least now the International Community should pay attention to the issue.
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March - 2 
Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo, on March 2 vowed to continue protesting until justice is meted out to the victims of 2019 Easter Sunday bomb attacks, reports Colombo Page.Cardinal Ranjith made this statement at a media briefing held at the Archbishop's official residence in Colo
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Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo, on March 2 vowed to continue protesting until justice is meted out to the victims of 2019 Easter Sunday bomb attacks, reports Colombo Page.Cardinal Ranjith made this statement at a media briefing held at the Archbishop's official residence in Colombo. Church officials have declared a “Black Sunday” in all Catholic churches island wide on the March 7 as the first step in the series of protests demanding justice for the attacks which killed more than 260 people.
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March - 2 
Attorney General Dappula de Livera on March 2 received 65 volumes of the proceedings of the Presidential Commission to Inquiry (PCoI) probing Easter Sunday Attacks from the Secretary to the President, reports Daily News.Attorney General’s Coordinating Officer State Counsel Nishara Jayaratne said tha
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Attorney General Dappula de Livera on March 2 received 65 volumes of the proceedings of the Presidential Commission to Inquiry (PCoI) probing Easter Sunday Attacks from the Secretary to the President, reports Daily News.Attorney General’s Coordinating Officer State Counsel Nishara Jayaratne said that there are 87 volumes of proceedings of the PCoI and 22 volumes were not handed over to the Attorney General due to the sensitive nature of evidence pertaining to national security.
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March - 3 
Provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) are to be revisited, the Government informed the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in a comprehensive response to a report by the OHCHR, reports Daily Mirror on March 4.The Government said it is intent on revisiting the provi
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Provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) are to be revisited, the Government informed the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in a comprehensive response to a report by the OHCHR, reports Daily Mirror on March 4.The Government said it is intent on revisiting the provisions of the PTA having due regard to the progress made in the area of development and reconciliation. In that process the Government said it will draw in aid international best practices adopted by other jurisdictions and the recommendations that may be made by the COI appointed with regard to the Easter Sunday attacks.
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March - 8 
Minister of Public Security Sarath Weerasekara has said that eight files containing relevant documents have been sent to the Attorney General (AG) to prosecute the 32 suspects accused in the Easter Sunday terrorist attack, reports Colombo Page on March 9.Minister Sarath Weerasekara said the suspects
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Minister of Public Security Sarath Weerasekara has said that eight files containing relevant documents have been sent to the Attorney General (AG) to prosecute the 32 suspects accused in the Easter Sunday terrorist attack, reports Colombo Page on March 9.Minister Sarath Weerasekara said the suspects would be charged with a number of accounts including murder and conspiracy to commit murder.Minister Weerasekara told that that action would be taken against 241 persons on detention orders for allegedly aiding and abetting the attack indirectly and the AG was waiting until the report of the commission was received.He said that 7,600 people had been arrested in connection with the series of bombings at eight locations onApril21, 2019 and that action had been taken against 300.
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March - 10 
A three-day parliamentary debate on the Report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) into the Easter Sunday attack in Sri Lanka commenced on March10 in Parliament, reports Colombo Page.During the debate, Minister of Public Security Retired Rear Admiral Sarath Weerasekara revealed a number
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A three-day parliamentary debate on the Report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) into the Easter Sunday attack in Sri Lanka commenced on March10 in Parliament, reports Colombo Page.During the debate, Minister of Public Security Retired Rear Admiral Sarath Weerasekara revealed a number of details about the attack.According to the Minister, so far 676 people have been arrested in connection with the April 21, 2019, Easter Sunday attack in Sri Lanka. Of these, 202 have been remanded, while another 66 are being detained and under investigation.Although 408 people have been released on bail, investigations into them are still ongoing.The debate will continue on two other dates.
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March - 10 
The core group led by the United Kingdom (UK) has revised the draft resolution on Sri Lanka calling for, among others, to implement the recommendations made by the United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteurs who visited Sri Lanka after 2015, reports Daily Mirror on March 11. During an information meetin
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The core group led by the United Kingdom (UK) has revised the draft resolution on Sri Lanka calling for, among others, to implement the recommendations made by the United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteurs who visited Sri Lanka after 2015, reports Daily Mirror on March 11. During an information meeting on the resolution, the UK informed the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in this regard. The resolution has been brought by the core group of countries led by the UK. The others are Canada, Germany, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Malawi.
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March - 12 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 12 issued an Extraordinary Gazette Notification making provisions for the rehabilitation of persons arrested on the charges of extremist activities, reports Colombo Page. The Gazette Notification says the Regulations may be cited as the Prevention of Terrorism (
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 12 issued an Extraordinary Gazette Notification making provisions for the rehabilitation of persons arrested on the charges of extremist activities, reports Colombo Page. The Gazette Notification says the Regulations may be cited as the Prevention of Terrorism (De-radicalization from holding violent extremist religious ideology) Regulations No. 01 of 2021. The Gazette states those who surrender or are arrested on suspicion of extremist actions should be handed over to the nearest Police Station within 24 hours. Thereafter, the OIC is expected to submit a report to the Subject Minister if it is required for the person to be detained further. The arrest should be referred to the Attorney General for legal action, if the suspect has committed a specific offence. However, in the event the Attorney General concludes that it is appropriate to rehabilitate the person in a dedicated centre as an alternative to prosecution based on the nature of the offence, the suspect must be produced before a Magistrate with the written consent of the Attorney General. The Extraordinary Gazette notification states that the Magistrate may order that a person be referred to a rehabilitation centre for a period of not more than one year. The rehabilitation period can be extended by a period of six months at a time.
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March - 12 
The President’s Legal Director Hariguptha Rohanadeera on March 12 handed over the remaining 22 volumes of the report of the Presidential Commission to Inquire (PCoI) Easter Sunday terror attacks, to Attorney General (AG) Dappula de Livera, reports Daily News. It was revealed that all volumes of the
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The President’s Legal Director Hariguptha Rohanadeera on March 12 handed over the remaining 22 volumes of the report of the Presidential Commission to Inquire (PCoI) Easter Sunday terror attacks, to Attorney General (AG) Dappula de Livera, reports Daily News. It was revealed that all volumes of the report of the PCoI have now been handed over to the Attorney General along with 22 volumes which were handed. On March 2, 2021, the AG had received 65 volumes of the proceedings of the PCoI probing Easter Sunday Attacks from the Secretary to the President. The AG’s Coordinating Officer had told the news media that there are 87 volumes of proceedings of the PCoI and 22 volumes were not handed over to the Attorney General at that time due to the sensitive nature of evidence pertaining to national security.
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March - 13 
UK’s Home Secretary Priti Patel has been ordered by a secretive tribunal to review the ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), one of the world’s most dangerous terrorist groups, reports Daily Mirror on March 14. The Proscribed Organisations Appeal Commission (POAC), an independent body
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UK’s Home Secretary Priti Patel has been ordered by a secretive tribunal to review the ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), one of the world’s most dangerous terrorist groups, reports Daily Mirror on March 14. The Proscribed Organisations Appeal Commission (POAC), an independent body set up under the 2000 Terrorism Act, ruled that the Home Secretary must consider taking the LTTE off the Government's list of outlawed bodies. The UK banned the LTTE in 2001. But another group, the Trans-national Government of Tamil Eelam (TGTE) – the self-styled Government of exiled Tamils around the world – brought a case against the Home Secretary over the ban, saying the Tamil Tigers are no longer engaged in terrorism.
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March - 15 
Education Minister GL Peiris at a special media briefing held by the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) at the Water’s Edge Hotel in Battaramulla on March 15said that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has ordered to immediately implement the recommendations of the Easter Sunday Commission within the lega
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Education Minister GL Peiris at a special media briefing held by the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) at the Water’s Edge Hotel in Battaramulla on March 15said that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has ordered to immediately implement the recommendations of the Easter Sunday Commission within the legal framework before April 21 for everyone to see, reports Colombo Page. The Minister said that the President has instructed Government agencies and officials to take steps to start each institution as per the recommendations of the Easter Commission report with dates.He said 99 suspects had been arrested in Sri Lanka in connection with the Easter attacks and 54 had fled to foreign countries. Out of them 50 had been arrested and brought to the country while four others are to be arrested in foreign countries.He further said that there is a strong determination and desire to implement the recommendations of the Presidential Commission on Easter Attack.
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March - 17 
Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekera speaking to media after the Kolonnawa Regional Development meeting on March 17 said, National Unity Front (NUF) leader and former Western Province Governor, Azath Salley was arrested by Crime Investigation Department (CID) as is alleged to have had links t
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Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekera speaking to media after the Kolonnawa Regional Development meeting on March 17 said, National Unity Front (NUF) leader and former Western Province Governor, Azath Salley was arrested by Crime Investigation Department (CID) as is alleged to have had links to the Easter Sunday suicide attack, reports Daily Mirror. He alleged that according to initial investigation it was revealed that Salley had overt or covert link to vandalizing of the Buddha statues in Mawanella and to the attack. The Minister said further questioning by CID could reveal whether Azath Salley has had a hand in the Easter Sunday mayhem.
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March - 18 
Former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on March 18 said that free and fair election couldn’t be expected under the supervision of the Election Commission (EC) appointed in terms of the 20th Amendment, reports The Island. The EC consists of Nimal G. Punchihewa (Chairman), S.B. Diwarathne, M.M. Mohammed, K. P
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Former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on March 18 said that free and fair election couldn’t be expected under the supervision of the Election Commission (EC) appointed in terms of the 20th Amendment, reports The Island. The EC consists of Nimal G. Punchihewa (Chairman), S.B. Diwarathne, M.M. Mohammed, K. P. P. Pathirana, and Jeevan Thiagarajah. Referring to recent reports pertaining to moves to conduct much delayed Provincial Council polls, Jayasuriya emphasised the responsibility on the part of the incumbent Government to guarantee the impartiality of the EC. Jayasuriya said that they couldn’t anticipate free and fair elections as members of the EC were directly involved with the Government political machinery. He alleged that the EC would side with the Government at a crucial moment at the expense of those who expected a level playing field. Therefore, the independence of the EC should be proved before elections. Jayasuriya said the next Provincial Council polls shouldn’t be conducted on a staggered basis under any circumstances.
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March - 19 
Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena responding to a question raised by journalists at the Foreign Ministry on March 19 said that the allegations of human rights abuses in Sri Lanka by several countries including the UK, Canada and Germany are politically biased, reports Colombo Page. “Over the years
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Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena responding to a question raised by journalists at the Foreign Ministry on March 19 said that the allegations of human rights abuses in Sri Lanka by several countries including the UK, Canada and Germany are politically biased, reports Colombo Page. “Over the years, various allegations have been levelled against our country, alleging human rights abuses. We have been cautious about this. After our government was elected, a Presidential Commission has been appointed to investigate human rights allegations. Funds have been allocated from the budget to activate the Office on Missing Persons. While the present government was taking a number of such positive steps, it was not fair to ignore it and accuse us repeatedly in various manners at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. We try to defeat the false accusations levelled against us. Many friendly countries have joined hands with us in this. We hope that India too, will support us this time,” said Minister Gunawardena. A vote is scheduled to be held on March 22, 2021, on the allegations made by several countries against Sri Lanka, at the 46th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva.
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March - 23 
The U.S. on March 23 called on the Sri Lankan Government to take “credible and meaningful” steps address its past and promote reconciliation and guarantee equal access to justice for all its people, reports Colombo Page. Addressing a media briefing Jalina Porter, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the
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The U.S. on March 23 called on the Sri Lankan Government to take “credible and meaningful” steps address its past and promote reconciliation and guarantee equal access to justice for all its people, reports Colombo Page. Addressing a media briefing Jalina Porter, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the Department of State said the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) passed a resolution co-sponsored by the U.S. to promote human rights in Sri Lanka called on the Sri Lankan Government to safeguard the rights of ethnic and religious minorities, human rights defenders, and civil society actors.
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March - 25 
Chief Opposition whip Lakshman Kiriella on March 25 said the resolution adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) mainly focused on the anti-democratic governance of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, reports Daily Mirror. He told Parliament that only two-and-a-half pages were focused on
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Chief Opposition whip Lakshman Kiriella on March 25 said the resolution adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) mainly focused on the anti-democratic governance of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, reports Daily Mirror. He told Parliament that only two-and-a-half pages were focused on the war out of 17.5 pages of the resolution. “Many areas in the resolution focused on anti-democratic actions, a threat to media freedom and issues concerning the minority communities,” he said.
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March - 25 
Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on March 25 (today) informed Parliament that the resolution on Sri Lanka which was adopted at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) was illegal, reports Daily Mirror. Gunawardena said “Sri Lanka considers the resolution as unwarranted. This resolution ag
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Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on March 25 (today) informed Parliament that the resolution on Sri Lanka which was adopted at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) was illegal, reports Daily Mirror. Gunawardena said “Sri Lanka considers the resolution as unwarranted. This resolution against Sri Lanka is illegal.” Gunawardena said that Sri Lanka is a sovereign State and will protect that sovereignty. He also said that the new resolution did not have majority support at the Council. However, the Minister said that Sri Lanka will continue engaging with United Nations agencies.
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March - 27 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 27 asserted that his Government will face the Geneva resolution without fear and Sri Lanka cannot be subdued by the impact, reports Colombo Page. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said "We are not afraid to face the impact of Geneva resolution. It is possible not to
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 27 asserted that his Government will face the Geneva resolution without fear and Sri Lanka cannot be subdued by the impact, reports Colombo Page. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said "We are not afraid to face the impact of Geneva resolution. It is possible not to succumb to it. We are a free country. We will not fall prey to the power struggle in the Indian Ocean.”
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March - 27 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 27 asserted that his Government will face the Geneva resolution without fear and Sri Lanka cannot be subdued by the impact, reports Colombo Page. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said "We are not afraid to face the impact of Geneva resolution. It is possible not to
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 27 asserted that his Government will face the Geneva resolution without fear and Sri Lanka cannot be subdued by the impact, reports Colombo Page. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said "We are not afraid to face the impact of Geneva resolution. It is possible not to succumb to it. We are a free country. We will not fall prey to the power struggle in the Indian Ocean.”
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March - 29 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Spokesman and Parliamentarian M.A. Sumanthiran on March 29 said that that Government will have to implement the Resolution adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), reports Daily News. He said “Certain Ministers say the Government is not legally bound
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Spokesman and Parliamentarian M.A. Sumanthiran on March 29 said that that Government will have to implement the Resolution adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), reports Daily News. He said “Certain Ministers say the Government is not legally bound to implement the Resolution. But the Government will have to implement it. Successive Governments have failed to implement the Resolutions adopted by the UN Human Rights body.” He said that UN Peace Keepers might come to Sri Lanka if the Government fails to implement the UNHRC Resolution.
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April - 1 
Former Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera during a media conference on April 1 said that international community has not accused Sri Lanka of committing war crimes but have only called for an investigation to determine whether such crimes have been committed, reports Daily Mirror. Samaraweera said
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Former Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera during a media conference on April 1 said that international community has not accused Sri Lanka of committing war crimes but have only called for an investigation to determine whether such crimes have been committed, reports Daily Mirror. Samaraweera said “One has to carry out an investigation to determine whether there had been any war crimes. Sri Lanka’s issue pertaining to the UNHRC would not have been gone too far if the former administration honoured the commitments it had undertaken in 2009 at the UNHRC sessions. Actually, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa had a tremendous opportunity to close the issue if a proper investigation was carried out as pledged.” Responding to a question as to whether he would not think the ending of war in 2009 was a relief for Sri Lankan people, he said “I was happy when the war was ended as I was among the targets of the LTTE. The end of conflict was also a relief to the people of the North and East as they had to face hardship such as forceful recruitment of their children by the LTTE."
