Sri Lanka Army begins work on reactivating Elephant Pass saltern

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka
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July 03, Colombo: Sri Lanka Army making its contribution to another development project in the country began the work to reactivate the abandoned Elephant Pass saltern in Northern Province.

The Army at the request of the Ministry of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development began the extraction of clogged and stagnant water out of the abandoned saltern for proposed reactivation of its production process.
 
Ministry of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise with the approval of the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development, has sought the assistance of Sri Lanka Army for preliminary extraction of stagnant water from the saltern that has remained abandoned since 1980s after LTTE terrorism, escalated in the Jaffna region.

The Army commenced the work following a MoU signed in late June with the Ministry for this specific purpose.

The Security Force Headquarters - Kilinochchi (SFHQ-KLN), commanded by Major General Sudantha Ranasinghe, in response to the directions of the Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Daya Ratnayake, has undertaken the responsibility for extraction of stagnant water and re-filling the saltern with fresh sea water.

The army expects to complete the water extraction and re-filling within a month and hand over the saltern to the Ministry. The Ministry will then start the production arrangements at the saltern.

The 1946-acre Elephant Pass saltern, lying to the north and south of Kurunchaitivu, had produced 60,000 - 80,000 metric tons of salt per year when it was operational before the LTTE terrorists destroyed the saltern in mid 1980s as violence escalated.

The proposed re-activation of the Elephant Pass saltern is expected to generate 2000 employment opportunities for the local youths in the northern region.

The resumption of productions at the saltern will save the government a huge sum of foreign exchange since Sri Lanka is importing salt although it is an island surrounded by the Indian Ocean.

The government also plans to restart the production at the nearby Paranthan Chemical Factory which was also destroyed by the LTTE terrorists.

Gota, Sison cross swords: Controversial US funded voter education project

by Shamindra Ferdinando
Island.lk
July 4, 2014, 7:08 am

Defence and Urban Development Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa has directed that senior military officers as well as heads of those institutions coming under him meet US ambassador Michele J. Sison or her representatives only in his presence.

The decision was taken consequent to Ambassador Sison refusing to allow the head of the USAID in Colombo to meet Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa unless she, too, was invited to the same meeting.

The US embassy has told the Defence Ministry that as the USAID is under the purview of the Colombo mission and its head can meet Mr. Rajapaksa only in the presence of the ambassador.

Defence Secretary Rajapaksa told The Island last night that he wanted to discuss with USAID head an alleged move to influence the local electorate through a voter education project called ‘Election Support through Voter Education (ESVE) programme. It was nothing but a ruse to turn people against the government, he said. Calling the US project ‘Operation Regime Change’, the Defence Secretary said that political parties should take up this issue.

The government would like to know whether the USAID was still going ahead with the project which would further undermine bilateral relations, the Defence Secretary said.

The US made its move ahead of President Mahinda Rajapaksa seeking the views of members of his party as well as constituents whether they would prefer presidential or parliamentary polls first. Members were asked to fill up a questionnaire at a workshop at Beruwela attended by President Rajapaksa himself.

Responding to a query, an irate Defence Secretary said that he had sought a meeting with the USAID head as it had called for applications from NGOs to carry out the project. Had the embassy called for applications for the same purpose, he would have definitely discussed the issue with ambassador Sison, Defence Secretary Rajapaksa said.

Perhaps, Ambassador Sison had realized that it was a mistake to authorize what he called a political exercise aimed at undermining the government of the host country, the Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary said. The government had a right to know the basis on which the US had decided to launch a political project and the amount of funds made available to NGOs, he said. All those receiving funds for the implementation of that particular project would be investigated, he stressed.

Asked whether the US had funded or intended to fund NGO projects meant to educate voters in other countries and consulted the Ministry of External Affairs before the launch of the project, a US embassy spokesperson told The Island: "The embassy has no comment."

Defence Secretary Rajapaksa said that the US embassy had access to the Northern and Eastern Provinces as well as terrorist detention facilities in accordance with overall government policy. The government also welcomed visits by diplomatic representatives of other countries as well and military commanders briefed them the Defence Secretary said. But from now on there would be restrictions on meetings, he said, adding that he intended to request other ministries to do as the US envoy had done.

'No possibility of Lanka-based terrorism against India' : Gotabhaya Rajapaksa

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
 
July 01 (PTI) Sri Lanka today ruled out any possibility that its soil could be used for terror attacks against India, after the recent discovery of an alleged terrorist plot to attack foreign missions in South India.
"The Indian intelligence agencies have told me that there is a possibility of Islamic terrorism being based in Sri Lanka to act against India. However, we investigated these concerns and found that there is no merit in these concerns or claims," said Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa in an interview with the Daily Mirror newspaper here today.

Indian authorities recently started investigating an alleged plot by a Pakistan-based terror group to carry out suicide attacks on US and Israeli consulates in South India.The conspiracy was reportedly planned overseas including in Sri Lanka, Malaysia and the Maldives.The plot was foiled by effective coordination of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) with countries such as Malaysia which tipped off India about the plan being hatched from Sri Lankan soil to attack the consulates in Chennai and Bangalore.

Rajapaksa, the brother of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, spearheaded the military campaign which crushed the LTTE's 30-year campaign for a separate Tamil state.He denied any involvement or backing of the Buddhist nationalist BBS group, or the Forces of Buddhist Power, that is blamed for recent attacks against the Muslim minority.

"I will give up this post if they can prove this. I will leave this post if they can prove that I have any connection with any of these things or organisations," he said. Responding to opposition accusations of his involvement with BBS, Rajapaksa said there was no need to create any organisation to counter any threat."That is not the way I work, that is not the way the intelligence agencies or the government works. If there is a problem we have more than adequate resources to quell it. I don't need to create organisations to do this."

Rajapaksa said besides the BBS, there are many other organisations that are based on ethnic and religious lines."Is the BBS the only organisation that is based on these lines? No, there are Muslim and other religious organisations," he said.

He added that the government had thwarted attempts by the LTTE to regroup. "There were so many attempts by the LTTE to regroup and destroy the peace in this country. We were able to prevent that," he said. The government in April said at least three people had been killed in the Tamil-dominated north who were allegedly working towards a resurgence of the militant group.

Indian government tells court TN fishermen have no rights to fishing in Sri Lanka's Katchatheevu islet

Finally, the Government of India ACTS RESPONSIBLY according to International Law.

Does this new display of common sense spring from Narendra Modi's sensible hand at the helm of India?

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Indian government tells court TN fishermen have no rights to fishing in Sri Lanka's Katchatheevu islet

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

July 01, Chennai: India's central government told a state court today that Tamil Nadu fishermen have no rights to fishing in Sri Lanka's Katchatheevu islet in the Palk Strait.

In an affidavit filed before the Madras High Court in Chennai, the Indian government said the Katchatheevu islet is a sovereign property of Sri Lanka ceded to island nation by the 1974 and 1976 agreements between the two countries and the agreements do not confer any fishing rights on fishermen from India in the islet, Press Trust of India reported.

"Under the agreements of 1974 and 1976, Indian fishermen and pilgrims will enjoy access to Katchatheevu and will not be required by Sri Lanka to obtain travel documents or visas for these purposes. The right of access is not understood to cover fishing rights around the island to Indian fishermen," the Center said in the reply affidavit.

The affidavit was in response to a PIL filed by Fishermen Care President L A Peter Rayan seeking to retake the islet ceded to Sri Lanka by India in 1974.

Disputing the PIL claim, which does not recognize Sri Lanka's sovereignty of the island and says that the agreements had clear provisions for allowing Indian fishermen to do fishing around the island, the center government said the boundary between the two countries had already been clearly delineated and it would not allow Indian fishermen to cross over and exploit the marine resources in the waters of another country.

Under the treaty agreement of 1974, Indian fishermen have lost the rights to fishing around the island as it is within the territorial waters of Sri Lanka and the 1976 agreement has established the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), which the fishermen in the two countries are not allowed to cross into each other's territory.

It said the fishermen could rest, dry their nets and attend the annual St Antony's festival in Katchatheevu.

The transfer of the uninhabited island with only a Catholic shrine has been under dispute since the transfer as Indian fishermen claim they have the rights to fish around the island.

Last year, the Tamil Nadu government under Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa filed a petition in the Indian Supreme Court seeking the declaration of the 1974 agreement between India and Sri Lanka on ceding Kachchativu to the latter as unconstitutional.

The Centre, however, said government of India had continuously emphasized to the Sri Lankan government that there was no justification for use of force against Indian fishermen even though almost all instances of alleged harassment of fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy occur in Sri Lankan waters.

A bench, comprising acting Chief Justice Satish K Agnihotri and Justice M M Sundresh, adjourned the matter by two weeks for further hearing.

PUNISH the TERRORISTS and SEPARATISTS for PAST and PRESENT CRIMES!