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April - 2 
The Government on April 2 vowed to take action soon against all those behind the Easter Sunday attacks, reports Daily Mirror. Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga told reporters in Minuwangoda that the Ministerial Committee that studied the presidential commission’s report on the Easter Sunday attac
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The Government on April 2 vowed to take action soon against all those behind the Easter Sunday attacks, reports Daily Mirror. Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga told reporters in Minuwangoda that the Ministerial Committee that studied the presidential commission’s report on the Easter Sunday attack will hand over its recommendations to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa by April 5. Prasanna said only two months had passed after the presentation of the report by the Presidential Commission that probed the serial bombings and the government would take correct decisions regarding the wrong doers soon. The committee was chaired by Irrigation Minister Chamal Rajapaksa. Others included Highways Minister Johnston Fernando, Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila and Ports and Shipping Minister Rohitha Abyegunawardane.
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April - 4 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in a message issued to mark the celebration of Easter on April 4 said his Government is committed to bring the culprits of Easter Sunday attack to justice, reports Colombo Page. “We will leave no room for the culprits as well as groups, who are responsible for this dasta
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in a message issued to mark the celebration of Easter on April 4 said his Government is committed to bring the culprits of Easter Sunday attack to justice, reports Colombo Page. “We will leave no room for the culprits as well as groups, who are responsible for this dastardly attack to escape the arm of law,” the President said. The President further said his Government is determined to ensure national security in order to prevent recurrence of such tragedies in the country and called on the people to unite and stand together to overcome various conflicts and calamities that they have to face.
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April - 6 
The Government on April 6 officially announced that Nawfer Moulavi who is in remand custody has been identified as the mastermind behind the Easter Sunday attacks that killed more than 270 innocent civilians on April 21, 2019, reports Daily News. According to Public Security Minister Dr. Sarath Wee
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The Government on April 6 officially announced that Nawfer Moulavi who is in remand custody has been identified as the mastermind behind the Easter Sunday attacks that killed more than 270 innocent civilians on April 21, 2019, reports Daily News. According to Public Security Minister Dr. Sarath Weerasekera, Nawfer Moulavi who is in remand custody, has been involved in brainwashing Saharan Hashim’s team into following the Islamic State ideology. Addressing a press conference at the Information Department, Weerasekera said Nawfer Moulavi has started propagating ideologies of the Islamic State terrorists in 2014. The Minister said that the Government has nothing to hide over the investigations into the Easter Sunday attacks. 32 persons who are directly linked to the attacks have already been identified and the relevant evidence has been submitted for filing charges against them. 75 persons have been detained while 211 persons have been remanded in connection with the attacks, he said.
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April - 6 
A lawyer who sustained injuries following the Easter Sunday suicide bomb blast at Shangri-La hotel in Colombo has sent a Letter of demand urging former President Maithreepala Sirisena, former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe and ten other officials to jointly pay SLR 500 million as damages, repor
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A lawyer who sustained injuries following the Easter Sunday suicide bomb blast at Shangri-La hotel in Colombo has sent a Letter of demand urging former President Maithreepala Sirisena, former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe and ten other officials to jointly pay SLR 500 million as damages, reports Daily News. Moditha Bandara, a lawyer by profession sent this letter of demand through his attorney Sujeewa Gunathilaka. The letter of demand has been sent to former President Mithreepala Sirisena, former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, former Defence Ministry Secretary Hemasiri Fernando, former IGP Pujith Jayasundara, former Chief of State Intelligence Service Nilantha Jayawardhane, former Director of Special Security Priyalal Dasanayake, former State Minister of Defence Ruwan Wijewardhane, former Chief of Defense Staff Admiral Ravindra Wijegunarathne, former Army Commander Lt. General Mahesh Senanayake, former Navy Commander Vice Admiral Priyal De Silva and former Air Force Commander Air Vice Marshal Mahesh Kapila Jayampathy urging them to pay the damages within 14 days.
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April - 12 
The United National Party (UNP) on April 12 condemned the arrest of Jaffna Mayor Manivannan Visvalingam by the Police under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Colombo Page. Issuing a statement, the UNP noted that the arrest was made due to concerns raised regarding the uniforms worn by m
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The United National Party (UNP) on April 12 condemned the arrest of Jaffna Mayor Manivannan Visvalingam by the Police under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Colombo Page. Issuing a statement, the UNP noted that the arrest was made due to concerns raised regarding the uniforms worn by members of the Municipal Council and called on the relevant authorities to investigate any wrongdoing allegedly committed by a popularly elected official before the Police take any action. The UNP requested that clear evidence be presented regarding the allegations that the uniforms worn by the members of the council who have been employed to oversee the cleanliness of the Municipality has any resemblance to uniforms worn by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
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April - 21 
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa stated in Parliament on April 21 that all those responsible for the devastating attacks on Easter Sunday will be brought to justice, reports Colombo Page. Today (April 21) marks the two-year anniversary of the brutal terrorist attack on Easter Sunday and a minute of
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Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa stated in Parliament on April 21 that all those responsible for the devastating attacks on Easter Sunday will be brought to justice, reports Colombo Page. Today (April 21) marks the two-year anniversary of the brutal terrorist attack on Easter Sunday and a minute of silence was observed in the House at the request of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. Delivering a special statement, the Prime Minister said that the report and other documents prepared by the Easter Commission based on the information revealed have been referred to the Attorney General for legal action. The Prime Minister stated that the Government will not interfere in the judicial process and will provide the necessary assistance to make the judicial process a success.
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April - 24 
Police Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana on April 24 said a total of 702 suspects have been arrested over the Easter Sunday bomb attacks as of April 24, reports Daily Mirror. He said that 202 of them are currently in remand custody while 83 others have been detained by the Criminal Investigations Departme
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Police Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana on April 24 said a total of 702 suspects have been arrested over the Easter Sunday bomb attacks as of April 24, reports Daily Mirror. He said that 202 of them are currently in remand custody while 83 others have been detained by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) for interrogations. DIG Rohana said that among the detained were, Easter Sunday attack mastermind Zahran Hashim's wife Hadiya and Mohamed Ibrahim. Meanwhile, the spokesman said that nearly 80 persons were arrested recently for having attended extremist ideology lessons or for conducting classes propagating extremist ideology.
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April - 27 
Cabinet on April 27 granted approval to produce a draft bill banning burqa and other full-face coverings that conceals the identity of the person in public places, reports Colombo Page. Cabinet Spokesman, Minister of Mass Media and Information Keheliya Rambukwella said the Cabinet has approved the b
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Cabinet on April 27 granted approval to produce a draft bill banning burqa and other full-face coverings that conceals the identity of the person in public places, reports Colombo Page. Cabinet Spokesman, Minister of Mass Media and Information Keheliya Rambukwella said the Cabinet has approved the ban on wearing full face masks in public places. The Minister said that it was decided to take this step as it is difficult to verify the identity of a person, especially if the face is completely covered, which is a threat to national security. The Minister said that similar steps have been taken in other parts of the world.
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April - 27 
Police spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana on April 27 (today) said a detention order has been obtained for 90 days against former Minister Rishad Bathiudeen and his brother Riyaj Bathiudeen to conduct further investigations, reports Daily Mirror. He said earlier a 72-hour detention order was obtained by the
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Police spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana on April 27 (today) said a detention order has been obtained for 90 days against former Minister Rishad Bathiudeen and his brother Riyaj Bathiudeen to conduct further investigations, reports Daily Mirror. He said earlier a 72-hour detention order was obtained by the CID Director as per the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and which was terminated by the morning of April 27. Therefore, another detention order was obtained to conduct further investigations. Bathiudeen and his brother were arrested on April 24 under the PTA.
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April - 30 
Human Rights Watch (HRW) on April 30 urged the Sri Lanka’s Parliament to reject Presidential Commission’s Political Victimization resolution, reports Colombo Page. Adopting the resolution, brought before Parliament on April 9, would further undermine the independence of the judiciary and rule of law
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Human Rights Watch (HRW) on April 30 urged the Sri Lanka’s Parliament to reject Presidential Commission’s Political Victimization resolution, reports Colombo Page. Adopting the resolution, brought before Parliament on April 9, would further undermine the independence of the judiciary and rule of law, which have been severely weakened under the administration of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the HRW said. “President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is being brazen in his efforts to help his family and associates evade Sri Lankan justice. Rajapaksa’s administration has spared no effort in covering up serious alleged crimes, including those implicating Rajapaksa himself. The Rajapaksa government should reject the findings of its bogus commission of inquiry and instead take seriously the UN Human Rights Council’s March resolution. Concerned governments should make clear that pursuing the commission’s recommendations will be a major setback for Sri Lankan government accountability,” said Meenakshi Ganguly, South Asia Director at HRW.
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May - 2 
The Attorney General (AG) exhibited information in the Colombo High Court (HC) consisting of 800 charges against former IGP Pujith Jayasundara and former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando, in respect of those killed and injured in the Easter Sunday attacks, reports Adaderana on May 3. The AG’s coo
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The Attorney General (AG) exhibited information in the Colombo High Court (HC) consisting of 800 charges against former IGP Pujith Jayasundara and former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando, in respect of those killed and injured in the Easter Sunday attacks, reports Adaderana on May 3. The AG’s coordinating officer stated that they have been charged in two separate Trials-at-Bar for the offences of murder, attempted murder for their serious lapses and grave omissions to prevent the Easter Sunday bombings. The former IGP and former Defence Secretary have been accused of neglecting the prior intelligence input on the impending attacks, thereby failing to prevent the loss of life. A special Presidential panel recently recommended that criminal action be taken against both Fernando and Jayasundera and several other senior defence officials. The trial of Fernando and Jayasundera is to be held before a 3-member bench for murder and attempted murder.
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May - 4 
Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella alleged in Parliament on May 4 that although the Speaker had agreed to bring Wanni District Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen, who is being held under detention orders, he had not been brought to Parliament, reports Colombo Page. The Chief Opposition
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Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella alleged in Parliament on May 4 that although the Speaker had agreed to bring Wanni District Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen, who is being held under detention orders, he had not been brought to Parliament, reports Colombo Page. The Chief Opposition Whip said the relevant sections have informed that the Speaker’s signature is required to bring MP Bathiudeen to Parliament and requested the Speaker to provide his signature and bring the opposition MP to Parliament for the sittings Mr. Kiriella noted that the Speaker is not at fault in this regard and recalled that the Speaker had agreed to bring Rishad Bathiudeen to Parliament without a second thought at the party leadership meeting. Expressing his views on this, the Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena said he would look into the matter.
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May - 5 
Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekara on May 5 requested the Speaker not to allow Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen, who is detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) for Easter Sunday attacks to attend Parliament until the investigations relating to his arrest are complete
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Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekara on May 5 requested the Speaker not to allow Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen, who is detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) for Easter Sunday attacks to attend Parliament until the investigations relating to his arrest are completed, reports Daily News. Weerasekara stated that any MP who would be detained under the PTA should not be allowed to attend Parliament until the relevant investigations are over. Any statement made by MP Bathiudeen following his attendance in Parliament may hinder the investigations. It may even allow other persons who should be investigated later on, to evade arrest or flee the country.
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May - 5 
The Attorney General (AG) Dappula De Livera on May 5 said that there are no legal obstacles for Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen to attend Parliament sessions, reports Daily News. The AG informed this following a request made by the Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID)
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The Attorney General (AG) Dappula De Livera on May 5 said that there are no legal obstacles for Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen to attend Parliament sessions, reports Daily News. The AG informed this following a request made by the Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). The CID has arrested on April 24 MP Rishad Bathiudeen and his brother Riyaj Bathiudeen on the charges of aiding and abetting the suicide bombers responsible for Easter Sunday attacks on April 21, 2019. Following their initial interrogation for 72 hours, MP Bathiudeen and his brother have been detained by the CID for another three months under detention orders from the Secretary to Defence.
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May - 6 
Foreign Ministry has issued a statement condemning the passage of Bill 104 in Ontario, also known as the ‘Tamil Genocide Education Week’ bill, claiming it was based on a flawed premise, unfounded assumptions and blatant lies reports Tamil Guardian on May 8. The passage of the bill on May 6 recognize
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Foreign Ministry has issued a statement condemning the passage of Bill 104 in Ontario, also known as the ‘Tamil Genocide Education Week’ bill, claiming it was based on a flawed premise, unfounded assumptions and blatant lies reports Tamil Guardian on May 8. The passage of the bill on May 6 recognizes Sri Lanka’s genocide against Tamils and establishes May 11 to 18 as a week in which Ontarians “are encouraged to educate themselves about, and to maintain their awareness of, the Tamil genocide and other genocides that have occurred in world history.” May 18, also known as 'Tamil Genocide Day' will mark 12 years since tens of thousands of Tamils were killed in a military offensive by the Sri Lankan state during the final months of the armed conflict with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
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May - 7 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Member of Parliament (MP) Sivagnanam Shritharan on May 7 demanded the Government to grant permission for the Tamils to commemorate those who perished in the Mullivaikkal genocide, reports Tamil Guardian. Shritharan said, “The government must grant permission to commemor
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Member of Parliament (MP) Sivagnanam Shritharan on May 7 demanded the Government to grant permission for the Tamils to commemorate those who perished in the Mullivaikkal genocide, reports Tamil Guardian. Shritharan said, “The government must grant permission to commemorate May 18, the Mullivaikal massacre day, a day in which Tamil people remember by shedding tears those who lived amongst us and died.” May 18, also known as 'Tamil Genocide Day' will mark 12 years since tens of thousands of Tamils were killed in a military offensive by the Sri Lankan state during the final months of the armed conflict with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
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May - 10 
Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on May 10 met with the Canadian High Commissioner David McKinnon at the Foreign Ministry to convey the Government’s opposition to the passing of a private members bill by the Ontario Legislative Assembly, reports Colombo Page. The Minister conveyed the
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Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on May 10 met with the Canadian High Commissioner David McKinnon at the Foreign Ministry to convey the Government’s opposition to the passing of a private members bill by the Ontario Legislative Assembly, reports Colombo Page. The Minister conveyed the Government’s deep concerns on the passing of Private Member Bill 104 on ‘Tamil Genocide Education Week’ by the Ontario Legislative Assembly on May 6. The Minister explained that the Ontario Legislative Assembly makes a finding that ‘genocide’ has taken place in Sri Lanka contradicting the official position of the Government of Canada which had confirmed that it has not made a finding that there was a genocide in Sri Lanka. He sought immediate intervention of the Canadian Government to stop Royal Assent by Hon. Lt. Governor of Ontario to the said Bill. Joining the meeting, Foreign Secretary Admiral (Retd) Jayanath Colombage elaborated on the potential harm the Bill 104 could cause to the reconciliation process, peace building and the bilateral relations at large.
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May - 12 
A memorial stone was brought to Mullivaikkal village in Mullaitivu District of Northern Province on May 12 by the public committee organizing Tamil genocide remembrance events, but the committee was blocked from erecting the stone at the intended place by Army and Police, reports Tamil Guardian. The
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A memorial stone was brought to Mullivaikkal village in Mullaitivu District of Northern Province on May 12 by the public committee organizing Tamil genocide remembrance events, but the committee was blocked from erecting the stone at the intended place by Army and Police, reports Tamil Guardian. The stone is over six feet tall and bears text about the genocide at Mullivaikkal. When it was transported to its intended site, where thousands of Tamils were massacred by the Sri Lankan state in the final days of the armed conflict with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), several Army personnel appeared at the site and questioned Father Leo Armstrong, a member of the remembrance committee. Police from the Mullaitivu Police Department arrived shortly after and told the committee that they could not do anything in Mullivaikkal, and would have to obtain Police permission. The committee had planned to unveil the memorial stone on May 18, Tamil genocide day, and had also planned to hold memorial services in line with social distancing and health regulations.