I have OFTEN called for the GOSL to PROSECUTE and PUNISH the Murderous LTTE cadre who have committed AWFUL crimes against the People of Sri Lanka, forgetting about the "RECONCILIATION" that is THRUST upon Sri Lanka by its International Critics.

I have maintained that the ONLY RECONCILIATION needed is to bring these CRIMINALS to Book, for every Sri Lankan murdered by them CRIES OUT FOR JUSTICE!

Finally, since the International Critics who hound Sri Lanka with "War Crimes Investigations" do not RECOGNIZE the conciliatory posture the GOSL had adopted, and its drive to make life better for the LIVING in Sri Lanka, FORGIVING even those who committed those crimes, the GOSL now seems to be following the path I have LONG ADVOCATED: Bringing those Murderers to Book!

Allowing Murderers to run scot free only ENCOURAGES them, and their SEPARATIST TERRORISM SUPPORTERS, to CONTINUE and INTENSIFY their activities.

WAY TO GO, GOSL ... PURSUE them from PILLAR to POST! Jayawewa!

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Four Tamil Tiger cadres to be indicted for attacking Sri Lanka Air Force base

Colombopage.com

July 01, Colombo: Judiciary of Sri Lanka today permitted the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Police to indict four hardcore cadres of Tamil Tiger terrorist group Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for the attack on the Anuradhapura Air Force Base and massacre of soldiers.

The LTTE cadres are accused of killing 14 Air Force and Army personnel, completely destroying 10 aircraft and partly damaging another six.

The four suspects are to be indicted before Anuradhapura Special High Court.

High Court Judge Khema Swarnadhipathi also permitted the CID to amend the charges of one accused, R. Thaboruban.

Tamil Tigers launched an air and ground attack on the Anuradhapura Air Force Base on October 22, 2007. Two LTTE aircrafts dropped two bombs targeting the air base while a small group of Tigers infiltrated the air base and carried out a ground attack in the pre-dawn hours.

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Sri Lankan court remands LTTE suspects who shot down plane in 2000

ColomboPage.com

June 30, Colombo: A Sri Lankan court has ordered to further detain two cadres of the defeated Tamil Tiger terrorist group Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for bombing of a military aircraft 14 years ago.

The Anuradhapura Special High Court Judge Khema Swarnadhipathy has instructed to detain the suspected former cadres of the Missile Brigade of the Tiger organization till the 22nd of July.

The two LTTE cadres, Jegan alias Kulawan and Vallami alias Sinnathilakan, both residents of Irasathurai in Jaffna, are suspected of shooting down an Antonov-34 aircraft flying from Palaly to Ratmalana on the 30th of March over Anuradhapura killing at least 40 people including 4 Russians.

According to the police, the two LTTE suspects arrested two years ago in Kilinochchi had revealed that the rebels had fired missiles towards the aircraft from Wilpattu jungles. The Police have recovered parts of the missiles used in the attack.

The Anuradhapura Special High Court has issued orders to the officer in charge of the Terrorist Investigation Division to submit reports relating to the incident without delay.

Four Sri Lankan masters: From Mendis to Sangakkara, a look at a few iconic batsmen who shaped Sri Lanka's cricket

By Ramachandra Guha

EspnCricInfo.com

June 28, 2014

	Aravinda de Silva had superb footwork and a wide range of strokes

 In 40 years of watching international cricket, one of the absolute highlights remains an innings I saw by the stocky Sri Lankan Duleep Mendis. It was played at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla ground in the first week of November 1975. Sri Lanka, who had not yet been awarded Test status, were touring India, and playing the North Zone in preparation for the unofficial "Tests" to follow. 

Mendis' father was a cricket fan, and named his son after KS Duleepsinhji, nephew of the immortal Ranji. Duleep, who - like his uncle - played for Cambridge University, Sussex, and England, was an artist with the bat, using skill and timing to great effect. His Sri Lankan namesake, however, relied more on brute power. On this day at the Kotla he took apart an outstanding attack, which included India's new-ball pair, Madan Lal and Mohinder Amarnath, and the great slow-left-arm spinner Bishan Bedi. Also bowling for North Zone was Rajinder Goel, a left-armer almost in the Bedi league, who would have played many Tests himself had his career not overlapped with the sardar's.

North Zone batted first, and scored 299. Sri Lanka lost some early wickets, but then Mendis restored his side's self-respect. He scored a brilliant hundred, cutting and pulling, driving and sweeping. It was a blistering exhibition of batsmanship. Some of the strokes he played that day remained imprinted on my memory; among them a lofted cover drive off Bedi that traced an arc against the sky before running over the boundary for four.

Sri Lanka were granted official Test status in 1982. Two years later, they played their first Test in England. I followed the match on the radio, listening as Mendis displayed his wares at the Home of Cricket. A sparse Lord's crowd watched him tear into the England attack, making a meal in particular of Ian Botham. If memory serves, he reached his hundred with a four and a six, both hit off Botham. (The allrounder's figures, which I have just checked, were 29-6-114-1.) Botham got his revenge the second time around. Mendis had reached 94, with nine fours and three sixes, when he attempted to repeat his first-innings feat, and was caught in the deep off Botham.

There were fine Sri Lankan batsmen before Mendis. They included FC De Saram of the 1930s, M Sathasivam of the 1940s, Gamini Goonesena of the 1950s, and Michael Tissera of the 1960s. However, these distinguished precursors were not lucky enough to play Test cricket themselves. Mendis himself was already 30 years old when Sri Lanka were granted Test status. Those who go by statistics may reckon his record to be modest - his Test average is 31.64 - but as the first Sri Lankan to confront and tame high-class bowling attacks he set an inspiring example. 

For me, Mendis will always remain special, for the century I watched at the Kotla in 1975 and for the two knocks at Lord's I heard on the radio nine years later. For those too young to have seen him in the flesh, there are some decent clips on YouTube, including this one from a Kandy Test against Australia, where you can see Mendis cutting and pulling Dennis Lillee, one of the greatest fast bowlers who ever drew breath.

	Both are world-class players: Mahela, silky and elegant, cutting and cover-driving; Kumar, brisk and efficient, working the ball off his legs and slashing it past point

Making his debut in the Lord's Test where Mendis savaged Botham was a young man named Aravinda de Silva. In build he was not unlike his senior. He lacked Mendis' raw power but had a wider range of strokes. His footwork was superb; reaching back into the crease to cut and pull the quicks, walking yards down the wicket to drive the spinners. 

 

Aravinda played some fantastic innings in Test cricket. But he is best remembered, perhaps, for what he did in the semi-final and final of the 1996 World Cup. The first of these matches was played at the Eden Gardens. Sri Lanka made a disastrous start, losing their (previously prolific) openers with one run on the board. Aravinda walked briskly in, and immediately took control. He attacked Javagal Srinath (who had taken those two early wickets), while his mastery of Anil Kumble was complete. A flurry of boundaries all around the wicket ensued.

Aravinda seemed set for a hundred, till, against the run of play, a fast googly from Kumble breached his defences. By then, with his 66 off 47 balls, with 14 fours, he had decisively shifted the balance towards his side. The lower middle order consolidated his achievement, so that Sri Lanka finally got to 251, a total India never remotely looked like getting. 

In the final, Sri Lanka were very much the underdogs. The mighty Australians batted first, hoping to get 300-plus. They were restricted to 241 in part because Aravinda, bowling his rather harmless-looking offbreaks, took three wickets (Mark Taylor and Ricky Ponting among them). Even so, an attack led by Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne might have been expected to easily defend that total. And so it looked when the Sri Lankan openers once more fell early. Aravinda walked in at 23 for 2. This time, he started slowly, but once he got his feet moving the strokes began to flow. He scored a controlled hundred, in which he showed he could handle Shane Warne even better than he had Kumble. (Warne's figures were 10-0-58-0.) 

Among Aravinda's gifted contemporaries were Sanath Jayasuriya and Arjuna Ranatunga. His (even more) gifted successors are Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. Both are world-class players: Mahela, silky and elegant, cutting and cover-driving; Kumar, brisk and efficient, working the ball off his legs and slashing it past point. For the last decade (and more) they have held Sri Lanka's batting together. Mahela is also an excellent slip; Sanga, a high-quality wicketkeeper. 

I heard about Mendis and Aravinda on the radio in 1984; now, for the most recent Lord's Test, I watched Mahela and Sanga on the telly. In the first innings, the Old Firm put on a century partnership, Mahela getting out at 55, but his friend and partner going on to score a chanceless 147. Sangakkara got a half-century in the second innings too; without him, Sri Lanka would never have saved the Test. Both batsmen also batted well in the second Test of the series, which, like the first, had a thrilling finish, Sri Lanka getting the last England wicket in the final over of the match. 

Jayawardene appears to be an immensely likeable man. His mate is nice enough but really stands out for his intellect. Sangakkara is - and not just for a cricketer - unusually thoughtful, well-read and wise. These attributes are all present in the 2011 MCC Spirit of Cricket Lecture he gave at Lord's, where he ranged widely over history, sport and politics.

	Kumar Sangakkara: thoughtful, well-read and wise © AFP Enlarge

Halfway through his Lord's lecture, Sangakkara referred to the pogrom against Tamils in Colombo in 1983, remembering that his own, proudly non-sectarian family, gave refuge to 35 Tamil friends. Towards the end of the lecture, he returned to the theme of inter-faith and inter-community harmony. When he played cricket for Sri Lanka, said Sanga: "With me are all my people. I am Tamil, Sinhalese, Muslim and Burgher. I am a Buddhist, a Hindu, a follower of Islam and Christianity." 

Sangakkara gave his Lord's lecture on July 4, 2011. On the last day of the same month I was in Colombo, speaking in memory of Neelan Tiruchelvam, a remarkable lawyer-scholar who lived (and died) for the cause of racial and religious tolerance. In the course of my talk I mentioned Sangakkara's MCC lecture, adding that no Indian cricketer, dead or alive, could have spoken with such intelligence or empathy. I was being utterly sincere - but perhaps I should have added that no English, Australian, West Indian, Pakistani or South African cricketer could have spoken like that either. 

The next day I was at a dinner where Sangakkara was also present. We hardly got to speak, but when we did, he said that among the things he most enjoyed on tours of my country was the opportunity to drink Old Monk. This further endeared him to me. A great batsman, a superb wicketkeeper, a passionate and truthful public speaker, and a lover of good, strong rum too. What a cricketer, what a man. 

This article first appeared in the Kolkata Telegraph

Historian and cricket writer Ramachandra Guha is the author of A Corner of A Foreign Field and Wickets in the East among other books


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Lasith Malinga's debut in International Cricket

SportsKeeda.com

Jul 1 2014

Lasith Malinga’s debut was a dream one for him personally. Malinga or Slinga as his fans call him is the name that most batsmen dread, in the final overs of a T-20 or even an ODI. The ferocious Sri Lankan known for his ability to take hattricks and torture batsmen with an ability to bowl 6 yorkers in an over is one of the most unique bowlers of our era. His uniqueness starts from his unusual slinging action which, according to him, evolved this way as a result of playing tennis ball cricket which offers no margin for error. Now Malinga is a star but let’s take a look at the circumstances when he started playing International cricket.

Slinga

Unlike most players of this generation, Malinga started his career by playing in a Test match rather than an ODI. Despite being a big name in the Sri Lankan domestic circuit, he was a surprise starter in the Sri Lankan squad in their tour of Australia. He impressed right away by bowling out Gilchrist and Lehmann in the same over. He ended up with 6 wickets in the match  played between 1-3 July 2004 ,and despite Lanka’s loss, Gilchrist gave him one of the match stumps after the match. He destroyed New Zealand’s batting in the Tests played soon after. Over time he decided to retire from Tests in order to prolong his ODI and T20 career as his action makes him vulnerable to injuries and takes a toll on his back due to his tendency to bowl yorkers and bouncers at more than normal frequency.

In ODIs, he debuted against UAE on 17th July 2004 and took 1 wicket aiding Sri Lanka in a comfortable victory over the minnows. Malinga’s career trajectory has been dramatically different in ODIs than Tests and he has never looked back since his debut in the shorter format of the game. His control over yorkers and bouncers, which he bowls almost at will makes him the most difficult bowler to face in the end overs of any limited overs game. Add to that a menacing pace of over 140 kmph and the ability to bowl slower balls with great control for an express bowler working in that speed range and you have a nighmare on your hands if you are a batsman. He also uses his cleverly disguised slow off-cutter to perfection. Apart from this, he seems to have a penchant for taking consecutive wickets. He’s the only bowler to have taken 4 hat-tricks in ODIs and the first and only one to have taken 4 wickets in 4 consecutive balls. This deadly trait of his has made him an indespensable weapon in T20s which the Mumbai Indians use to the point of over-dependence. With a world-cup coming, it remains to be seen if Malinga weaves his magic yet again.

President inaugurates program to set up 250 technology laboratories at schools in Sri Lank

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
 
 




June 02, Colombo: Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa today inaugurated a program to construct 250 Mahindodaya Technology Laboratories at the island's schools to teach the newly introduced technology stream for GCE advanced level.

The inauguration ceremony was held today at the Lumbini Maha Vidyalaya in Colombo to vest the first laboratory to be established under the program. Construction of the laboratories will commence from today at 250 selected schools in the country under the 1000 Mahindodaya Schools concept.


The Technology Laboratories are aimed at teaching the engineering and technology skills needed for students who are pursuing the technology curriculum for the GCE Advanced level.

Speaking at the event, the President said there is a major competition to enter popular schools and there is also a competition to enter schools in which technical laboratories have been established.

He said the government takes the responsibility of providing education to all in the process of granting a systematic education to suit the country and it is a right that should be enjoyed by all the children of the country.

Secretary of the Education Ministry Anura Dissanayake has said that 25 million rupees will be allocated for each laboratory and needed technical equipment will also be provided for the laboratories.

A total of 15 billion rupees will be spent on the program, and the funding will come from the Asian Development Bank and the Treasury. It is expected to complete all construction activities within 5 months.

Education Minister Bandula Gunawardena, Deputy Minister Mohanlal Grero and parliamentarians Thilanga Sumathipala and Duminda Silva were among those present on the occasion.

(Photos by Nishanka de Silva)

Sri Lankan President congratulates Prime Minister Modi

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.




May 26, New Delhi: Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa was among the leaders of South Asian nations who attended the swearing-in ceremony of new Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi.
Along with Sri Lankan President, Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai, Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Nepal Prime Minister Sushil Koirala and Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom attended the ceremony while Bangladesh was represented by Speaker Shirin Chaudhury. Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam was also present at the occasion. (Photos by Chandana Perera)

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Text of Narendra Modi’s speech at Central Hall of Parliament

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  PTI Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi addresses the BJP parliamentary party meeting at the Central Hall of Parliament on Tuesday. Photo: PTI
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  PTI Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi gets emotional while addressing the BJP parliamentary party meeting at the Central Hall of Parliament on Tuesday. Photo: PTI

Translated excerpts of Narendra Modi’s speech, delivered extempore in Hindi, at the Central Hall of Parliament on May 20, 2014: 

Respected Advaniji, our national president Rajnathji and all Chief Ministers of Bharatiya Janata Party and newly elected members, I am grateful to all of you for having unanimously given me a new responsibility. I am thankful and grateful, particularly to Advaniji and Rajnathji as they have given me blessings. 

I was thinking of Atalji’s health. Had his health been good, he would have been with us today and his presence would have completed this moment. His blessings are with us and will be with us in future. 

We are here in the temple of democracy. We will work with all purity... not for the post but the people of the country. Work and responsibility are the biggest things. I accept the responsibility you have reposed in me.

For me post is not important, I have not considered that post is important in life but in my view responsibility is the bigger thing. 

We will have to dedicate ourselves to fulfill this responsibility. In last September 13, 2013, the BJP parliamentary board gave a responsibility to me and from September 15, I started my work and with full sense of responsibility of a worker. The parishram yagya, which I began at that time and when the campaigning ended on May 10, 2014, I rang up my president and wanted to meet him before going to Ahmedabad. He asked if I was not tired and needed a break but I insisted on reporting to him as the responsibility given to me had been completed on May 10. 

And like a disciplined solider I reported to my president that from September 13 to May 10, I have tried to fulfill my responsibility to the best of my ability. In this campaign, I had to cancel only one event and that too in Ghosi where our district president had died suddenly. 

And I told him that as a loyal and committed worker, I am reporting to you on this sacred land. Whatever was given to me, I have tried to do and fulfill the role of a party worker. 

After I became Chief Minister, I saw Chief Minister’s chamber for the first time. Today also it is the same situation as I have come to this historic Central Hall for the first time. 

I salute all freedom fighters and also salute makers of the Constitution of our country as because of them, the world is witnessing the power of democracy. When global leaders called me, I told them about millions of voters of India. They were surprised. It is the power of our Constitution that a poor person belonging to a poor and deprived family is standing here today. This is the power of our Constitution and hallmark of our democratic elections that a common citizen can also reach this height. The BJP’s victory and somebody else’s loss is a point for debate later. Citizens have realised that this democratic setup can fulfill their aspirations. Their faith in democracy has strengthened further. 

A government is a one which thinks about the poor, listens to the poor and which exists for the poor. Therefore, the new government is dedicated to the poor, millions of youth and mothers and daughters who are striving for their respect and honour. Villagers, farmers, Dalits and the oppressed, this government is for them, for their aspirations and this is our responsibility. And this is our responsibility. I have seen new facets

of our country in my campaign. I have seen people who had only one piece of clothing on their body but had the BJP’s flag. This section is looking at us with hope and aspirations. And therefore, our dream is to fulfill their dreams. 