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May - 16 
Attorney General Dappula Livera has sent a 130-page long letter to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D. Wickramaratne regarding the investigations into the Easter Sunday attack, reports Colombo Page. The Attorney General has written to the IGP asking him to submit excerpts from the investigat
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Attorney General Dappula Livera has sent a 130-page long letter to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D. Wickramaratne regarding the investigations into the Easter Sunday attack, reports Colombo Page. The Attorney General has written to the IGP asking him to submit excerpts from the investigations into the five suspects in the Easter attack. The Attorney General has stated in the letter that 42 suspects have been named as ‘A’ group suspects arrested in connection with the Easter attack. Attorney General's Coordinating Officer State Counsel Nishara Jayaratne said the written evidence should be obtained regarding the 42 suspects and the letter sent by the Attorney General to the IGP also noted that investigations into five suspects are incomplete. It is reported that the Attorney General has informed that due to improper investigations, it may not be possible to prosecute the suspects of the Easter Sunday Attack during his tenure. The Attorney General is due to retire at the end of this month after completing his term.
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May - 16 
13 human right organizations jointly on May 16 called on the Sri Lankan Government to immediately release Ahnaf Jazeem, who had been arrested under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) so that he has an opportunity to prove his innocence as part of a fair trial, reports Colombo Page. In a joint sta
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13 human right organizations jointly on May 16 called on the Sri Lankan Government to immediately release Ahnaf Jazeem, who had been arrested under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) so that he has an opportunity to prove his innocence as part of a fair trial, reports Colombo Page. In a joint statement, the 13 human right organizations including the Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch called for the immediate repeal of the deeply flawed PTA, which has facilitated human rights violations especially of Sri Lankan minorities. According to the statement, Ahnaf Jazeem alias Mannaramuthu Ahnaf is a 26-year-old poet and teacher who was arrested on May 16, 2020, under Sri Lanka’s draconian PTA. Ahnaf is detained by order of the Terrorism Investigations Division (TID) of the Sri Lanka Police, under sections of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) of 1979 and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act No. 56 of 2007. If found guilty, Ahnaf could be imprisoned for up to 20 years under the PTA or up to 10 years under the ICCPR Act; he is currently being held indefinitely in detention without trial and with only limited access to representation.
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May - 18 
Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen, who is currently held under a detention order over alleged links to the Easter Sunday terror attacks, on May 18 filed a Fundamental Rights (FR) petition through his legal counsel, seeking release from Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) detention order, rep
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Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen, who is currently held under a detention order over alleged links to the Easter Sunday terror attacks, on May 18 filed a Fundamental Rights (FR) petition through his legal counsel, seeking release from Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) detention order, reports Adaderana. The FR petition, lodged before the Supreme Court (SC), has named the Inspector-General of Police, Director of Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the CID, Officer-in Charge (OIC) of the CID and the Attorney General as its respondents. MP Bathiudeen claims that a group of CID officers took him into custody in the early of April 24 to interrogate him regarding his connection to the Colossus (Pvt) Ltd. His brother, Riyaj Bathiudeen was also arrested by the CID on the same day. The duo was initially detained for 72 hours under the provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). However, the CID later obtained permission to detain the two brothers for 90 days for interrogations. MP Bathiudeen who claims that there are no reasonable facts or evidence for his arrest, stated that the move was carried out with the intention of humiliating and seeking vengeance against him.
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May - 18 
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on May 18 reiterated that the Government will never betray the country’s victory, as a mark of respect to the country’s war veterans who sacrificed their lives and limbs to gain peace, reports Adaderana. Addressing the Parliamentary session in remembrance of the end
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Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on May 18 reiterated that the Government will never betray the country’s victory, as a mark of respect to the country’s war veterans who sacrificed their lives and limbs to gain peace, reports Adaderana. Addressing the Parliamentary session in remembrance of the end of the civil war, the Prime Minister rejected all allegations of genocide levelled at the country’s armed forces. “Thousands sacrificed their lives to give us this victory while some lost their limbs. It wasn’t to commit genocide that they went to war. Then-Defence Secretary, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, former Army Commander Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka, former Navy Commander Wasantha Karannagoda and former Air Force Commander Roshan Goonatileke did not command their troops to commit genocide. They fought against cowards who used innocent people in the north as a human shield,” the Prime Minister pointed out.
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May - 18 
Tamil Member of Parliaments (MPs) signed a letter on May 18, urging the United Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to acknowledge the destruction of the Mullivaikkal monument, reports Tamil Guardian. The letter, which was signed by over 10 cross-party MPs, described the destruction of the monument by the S
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Tamil Member of Parliaments (MPs) signed a letter on May 18, urging the United Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to acknowledge the destruction of the Mullivaikkal monument, reports Tamil Guardian. The letter, which was signed by over 10 cross-party MPs, described the destruction of the monument by the Sri Lankan armed forces as “nothing but shameful”. Acknowledging the collective grief, despair and anger on behalf of Tamil people, the letter notes May 18 (Tamil Genocide Day) as a day reserved for silent reminiscing and prayers for the “barbaric and uncivilized violence against 40-60,000 innocent Tamils” by the Sri Lankan military between April and May 2009. While the destruction of the monument was described to be carried out to erase this memory, the MPs asserted that “no army in the world, no destructive weapons in the world can destroy the memory of the innocent children, adults and elderly who were slaughtered with intent.”
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May - 19 
Public Security Minister Rear Admiral Dr. Sarath Weerasekara in Parliament on May 19 said that the Crime Investigation Department (CID) is working together with the US Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) teams in conducting investigations on the Easter Sun
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Public Security Minister Rear Admiral Dr. Sarath Weerasekara in Parliament on May 19 said that the Crime Investigation Department (CID) is working together with the US Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) teams in conducting investigations on the Easter Sunday Terror Attacks, reports Daily News. Observing that the Easter attack in 2019 was one of the most devastating attacks in the world, he said it would take time to bring the perpetrators to justice as the prosecution process needs to be carried out in a meticulous manner. “The Police have arrested 704 suspects in connection with the Easter Sunday Terror Attacks and of them 203 are in remand custody and 84 are on detention orders. There are 244 on bail and 168 have been released, while 32 have been indicted,” Weerasekara said.
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May - 26 
The Defence Ministry in a media communiqué on May 26 said that there is no terror threat in Sri Lanka, reports Daily News. The media statement was issued with regard to the Level 4 U.S. Travel Warning to Sri Lanka. The media statement said that the U.S. travel warning on Sri Lanka is a general trave
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The Defence Ministry in a media communiqué on May 26 said that there is no terror threat in Sri Lanka, reports Daily News. The media statement was issued with regard to the Level 4 U.S. Travel Warning to Sri Lanka. The media statement said that the U.S. travel warning on Sri Lanka is a general travel warning given by the U.S. State Department under the Level 4 Category. Although the US travel advisory regarding Sri Lanka has been issued due to the COVID-19 situation, the threat of terrorism is also included by default. The same has been tweeted by the U.S. Embassy in Colombo stating that the change of Travel Advisory for Sri Lanka from Level 3 to Level 4 was solely due to prevailing COVID-19 situation in the country and there is no change in the terrorist threat level.
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May - 28 
Supreme Court (SC) Judge Janak de Silva on May 28 announced that he will withdraw from considering the fundamental rights petitions filed by Wanni District Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen and his brother Riyaj Bathiudeen, who were arrested and detained under the Prevention of Terrorism A
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Supreme Court (SC) Judge Janak de Silva on May 28 announced that he will withdraw from considering the fundamental rights petitions filed by Wanni District Member of Parliament (MP) Rishad Bathiudeen and his brother Riyaj Bathiudeen, who were arrested and detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Colombo Page. The fundamental rights petitions challenging the Bathiudeen brothers’ arrests were taken up before a panel of Supreme Court judges comprising Vijith Malalgoda, Kumuduni Wickramasinghe and Janak de Silva. Judge Janak de Silva had stated that he was reluctant to attend the hearing of the petitions as he had served as the Chairman of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the Easter terrorist attack which had made certain recommendations regarding the two petitioners. The two fundamental rights petitions were then scheduled to be taken up again on June 4.
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June - 1 
International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP) Executive Director Yasmin Sooka on June 1 questioned the appointment of former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Hapu Arachchige Jayantha Shantha Kumara Wickremaratne to the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), reports Daily Mirror. Sooka alleged “The appo
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International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP) Executive Director Yasmin Sooka on June 1 questioned the appointment of former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Hapu Arachchige Jayantha Shantha Kumara Wickremaratne to the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), reports Daily Mirror. Sooka alleged “The appointment of war time police chief to the Office of Missing Persons (OMP) completes the militarization of this transitional justice mechanism and obliterates any chance of truth and justice for Tamil families of the disappeared. It is hard to make this up – the man who was in charge of three police units named by the United Nations investigation as involved in mass enforced disappearances at the end of the war is now investigating the disappearances himself.” On May 20, the Parliament Council appointed former IGP, Hapu Arachchige Jayantha Shantha Kumara Wickremaratne as a member of the OMP.
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June - 4 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on June 4 issued a gazette notice naming the Counter Terrorism Investigation Unit as a place of detention, reports Colombo Gazette. The gazette had been issued as a notification under Section 9 of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). “I, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, President
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on June 4 issued a gazette notice naming the Counter Terrorism Investigation Unit as a place of detention, reports Colombo Gazette. The gazette had been issued as a notification under Section 9 of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). “I, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, President do hereby notify that the premises specified in the Schedule hereto, shall be a place of detention for the purposes under Section 9 of the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act, No. 48 of 1979,” the gazette notice said. The schedule lists the Counter Terrorism Investigation Unit in Colombo as a place of detention. Section 9 refers to the detention of suspects arrested under the PTA. Accordingly, the facility will be used to detain suspects arrested under the PTA.
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June - 5 
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador in Washington, Ravinatha Aryasinha on June 5 has called upon the US House Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC) not to proceed with the Resolution on Sri Lanka, reports Sunday Observer. In a communication addressed to FAC Chair Representative Gregory Meeks (Democrat, New York) and R
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Sri Lanka’s Ambassador in Washington, Ravinatha Aryasinha on June 5 has called upon the US House Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC) not to proceed with the Resolution on Sri Lanka, reports Sunday Observer. In a communication addressed to FAC Chair Representative Gregory Meeks (Democrat, New York) and Ranking Member Representative Michael McCaul (Republican, Texas), the Government said that it vehemently opposes the contents of the Resolution which contains allegations relating to Sri Lanka that are inaccurate, biased and unsubstantiated, raising grave suspicion regarding the intention of the Resolution. The Resolution H. RES. 413 which calls for an international mechanism for accountability on Sri Lanka on allegations of war crimes was moved by Congresswoman Deborah Ross (Democrat, North Carolina) on May 18, 2021.
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June - 14 
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement issued on June 14, expressed its regrets over the adoption of a resolution on Sri Lanka in the European Parliament (EU) on June 10, reports Ada Derana. The resolution entitled, “The Situation in Sri Lanka, in particular the arrests under the Prevention
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement issued on June 14, expressed its regrets over the adoption of a resolution on Sri Lanka in the European Parliament (EU) on June 10, reports Ada Derana. The resolution entitled, “The Situation in Sri Lanka, in particular the arrests under the Prevention of Terrorism Act”, contains factual inaccuracies, and does not take cognizance of the multifaceted progress made by Sri Lanka in reconciliation and development, the Foreign Ministry said. The statement stressed that it is important to underscore that the Sri Lankan Government maintains a regular, vibrant and cordial dialogue with the EU, covering all aspects of bilateral relations.
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June - 17 
A five-member Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation led by R. Sampanthan, Member of Parliament (MP) called on the High Commissioner of India to Colombo, Gopal Baglay on June 17, at the India House, reports Colombo Page. Leader of Ilangai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK), Mavai Senathirajah and TNA MPs D
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A five-member Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation led by R. Sampanthan, Member of Parliament (MP) called on the High Commissioner of India to Colombo, Gopal Baglay on June 17, at the India House, reports Colombo Page. Leader of Ilangai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK), Mavai Senathirajah and TNA MPs Dharmalingam Sidhathan, Selvam Adaikalanathan and MA. Sumanthiran were present during the meeting. High Commissioner was assisted by Deputy High Commissioner Vinod K Jacob and Political Counsellor Banu Prakash. The meeting saw discussions on development of the North and East of Sri Lanka and improving connectivity between the two countries in the post-Covid period. Various aspects of devolution and developmental aspirations of the people from the North and East were also discussed. The TNA delegation apprised High Commissioner on progress regarding Provincial Council elections which constitutes integral part of Sri Lankan polity and Constitution.
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June - 19 
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) are currently investigating 17 incidents related to the Easter Sunday attack, reports Daily Mirror on June 20. The Police said, the Attorney General (AG) has already filed nine cases in the Kegalle, Kandy, Ku
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The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) are currently investigating 17 incidents related to the Easter Sunday attack, reports Daily Mirror on June 20. The Police said, the Attorney General (AG) has already filed nine cases in the Kegalle, Kandy, Kurunegala, Puttalam and Colombo High Courts on 32 suspects in connection with the investigations. In addition, legal officers from the AG's Department, the CID and the TID are holding discussions to file cases in the remaining eight investigations. Accordingly, the AG is scheduled to file a case on these eight incidents soon after the completion of the investigation.
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June - 21 
The Core Group on Sri Lanka at the 47th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), called upon the Sri Lankan Government to address the harmful legacies of war and to protect human rights, including for those from religious minorities, reports Colombo Page on June 22. Delivering a s
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The Core Group on Sri Lanka at the 47th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), called upon the Sri Lankan Government to address the harmful legacies of war and to protect human rights, including for those from religious minorities, reports Colombo Page on June 22. Delivering a statement, the Core Group on behalf of Canada, Germany, North Macedonia, Malawi, Montenegro and the UK regretted the lack of progress on these issues, with a number of further concerning developments. “We are deeply concerned about the ongoing use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the recent intention to introduce a rehabilitation process lacking adequate judicial oversight. Human rights lawyer Hejaaz Hizbullah, and poet and teacher Ahnaf Jazeem, remain detained without trial and further arrests under this Act have continued, including among minority communities and the political opposition,” the Core Group said.
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June - 21 
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet during the opening of the United Nations Human Rights Council’s (UNHRC) 47th session in Geneva, on June 21, 2021, expressed concern over counter-terrorism laws in Sri Lanka. She said “In Sri Lanka, I am concerned by further Governm
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United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet during the opening of the United Nations Human Rights Council’s (UNHRC) 47th session in Geneva, on June 21, 2021, expressed concern over counter-terrorism laws in Sri Lanka. She said “In Sri Lanka, I am concerned by further Government measures perceived as targeting Muslims, and by the harassment of Tamils, including in the context of commemoration events for those who died at the end of the war. I am concerned that recent appointments to the Office of Missing Persons and Office for Reparations, and steps to discourage investigations into past crimes, are further undermining victims’ trust.” She also said that the recent counterterrorism regulations – which include the listing and/or prohibition of more than 300 Tamil and Muslim groups and individuals for alleged support of terrorism – will also not advance reconciliation. “Regulations now permit the arbitrary administrative detention of people for upto two years, without trial for the purposes of de-radicalization, I also note a continuing series of deaths in police custody and in the context of police encounters with alleged criminal gangs. A thorough, prompt and independent investigation should be conducted,” Bachelet said. She also told the session that they will continue to engage with the Government, and she will update the Council further at the September session, including on progress in implementing the new accountability mandate.
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June - 22 
Youth and Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa raised concerns in Parliament on June 22, over Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suspects held in remand for a long period without any legal action being taken against them, reports Daily News. Rajapaksa requested the Speaker, the Justice Minister and
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Youth and Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa raised concerns in Parliament on June 22, over Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suspects held in remand for a long period without any legal action being taken against them, reports Daily News. Rajapaksa requested the Speaker, the Justice Minister and the Attorney General to take this issue into consideration and take action to do justice by these prisoners. He pointed out that the government has already rehabilitated more than 12,000 ex-LTTE carders and recruited more than 3,000 of them to the Civil Security Force and requested to consider this method as an option when meting justice by the LTTE prisoners held in remand for long period.
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June - 24 
The United States Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alina B. Teplitz said on June 24, that the US welcomes the release of 16 Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) prisoners under Presidential amnesty who were incarcerated under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).