Advaniji has used, I would urge Advaniji not to use that word. He said that Narendra Bhai has done him kripa.

(Breaks down and there is a pause for a few moments)

 

Please don’t use this word. Can a son ever do his mother kripa? It can never be. Like India is my mother, the same way the BJP is also my mother. And therefore, a son can never do kripa, he can only dedicatedly serve his mother. Kripa is by the party, it has done me the favour of giving me an opportunity to serve it. 

Various governments in the past tried to do some good work in their own way for which they deserve appreciation. Whatever good has happened, we will carry it forward. We will give something to the country. People should not become pessimistic. I have not seen television and media, everyone has been analysing this verdict… people have voted for hope. This verdict is of hope. I had said earlier that this election is of hope. 

A new hope has arisen in the common man. This is the biggest significance of this election results.

But by giving the BJP an absolute majority they have voted for hope and trust. People have voted for hope and faith and I will do everything to fulfill their aspirations. There should be no room for pessimism and because with pessimism nothing can be achieved. The government’s motto will be to be with everyone and for everyone’s development. This is the time for new hope and strength. 

An era of responsibility has begun. In 2019, I will meet the MPs again with a report card. My government is not for myself but for the country. The government is for the poor and we want to do something for them.

I will strive my best to fulfill the responsibility you have reposed in me. You will never have to look down on the work it will do.

We were not fortunate to have died for the country, but for every citizen born in independent India, he should dedicate himself to live for the country. Every moment of our lives and every speck of our body should be dedicated to 125 crore people of this country, we have to carry this dream. The country will then progress rapidly.

I am by nature an optimist. It is written in my DNA. Disappointment does not just gel with me. On this occasion, I wish to repeat what I had said in my speech in a college here. Just see this glass of water, some say that it is half filled with water and some say it is half empty. My thinking is of third type. I say this glass is half filled with water and half with air. You may be seeing it half empty but I don’t see it that way. That’s why I say that I am by nature an optimist. And for traversing a constructive path, it is important and essential to be an optimist. Only an optimistic person can bring and instill hope in the country. Pessimistic persons can never give hope to the country. Adverse times and hardships do come in everybody’s life. In 2001 when earthquake struck Gujarat, we were all stricken by death and there was destruction everywhere. Everyone the world over thought it was all over. But in no time, Gujarat once again stood up on its feet. We will have to leave pessimism behind. Who says that such an aware democratic country — the largest in the world cannot move forward? If 125 crore Indians resolve to take one step forward, the entire country will travel 125 crore steps forward. 

Which is the other country in the world which has six seasons? This land of ours is blessed, our land is fertile, full of natural resources. People from our country go abroad and earn name and fame, we only have to give opportunity to them here.

In this election, we stressed on two things — sabka saath, sabka vikas. We want everyone’s progress and development but it is as important that we take everybody along with us. This election symbolised new hope, I have such able colleagues with me and with guidance from my senior leaders, I have full faith that the responsibility which was given to me on September 13, 2013 and which was completed on May 16, 2014 and with the new responsibility given to me today, I assure you that when we meet in 2019, I will place before you my report card. I will try and achieve the pinnacle of perseverance and hard work. 

The coming year 2015-16 is important to us all, it will be Pandit Deendayal Updhyaya’s centenary year, chairaveti, chairevetimantra was given by him and this led to establishing a system of sacrifice and hard work. We have to think about how to fulfill his dreams and work and strive to fulfill them. Party and the government should also think about this as to how to celebrate this coming event. Antyodaya, the service of the downtrodden, that is what Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya had stressed. That is why I say that this government is for the poor and deprived. In global perspective also, this election of India and its results are being viewed in a very constructive and positive manner. And the first message that goes out to the world is that it is not important that millions of people have made some party victorious or made someone a prime minister. But it is important that millions have given a good mandate and have held India’s position high in the world that is the message of these elections. Who won and who lost is not important. These are the results which will attract the world to India and to its democratic traditions, and capabilities. Hope has been kindled in a common citizen of India and the same hope has arisen in humanitarian forces in the world. This is a very good sign. 

Brothers and sisters, once again I express my gratitude to millions of workers who have toiled hard for this victory. Modi which is before you and which you can see is because Modi is hoisted by senior leaders of my party on their shoulders. Whatever we have achieved today, is because of sacrifices made by past five generations. Jan Sangh was not known to the people, some thought it is a social, cultural organisation. Today, I salute all those generations who made sacrifices for nationalist causes. We should not forget that we are here today because of sacrifices made by the past generations. This victory is of millions of our workers. If we think like this, there will not be any opportunity for our society and party to have any complaints. BJP is the party which relies on its strong organisation, that is our strength and none of us is either away or above the organisation. 

You have given me this new responsibility, Advaniji has given me blessings. You have reposed faith in me and have expectations from me and I assure you that you will not have any occasion of feeling let down. Once again, I thank you all.

Sri Lanka celebrates victory over terrorism with a grand parade

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

 
May 18, Matara: Sri Lanka today staged an extravagant military parade to celebrate the monumental victory over the terrorist war waged by the Tamil Tiger rebels for three decades.
The victory celebrations presided by the President Mahinda Rajapaksa were held at Southern city of Matara with the participation of the Prime Minister D. M. Jayaratne, armed forces commanders, Defense Secretary, government ministers and other political leaders, the diplomatic core and other dignitaries.

The three armed forces - Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air Force, police and Civil Defense Force paraded along the streets of Matara town. Highlight of the military parade was the wheel chair parade of the disabled soldiers.

The parade included 3,734 army, 1,189 navy, 1,100 air force, 643 police and 578 civil defense personnel of other ranks and 24 paratroopers of all the forces.

(Photos by Sudath Silva)

It is Modi all the way…

By Varghese K George
TheHindu.com
May 16, 2014

As trends from across the country emerge, it is clear that Narendra Modi will be the next prime minister of India. With leads in 530 of the 543 seats available, the BJP and its allies were leading in nearly 313 seats, much more than the halfway mark.

What appears also clear by 11 am, within three hours after the counting begun, is that the BJP is headed for a historic victory and the Congress towards a catastrophic failure. The BJP appears sweeping Gujarat, Delhi, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while Congress mascot Rahul Gandhi faces a tough battle in home constituency Amethi. Mr Gandhi is trailing behind his BJP opponent Smriti Irani in early counting rounds, while SP supremo Mulayam Singh just may lose in Azamgarh.

Not only has the BJP consolidated in its strongholds such as Gujarat and Rajasthan, it has emerged from the ashes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh and blazed a new trail in unlikely states such as West Bengal and Assam. The BJP also was leading in one seat in Kerala – a state where the party had marginal presence.

With the stamp of Mr Modi writ all over the outcome, the Gujarat strongman has emerged as a pan-Indian leader, who has overcome barriers of geography, caste, class and demography to stitch together an alliance that catapulted the saffron party to an impressive victory. Early last year, when he took over the reins of the BJP campaign, it was gasping for survival, but what followed has perhaps changed the political landscape of India.

The process of government formation will kick in with the election commissioners meeting the president of India on 19th evening to present him the results of the 16th general elections. The BJP parliamentary party will elect him the leader soon after and the swearing in could be expected on 23rd or 24th of May.

Equally startling as the BJP victory is the comprehensive defeat of the Congress that has been at the head of the government for the last 10 years. There appeared hardly any state other than Kerala, where the party was expected to hold on to a respectable presence. Party heavyweights ranging from Kapil Sibal to Kamal Nath and new entrants such as IT czar Nandan Nilekani appeared beaten at the hustings.

Sri Lanka has overcome many development challenges successfully - World Bank

The DEVELOPMENT PROGRESS the World Bank sees was IN PART made possible by the Funds Remitted by MILLIONS of patriotic Sri Lankan Expatriates to their families in Sri Lanka, who are out of sight but are NEVER out of their minds!
 
It is now TIME to enable them to GRADUALLY COME HOME in their old age to their well earned reward of living out their lives among their families, and contributing FURTHER to the development of their Motherland giving the last full measure of their devotion to their country.

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Sri Lanka has overcome many development challenges successfully - World Bank

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

May 09,Kandy: In the recent past Sri Lanka has been successful in overcoming many development challenges including moving people out of poverty and taking measures to boost shared prosperity, the World Bank said.

Addressing the South Asian Urban Transformation Workshop held in Kandy, in central Sri Lanka, World Bank Country Director for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Francoise Clottes said the country is now focusing on addressing new challenges involving bold decisions and transformational approaches.

The World Bank official said given the magnitude of the urbanization process, Sri Lankan cities will have tremendous opportunities for economic and social development while facing unprecedented policy challenges at the same time.

She said the urbanization also means greater pressure on land and housing as well as the entire networked infrastructure underlying the supply of basic urban services, leading to a rapid deterioration in a quality of life for their citizens.

"The challenge is to respond fast and efficiently," the official said.

Urban development is a relatively new area of engagement for the World Bank, supported by the first IBRD loan to Sri Lanka in 2012 to regenerate Sri Lanka's urban areas.

The Metro Colombo Urban Development project is currently helping the Colombo Metropolitan Region to address obstacles to realizing its full economic potential, including inadequate infrastructure and services and significant vulnerability to flooding

The World Bank is also extending its support to Sri Lankan government in the urban sector through a second large project which was approved by the World Bank Board 3 days ago- the Strategic Cities Development Project, which focuses on urban services improvement in two cities: Kandy and Galle.

Sri Lanka is taking important steps to implement its urban vision, including connectivity improvements, urban renewal and sustainable initiatives in its strategic cities, according to the World Bank official.

"The Bank will stand ready to provide support to understand the economic drivers of rapidly growing cities," she said.

"Fostering economic growth in major urban centers outside of Colombo should produce a more spatially balanced contribution to the economic opportunities and bolster shared prosperity and overall national economic growth."

Ms. Clottes said the Sri Lankan government is not only aware of issues connected with urbanization but also provides the space to deliberate and find means of addressing these issues.

DISMISS the NPC, REPEAL the 13th Amendment and PROSECUTE the TRAITORS who oppose BANNING Eelamist Terrorist Groups!

 By Ananda-USA

The NPC passing a resolution opposing the recent GOSL ban on Separatist Terrorist groups abroad, is CLEAR EVIDENCE of TREASON against Sri Lanka.

What is the GOSL still waiting for?

Declare it TREASON by UNREPENTANT DEDICATED TERRORIST SUPPORTERS, DISMISS the NPC, REPEAL the 13th Amendment as INIMICAL to Sri Lanka's National Security and Sovereignty, and ENFORCE the 6th Amendment by ARRESTING, PROSECUTING, CONVICTING and SEVERELY PUNISHING these terrorist hoodlums for their TREASONOUS activities during the last 30 years that is STILL continuing in FULL SWING!

What more EVIDENCE of TREASONOUS INTENT do you need?

It is CLEAR that empowering these SEPARATIST TRAITORS to CONSPIRE with Sri Lanka's enemies both WITHIN and WITHOUT, will ultimately DESTROY Sri Lanka.

GOSL ... uphold your duty to Defend and Protect the Nation and its People NOW!

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Northern PC passes resolution opposing Sri Lankan government's ban on pro-LTTE organizations

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

Apr 29, Colombo: The Northern Provincial Council in Sri Lanka has adopted a resolution against the government's decision to proscribe 16 international Tamil diaspora organizations alleged of functioning as LTTE front organizations.

The Council controlled by the major Tamil party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Monday passed 23 resolutions including a resolution demanding the government to withdraw the ban on the 16 overseas Tamil organizations.

The resolution moved by the Council member M.K. Sivajilingam has been passed unanimously.

However Provincial Councilor A. Jayathilaka has told local media that the UPFA members in opposition objected to the TNA resolution.

The government on April 01 signed the UN Resolution 1373, which sets out strategies to combat terrorism and to control terrorist financing.

Among the organizations proscribed are, the LTTE's Trans National Government of Tamil Eelam (TGTE) headed by New York lawyer Visuvanathan Ruthirakumaran, Global Tamil Forum (GTF), which is headed by Fr.SJ Emmanuel and active in Europe, and the UK-based British Tamil Forum (BTF).

The Tamil groups claims the government banned the diaspora groups to thwart the international investigation into Sri Lanka's alleged human right violations requested by the UN resolution.

Sivajilingam said that also a resolution to thank the countries that supported the US-sponsored resolution on Sri Lanka adopted at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva last month.

Australia says co-operation with Sri Lanka to prevent people smuggling is a success

At least ONE country, Australia, recognizes that Sri Lanka has been, and wants to be, a good law-abiding supportive friend to other neighboring countries, despite all the BS that self serving advocates of illegal immigration in the Eelamist Tamil Diaspora have dished out! 

They recognize the ESSENTIAL TRUTH: no country that allows its Laws to be Flouted at Will can LONG ENDURE!

Jayawewa, Sri Lanka! STAY THE COURSE!
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Australia says co-operation with Sri Lanka to prevent people smuggling is a success

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

Apr 24, Canberra: The Australian government says it is engaging proactively and positively with Sri Lanka to prevent the illegal migration of people through the sea route and the measures taken in cooperation with Sri Lanka are successful in reducing the number of people illegally entering its borders.

In an interview with a radio program Australian Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Scott Morrison said the Australian government is cooperating with Sri Lanka to ensure that the island nation has the necessary means to ensure the integrity of its borders, which ensure integrity of his country's borders.

He was responding to a media query about the patrol vessel gifted to Sri Lanka to assist the anti-people smuggling operations.

Australia Tuesday signed the deed for the transfer of one of the two Bay Class patrol vessels it promised to gift to Sri Lanka by the Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott when he visited Sri Lanka last November to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Colombo.

The first of the two boats has already left Cairns port and the other one will be delivered in July, the Minister said.

Responding to the concerns regarding returning the illegal migrants back to Sri Lanka promptly, Morrison said the measure is to ensure that people don't take the dangerous sea voyage all the way to Australia.

He noted that thousands have been repatriated back to Sri Lanka and the international organizations such as UNHCR and IOM are there to provide assistance to the people.

"Well India is about 30km away and you can almost walk there on high tide. In Sri Lanka the UNHCR is there, other international organizations are there, the IOM, there have been thousands of people repatriated back into Sri Lanka over the last few years and it is many years since the Sri Lankan civil war ended now and what we're seeing is real progress," the Minister commented.

The Minister noted that large number of Sri Lankans have arrived through legitimate migration pathways as skilled migration and family migration and rubbished the suggestion that only resort people have in Sri Lanka to come to Australia is illegally by sea.

"We have a legitimate migration program and if people want to engage that legitimate migration program then the evidence is there that if you've got a skill and you've got a basis to be able to come here legitimately then that is being demonstrated to be possible," he said.

Dismissing the concerns expressed by the UNHCR on Australia's policy of turning back the illegal migrants without considering their cases, the Australian Minister said the policy is a success and it is not only good for Australia but also good for the region since the policy curtails the migration and prevents the deaths of the migrants at sea.

Attempts to revive Tamil Tiger terrorist organization in Sri Lanka surface

ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

Apr 12, Colombo: Sri Lanka’s military authorities say there is a renewed attempt to revive the defeated Tamil Tiger terrorist organization Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the North to launch another phase of its struggle for a separate state.

The military in a statement reveled that information on several key suspects who were leading the campaign for resurgence of the LTTE surfaced in the general area of Pallai in the Jaffna Peninsula.

Investigations into the activities of former LTTE operatives have resulted in several arrests which in turn have led to recovery of arms, ammunition, explosives and other material that were in their possession.

Investigations have revealed that the local group was functioning under the instructions of Europe-based LTTE leaders Nediyawan and Vinayagam who were preparing the ground for another armed struggle.

Immediate objectives of the local group included the recovery or war like material dumped by the LTTE during retreat, re-establishment of LTTE intelligence network, regrouping of the potential cadre including those rehabilitated, collecting information on potential targets including in other provinces, the military said.

Military Investigations have revealed that the funds for the subversive activities came from Europe using an illegal money laundering scheme in the subcontinent known as Hawala system. It has been found that many safe houses, vehicles and other resources required for resurgence of the LTTE had been procured by the suspected LTTE leaders using this money.

Three local leaders in the attempted resurgence of the LTTE were identified as Sundaralingam Kajeepan alias Thevihan, who was involved in aerial attacks on Anuradhapura Air Base and Kollonnawa Petroleum Storage in year 2007, Selvanayagam Kajeepan alias Gobi, and Navarathnam Navaneethan alias Appan.

All three LTTE operatives were shot dead by the security forces during the Thursday night’s search operation in the general area of Nedunkerni in Vavuniya.

Investigators have trailed the three suspects and made several arrests of second and third level cadres who were under the command of the three leader. However the main three had remained elusive.

On March 13 when a team of police and army officers zeroed in on Gobi, the leader, who was taking shelter at the residence of the Tamil activist Balendran Jeyakumari, shot at the police and escaped.

A search in Jeyakumari’s residence had found A Menelab F-3 type mine detector, and therefore, Ms. Jeyakumari was placed under arrest on suspicion of aiding and abetting Gobi in his activities.

The general area where the three leaders -Thevihan, Gobi and Appan -were hiding was identified. On 10 April 2014 troops in a search operation in the jungle area off Padaviya recovered four backpacks containing rations, medicine, cloths, and other items believed to be used by the suspects.