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The United States Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alina B. Teplitz said on June 24, that the US welcomes the release of 16 Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) prisoners under Presidential amnesty who were incarcerated under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).
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June - 26 
On 26 June, Suren Raghavan, Member of Parliament (MP) and a member of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna political front has appreciated the decision made by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to release 16 former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suspects. These convicted prisoners were held under the
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On 26 June, Suren Raghavan, Member of Parliament (MP) and a member of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna political front has appreciated the decision made by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to release 16 former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suspects. These convicted prisoners were held under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). He also thanked Minister of Youth and Sports Namal Rajapaksa and the Minister of Justice for presenting and coordinating such a proposal. The release of prisoners arrested in connection with war and terrorism, means that Sri Lanka is preparing to go beyond war, he stated. He also noted that the President’s actions have shown his commitment towards the Tamil community.
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June - 26 
The release of 16 Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suspects demonstrates that the government is paying attention to the needs of the Tamil community, states the Member of Parliament (MP) of Tamil National Alliance (TNA), Kilinochchi District, S. Sridharan on June 26, reports Daily News. He st
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The release of 16 Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suspects demonstrates that the government is paying attention to the needs of the Tamil community, states the Member of Parliament (MP) of Tamil National Alliance (TNA), Kilinochchi District, S. Sridharan on June 26, reports Daily News. He stated, “The issue of releasing Tamil political prisoners became a slogan of the Tamil National Alliance as the struggle continued as a Party, the relatives of the Tamil political prisoners organized separately. In the end, as a result of all these demands, a separate voluntary movement for the release of these prisoners emerged. The government took steps to release 16 Tamil political prisoners”.
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July - 4 
The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on July 4 discussed issues of the Tamil community, including resettlement, as well as dealing with political parties in the North, reports Hiru News.
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The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on July 4 discussed issues of the Tamil community, including resettlement, as well as dealing with political parties in the North, reports Hiru News.
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July - 6 
United States (US) in an updated travel advice released on July 6 warned of the threat of terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror. The citizens of the US have been told to reconsider travel to Sri Lanka because the “threat of terrorism” apart from COVID. The US State Department said th
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United States (US) in an updated travel advice released on July 6 warned of the threat of terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror. The citizens of the US have been told to reconsider travel to Sri Lanka because the “threat of terrorism” apart from COVID. The US State Department said that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls and government facilities.
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July - 8 
Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne, responding to an updated travel advisory on Sri Lanka issued by the United States (US), stated that based on the assessments of the intelligence sources, no reports on terrorist activities or such related threats were reported responding to an updated trav
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Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne, responding to an updated travel advisory on Sri Lanka issued by the United States (US), stated that based on the assessments of the intelligence sources, no reports on terrorist activities or such related threats were reported responding to an updated travel advisory on Sri Lanka issued by the US, reports Daily News on July 9.
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July - 8 
On July 8, Member of Parliament Rishad Bathiudeen sought an interim order directing that he be restricted to his place of residence, until the final determination of his Fundamental Rights petition, reports Daily News. Bathiudeen is currently being detained at the Criminal Investigations Department
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On July 8, Member of Parliament Rishad Bathiudeen sought an interim order directing that he be restricted to his place of residence, until the final determination of his Fundamental Rights petition, reports Daily News. Bathiudeen is currently being detained at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) following a detention order issued under the Prevention of Terrorism Act in connection with the Easter Sunday attacks.
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July - 14 
The Attorney General on July 14 notified the Supreme Court that the Defence Minister Gotabaya Rajapaksa had refused to grant Parliamentarian Rishad Bathiudeen’s request that he be restricted to his home from CID custody, reports Daily News. Bathiudeen is currently being detained at the Criminal Inv
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The Attorney General on July 14 notified the Supreme Court that the Defence Minister Gotabaya Rajapaksa had refused to grant Parliamentarian Rishad Bathiudeen’s request that he be restricted to his home from CID custody, reports Daily News. Bathiudeen is currently being detained at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) under the detention order issued under the Prevention of Terrorism Act regarding the Easter Sunday attacks.
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July - 14 
The Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Sri Lanka, R. Demet Sekercioglu said that Turkey is appreciative for the support extended by Sri Lankan authorities to eliminate Fetullahist Terrorist Organization (FETO) presence in Sri Lanka in a message to mark the fifth-year commemoration of the thwart
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The Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Sri Lanka, R. Demet Şekercioğlu said that Turkey is appreciative for the support extended by Sri Lankan authorities to eliminate Fetullahist Terrorist Organization (FETO) presence in Sri Lanka in a message to mark the fifth-year commemoration of the thwarted coup attempt on July 15, 2016, reports Colombo Gazette on July 15. He stated, “We are pleased to note that our collective efforts with international partners reached success to a greater extent and Sri Lanka is also among those countries…As FETO was active in Sri Lanka until recently, this beautiful island might be considered as an option by its members in the future, as well, if they could find a way to return. Therefore, Turkey will maintain her close cooperation with her Sri Lankan counterparts to prevent any possible attempt from FETO elements to take shelter in Sri Lanka”.
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July - 16 
In a discussion with the United States (US) Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B Teplitz on the Sri Lankan Government’s commitment to resolve the Tamil issue, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Leader R. Sampanthan said on July 16 that full intervention of the US and the international community is needed
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In a discussion with the United States (US) Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B Teplitz on the Sri Lankan Government’s commitment to resolve the Tamil issue, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Leader R. Sampanthan said on July 16 that full intervention of the US and the international community is needed to find a clear solution, reports Daily News. Sampanthan further emphasised that the provincial council system alone was not enough to resolve the issue in the North and the East and that it was important for the two provinces of the North and the East to be considered as a single political entity and to be governed by the Tamil people.
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July - 18 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP M.A. Sumanthiran said on July 18 that TNA was deceived by the opposition when false promises such as, the issues faced by the Tamil people will be solved, were dished out during the election, reports Daily News. “When we are calling on the government to ensure our ri
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP M.A. Sumanthiran said on July 18 that TNA was deceived by the opposition when false promises such as, the issues faced by the Tamil people will be solved, were dished out during the election, reports Daily News. “When we are calling on the government to ensure our rights, we were branded as LTTE proxies by certain Sinhala forces in the South,” he said. He further said that no issue faced by the country cannot be solved collectively until political parties in the south and the incumbent government understand that priority should be given to solve the Tamil people’s issue in the North and the East.
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July - 18 
The main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), the United National Party (UNP), the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and other opposition political parties attended talks initiated by former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, reports Daily News on July 19. Dinendra Ruwan Wijewardene, Deputy Leader of the Unit
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The main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), the United National Party (UNP), the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and other opposition political parties attended talks initiated by former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, reports Daily News on July 19. Dinendra Ruwan Wijewardene, Deputy Leader of the United National Party said to the press that the focus of the new movement is to work against the Government and also address the issues faced by the public. He also said that the opposition political parties have put aside their differences to work together with one goal.
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July - 20 
The Presidential Commission of Inquiry for Appraisal of the Findings of Previous Commissions and Committees on Human Rights and the Way Forward handed over its Interim Report to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the Presidential Secretariat on July 20, reports Daily News. The report said that the Com
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The Presidential Commission of Inquiry for Appraisal of the Findings of Previous Commissions and Committees on Human Rights and the Way Forward handed over its Interim Report to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the Presidential Secretariat on July 20, reports Daily News. The report said that the Commission is not in agreement with the calls to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and highlighted that the PTA should be reformed in line with the laws against the prevention of terrorism in other countries including in the United Kingdom (UK), the President’s Media Division said.
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July - 25 
The United Kingdom (UK) has reduced the risk of terrorist attacks from very likely, to likely in Sri Lanka, in its most recent travel advice, reports Colombo Gazette on July 26. It says attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners such as hotels, tourist sites and place
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The United Kingdom (UK) has reduced the risk of terrorist attacks from very likely, to likely in Sri Lanka, in its most recent travel advice, reports Colombo Gazette on July 26. It says attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners such as hotels, tourist sites and places of worship. “There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time,” the UK Foreign Office said.
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July - 26 
No United Nations (UN) or other resolutions inimical to Sri Lanka succeeded during his tenure as the Foreign Minister, former Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama said while testifying before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) probing alleged human rights violations, serious violations of
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No United Nations (UN) or other resolutions inimical to Sri Lanka succeeded during his tenure as the Foreign Minister, former Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama said while testifying before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) probing alleged human rights violations, serious violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and other such offences in Sri Lanka on July 26, reports Daily News. “During my tenure as Foreign Minister, I witnessed a joint statement with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2009 and signed the Joint Statement on behalf of the Government,” Bogollagama said. He further noted that they had signed the joint statement after recognizing the need to address the reconciliation methods and accountability in terms of a fully domestic process. He reiterated that no inimical UN resolution has succeeded during his tenure. The pro-Sri Lanka UN resolution moved by Sri Lanka and other countries immediately after the end of the humanitarian operation succeeded.
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July - 26 
Sri Lanka’s ruling party Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) on July 26 blamed the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for the recent surge in protests and strikes across Sri Lanka despite over a decade passing since the end of the armed conflict, reports Tamil Guardian. SLPP General Secretary S.
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Sri Lanka’s ruling party Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) on July 26 blamed the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for the recent surge in protests and strikes across Sri Lanka despite over a decade passing since the end of the armed conflict, reports Tamil Guardian. SLPP General Secretary S. Kariyawasam told reporters, “The same groups who tried to prevent the war victory have come out today to create a wave of protests and strikes in the country.”
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July - 26 
Trincomalee District Member of Parliament (MP) R. Sampanthan has requested Prime Minister (PM) Mahinda Rajapaksa not to appoint a non-Tamil speaking officer as Jaffna District Secretary, reports Daily News on July 27. Sampathan in a letter to the PM has said that 95 per cent of the population in Jaf
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Trincomalee District Member of Parliament (MP) R. Sampanthan has requested Prime Minister (PM) Mahinda Rajapaksa not to appoint a non-Tamil speaking officer as Jaffna District Secretary, reports Daily News on July 27. Sampathan in a letter to the PM has said that 95 per cent of the population in Jaffna is Tamil speaking and all MPs who were elected to parliament from the North and East are Tamil speaking.“In the circumstances, posting a Non-Tamil speaking public official as the District Secretary/ Government Agent to Jaffna district will seem inappropriate. It would also be undemocratic… Moreover, when the government is contemplating the enactment of a new Constitution, restructuring powers of governance enabling the maximum possible devolution in the area of historical habitation of the Tamil speaking people in the North East.Such a step will be counter-productive and not welcomed by the people,” the letter said.
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July - 28 
Ten human rights groups including the Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Amnesty International issued a statement on July 28 calling for the release of Lawyer Hejaaz Hizbullah and several other currently detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Ada Derana. The organizations state that
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Ten human rights groups including the Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Amnesty International issued a statement on July 28 calling for the release of Lawyer Hejaaz Hizbullah and several other currently detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Ada Derana. The organizations state that in the absence of any credible evidence presented before a court of law, Hizbullah should be released immediately and unconditionally. “Hejaaz Hizbullah was arrested on April 14, 2020 under the PTA. He was accused by the police of aiding and abetting Inshaf Ahamed (who was involved in the April 21, 2019 bombings), an accusation that has since been withdrawn...The latest allegation on which an indictment was filed against Hejaaz Hizbullah in the High Court on February 18, 2021, is a speech-related offence of “causing communal disharmony,” one of a number of overly broad offences provided under the PTA. The indictment is based on a statement to the Criminal Investigation Department of the police made by a child regarding a speech allegedly made by Hizbullah in Puttalam. Other children who were questioned at the same time by the same officers filed fundamental rights cases claiming they were coerced by police officers to falsely implicate Hejaaz Hizbullah. Combined with the repeated changes in the allegations, this leads us to believe the allegations against him are unsupported by any credible evidence” the statement reads.
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July - 30 
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement on the video circulating on social media of a pair of shoes with ‘NIKE’ logo and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) insignia, that NIKE, Inc. has confirmed the shoes depicted in the video were not manufactured by the company, reports Ad
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement on the video circulating on social media of a pair of shoes with ‘NIKE’ logo and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) insignia, that NIKE, Inc. has confirmed the shoes depicted in the video were not manufactured by the company, reports Ada Derana on July 31. “The NIKE, Inc. also informed that they would investigate to ascertain the abuse of intellectual property and conduct appropriate enforcement as per company practice,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry said further.
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August - 1 
Speaking at a media conference, United States (US) Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Alaina Teplitz, called on the Government of Sri Lanka to abide by its international commitments to human rights and take decisive steps to either repeal or amend Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Tamil Guardian on A
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Speaking at a media conference, United States (US) Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Alaina Teplitz, called on the Government of Sri Lanka to abide by its international commitments to human rights and take decisive steps to either repeal or amend Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Tamil Guardian on August 2. Commenting on the recent pardoning of 16 alleged former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) members detained under the PTA, Tepliz applauded the measure and encouraged for more people to be released “who have been detained under that legislation that no longer conforms to international norms and does need to be revised”. Teplitz’s statement was met with criticism from a journalist at Sri Lanka’s state-run Hiru TV news, who claimed her statement overlooked the release of former LTTE cadres by condemning the pardon of Duminda Silva. Responding to this criticism, she stated “I encouraged the government to continue its review, which it said that it’s doing… it is also my prerogative as a representative of the United States to express the views and the policy concerns of my country.” Commenting on her discussions with the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), Teplitz maintains that she was keen to hear “their concerns related to needed changes in the political process and some of the challenges that people face in the north and the east”.
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August - 5 
Posts claiming that there is a bomb threat in two leading five-star hotels in Bambalapitiya, Wellawatta, Mirihana, Nugegoda, Mount Lavinia and Dehiwala of Colombo are false and people have been urged not to panic, the Police told Daily Mirror on August 6. Army Commander General Shavendra Silva also
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Posts claiming that there is a bomb threat in two leading five-star hotels in Bambalapitiya, Wellawatta, Mirihana, Nugegoda, Mount Lavinia and Dehiwala of Colombo are false and people have been urged not to panic, the Police told Daily Mirror on August 6. Army Commander General Shavendra Silva also confirmed that the post had circulated on social media, soon after the Easter Sunday attacks and are now being re-edited and circulated once again.
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August - 13 
The Archbishop of Colombo, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith on August 13 called on the people to hoist black flags across the country on August 21, two years and four months after the terrorist attack on Easter Sunday on April 21, 2019 in protest of the Government’s response and inaction, reports Daily Mir
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The Archbishop of Colombo, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith on August 13 called on the people to hoist black flags across the country on August 21, two years and four months after the terrorist attack on Easter Sunday on April 21, 2019 in protest of the Government’s response and inaction, reports Daily Mirror. He said the response he received to a letter to the President asking him to reveal the full truth about Easter Sunday’s terrorist attack was evading the issue and he rejects it.
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August - 15 
Taliban spokesman and international negotiator Suhail Shaheen said that the Taliban is an independent liberation force and does not “have any links to the Tamil Tigers” as the Taliban captured major cities in Afghanistan and was at the gates of the capital Kabul on August 15, reports Daily Mirror.
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Taliban spokesman and international negotiator Suhail Shaheen said that the Taliban is an independent liberation force and does not “have any links to the Tamil Tigers” as the Taliban captured major cities in Afghanistan and was at the gates of the capital Kabul on August 15, reports Daily Mirror.
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August - 17 
The information revealed by former Attorney General Dappula de Livera on the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks must be divulged to the public immediately, says Reverend Cyril Gamini Fernando, reports Ada Derana on August 18. Reverend Fernando added that no justice has been done so far regarding these terro
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The information revealed by former Attorney General Dappula de Livera on the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks must be divulged to the public immediately, says Reverend Cyril Gamini Fernando, reports Ada Derana on August 18. Reverend Fernando added that no justice has been done so far regarding these terror attacks and this would force them to seek international assistance.