The troops have surrounded the identified area and in the early hours of Friday, April 11 the three armed suspects who attempted to escape the area clashed with the troops in the cordon. All three were killed and two of the dead were later identified as Thevihan and Gobi. The third is yet to be identified, but is believed to be that of Appan.

Sri Lanka police said 65 persons including 10 women were arrested in the past month under suspicion of attempting to resuscitate LTTE. Sri Lankan authorities recently arrested a senior LTTE cadre called Subramaniam Kapilan a.k.a. Nandigopal when he arrived at the Colombo airport following his deportation from Malaysia.

The government on April 01 banned the LTTE and 15 other Tamil diaspora groups that are alleged of having terror links and involved in reviving the terrorist movement in the country.

Military Spokesman Brigadier Ruwan Wanigasooriya said a volume of information on the whereabouts of the suspects came from the local people who did not approve of any attempt of resurgence of the LTTE and the information helped immensely in the investigations.

Judicial inquiry into the Friday’s incident is in progress, the Spokesman said.

In Pictures: President welcomes Sri Lanka's WorldT20 Cricket Champions

 ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
Apr 08, Colombo: 

 Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa welcomed the WorldT20 Cricket Cup winning Sri Lankan national team tonight at the Temple Trees.

The President congratulated the team and praised the players for bringing honor and fame to the country.

The team arrived Tuesday afternoon from Dhaka after their win on Sunday against India. The team was paraded from the Katunayake airport to the Galle Face in an open top double decker bus and millions of fans lined the streets to get a glimpse of the players. (Photos by Sudath Silva)

Say NO to Indian Interference in Sri Lanka's Internal Matters!

 By Ananda-USA
April 6, 2014

The Congress Party's Election Manifesto is STILL PANDERING to Tamil Nadu politicians, despite its ally, the DMK, having abandoned the Congress Party in the upcoming elections.

Just a few days ago, Indian High Commissioner Y. K. Sinha was harping on the  "full implementation of the 13th Amendment and going beyond and show concrete movement towards a meaningful devolution of powers".

Sri Lanka really needs to KICK India out of INTERFERING in Sri Lanka's internal matters, and to DRIVE A SPIKE into the heart of this "DEVOLUTION" demand by REPEALING the 13th Amendment and IMPLEMENTING the 6th Amendment to the Constitution without DELAY.

As long as Sri Lanka CONTINUES to mollycoddle the Tamil Separatists and their India backers, and give them hope that through DEVOLUTION OF POWER under the 13th Amendment they can GAIN through BLACKMAIL in PEACE what they FAILED to WIN by VIOLENCE in WAR, Sri Lanka will FOREVER be pursued by India trying to PLEASE its Tamil constituency.

This MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO CONTINUE!

Irrespective of WHICH PARTY comes to power in New Delhi (and it appears that a COALITION led by the BJP will do so), Sri Lanka needs to not only to TELL India, but DECISIVELY KICK India, out of our country. BTW, if a BJP-led coalition comes to power, the AIADMK led by Jayalalitha will most likely be a part of it, and Sri Lanka's troubles with India could WORSEN!

One way of getting the MESSAGE ACROSS, is to DO UNTO as DONE UNTO: by inviting Indian Separatists from Kashmir, Assam and elsewhere in India to Sri Lanka for Discussions on their GRIEVANCES, offering to use "Sri Lanka's GOOD OFFICES" on a CONTINUING BASIS to MEDIATE with the Government of India. After all, just as Sri Lankan Tamils have kinfolk in India, we Sri Lanka Sinhalese have kinfolk ALL over INdia, and we have a STAKE in resolving their OUTSTANDING GRIEVANCES ... Don't we?

The current approach of accepting one-way INTEFERENCE in Sri Lanka by India MUST END; let us make it a TWO WAY STREET!

FIRST and FOREMOST, the GOSL must get India out of its involvement in Reconstruction and REhabilitation of the North and East of Sri Lanka. They are just BUILDING a FIFTH COLUMN among the Tamil citizens of Sri Lanka. Limit Indians to ONLY THEIR EMBASSY in Colombo!

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The Indian Elections: What The Congress Party Has To Say About Foreign Policy

By Alyssa Ayres
Forbes.com
April4, 2014

This post is part of a series on the Indian elections.

With India’s national elections about to kick off on April 7, politics dominates the media and private conversations alike. Most of the conversation focuses on the poll horse race, at this point heavily favoring the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to win more than 200 of the 543 seats in the lower house of Parliament and form a coalition government. (Click here to learn three things to know about the upcoming elections).

Foreign policy, however, has been largely invisible throughout this campaign cycle, except for the contributions of the two main regional parties in Tamil Nadu, which have a long-standing and special focus on Sri Lanka. Of the two main national parties, only Congress has released its official manifesto so far, putting its foreign policy platform on view for all. (The BJP appears to be in an internal squabble about its manifesto, which was slated for an April 3 release but now may not come out until next week).

Chief of India's ruling Congress party Sonia Gandhi holds her party's manifesto for the April/May general election in New Delhi on March 26, 2014 (Adnan Abidi/Courtesy Reuters).

Chief of India’s ruling Congress party Sonia Gandhi holds her party’s manifesto for the April/May general election in New Delhi on March 26, 2014 (Adnan Abidi/Courtesy Reuters).

The Congress Party manifesto provides some important insights into how the party views India’s role in the world, and indeed how the party views India itself. For Congress, foreign policy comes at the very end of its 50-page platform document, and occupies less than two pages. The most striking aspect for an American reader is the absence of any specific reference to the United States—not one mention.

While the document prioritizes India’s role as a “critical bridge between the developed world and developing world,” and refers by name to China, Brazil, South Africa, Pakistan, Afghanistan, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and Sri Lanka, there’s not a hint of any specific interest in furthering ties with the United States beyond doing so as part of “building peaceful, stable and mutually beneficial relations with all major powers” as prioritized at the top of the foreign policy platform.

What the platform does emphasize at the very top, however, are the party’s commitments to contribute to global challenges like “climate change and sustainable development, non-proliferation, international trade and cross-border terrorism.” Its second and third priorities focus on support for an Indian seat on the UN Security Council, and in combating global terrorism.

At that point the document turns to describing India’s unique role in the world—using the “critical bridge” language, but additionally highlighting the “cumulative heritage of Non-Aligned Movement” (NAM) and pledges to “continue to support the goodwill nurtured for decades amongst socialist countries.” These elements come as something of a surprise given that they have no counterpart language in the platform situating India as a rising power, or more fully describing India’s interests and partnerships with the United States, European Union, Japan, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia or other powers with which India has strong ties. Given anticipation around the world for an India rising to global power, it’s worth noting that the Congress worldview appears focused on India as a “bridge” more than India as a “power.”

Within the region, as one might expect, the platform pledges to strengthen SAARC, resolve border differences with China, improve relations with Pakistan while “calibrating” according to Pakistani action in tackling terror and affirms support for Afghanistan’s peace process. The section on Sri Lanka is relatively detailed in comparison to other countries, committing to press for “full equality” for Sri Lanka’s Tamil minority as well as a credible inquiry into allegations of excesses at the end of the Sri Lankan civil war in 2009.

Although not included in the section on foreign policy, the Congress manifesto contains substantial attention to trade and economics, including a commitment to get back to eight percent growth, and a road map for the next half decade. The platform promises to promote “greater integration with the global economy” and encourage foreign direct investment.

The manifesto also pledges to “ensure that India has a globally competitive business and investment-friendly environment.” It specifically calls to improve India’s rank in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business index from its current 134 to 75 within five years. These are welcome words for foreign investors and governments supportive of enhancing trade and investment ties. They also serve as an acknowledgement that recent years—in a Congress-led government—have dampened perceptions of India.

Outside observers will be watching to see how the foreign policy discussion in India evolves further during the coming weeks, especially after the BJP releases its manifesto. In an effort to focus on foreign policy positions in the Indian elections, Mumbai’s Gateway House convened a panel discussion April 1 (watch the video here) which featured representatives of the BJP, Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party. I was delighted to participate as a discussant with some thoughts on what Americans have in mind as they await the outcome in India. As the April 1 panel proceeded, it appeared as if the three parties represented had similar positions on trade, UN Security Council, China and other issues—so the coming weeks and more fully articulated statements from all the parties on their foreign policy positions will be helpful.

For now, the Congress Party’s platform puts into writing an approach to the region consistent with its years in government. It’s the framing of India’s role in the world, however, that officially presents some ideas that sit less comfortably alongside the notion of India as a rising global power.




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India asks Sri Lanka to show concrete movement towards a meaningful devolution of power

 ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
 
Apr 05, Colombo: India has asked Sri Lanka to take forward the process of broader dialogue through full implementation of the 13th Amendment and going beyond and show concrete movement towards a meaningful devolution of powers.
Such move would greatly facilitate national reconciliation by building trust and confidence on all sides, India's top diplomat in Colombo said.