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August - 18 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R. Sampanthan has written to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa requesting an appointment on the earliest possible date to discuss matters pertaining to a new Constitution, reports Daily News on August 19. He pointed out that the previously scheduled meeting on June 16
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R. Sampanthan has written to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa requesting an appointment on the earliest possible date to discuss matters pertaining to a new Constitution, reports Daily News on August 19. He pointed out that the previously scheduled meeting on June 16 was cancelled at the eleventh hour by the President and that his Party was still waiting for a new date for the meeting.
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August - 21 
During a prayer service to commemorate the Easter Sunday attacks victims Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith said those who were behind the Easter Sunday mayhem will face a similar fate like that of blast victims, reports Daily Mirror on August 22.
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During a prayer service to commemorate the Easter Sunday attacks victims Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith said those who were behind the Easter Sunday mayhem will face a similar fate like that of blast victims, reports Daily Mirror on August 22.
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August - 24 
Jaffna District Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Member of Parliament M. A. Sumanthiran said to the media on August 24 that although the Geneva Human Rights Commission sessions are due to be held in September, the post of Commissioner will not change, reports Daily News. He also said that if an opportu
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Jaffna District Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Member of Parliament M. A. Sumanthiran said to the media on August 24 that although the Geneva Human Rights Commission sessions are due to be held in September, the post of Commissioner will not change, reports Daily News. He also said that if an opportunity arises, the Tamil National Alliance will hold talks regarding this with the Government prior to the Geneva Human Rights Commission sessions. Speaking further he said that, the Tamil National Alliance should hold discussions with the Government prior to the next sessions in relation to the recommendations provided during previous sessions of the Geneva Human Rights Commission, for Sri Lanka to fulfill.
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August - 25 
On August 25, a group of priests representing Buddhist, Catholic and Islam denominations said that the senior Police officials who investigated into Easter Sunday attacks are trying to push the investigations and legal work connected to it into racist and religious plane, reports Daily News. “The s
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On August 25, a group of priests representing Buddhist, Catholic and Islam denominations said that the senior Police officials who investigated into Easter Sunday attacks are trying to push the investigations and legal work connected to it into racist and religious plane, reports Daily News. “The statement made at a media briefing recently by this group of top Police officials who had been named by the Commission of Inquiry into the Easter Sunday attacks and recommendations made against them, implies that provisions are underway to find them guilty in connection with the Easter Sunday Terror Attacks merely because they are Sinhala Buddhists…We emphatically request relevant authorities to hence, not be shaken in the face of such extremist statements and to carry out investigations and legal work pertaining to the Easter Sunday Terror Attacks fairly and with transparency sans any political influence” they said.
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August - 25 
The series of bomb attacks on Easter Sunday in 2019 was not an isolated criminal activity orchestrated by Zahran Hashim and his group within a short period of time, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) C.D. Wickramaratne said on August 25, reports Ada Derana. The IGP further stated that several events
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The series of bomb attacks on Easter Sunday in 2019 was not an isolated criminal activity orchestrated by Zahran Hashim and his group within a short period of time, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) C.D. Wickramaratne said on August 25, reports Ada Derana. The IGP further stated that several events that led up to the carnage, including the time bomb attack on a house in Kattankudy, murder of two constables on duty at Vavunativu roadblock, Buddhist status vandalism in Mawanella and recovery of explosives from Wanathawilluwa, indicate that it was pre-planned. Previously, these incidents were probed as isolated incidents and the lack of coordination between the investigating units led to a missed opportunity to reveal the connection between the events. According to the IGP, the previous investigating bodies had also assumed that a self-motivated pro-Islamic State (IS) group in the country had acted independently, without foreign involvement. He added Rs. 365 million in cash and assets belonging to terrorists and aiders and abettors of the deadly attacks have been confiscated so far while cash and property worth Rs. 168 million were banned.
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August - 30 
Tamil families of the disappeared held sit in protests in their homes on August 30 to mark International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, reports Tamil Guardian. The families who have been demanding answers about the fate of their loved ones, lit lamps in their homes as a curfew has be
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Tamil families of the disappeared held sit in protests in their homes on August 30 to mark International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, reports Tamil Guardian. The families who have been demanding answers about the fate of their loved ones, lit lamps in their homes as a curfew has been imposed due to the spread of Covid-19 across the island. At a press conference, Thambirasa Selvarani, President of the Amparai District Missing Persons' Association said that the families of the disappeared don't have any hope in any domestic mechanisms. "We trust that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is the only solution for justice. We will continue our protests until our demands are met," he added.
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September - 1 
The Foreign Ministry said that the UK will maintain ban on Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as a terrorist organization under the UK Terrorism Act No. 7 of 2000, reports Daily Mirror on September 2. UK Home Secretary’s decision, which has been taken following the judgement of the Proscribed O
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The Foreign Ministry said that the UK will maintain ban on Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as a terrorist organization under the UK Terrorism Act No. 7 of 2000, reports Daily Mirror on September 2. UK Home Secretary’s decision, which has been taken following the judgement of the Proscribed Organizations Appeals Commission (POAC), rejects the application of a LTTE front organization to de-proscribe the LTTE in the UK. The LTTE, therefore, remains a proscribed organization in the UK, as in over 30 other countries worldwide, including in the EU region.
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September - 4 
Addressing the issue of enforced disappearances in Sri Lanka, Tamil Makkal Thesiya Kootani (TMTK) leader C.V. Wigneswaran on September 4 said that Government must grant the freedom that the Tamils in the North and East have been asking for over 70 years and allow the Tamil speaking people of the No
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Addressing the issue of enforced disappearances in Sri Lanka, Tamil Makkal Thesiya Kootani (TMTK) leader C.V. Wigneswaran on September 4 said that Government must grant the freedom that the Tamils in the North and East have been asking for over 70 years and allow the Tamil speaking people of the North and East to rule themselves uninterred by the Sinhalese politicians, reports Tamil Guardian. He maintained that there also be a settlement of Tamil political problem, providing self-governance to the North and East.
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September - 8 
In a joint communication, United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteurs have recommended to review the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) in Sri Lanka to bring it in line with international human rights standards, reports Daily Mirror on September 9. In a communication, seven UN rapporteurs including Mary
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In a joint communication, United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteurs have recommended to review the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) in Sri Lanka to bring it in line with international human rights standards, reports Daily Mirror on September 9. In a communication, seven UN rapporteurs including Mary Lawlor, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders have expressed their deep concern at Attorney-at-law Hejaaz Hizbullah’s detention which they believe may have been used as a means to prevent him from further engaging with ongoing human rights cases in relation to rising hate speech, violence and discrimination against the Muslim minority in Sri Lanka. The Special Rapporteurs have expressed further concern at the reported irregularities in due process, partly facilitated by the PTA which allowed Hizbullah to be held without charge for almost a year with severely restricted access to lawyers.
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September - 9 
Defense Secretary (Retd.) General Kamal Gunaratne during a media brief held on September 9 at the Defense Ministry said thar those responsible for the Easter Sunday attack will not be allowed to escape, reports Colombo Page. He said several people had been arrested in connection with the attack and
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Defense Secretary (Retd.) General Kamal Gunaratne during a media brief held on September 9 at the Defense Ministry said thar those responsible for the Easter Sunday attack will not be allowed to escape, reports Colombo Page. He said several people had been arrested in connection with the attack and that the perpetrators would flee if the case against them could not be proved beyond a reasonable doubt. “The burden of proof plays a crucial role which is now on state agencies” he said adding that “that is why it seems like time consuming.”
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September - 10 
Human Rights Watch (HRW) on September 10 said that the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) should maintain its rigorous scrutiny of Sri Lanka’s worsening human rights situation and press for genuine improvements, reports Colombo Page. At the Council’s upcoming session, which begins on Septem
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Human Rights Watch (HRW) on September 10 said that the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) should maintain its rigorous scrutiny of Sri Lanka’s worsening human rights situation and press for genuine improvements, reports Colombo Page. At the Council’s upcoming session, which begins on September 13, 2021, UN member countries should express their alarm about the ongoing abuses by the government of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the weakening of independent governmental institutions, civilian governance, and the rule of law, the HRW said in a statement. These countries should demonstrate their willingness to press the Sri Lankan government to meet its international human rights obligations.
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September - 11 
Sri Lankan Member of Parliament (MP), V S Radhakrishnan, dismissed theories about Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rearing its head again in his country, and said, “Any chance of revival of LTTE in Sri Lanka is remote because the government is rehabilitating Sri Lankan Tamils,” to media in Tr
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Sri Lankan Member of Parliament (MP), V S Radhakrishnan, dismissed theories about Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rearing its head again in his country, and said, “Any chance of revival of LTTE in Sri Lanka is remote because the government is rehabilitating Sri Lankan Tamils,” to media in Trichy in Tiruchirappalli District of Tamil Nadu in India on September 11, reports The Times of India. He also said, “On the other hand, Sri Lankan Tamils face no threat to their safety and security under the government led by President Gotapaya Rajapaksa, though their wishes such as freedom of movement were not fulfilled. There is a sense of frustration among the people including Sinhalese towards the government.”
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September - 12 
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the G20 Interfaith Dialogue Forum in Bologna, Italy said that reconciliation is critical need of our time, reports Ada Derana on September 13. He said “Reconciliation is a critical need of our time. Conflicts and escalating tensions are all too evident aro
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Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the G20 Interfaith Dialogue Forum in Bologna, Italy said that reconciliation is critical need of our time, reports Ada Derana on September 13. He said “Reconciliation is a critical need of our time. Conflicts and escalating tensions are all too evident around us. Peace and stability come from healthy relationships with all who live in our countries, including those with whom we have deep disagreements.”
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September - 13 
Expressing concern over the new state of emergency declared in Sri Lanka on August 30 aiming to ensure food security and price controls, amid deepening recession, the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner of Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on September 13 urged the member states of the United Nation
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Expressing concern over the new state of emergency declared in Sri Lanka on August 30 aiming to ensure food security and price controls, amid deepening recession, the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner of Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on September 13 urged the member states of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to pay close attention to developments in Sri Lanka on human rights, reports Colombo Page. Delivering an oral update on the human rights situation in Sri Lanka at the 48th Session of the UNHRC session in Geneva, the High Commissioner noted the Sri Lankan President’s statement in June that the Government is “committed to work with the UN to ensure accountability” and will implement "necessary institutional reforms.”
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September - 14 
Speaking at the 48th United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session, the European Union (EU) delegation on September 14 expressed regret that Sri Lanka no longer support the UN framework to address the legacy of the past conflict, to ensure acknowledgements for victims, and to foster accountabi
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Speaking at the 48th United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session, the European Union (EU) delegation on September 14 expressed regret that Sri Lanka no longer support the UN framework to address the legacy of the past conflict, to ensure acknowledgements for victims, and to foster accountability, reconciliation and human rights, reports Tamil Guardian. The delegation maintained the need for continued efforts for reconciliation, accountability and human rights pursuant Council resolution 46/1. They further called on the Government to guarantee the independence of the Office of Missing Persons and the Office for Reparations.
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September - 14 
The Core Group on Sri Lanka on September 14 expressed concern about current human rights developments in Sri Lanka and stressed the importance of a comprehensive reconciliation and accountability process, reports Colombo Page. “We continue to stress the importance of a comprehensive reconciliation a
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The Core Group on Sri Lanka on September 14 expressed concern about current human rights developments in Sri Lanka and stressed the importance of a comprehensive reconciliation and accountability process, reports Colombo Page. “We continue to stress the importance of a comprehensive reconciliation and accountability process. We note Sri Lanka’s declared intent to promote reconciliation and to ensure the continuity of the work of the Office of Missing Persons and the Office for Reparations. We call on the Government to ensure the political independence of these institutions,” the UK’s Ambassador to the United Nations (UN) in Geneva, Simon Manley, said delivering the statement at the ongoing United Nations Human Rights Session on behalf of the Sri Lanka Core Group (Canada, Germany, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland).
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September - 16 
Secretary to the Foreign Ministry, Admiral (Prof.) Jayanath Colombage on September 16 said that there is no need for an external mechanism to solve the internal issues of the country, reports Colombo Page. The Foreign Secretary also pointed out that the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) h
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Secretary to the Foreign Ministry, Admiral (Prof.) Jayanath Colombage on September 16 said that there is no need for an external mechanism to solve the internal issues of the country, reports Colombo Page. The Foreign Secretary also pointed out that the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has not been given the power to set up such a mechanism, adding that solutions are available for all the problems of the country within Sri Lanka’s domestic legal system. The Foreign Secretary made these remarks at a virtual media briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC) on the topic “Geneva Allegations, the United Nations General Assembly and Sri Lanka’s Foreign Policy”.
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September - 16 
The United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparations and guarantees of non-recurrence, Fabian Salvioli told the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva on September 16 that Sri Lanka has witnessed a profound deterioration in the human rights situa
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The United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparations and guarantees of non-recurrence, Fabian Salvioli told the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva on September 16 that Sri Lanka has witnessed a profound deterioration in the human rights situation over the past 18 months, reports Daily Mirror. He also said that there has been insufficient progress in relation to the search for the truth, and the flagrant setback in the areas of accountability, memory and guarantees of nonrepetitional. The Special Rapporteur said that the situation jeopardizes the transitional justice process in Sri Lanka.
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September - 19 
Sri Lankan Foreign Minister, G. L. Peiris while briefing the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, during a virtual meeting as part of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 19 said that reconciliation efforts by external bodies are unacceptable, re
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Sri Lankan Foreign Minister, G. L. Peiris while briefing the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, during a virtual meeting as part of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 19 said that reconciliation efforts by external bodies are unacceptable, reports Tamil Guardian. “This is an ongoing process, and the country requires sufficient space for the local institutions to deliver on their mandates. The work done by these institutions cannot be replaced or taken over by external bodies,” he said.
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September - 19 
The United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres when he met President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the UN Headquarters on September 19 assured UN's fullest positive cooperation to Sri Lanka on the effort to march forward by ensuring reconciliation among the communities, reports Daily Mirror.
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The United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres when he met President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the UN Headquarters on September 19 assured UN's fullest positive cooperation to Sri Lanka on the effort to march forward by ensuring reconciliation among the communities, reports Daily Mirror.
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September - 22 
Speaking at the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 22, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said that internal issues must be resolved through internal mechanisms, reports Tamil Guardian. He claimed willingness to work with all domestic stakeholder
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Speaking at the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 22, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said that internal issues must be resolved through internal mechanisms, reports Tamil Guardian. He claimed willingness to work with all domestic stakeholders but maintained that domestic institutions were essential to achieve lasting peace. "Fostering greater accountability, restorative justice, and meaningful reconciliation through domestic institutions is essential to achieve lasting peace" Gotabaya stated.
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September - 25 
An investigation has been launched after the Western Province Intelligence Division had received an information in connection to a WhatsApp group suspected to be connected to Islamic State (IS), operating in Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror on September 26. The Director of the Western Province Intell
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An investigation has been launched after the Western Province Intelligence Division had received an information in connection to a WhatsApp group suspected to be connected to Islamic State (IS), operating in Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror on September 26. The Director of the Western Province Intelligence Division has instructed the Senior DIG Western Province that it would be appropriate for the relevant section to conduct a speedy investigation into the information received them on this WhatsApp group. It was reported that a WhatsApp group called 'Interschool' is related to the ISIS and if someone was invited to join, they could not leave the group after joining. Meanwhile, Police Spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa told that Police are monitoring all suspicious groups on social media which could be a threat to national security.
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September - 26 
Police on September 26 said that a message circulated on social media about a WhatsApp group related to Islamic State (IS) is a hoax, reports Colombo Page. Police has released a clarification on the purported intelligence document said while the letter is from the Director of the intelligence unit,
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Police on September 26 said that a message circulated on social media about a WhatsApp group related to Islamic State (IS) is a hoax, reports Colombo Page. Police has released a clarification on the purported intelligence document said while the letter is from the Director of the intelligence unit, the matters mentioned about the said WhatsApp group were based on unconfirmed information. Police said the disclosure of confidential documents by the intelligence services or leaked information is an offense punishable under the State Secrets Act as well as the dissemination of information through computers that could endanger public safety is a punishable offense under the Computer Crimes Act. Police also said that legal action will be taken against those who shared the intelligence document. Following is the clarification issued by the Police.