Indian High Commissioner Y. K. Sinha said New Delhi had also conveyed to Colombo on a number of occasions the need for expeditious steps towards genuine national reconciliation, including investigations into allegations of human rights violations, restoration of normalcy in affected areas, reduction of 'high security zones', satisfactorily addressing the issue of missing persons and the redressal of humanitarian concerns of the affected families.

Addressing the Foreign Correspondents Association in Colombo Friday, the Indian envoy said India's view is that the end of the armed conflict in Sri Lanka provided a unique opportunity to pursue a lasting political settlement within the framework of a united Sri Lanka, and acceptable to all the communities in the island, including the Tamils.

Welcoming the successful elections held for the Northern Provincial Council last year, the envoy urged both the government and the major Tamil party Tamil National Alliance (TNA) to engage constructively, "in a spirit of partnership and mutual accommodation", so that the urgent needs of the people of the Northern Province are addressed with a sense of urgency and purpose.

"Only such a cooperative approach will pave the way for genuine reconciliation amongst the communities involved," Mr. Sinha said.

Speaking about the trade between the two countries and the number of development projects India has funded in Sri Lanka, the envoy expressed confidence that India-Sri Lanka relations will expand exponentially in the coming years.

"It is our hope that the Government of Sri Lanka, recognizing the critical importance of genuine reconciliation, acts with vision and sagacity. We will remain engaged and offer our support in a spirit of partnership and cooperation," the High Commissioner noted.

Asian giants, several Latin American and Asian countries firmly behind Sri Lanka in Geneva

TheDailyNews.com
April 4, 2014

Several Asian, Latin American and African countries including Asian giants Russia and China yesterday condemned the High Commissioner for the United Nations Human Rights Council for exceeding her mandate in calling for an International investigative mechanism for Sri Lanka and for policticising the UNHRC to cater to the geo-polical interests of certain powerful countries.
The Venezuelan representative said the High Commissioner’ s report was the outcome of a highly politicised process during which Sri Lanka was not listened to. The head of the Russian delegation said the international community should recognize the achievements that has been made by Sri Lanka and “we condemn this attempt of trying to use Human Rights as a way of settling political accounts and achieving geopolitical advantage”.

Excerpts of comments:

Cuba

Example of the politicization of double standards

The report presented by the Human Rights Commissioner today is another example of the politicization of double standards that have taken root in the Council. The concluding recommendations in the report reflects the imbalance that prevails when dealing with Human Rights situations in the South. Despite the flaws of this process the Government of Sri Lanka has demonstrated its genuine commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights of its population. Sri Lanka has on several occasions made this Committee aware about the progress made and of different aspects of the national reconciliation process.

The Sri Lankan government has taken many measures and these have enabled them to make significant progress in the areas of rehabilitation, de-mining, resettlement, de-militarisation, reconstruction and development. All these measures are appreciable. The High Commissioners report does not acknowledge many achievements of Sri Lanka’s national reconciliation process nor does it recognise we have a commitment to support it. The message been sent by this action to other countries is a very negative one. The imposition of a so-called independent investigation in the country which has become so fashionable in recent times, does not acknowledge the internal process carried out by Sri Lanka.

Some will argue that the treatment meted out to Sri Lanka and the resolution on Sri Lanka will have one purpose, which is to the scale up the dialogue with the Sri Lankan government. Now this argument is not a credible one. This is not an issue which requires the attention of the Council. The treatment given to Sri Lanka will have a negative impact on the national reconciliation process which Sri Lanka is experiencing today. Cuba shall continue to support efforts made by Sri Lanka to promote and protect human rights.

Venezuela

Sri Lanka is making definite progress towards its national reconciliation

The report was the outcome of a highly politicised process during which the country concerned was not listened to. The report recommends that an international independent investigation mechanism be established. Venezuela will vote against this. Sri Lanka is making definite progress towards its national reconciliation and has prepared a national action plan stemming from the report of the LLRC.

There are 144 recommendations currently being implemented in relation to rehabilitation of former combatants, resettlement, reconstruction etc. Poverty reduction in the former conflict affected areas have been kept on par with national levels. The overall poverty in the country has been reduced. Doing so Sri Lanka has gone beyond its MDG’s. There has been no appreciation for the major efforts made by the Sri Lankan government to honour its human rights commitment since peace returned to the country in 2009. The report does not reflect this properly. Sri Lanka continues to prove it is seriously committed to work with the council. Venezuela rejects the attempts to interfere in the domestic process of Sri Lanka. We must uproot these interventionist, selective and the demonstration of double standards. The council must support the efforts of the Government of Sri Lanka.

Iran

The constructive engagement of Sri Lanka in the UPR mechanism as the most appropriate platform to address the human rights situations in all countries is admirable

We are of the view that the international community should support Sri Lanka in its endeavour to achieve full reconciliation. The council should appreciate the positive steps taken by the Government of Sri Lanka to host the official visit of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in August 2013 and the effective measures taken so far to address the accountability issues.

The constructive engagement of Sri Lanka in the UPR mechanism as the most appropriate platform to address the human rights situations in all countries is admirable. We oppose the politicization of human rights issues and taking up country’s specific issues. In this regard the Human Rights Council should engage the country concerned in a constructive manner and contribute to the improvement of human rights situation on the ground.

Zimbabwe

Sri Lanka continues to make significant progress on the reconciliation process and has regularly updated the council on such progress

Zimbabwe wishes to lend its support to the Government of Sri Lanka’s efforts to implement the provisions of resolution 2231 which is about promoting reconciliation and accountability in the country. It is clear that Sri Lanka continues to make significant progress on the reconciliation process and has regularly updated the council on such progress.

The recommendations of the resolution 2231 was to request the Government of Sri Lanka to implement the recommendations of the LLRC.

However, the High Commissioners report goes beyond this mandate by making reference to and recommendations on extraneous issues and its call for an inquiry by an international mechanism to investigate the alleged violations.

Sri Lanka’s cooperation with the OHCHR and mechanisms of the councils should be commended. Its goodwill is evident by the facilitation of the High Commissioners visit in August 2013, pursuant to an invitation extended by the government in 2011. It has also continued its engagement with all procedures exemplified by the visit in December 2013 by the special rapporteur of of human rights of internally displaced persons.

Zimbabwe calls on the Council to reciprocate Sri Lanka’s good will by encouraging rather than condemning as it goes about fulfilling its obligations.


  China

China supports Sri Lanka  to defend its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity

The Chinese delegation takes note the LLRC report in promoting reconciliation and accountability in Sri Lanka. China commends Sri Lanka efforts and achievements in promoting national reconciliation socio-economic development and promotion and protection of human rights including the efforts into investigating the allegation of violations of human rights and seeking justice. China welcomes the government of Sri Lanka to actually implement the recommendations of LLRC and put in place the National Action Plan to this end.
The Government of Sri Lanka has strengthened its cooperation with UN Human Rights mechanism and other relevant mechanism which should be recognized. China finds regrettable that the report fails to present comprehensively and objectively of the the achievements of the efforts by the Government of Sri Lanka It is only through constructive dialogue and cooperation that difference in the area of human rights can be settled and exerting pressure and confrontation make the issues more complicated.

China supports Sri Lanka to defend its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is convinced that the people of Sri Lanka have wisdom and capacity to solve their internal affairs. China requests all countries to respect the rights of the people and the government to deal with the internal affairs and understand the difficulties confronting Sri Lanka, give enough time and space to Sri Lanka to to implement international mechanism.

Bangladesh

Bangladesh recognizes Sri Lanka’s struggle to come out of the clutches of terrorism and bring peace and reconciliation to its people 

Bangladesh recognizes Sri Lanka’s struggle to come out of the clutches of terrorism and bring peace and reconciliation to its people. We recognize the positive steps taken so far in spite of the difficulties in a post war situation. Given the enormity of the challenges, the progress made so far cannot be ignored.
My delegation recognizes also Sri Lankan government’s willingness to engage constructively with the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms as shown by its extending invitations to several special rapporteur mandate holders while engaging with the other mandate holders and working groups.

We believe that due regard or recognition to the significant progresses made in the reconciliation process in Sri Lanka including the rigorous work undertaken since July 2012 in operationalising the recommendations of the National Action Plan for the implementation of the LLRC needs to be given by the Human Rights Council.

Considering its socio-economic constraints, which are common to many developing countries, Sri Lanka needs to be given the time and space and assistance and cooperation by the international community to implement its domestic process of reconciliation.

We also believe that any action taking in the promotion and protection of the human rights of the country must have the consent of that country, and based on the principles of cooperation and genuine dialogue and on the founding principles of universality, impartiality, non-selectivity which govern the work and functions of the Council as clearly delineated in GA resolution 60/251 and the IB package.