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September - 27 
Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris speaking to the media at the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) headquarters in Battaramulla, Colombo on September 27 said that the process of collecting evidence against Sri Lanka by international organizations including the United Nations Human Rights Council (UN
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Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris speaking to the media at the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) headquarters in Battaramulla, Colombo on September 27 said that the process of collecting evidence against Sri Lanka by international organizations including the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is not transparent and is grossly unfair, reports Daily News. He said although it has become a timely need for every international organization to get together to support administering at least one vaccine dose to every citizen worldwide, some of the organizations are attempting to achieve their ulterior motives and engage in a witch hunt against selected countries amidst the pandemic. He also stressed that finding solutions to internal issues and Human Rights violation claims will only be done following a local mechanism and no decision would be taken as per the will or instructions of any international organization.
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September - 28 
Senior leaders of Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on September 28 met with the European Union (EU) delegation and emphasized the need for Sri Lanka to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) which enables arbitrary detention without charge, reports Colombo Page. The five-member EU delegation arri
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Senior leaders of Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on September 28 met with the European Union (EU) delegation and emphasized the need for Sri Lanka to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) which enables arbitrary detention without charge, reports Colombo Page. The five-member EU delegation arrived in the island on September 27 review the GSP plus trade concession. The TNA also pointed out the need to formulate new Constitution to resolve the Tamil National Question and updated the EU delegation on the land grab and other incursions on the rights of the Tamil People.
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September - 29 
United Nations (UN) Secretary General António Guterres on September 29 documented allegations of reprisals in Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror. A report documenting the incidents was presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva by UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rig
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United Nations (UN) Secretary General António Guterres on September 29 documented allegations of reprisals in Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror. A report documenting the incidents was presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva by UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights Ilze Brands Kehris. On Sri Lanka, the report noted that the High Commissioner for Human Rights in her February 9 report to the UNHRC had said that “a pattern of intensified surveillance and harassment of civil society organizations, human rights defenders and victims appears to have intensified over the past year, including of those who supported the implementation of Human Rights Council resolution 30/1”. The High Commissioner raised concern that this environment “is creating a chilling effect on civic and democratic space and leading to self-censorship” and urged “the authorities to immediately end all forms of surveillance, including intimidating visits by state agents and harassment against human rights defenders, lawyers, journalists, social actors and victims of human rights violations and their families, and to refrain from imposing further restrictive legal measures on legitimate civil society activity.”
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October - 4 
India and Sri Lanka on October 4 (today) began a 12-day mega military exercise with a focus on enhancing counter-terror cooperation at the Combat Training School in Sri Lanka’s eastern district of Ampara, reports NDTV. The eighth edition of the 'Mitra Shakti' exercise from October 4 to 15 got underw
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India and Sri Lanka on October 4 (today) began a 12-day mega military exercise with a focus on enhancing counter-terror cooperation at the Combat Training School in Sri Lanka’s eastern district of Ampara, reports NDTV. The eighth edition of the 'Mitra Shakti' exercise from October 4 to 15 got underway with the participation of an all arms contingent of 120 Indian Army personnel, headed by Colonel Prakash Kumar, the Sri Lanka Army said. The joint military exercise has been designed to enhance understanding of transnational terrorism, inter-operability skills, conduct of joint tactical operations, sharing of each other's best practices and experiences, it said.
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October - 5 
CIVICUS in a report released on October 5 slammed Sri Lanka's crackdown on critics and ongoing torture, reports Tamil Guardian. Writing in response to the state of emergency declared by Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on August 30, CIVICUS highlights that the emergency measures enable author
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CIVICUS in a report released on October 5 slammed Sri Lanka's crackdown on critics and ongoing torture, reports Tamil Guardian. Writing in response to the state of emergency declared by Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on August 30, CIVICUS highlights that the emergency measures enable authorities "to detain people without warrants, seize property, enter and search any premises, suspend laws and issue orders that cannot be questioned in court". In their report CIVICUS details how Sri Lanka's crackdown has impacted those holding vigils to remember their loved ones; those advocating for educational reform; and government critics., many of whom have been detained under Sri Lanka's draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). They further detail numerous reports of political prisoners being tortured whilst in Police custody.
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October - 10 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa addressing a ceremony held at the Gajaba Regiment Headquarters, Saliyapura, Anuradhapura, to mark the 72nd Anniversary of the Sri Lanka Army, on October 10 assured to protect the country from any acts of terrorism or religious extremism, reports Colombo Page. He emphasiz
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa addressing a ceremony held at the Gajaba Regiment Headquarters, Saliyapura, Anuradhapura, to mark the 72nd Anniversary of the Sri Lanka Army, on October 10 assured to protect the country from any acts of terrorism or religious extremism, reports Colombo Page. He emphasized that he is committed to protect the country from any recurrence of acts of terrorism or religious extremism and urged all Sri Lankans to extend their support to move forward the country in the correct path, under the notion of ‘one country and one law without corruption’. He also assured that steps would be taken to amend the Constitution and introduce a new electoral system as promised to the people.
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October - 11 
A Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadre who was remanded for eight years under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) was released on October 11 by order of the Monaragala Magistrate’s Court, reports Colombo Page. Prisons Commissioner (Administration) Media Spokesman Chandana Ekanayake said h
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A Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadre who was remanded for eight years under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) was released on October 11 by order of the Monaragala Magistrate’s Court, reports Colombo Page. Prisons Commissioner (Administration) Media Spokesman Chandana Ekanayake said he was arrested by the CID in 2011 under the PTA and was detained for three years for questioning and then remanded in custody in 2013. It is reported that the Monaragala Magistrate’s Court has ordered the release of Kapilan after 11 years, taking into consideration the information provided by the CID that the investigation into the LTTE detainee has been completed.
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October - 12 
Cabinet on October 12 approved the proposed ‘Defence Cyber Commands Act’ as well as a similar bill that aims to impose cyber protection under the guise of combatting ‘terrorist groups and criminals’, reports Tamil Guardian. In detailing the proposals, Sri Lanka's Department of Government Information
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Cabinet on October 12 approved the proposed ‘Defence Cyber Commands Act’ as well as a similar bill that aims to impose cyber protection under the guise of combatting ‘terrorist groups and criminals’, reports Tamil Guardian. In detailing the proposals, Sri Lanka's Department of Government Information maintained that "terrorist groups and criminals have tended to use the cyberspace and electronic communication for terrorist activities, organized crimes and anti-social activities". It further maintained the need to regulate cyberspace as a matter of "national security" and for this to establish "established at the institutional level at present by the three - armed forces, Police and other agencies".
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October - 13 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R. Sampanthan on October 13 said that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa should focus his attention immediately on compiling a new Constitution, reports Daily News. He said “The President appointed a special committee to look into preparing a new constitution. Even tho
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R. Sampanthan on October 13 said that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa should focus his attention immediately on compiling a new Constitution, reports Daily News. He said “The President appointed a special committee to look into preparing a new constitution. Even though several months have passed since then there is no mention of the activities of the committee. We submitted many facts to this committee. Other Tamil parties too did the same thing. We do not know what happened regarding those facts that were presented. Up to now we have not been informed about anything. The reason for all these delays is the objection and the indolence of granting something to the Tamil people through the Constitution. However, the Tamil people in this country have to have rights. Many things were destroyed due to the 30-year war. A solution should be granted for the Tamil people at least now. Therefore, the country requires a new empowered Constitution which will provide solutions to the Tamil people’s problems.”
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October - 13 
The Government on October 13 reiterated that it will not agree with the special ad-hoc mechanism being established under the Office of United Nations Human Rights High Commissioner to monitor Sri Lanka and gather evidence against the country for use in an international tribunal, reports Daily News.
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The Government on October 13 reiterated that it will not agree with the special ad-hoc mechanism being established under the Office of United Nations Human Rights High Commissioner to monitor Sri Lanka and gather evidence against the country for use in an international tribunal, reports Daily News. Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris briefing ambassadors and High Commissioners based in Colombo said “Sri Lanka rejects the establishment of an external mechanism when domestic processes were ongoing. They must be given the space to continue their work without hindrance and impediment. That is one of the cornerstones of the UN system. It is reflected in UN seminal documents. Those rudimentary principles must not be departed from with regard to Sri Lanka.”
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October - 15 
Government has ruled out talks with banned Tamil diaspora groups but will instead look at engaging with others, reports Daily Mirror on October 16. Foreign Minister, Professor G. L. Peiris, insisted that there will not be any direct talks with banned diaspora groups like the Global Tamil Forum. The
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Government has ruled out talks with banned Tamil diaspora groups but will instead look at engaging with others, reports Daily Mirror on October 16. Foreign Minister, Professor G. L. Peiris, insisted that there will not be any direct talks with banned diaspora groups like the Global Tamil Forum. The Global Tamil Forum (GTF), British Tamil Forum (BTF), Canadian Tamil Congress (CTC), Australian Tamil Congress (ATC), National Council of Canadian Tamil, Tamil Youth Organisation and the World Tamil Coordinating Committee are among those proscribed by the Ministry of Defence. “We can’t speak to organisations that have been banned by the Sri Lankan Government. That is not possible because that would be a violation of our law. But there are other shades of opinion. So, it’s useful to engage with them,” he said.
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October - 21 
In a statement, Nava Sama Samaja Party (NSSP) leader Wickramabahu Karunaratne said that a systematic referendum is needed to recognize Tamil Eelam internationally, reports Tamil Guardian on October 22. He called for the international recognition of the ongoing genocide of Tamils and the recognition
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In a statement, Nava Sama Samaja Party (NSSP) leader Wickramabahu Karunaratne said that a systematic referendum is needed to recognize Tamil Eelam internationally, reports Tamil Guardian on October 22. He called for the international recognition of the ongoing genocide of Tamils and the recognition of Eelam as a state. “The Western world has propagated the name of terrorism to suppress the Tamil voice calling for a separate state,” he added.
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October - 21 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Member of Parliament (MP) Sivagnanam Sritharan during a discussion on children's rights on October 21 told Parliament that 39 Tamils were arrested in North-East in last three months under Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Tamil Guardian. “In Trincomalee, a boy
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Member of Parliament (MP) Sivagnanam Sritharan during a discussion on children's rights on October 21 told Parliament that 39 Tamils were arrested in North-East in last three months under Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Tamil Guardian. “In Trincomalee, a boy was arrested for a photo he posted on his Facebook page and is still in jail [...] families are in tears […] will they get justice?” he asked.
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October - 22 
A collection of Tamil parliamentarians on October 22 wrote a letter addressed to Chamal Rajapaksa, the Sri Lankan Internal Security Minister, asking him to put a stop to the ‘artificial alteration of the demographic pattern’ of the Northern Province, reports Tamil Guardian. Referring to a putative a
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A collection of Tamil parliamentarians on October 22 wrote a letter addressed to Chamal Rajapaksa, the Sri Lankan Internal Security Minister, asking him to put a stop to the ‘artificial alteration of the demographic pattern’ of the Northern Province, reports Tamil Guardian. Referring to a putative attempt by the Government to redraw the borders of the Vanni District, the letter stated, “This attempt to change the provincial borders have ulterior motives to alter the demographic pattern and systematically weaken Tamils political strength.” The MPs also raised their disappointment that they were not consulted regarding the matter by the relevant officials. The letter called for the ‘immediate attention’ of the authorities to intervene and halt the ‘unethical attempt to change the provincial borders and demographic pattern of the districts.’ The politicians who signed the letter include Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam, the Tamil National People’s Front (TNPF) chief and M.A. Sumanthiran, a senior leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA).
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October - 24 
In an interview on October 24, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader M.A. Sumanthiran said that Government’s attitude towards people of North and East must change, reports The Sunday Morning. “There can be no middle ground”, Sumanthiran maintained whilst speaking about the 13th amendment. He highligh
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In an interview on October 24, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader M.A. Sumanthiran said that Government’s attitude towards people of North and East must change, reports The Sunday Morning. “There can be no middle ground”, Sumanthiran maintained whilst speaking about the 13th amendment. He highlighted that the Rajapaksa regime had previously provided repeated assurances on the “implementation 13th Amendment in full and also going beyond it so as to achieve meaningful devolution”. However, since the end of the war, they have reneged on these commitments.
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October - 28 
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on October 28 said that the Government will definitely fulfil its duty towards the victims of the Easter Sunday terror attacks, reports Ada Derana. The premier made these comments during a ceremony held at St Lucia’s Cathedral, Kotahena launching the first phase of
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Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on October 28 said that the Government will definitely fulfil its duty towards the victims of the Easter Sunday terror attacks, reports Ada Derana. The premier made these comments during a ceremony held at St Lucia’s Cathedral, Kotahena launching the first phase of the project providing houses to the people affected by the blast at the St. Anthony’s Shrine Kochchikade. Rajapaksa said that there may have been certain delays on their part, however assured that they are ready to make that commitment for the people affected by the 2019 suicide bombings. The Prime Minister said that the Government is aware of the predicament faced by the people and families affected by terrorism.
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October - 28 
The Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA) on October 28 urged the Government to immediately rescind the relevant Gazette notification to appoint a Presidential Task Force (PTF) mandated to implement the ‘One Country, One Law’ concept, chaired by Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera, reports Daily Mir
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The Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA) on October 28 urged the Government to immediately rescind the relevant Gazette notification to appoint a Presidential Task Force (PTF) mandated to implement the ‘One Country, One Law’ concept, chaired by Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera, reports Daily Mirror. Issuing a statement, the CPA stated that it was deeply shocked and disturbed by the appointment of the latest PTF mandated to implement the ‘One Country, One Law’ concept, including the drafting of a law to give effect to it, headed by Gnanasara Thero. The CPA noted that Gnanasara Thero is an unapologetic champion of ethno-nationalist rhetoric and hate speech against the Muslim community in particular, with no known action taken to independently investigate or hold him to account. Moreover, the Thero was convicted for contempt court for his unruly behaviour in the Homagama Magistrate Court when he intimidated the Magistrate and insulted a State Counsel, a sign of his complete disregard for the rule of law in Sri Lanka. In another blow to the rule of law, the Thero was granted a Presidential Pardon in 2019, a move challenged by CPA in the Supreme Court.
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November - 1 
The Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) informed the Colombo Magistrate’s Court on November 1 that investigations are being carried out into 702 Sri Lankans who were found to having links with a powerful Islamic State (IS) member arrested in India through his cell phone, reports Colombo Page. Wh
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The Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) informed the Colombo Magistrate’s Court on November 1 that investigations are being carried out into 702 Sri Lankans who were found to having links with a powerful Islamic State (IS) member arrested in India through his cell phone, reports Colombo Page. When the complaint was taken before Colombo Additional Magistrate Chandima Liyanage, the TID informed an IS member had been arrested in India and a search of his mobile phone ‘WhatsApp’ account has revealed information about 702 Sri Lankans. The TID said that further investigations were carried out based on this information and that one of the suspects has been arrested. The TID had informed the court that investigations were being carried out on other Sri Lankans who had links with the suspect.
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November - 2 
Tamil and Muslim political parties met in Jaffna District on November 2 and demanded to dismiss Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) General Secretary Ven. Ganansara Thero as the Chairman of the newly formed Presidential Task Force to draft the proposals for One Country, One Law, reports Daily Mirror. They also dec
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Tamil and Muslim political parties met in Jaffna District on November 2 and demanded to dismiss Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) General Secretary Ven. Ganansara Thero as the Chairman of the newly formed Presidential Task Force to draft the proposals for One Country, One Law, reports Daily Mirror. They also decided to enlist other political parties including the southern progressive forces and demand for full implementation of the 13th Amendment and conduct the Provincial Council Elections.
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November - 2 
The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) on November 2 announced that the Presidential Task Force for ‘One Country’, ‘One Law’ is improper and outside the accepted framework for law-making, reports Daily Mirror. In a letter to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the BASL is of the view that no useful purpo
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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) on November 2 announced that the Presidential Task Force for ‘One Country’, ‘One Law’ is improper and outside the accepted framework for law-making, reports Daily Mirror. In a letter to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the BASL is of the view that no useful purpose would be served by the creation of this Task Force since it would seize the functions of many institutions established under the Constitution and the law, including Parliament and the Ministry of Justice. The BASL noted that the constitution itself provides a framework for the legislative process which is supplemented by other laws and by the Standing Orders of Parliament.
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November - 4 
Minister of Public Security Rear Admiral (Retd.) Dr. Sarath Weerasekera on November 4 said that the cases filed against 56 suspects, including Naufar Moulavi, the alleged mastermind of the Easter Sunday attacks, are scheduled to be heard daily in a special three-judge High Court from this month, rep
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Minister of Public Security Rear Admiral (Retd.) Dr. Sarath Weerasekera on November 4 said that the cases filed against 56 suspects, including Naufar Moulavi, the alleged mastermind of the Easter Sunday attacks, are scheduled to be heard daily in a special three-judge High Court from this month, reports Colombo Page. He stated that 24 main suspects including the mastermind of the attack Mohamad Ibrahim Mohamad Naufar alias Naufar Moulavi and Jafoor Mama have been indicted and 32 more are being tried in five High Courts. The Minister said that during the CID's investigation into the attack, about 112,000 telephone conversations had been analyzed and cases have been filed on 23,700 charges.
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November - 7 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R. Sampanthan said that he is prepared to work with Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) leader Rauff Hakeem and Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) leader Mano Ganesan on matters related to Tamil speaking people, reports Daily News on November 8. The three leaders met
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R. Sampanthan said that he is prepared to work with Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) leader Rauff Hakeem and Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) leader Mano Ganesan on matters related to Tamil speaking people, reports Daily News on November 8. The three leaders met at the Colombo residence of TNA leader R. Sampanthan. He was briefed on talks held in Jaffna recently between Tamil and Muslim political parties. According to Mano Ganesan, the TNA leader had noted the need for unity among Tamil speaking political parties to reach a political solution for the Tamils. The TNA Leader had stated that Tamil and Muslim Parties must join hands to win the rights of the Tamil speaking people.
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November - 10 
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa informed Parliament on November 10 that the committee of experts appointed to draft a new constitution was expected to submit its final draft at the end of this year, reports Daily Mirror. Responding to a question raised by National Peoples’ Power (NPP) MP Anura Kuma
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Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa informed Parliament on November 10 that the committee of experts appointed to draft a new constitution was expected to submit its final draft at the end of this year, reports Daily Mirror. Responding to a question raised by National Peoples’ Power (NPP) MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake, he said the committee was appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers to draft a new Constitution as pledged by the Government in its policy statement “Vistas of Prosperity”. The Premier said the committee headed by President’s Counsel Romesh de Silva consisted of President’s Counsel Manohara De Silva, President’s Counsel Sanjeewa Jayawardena, President’s Counsel Naveen Marapana, Prof. Nazeema Kamardeen, Dr. A. Sarveswaran, President’s Counsel Samantha Ratwatte, Prof.Wasantha Senevirathne, Abdul Wahid Abdul Salam and Prof.G.H.Peiris.
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November - 10 
The Catholic leadership in the North-East on November 10 warned that the Sri Lankan Government was in the midst of a concerted effort to change the demography of the Tamil majority Trincomalee, Mullaitivu and Mannar Districts by settling Sinhalese from other areas, reports Tamil Guardian. The religi
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The Catholic leadership in the North-East on November 10 warned that the Sri Lankan Government was in the midst of a concerted effort to change the demography of the Tamil majority Trincomalee, Mullaitivu and Mannar Districts by settling Sinhalese from other areas, reports Tamil Guardian. The religious leaders raised the concern whilst meeting with Switzerland’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka Dominik Furgler in Jaffna District. Dr. Fidelis Lionel Emmanuel Fernando of Mannar, Justin Bernard Gnanapragasam of Jaffna, Christian Noel Emmanuel of Trincomalee and Joseph Ponniah were amongst the leaders that met with Furgler. Sri Lanka state sponsored colonisation of the North-East has been a concern for decades and a large driver of Tamil grievances, with fears that the government is attempting to erase the Tamil homeland. Since the end of the armed conflict in 2009 and the subsequent military occupation across the region, such efforts have accelerated.
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November - 11 
Minister of Public Security Sarath Weerasekera told Parliament on November 11 that Zahran Hashim, who led the Easter Sunday attacks, had never met anyone from the intelligence units as per the available evidence, reports Daily Mirror. Making a special statement in the House, the Minister said Zahran
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Minister of Public Security Sarath Weerasekera told Parliament on November 11 that Zahran Hashim, who led the Easter Sunday attacks, had never met anyone from the intelligence units as per the available evidence, reports Daily Mirror. Making a special statement in the House, the Minister said Zahran’s wife was questioned both before and after the Easter Sunday attacks and she had never mentioned that her husband had met intelligence officers. “I have gone through the records of evidence and no such documents reveal anything about her husband had met intelligence officers. Zaharan had no connections with the intelligence units or with the security forces,” the Minister said while tabling documents pertaining to investigations on Easter Sunday attacks.
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November - 16 
Two Judges of the seven-member Bench of the Supreme Court (SC) headed by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya on November 16 informed that they were withdrawing from hearing 12 Fundamental Rights (FR) petitions filed against the failure to prevent the series of 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, reports Daily
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Two Judges of the seven-member Bench of the Supreme Court (SC) headed by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya on November 16 informed that they were withdrawing from hearing 12 Fundamental Rights (FR) petitions filed against the failure to prevent the series of 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, reports Daily News. They informed Court that they have taken this decision due to personal reasons. Justices Priyantha Jayawardena and Gamini Amarasekera have recused from hearing the case. It was fixed for support on March 14, 2022. The FR petitions filed by 12 parties including Fr. Sarath Iddamalgoda were taken up before the Bench comprising Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya, Supreme Court Justices Buwaneka Aluvihare, Priyantha Jayawardena, Murdhu Fernando, L.T.B Dehideniya, S. Thureiraja and Gamini Amarasekera. The petitions sought an order from the court to IGP to take legal action against former IGP Pujith Jayasundara, former defense Secretary Hemasiri Fernando and other State Intelligence officials, as well as then President Maithripala Sirisena, former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and members of the then Cabinet for not taking appropriate action to prevent such attacks despite intelligence that Islamic extremists or other extremists were carrying out the attacks. The petitioners also sought an order from the court stating that their fundamental rights had been violated by failing to take steps to prevent such attacks.
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November - 17 
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliaments (MPs) staged a placards protest inside the Parliament chamber on November 17, against the Police intervention in their demonstration on November 16, reports Ada Derana. SJB’s General Secretary, MP Ranjith Madduma Bandara, who addressed the House
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The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliaments (MPs) staged a placards protest inside the Parliament chamber on November 17, against the Police intervention in their demonstration on November 16, reports Ada Derana. SJB’s General Secretary, MP Ranjith Madduma Bandara, who addressed the House on the fourth day of the second reading debate of Budget 2022 alleged that the Government used the force of police to suppress the protesters. “The government is very much scared of Samagi Jana Balawegaya and the public. The police sought court orders, but the requests were rejected,” he said further.
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November - 23 
The United Kingdom (UK) in its latest report on the global human rights situation said that the human rights situation in Sri Lanka continued to deteriorate during the first half of 2021, reports Daily Mirror on November 24. This statement provides an updated assessment of 31 priority countries from
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The United Kingdom (UK) in its latest report on the global human rights situation said that the human rights situation in Sri Lanka continued to deteriorate during the first half of 2021, reports Daily Mirror on November 24. This statement provides an updated assessment of 31 priority countries from Jan.1 to June 30, 2021 and Sri Lanka is among the 31 Human Rights Priority Countries. The report said “Security forces increased their surveillance and intimidation of human rights activists and their use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, with a number of arbitrary arrests. The government proposed new regulations with powers to arrest and send individuals to rehabilitation centres to be ‘deradicalized’ with no judicial oversight or requirement for further process.”
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November - 23 
Prime Minister (PM) Mahinda Rajapaksa said in Parliament on November 23 that the new draft Constitution will be presented to the Parliament and discussed, reports Colombo Page. PM Mahinda Rajapaksa made this observation while participating in the committee stage budget debate on the Expenditure Head
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Prime Minister (PM) Mahinda Rajapaksa said in Parliament on November 23 that the new draft Constitution will be presented to the Parliament and discussed, reports Colombo Page. PM Mahinda Rajapaksa made this observation while participating in the committee stage budget debate on the Expenditure Heads of the President’s, the Prime Minister’s Office and other institutions. “We talked about the constitution and we are now preparing a draft. I remind you that it will be presented to the Members of Parliament and it will be discussed. Therefore, I would like to remind you that we will not do anything in secret about this,” he said.
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November - 24 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on November 24 warned the Opposition to be vigilant when making demands as his Government has the power to prosecute the leaders of the previous government for Easter Sunday attacks, reports Colombo Page. Addressing the ceremony held to declare open the New Kelani Bridge
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on November 24 warned the Opposition to be vigilant when making demands as his Government has the power to prosecute the leaders of the previous government for Easter Sunday attacks, reports Colombo Page. Addressing the ceremony held to declare open the New Kelani Bridge ‘Golden Gate Kalyani’, the President said that through an Act of Parliament, law can be enforced against the culprits revealed by the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) into the Easter Sunday attacks. He recalled that the PCoI appointed by the previous Government has made recommendations that the then government, including the former President, Prime Minister and the Cabinet should be held responsible for the attack.
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November - 24 
The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) jointly called for a more engaged role by the United States (US) in promoting human rights, accountability, political resolution, and reconciliation in Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror on November 25. The TNA delegation together with
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The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) jointly called for a more engaged role by the United States (US) in promoting human rights, accountability, political resolution, and reconciliation in Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror on November 25. The TNA delegation together with GTF representatives, had many significant engagements in the US between November 15 – 22, articulating Tamil people's concerns to key US Government policymakers and Members of the US Congress. The Delegation expressed its deep appreciation for the US leadership at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in promoting accountability, reconciliation, and human rights in Sri Lanka. While calling for continued leadership of the United States Government (USG) at the UNHRC and in light of Sri Lanka's failure to make satisfactory progress on implementing UNHRC Resolution 46/1, USG was encouraged to consider a multifaceted approach in addressing the many challenges in Sri Lanka.
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November - 25 
Former National Intelligence Chief Nilantha Jayawardena while testifying before the Colombo High Court Trial-at-Bar on November 25 said that National Thawheed Jamaath (NTJ) leader Zahran Hashim, who carried out the suicide bomb at the Kingsbury Hotel in the series of attacks on Easter Sunday 2019, w
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Former National Intelligence Chief Nilantha Jayawardena while testifying before the Colombo High Court Trial-at-Bar on November 25 said that National Thawheed Jamaath (NTJ) leader Zahran Hashim, who carried out the suicide bomb at the Kingsbury Hotel in the series of attacks on Easter Sunday 2019, was under surveillance before 2019 attacks, reports Daily News. He was appearing as the first witness in two cases filed by the Attorney General in the Colombo High Court against former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando and former IGP Pujith Jayasundara for failing to take proper action in connection with the series of Easter Sunday terror attacks that took place on April 21, 2019.
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November - 25 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on November 25 assured United Nations (UN) Assistant-Secretary-General (ASG) for Political, Peace building and Peace Operations, Khaled Khiari that his government is doing a great deal in building unity among communities, reports Colombo Page. UN Assistant Secretary Gene
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on November 25 assured United Nations (UN) Assistant-Secretary-General (ASG) for Political, Peace building and Peace Operations, Khaled Khiari that his government is doing a great deal in building unity among communities, reports Colombo Page. UN Assistant Secretary General Khiari is visiting Sri Lanka as a follow-up to the bilateral meeting with the President and the UN Secretary- General Antonio Guterres held in September on the side-lines of the 76th Session of the UN General Assembly. Mr. Khiari conveyed the best wishes of UN Secretary- General Guterres to President Rajapaksa and said that the UN is willing to engage in a constructive and positive engagement with Sri Lanka.
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November - 26 
Tourism and Aviation Minister Prasanna Ranatunga on November 26 said that former President Maithripala Sirisena is fully responsible for the Easter Sunday attack and legal action should be taken against him, reports Daily Mirror. "The former president ruined the party and is trying to destroy the c
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Tourism and Aviation Minister Prasanna Ranatunga on November 26 said that former President Maithripala Sirisena is fully responsible for the Easter Sunday attack and legal action should be taken against him, reports Daily Mirror. "The former president ruined the party and is trying to destroy the current government too. He should be fully responsible for the Easter Sunday attack," Minister Ranatunga said.
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November - 26 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA), the main parliamentary group representing Tamils of the war-affected north and east, has requested the U.S. and India to jointly push for a political solution in the island nation, reports Ada Derana on November 27. A delegation led by TNA Jaffna legislator M.A. Sumant
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA), the main parliamentary group representing Tamils of the war-affected north and east, has requested the U.S. and India to jointly push for a political solution in the island nation, reports Ada Derana on November 27. A delegation led by TNA Jaffna legislator M.A. Sumanthiran, with senior legal experts K. Kanag-Isvaran and Nirmala Chandrahaasan, conveyed this at a recent meeting with State Department officials in Washington DC. “With the U.S. returning to the Human Rights Council, we think it is important that Washington advocates a political solution to the Tamil national question, along with pending issues of accountability and justice,” Mr. Sumanthiran told. While in the U.S., Mr. Sumanthiran also met Indian Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu, as well as India’s Permanent Representative to the UN T.S. Tirumurti in New York to brief them about the TNA’s outreach to the U.S.
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November - 29 
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chandana. Wickramaratne on November 29 appeared before the Colombo High Court Trial-at-Bar where he testified in the case filed against former IGP Pujith Jayasundara over the latter’s alleged failure to take action to prevent the Easter Sunday attacks on April 21, 2
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Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chandana. Wickramaratne on November 29 appeared before the Colombo High Court Trial-at-Bar where he testified in the case filed against former IGP Pujith Jayasundara over the latter’s alleged failure to take action to prevent the Easter Sunday attacks on April 21, 2019, reports The Morning. When questioned about the responsibilities of the IGP regarding national security, he said that as a member of the National Security Council, the IGP has the powers to maintain law and order. “It is a heavy responsibility. It cannot be confined to a framework. The IGP has a huge responsibility regarding national security,” he said. However, he stated that the actions taken by him as the IGP in any case may be different from the actions taken by the previous IGPs. He added that there was no rule that the actions taken by one IGP should be taken by all other IGPs. Meanwhile, when queried as to whether the information provided by the State Intelligence Service (SIS) to the IGP should be 100% complete in order for an investigation to be commenced, Wickramaratne said that there was no need for the information to be 100% complete. “The IGP should investigate and act on the information received. The IGP should always think that there is an invisible side and therefore, make decisions in consultation with other officers. There are also times when individual decisions have to be made. The IGP should be prepared for such,” he said. The case is to be taken up again on January 18, 2022.
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November - 30 
Former President Maithripala Sirisena’s legal counsel on November 30 requested the Colombo District Court to nullify the cases filed against his client, seeking compensation over the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, without going to trial, reports Ada Derana. A total of 284 cases have been filed b
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Former President Maithripala Sirisena’s legal counsel on November 30 requested the Colombo District Court to nullify the cases filed against his client, seeking compensation over the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, without going to trial, reports Ada Derana. A total of 284 cases have been filed by various parties before the District Courts of Colombo and Negombo, seeking compensation over the failure to prevent the carnage, despite there being sufficient intelligence of an impending attack. The 102 cases filed before the Colombo District Court seek compensation to the tune of SLR 900 million. Former Head of State Maithripala Sirisena is named as the first defendant in the said cases, while former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando, former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Pujith Jayasundara and former Director of State Intelligence Service (SIS) are also listed as defendants. Via a motion, President’s Counsel Faiszer Mustapha, who represented the former President, said the Colombo District Court does not have judicial jurisdiction to move forward with the case. He called on the court to nullify the complaint as inception sans consideration since a cause of action has not been disclosed in the complaint in line with the civil procedure code. After considering the submissions, Additional District Judge Chathurika de Silva said a decision will be made on January 7, 2022.