Having said that we also recognize that much remains to be done. We therefore while emphasizing on the need for a home grown political solution to this long standing dispute encourages Sri Lanka to look for durable solutions based on equity and inclusiveness. In doing so, we urge Sri Lanka to continue its efforts to uphold human rights.

 

Pakistan

Sri Lanka is a country with excellent democratic credentials 

My delegation believes in a culture of engagement for ensuring the promotion and protection of human rights. We believe that country specific initiatives are confrontational counter productive and seriously undermines the spirit of cooperation and coordination on important human rights issues.

We believe that the High Commissioner’s report is not balanced and and some of the elements including the recommendation to establish an international inquiry mechanism exceed the mandate granted by the Human Rights Council Resolution 22 /1 to the High Commissioner. We are also disappointed over the discriminatory approach followed by the OHCHR with regard to placement of Sri Lanka’s comments in response to the report on the extra-net.

Sri Lanka is a country with excellent democratic credentials. It has successfully overcome 30 years of brutal terrorism by the LTTE with external support. Now is the time for the international community to help the people in Sri Lanka to heal their wounds and not penalize them for defeating the LTTE at the behest of the people still continue to align themselves with these terrorist forces. There is also a need to acknowledge the commitment and cooperation extended by the government of Sri Lanka to the entire human rights machinery.

Since the end of the terrorist conflict in May 2009 Sri Lanka has continued to regularly and voluntarily engage with the council and with the missions based in Geneva on the progress in their reconciliation process.
Pakistan lauds the progress achieved by Sri Lanka in implementing the national plan of action and recommendations of the LLRC. As part of this continued engagement the High Commissioner undertook a week long visit to Sri Lanka from August 25-31, 2013 on the invitation of the government.

The government of Sri Lanka arranged a comprehensive program and provided unfettered access during the visit .She must refrain from advocating a course of action that will exaggerate the challenges that the Sri Lankan people are trying to overcome after 30 years of terrorist and separatist violence.

The international community should act as a facilitator for peace and stability and be part of the solution rather than the part of the problem. There is a dire need to comprehend and comprehensively address the enormous challenges being faced by Sri Lanka rather than penalizing the country for rooting out terrorism from its soil.
Russian Federation

Sri Lanka has undoubtedly achieved significant success in achieving national reconciliation while upholding all kinds of rights of the population

Russia has consistently opposed addressing the matter of Sri Lanka by the Council because we do not see objective reasons for doing this. In this connection, we cannot agree to many of the assessments made in the High Commissioner’s report which lie beyond her mandate and which could be interpreted as interference into domestic affairs of the state. We would like to once again underline that reports of this kind are supposed to help the normalization of the situation and not lead to an escalation of tension.

Sri Lanka is open to dialogue and in existing problems the country is pursuing its cooperation with the UNHRC. The High Commissioner’s visit, in the course of which she had unimpeded access to all areas of interest to her is a confirmation of this. Sri Lanka has undoubtedly achieved significant success in achieving national reconciliation while upholding all kinds of rights of the population. We would like to underline the recent democratic elections in the North of the country which saw the Tamils in the lead. Incidentally, these elections were only possible now that the terrorism has been beaten.

We welcome the government’s adoption of further 53 recommendations of the LLRC and we call on Colombo to continue its work to implement the National Action Plan to implement the Commission’s conclusions. The fact that for four years now we have not seen any explosions is the most convincing demonstration of the fact that the government’s domestic policy is addressing the interests of all the people in the country. The international community should recognize the achievements that has been achieved by the country and we condemn this attempt trying to use human rights as a way of settling political accounts and achieving geopolitical advantage. We consider that the process of national reconciliation should take place and implemented by the Sri Lankans themselves without the imposition of any so called assistance from outside. In this connection we disagree with the new draft resolution because it is far beyond the matters of reconciliation and is a direct interference in to domestic affairs of a sovereign state.


Uganda

The  international  community to assist and appreciate the achievement made by Sri Lanka

Uganda has taken on the report of reconciliation and accountability in Sri Lanka. We also take note that as a country which has emerged from decades long conflict, having defeated terrorism Sri Lanka has made commendable achievement in its effort at achieving reconciliation among its communities. There is need for the international community to assist and appreciate the achievement made by Sri Lanka and encourage Sri Lanka to continue to its persist rather than calling for international investigation. The report’s calls for an international investigation in to this situation has no basis.

We should be mindful that Sri land fought one of the most ruthless terrorist groups in the world. We therefore welcome the commitment shown by the Government of Sri Lanka for continuous engagement with the UN Human Rights Council by facilitating the visits of a number of the Human Rights Council Special rapporteurs and mandate holders. This manifests the importance given by the Government of Sri Lanka for its domestic reconciliation procedure while engaging with international community.

Uganda believes that special consideration should be given to countries that emerge from long time conflicts. Uganda welcomes the implementation of Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission recommendations through national action plan.

- See more at: http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=features/asian-giants-several-latin-american-and-asian-countries-firmly-behind-sri-lanka-geneva#sthash.062laesG.dpuf

PAKISTAN’S BITTER PILL FOR PILLAI

Country specific resolutions confrontational

Direct interference in domestic affairs of a sovereign state

Pakistan on Wednesday cautioned United Nations Human Rights Council High Commissioner Navy Pillai against taking action that will exaggerate the challenges that the people of Sri Lanka are trying to overcome after 30 years of separatist and terrorist violence.

During the interactive dialogue at the UNHRC sessions in Geneva, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN Ambassador Zamir Akram said country specific initiatives are confrontational, counter productive and seriously undermine the spirit of cooperation and coordination on important human rights issues.
“We believe that the High Commissioner’s report is not balanced and some of the elements including the recommendation to establish an international inquiry mechanism exceed the mandate granted by the Human Rights Council Resolution 22 /1 to the High Commissioner. “She must refrain from advocating a course of action that will exaggerate the challenges that the Sri Lankan people are trying to overcome after 30 years of terrorist and separatist violence.

The international community should act as a facilitator for peace and stability and be part of the solution rather than part of the problem. “We are also disappointed over the discriminatory approach followed by the OHCHR with regard to placement of Sri Lanka’s comments in response to the report on the extra-net”. “Now is the time for the international community to help the people of Sri Lanka to heal their wounds and not penalize them for defeating the LTTE, at the behest of the people still continuing to align themselves with these terrorist forces.

“There is a dire need to comprehend and comprehensively address the enormous challenges being faced by Sri Lanka rather than penalizing the country for rooting out terrorism from its soil. “Russia said it considers the process of national reconciliation should take place and implemented by the Sri Lankans themselves without the imposition of any so called assistance from outside”. “In this connection we disagree with the new draft resolution because it is far beyond the matters of reconciliation and is a direct interference in the domestic affairs of a sovereign state”. “We cannot agree to many of the assessments made in the High Commissioner’s report which lie beyond her mandate and which could be interpreted as interference into domestic affairs of a state.

We would like to once again underline that reports of this kind are supposed to help the normalization of the situation and not lead to an escalation of tension”. China said it regrets that the Hig Commissioner’s Report on Sri Lanka fails to present comprehensively and objectively the achievements of the Government of Sri Lanka .

“It is only through constructive dialogue and cooperation that differences in the area of human rights can be settled.”Exertintg pressure and confrontation makes the issue more complicated.

“China supports Sri Lanka to defend its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Cuba said the report presented by the Human Rights Commissioner is another example of the politicization of double standards that have taken root in the Council. The concluding recommendations in the report reflects the imbalance that prevails when dealing with Human rights situations in the South. Sri Lanka has on several occasions made this Committee aware about the progress made and of different aspects of the national reconciliation process.

The Sri Lankan government has taken many measures and these have enabled them to make significant progress in the areas of rehabilitation, Deming, resettlement, De-militarisation, reconstruction and development. All these measures are appreciable.

The High Commissioners report does not acknowledge many achievements of Sri Lanka’s national reconciliation process. Zimbabwe said Resolution 22/1 was to request the Government of Sri Lanka to implement the recommendations of the LLRC. However the High Commissioner’s Report goes beyond this mandate by making reference to and recommendations on extraneous issues.

Bangladesh said it believes due recognition and regard should be given to the significant progress made in the reconciliation process in Sri Lanka including the rigorous work undertaken since July 2012 in operationalizing the recommendations of the National Action Plan for the implementation of the LLRC.

- See more at: http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=local/pakistans-bitter-pill-pillai#sthash.9J18uXXk.dpuf

Who really supported the US Resolution against Sri Lanka?

 

In Favour – 23 countries – Total Population – 1, 166, 795 , 285

Against  – 12 Countries – Total Population -  1, 928, 669,135

Abstentions – 12 Countries – Total Population – 1, 993 569, 625

Conclusion

The majority in terms of world’s population is with Sri Lanka

Source: Daily Mirror