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December - 4 
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa delivering the Inaugural Address at the Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) held in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on December 4 said coordination and cooperation will be required to counter the threat posed by religious extremism and terrorism in c
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President Gotabaya Rajapaksa delivering the Inaugural Address at the Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) held in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on December 4 said coordination and cooperation will be required to counter the threat posed by religious extremism and terrorism in countries in the region, reports Daily Mirror. The President said extremist and terrorist ideology can spread with ease from nation to nation unless carefully monitored and suppressed. President Rajapaksa said narcotics trafficking remains a significant problem for countries in this region and that this can only effectively be dismantled through coordinated efforts between the intelligence services, Coast Guards and Navies of regional countries.
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December - 4 
The Presidential Task Force (PTF) for ‘One Country, One Law’ received a warm response from the people of the Eastern Province on December 4, reports Daily News. The PTF held public consultations in the Batticaloa Divisional Secretariat and the Valachchenai Divisional Secretariat auditoriums. Buddhi
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The Presidential Task Force (PTF) for ‘One Country, One Law’ received a warm response from the people of the Eastern Province on December 4, reports Daily News. The PTF held public consultations in the Batticaloa Divisional Secretariat and the Valachchenai Divisional Secretariat auditoriums. Buddhist monks, priests, professionals, and social activists expressed their views on the problems that have existed in the area for long. Proposals were submitted to the Committee orally and in writing. They said that the holding of public consultations in the Eastern Province by the PTF for ‘One Country, One Law’ is an honour for them.
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December - 8 
United National Party (UNP) Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene addressing Party activists at the Sirikotha Party headquarters on December 8 said that people have lost faith in Government, reports Daily News. The Deputy Leader said that a further deterioration in the country’s economy will happen next y
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United National Party (UNP) Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene addressing Party activists at the Sirikotha Party headquarters on December 8 said that people have lost faith in Government, reports Daily News. The Deputy Leader said that a further deterioration in the country’s economy will happen next year as the Government has put the country and its people in a serious debt trap. He further stated that although the people were happy and were able to eat three meals a day during the UNP Government, the present regime has made it impossible for the people to eat have one decent meal a day, quite apart from three meals.
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December - 10 
A four-member delegation from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) held a meeting with Swiss Ambassador to Sri Lanka Dominik Furgler and Political Secretary Sidonia Gabriel at the Embassy in Colombo on December 10, reports Tamil Guardian. The TNA delegation was headed by Vanni MP Selvam Adaikalanathan,
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A four-member delegation from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) held a meeting with Swiss Ambassador to Sri Lanka Dominik Furgler and Political Secretary Sidonia Gabriel at the Embassy in Colombo on December 10, reports Tamil Guardian. The TNA delegation was headed by Vanni MP Selvam Adaikalanathan, with two other parliamentarians, Vino Norathalingam and Ko. Karunakaram, and a spokesperson of the Tamil Eelam Liberation Organisation (TELO), Surendran Gurusamy, also participated in the discussion. Speaking to the press, Norathalingam said that the delegation conferred with the Swiss Ambassador on contemporary political developments in the island and in particular, emphasised the Government’s attempts to destroy provincial autonomy that was established by the 13th Amendment. “We pointed out that the government is unwilling to share power and is instead appropriating the residual powers that the provinces currently have and it is also reluctant to conduct elections for the provinces. We also discussed the land-grabs and the settlement of Sinhalese in Tamil lands in the North and East,” Norathalingam said.
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December - 10 
A group of priests in the Archdiocese of Colombo on December 10 (today) lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) demanding an immediate inquiry into Minister Prasanna Ranatunga’s statement that former President Maithripala Sirisena was responsible for the 2019 Easter Sund
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A group of priests in the Archdiocese of Colombo on December 10 (today) lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) demanding an immediate inquiry into Minister Prasanna Ranatunga’s statement that former President Maithripala Sirisena was responsible for the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings, reports Colombo Page. The Archdiocesan Director for Social Communications Father Jude Chrysantha Fernando, Father Lawrence Ramanayake, Director of the Sethsarana Institute, Colombo and several other priests and lawyers also arrived at the CID. Father Jude Chrysantha Fernando said the complaint was handed over to the CID this morning (December 10) with the consent of the Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith.
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December - 12 
Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) leader Rauf Hakeem speaking at a press conference on December 12 said that Tamil and Muslim party leaders have not deviated from the goal of power devolution beyond the 13th Amendment, reports Daily News. Representatives of Tamil and Muslim parties representing the p
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Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) leader Rauf Hakeem speaking at a press conference on December 12 said that Tamil and Muslim party leaders have not deviated from the goal of power devolution beyond the 13th Amendment, reports Daily News. Representatives of Tamil and Muslim parties representing the people whose mother tongue is Tamil were present at the discussion. The meeting was held in Colombo under the Chairmanship of MP Sampanthan and the final agreements are expected to be revealed to the country on December 21. Hakeem urged the Government to hold Provincial Council elections with immediate effect and to take action to devolve power beyond the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. “We are dissatisfied with the course of action taken by the Government. The Government has promised to introduce a new Constitution. It is important that the Provincial Councils, which have become inactive due to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution be operational again. We have not deviated from our goal of devolution beyond the 13th Amendment,” Hakeem noted.
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December - 12 
Tamil parliamentarians met in Colombo on December 12, as they discussed the 13th Amendment to Sri Lanka’s Constitution which calls for some devolution to the North-East, amidst renewed discussion over power sharing to the Tamil homeland, reports Tamil Guardian. Representatives from the Tamil Nationa
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Tamil parliamentarians met in Colombo on December 12, as they discussed the 13th Amendment to Sri Lanka’s Constitution which calls for some devolution to the North-East, amidst renewed discussion over power sharing to the Tamil homeland, reports Tamil Guardian. Representatives from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), Tamil Makkal Kootani (TMK), Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA), Malaiyaha Tamils, and Tamil-speaking Muslims met to discuss the still to be implemented 13th Amendment. Though the Sri Lankan government has repeatedly stated it would “go beyond” the 13th Amendment “that has not happened so far,” said TNA leader R Sampanthan. “There is now talk of a new Constitution, but simultaneously we see the government’s efforts such as ‘One Country One Law’,” he added. The amendment, which has been in place since the Indo-Lanka Accord if 1987 but still has not been implemented, calls for the devolution of land and police powers to a merged North-East.
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December - 14 
Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Secretary General V. Anandasangaree on December 14 said that the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has no right to talk about a Federal solution as it opposed it in 2005, reports Daily News. “It is a big joke to see the TNA demanding a Federal Solution having oppose
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Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Secretary General V. Anandasangaree on December 14 said that the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has no right to talk about a Federal solution as it opposed it in 2005, reports Daily News. “It is a big joke to see the TNA demanding a Federal Solution having opposed it at the Presidential Election of 2005,” he said. Anandasangaree in a statement said that the foreign countries should not be used to pressurise the Sri Lankan Government. “Such moves will anger local radical politicians and the majority community also. Not only that, such moves will seriously affect the good relationship,” he said. He said the Tamil Media should stop the practice of conveying decisions taken by a few as unanimous decisions, leaving some concerned parties out. “The best idea today is to negotiate with the Sri Lankan Government for an Indian Model as a solution. With the support of 22 members of Parliament and with the full backing of the LTTE, the TNA could not do anything for our people,” he said. “Sri Lanka is a sovereign state. No country will dare to interfere above a certain level and the other countries too will have their limitations. Being well aware of the situation, no one should try to fool the people,” he said.
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December - 15 
Defense Secretary Kamal Gunaratne addressing a virtual media conference on December 15 at the Presidential Media Centre said Armed Forces are committed to ensuring national security and development of the country, reports Colombo Page. He said the country's national security has been secured and the
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Defense Secretary Kamal Gunaratne addressing a virtual media conference on December 15 at the Presidential Media Centre said Armed Forces are committed to ensuring national security and development of the country, reports Colombo Page. He said the country's national security has been secured and there is no room for separatism. He added that no Sri Lankan should have undue fear. He also said that the state intelligence and other intelligence services are operating as a strong single network today.
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December - 15 
Refuting claims that Zahran Hashim had been paid salaries by the Government, Defense Secretary Kamal Gunaratne on December 15 said that the opposition was engaged in a shameless attempt to term President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as the mastermind behind the Easter Sunday attacks, reports Daily Mirror. He
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Refuting claims that Zahran Hashim had been paid salaries by the Government, Defense Secretary Kamal Gunaratne on December 15 said that the opposition was engaged in a shameless attempt to term President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as the mastermind behind the Easter Sunday attacks, reports Daily Mirror. He told an online press conference at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC) that the opposition was trying to gain political mileage by creating a fear that the President had conspired to come to power through the Easter Sunday attacks. “This is a tragic situation. Bomb explosions will cause devastation to all, irrespective of party politics whether it is SLPP, UNP, SJB or JVP. No one will explode bombs to come to power,” he said. He said the Easter attacks had been carried out in a well-organised manner and a large number of people had been questioned and released with regard to the attacks and some more people were still being questioned.
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December - 15 
The Attorney General (AG) on December 15 informed Colombo High Court that former National Intelligence Chief Sisira Mendis will not be called as a prosecution witness in a case filed against former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando relating to the Easter Sunday bomb attack, reports Daily Mirror. T
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The Attorney General (AG) on December 15 informed Colombo High Court that former National Intelligence Chief Sisira Mendis will not be called as a prosecution witness in a case filed against former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando relating to the Easter Sunday bomb attack, reports Daily Mirror. The AG had named former National Intelligence Chief Sisira Mendis as the third prosecution witnesses in this case. Sisira Mendis was present before Court to give evidence as a prosecution witness.
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December - 16 
The United States (US) Department of State said in the Country Reports on Terrorism 2020 released on December 16 reported that following the Easter Sunday attack Sri Lanka continued efforts to enhance counterterrorism (CT) capacities, reports Colombo Page. The Reports said the Government continued e
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The United States (US) Department of State said in the Country Reports on Terrorism 2020 released on December 16 reported that following the Easter Sunday attack Sri Lanka continued efforts to enhance counterterrorism (CT) capacities, reports Colombo Page. The Reports said the Government continued efforts improve border security, including through engagement with the US and other international partners, though progress in some cooperative initiatives was stalled in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and parliamentary elections. The US, the EU, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and India have all pledged CT assistance to Sri Lanka, including through UNODC. Additionally, several other regional actors reportedly approached Sri Lanka on CT cooperation, including the PRC, Russia, and Pakistan.
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December - 17 
Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliament (MP) Eran Wickramaratne speaking at a ceremony held to mark the International Human Right Day on December 17 said that Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) should be reformed to minimize arbitrary detention, reports Colombo Page. He said “The present go
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Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliament (MP) Eran Wickramaratne speaking at a ceremony held to mark the International Human Right Day on December 17 said that Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) should be reformed to minimize arbitrary detention, reports Colombo Page. He said “The present government is using the PTA to silence calls for justice from minority communities. It has been used as a weapon to arbitrarily detain our own citizens despite the lack of substantial evidence. The PTA has been used to arbitrarily detain and torture prisoners since it was introduced. It needs to be reformed not to just bring it in line with the international conventions that we have ratified, but also to bring it in line with our own Constitution. There are three main reforms that we need to do consider. Reduce the maximum detention period from 18 months detention to 30 days. Produce a suspect before a judge within 72 hours so that the judge decides on the condition of the detention · Confessions to a police officer must not be admissible in a court of law.”
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December - 20 
Shritharan Sivagnanam, a Member of Parliament (MP) of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), on December 20 denounced the growing presence of China in North-East in light of the recent visit made by the Chinese Ambassador to Jaffna and Mannar, reports Tamil Guardian. In remarks made to the press, Sivag
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Shritharan Sivagnanam, a Member of Parliament (MP) of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), on December 20 denounced the growing presence of China in North-East in light of the recent visit made by the Chinese Ambassador to Jaffna and Mannar, reports Tamil Guardian. In remarks made to the press, Sivagnanam warned that the Tamil people might soon protest against China and he suggested that the Sri Lankan Government is deliberately encouraging Chinese activities in order to overshadow India’s influence in the island, particularly in the Tamil areas. Sivagnanam described China’s economic enterprises in the North-East as a cover for Colombo’s attempt to snuff out Tamil self-determination in addition to the efforts already being taken to appropriate Tamil lands by deploying the Police, Navy, Army and various other state departments. He further questioned whether China’s ideology in the island is governed by communism or is an attempt to subjugate the Tamils. “We will never accept Chinese activities (in our homeland),” Sivagnanam stated and warned that the time has come for the Tamil people to protest against Beijing.
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December - 22 
Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliament (MP) Nalin Bandara Jayamaha during a press conference on December 22 said that Government is going to be toppled in 2022, reports Daily Mirror. He said “There will be a scarcity of food in 2022 especially as a result of at least 50 percent reduction
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Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliament (MP) Nalin Bandara Jayamaha during a press conference on December 22 said that Government is going to be toppled in 2022, reports Daily Mirror. He said “There will be a scarcity of food in 2022 especially as a result of at least 50 percent reduction in the paddy harvest during the Maha season. Also, there will be a scarcity of vegetables as a result of the fertilizer issue. One cannot give more chances to the government as per the given situation. An election is not needed to topple the government as history has shown that people's protests could make governments to fall. Get ready for an uprising next year.”
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December - 22 
US State Department’s Office of Global Criminal Justice on December 22 said that actual steps needed to address serious crimes in Sri Lanka, reports Tamil Guardian. Ambassador Michael Kozak, a senior official at the Office of Global Criminal Justice, met with Mahinda Samarasinghe, said “Actual steps
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US State Department’s Office of Global Criminal Justice on December 22 said that actual steps needed to address serious crimes in Sri Lanka, reports Tamil Guardian. Ambassador Michael Kozak, a senior official at the Office of Global Criminal Justice, met with Mahinda Samarasinghe, said “Actual steps, including accountability, are needed to address serious crimes and human rights abuses in Sri Lanka.” The two reportedly discussed the importance of justice and accountability for long term peace, prosperity and reconciliation.
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December - 22 
Chairman of National Movement for Just Society and former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya speaking to the media after attending a religious ceremony at the Balagolla Dharmayatana Temple in Kandy District on December 22 said that there is a strong need for a new Constitution that suits the country and unites
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Chairman of National Movement for Just Society and former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya speaking to the media after attending a religious ceremony at the Balagolla Dharmayatana Temple in Kandy District on December 22 said that there is a strong need for a new Constitution that suits the country and unites different communities, reports Daily News. Jayasuriya said the National Movement for a Just Society is committed to creating religious, social and political unity in the country as well as a constitution that suits the country.
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December - 25 
The Presidential Task Force (PTF) for ‘One Country, One Law’ on December 25 commenced public consultations in the Central Province, reports Daily News. Religious leaders, NGOs, professionals and the public who visited the Matale District Secretariat on December 25 and the Kandy District Secretariat
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The Presidential Task Force (PTF) for ‘One Country, One Law’ on December 25 commenced public consultations in the Central Province, reports Daily News. Religious leaders, NGOs, professionals and the public who visited the Matale District Secretariat on December 25 and the Kandy District Secretariat on December 26 expressed their views and opinions before the PTF. PTF Chairman Ven. Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera thanked the people who expressed their views and said they expect to submit the report of the Committee ahead of the scheduled date as they have a clear understanding of the President's interest in this matter. The Thera said that the Task Force will commit itself to present a set of proposals that is fair and just and accepted by all communities though the process could be time-consuming.
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