Friday, November 30, 2007
Police cracks down on LTTE supporters
The Tamil Nadu police have taken a stern view of LTTE sympathisers in the state. They have warned supporters against showing solidarity of any kind with the rebel outfit, even issuing an advertisement in the papers warning against holding rallies, condolence meetings or any other action that would appear to support the LTTE.
After top LTTE leader Thamilselvan was killed by Sri Lankan military earlier this month, the state saw rallies on the streets with MDMK leader Vaiko leading the demonstration to pay homage to the deceased leader. Though Vaiko and Nedumaran were arrested, this did not stop Tamil nationalists.
Large hoardings sprang up on roadsides to mourn the death of LTTE's top negotiator, while prayers and condolence meetings were held at street corners.
Such support for a LTTE man has made the Tamil Nadu police sit up. They have now put out an advertisement directing the pubilc to stop showing solidarity with the LTEE.
According to the notice, any action supporting banned organisations - by individuals or organisations - will be punished. The advertisement says rallies, condolence meetings or any other action supporting banned organisations by individuals or organisations will be punishable under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.
Read more,
http://www.timesnow.tv/NewsDtls.aspx?NewsID=4603
After top LTTE leader Thamilselvan was killed by Sri Lankan military earlier this month, the state saw rallies on the streets with MDMK leader Vaiko leading the demonstration to pay homage to the deceased leader. Though Vaiko and Nedumaran were arrested, this did not stop Tamil nationalists.
Large hoardings sprang up on roadsides to mourn the death of LTTE's top negotiator, while prayers and condolence meetings were held at street corners.
Such support for a LTTE man has made the Tamil Nadu police sit up. They have now put out an advertisement directing the pubilc to stop showing solidarity with the LTEE.
According to the notice, any action supporting banned organisations - by individuals or organisations - will be punished. The advertisement says rallies, condolence meetings or any other action supporting banned organisations by individuals or organisations will be punishable under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.
Read more,
http://www.timesnow.tv/NewsDtls.aspx?NewsID=4603
Hijacking 'Human rights' to trample others' rights
The tragedy of human rights today is that there is an army of professionals in NGOs and academia labouring to manufacture arguments in defence of terrorism, elevating it to a level higher than that of its victims.
Veteran Journalist and Asian Tribune Editorial Adviser H.L.D. Mahindapala made this observation yesterday (Nov. 29) delivering the D.A. Rajapaksa Commemorative Oration at the BMICH, Colombo today (Nov. 29).
He said:
"Every exploding point on the globe has become the happy hunting ground of these hired professionals in NGOs and academia who are skilled in blurring the lines of human rights. Armed with theories of human rights these professionals trot the globe professing to be holier-than-the state. But their morality is wearing thin because they are seen increasingly as hired agents serving political goals of the power-brokers in the West " .....
Read more,
http://www.asiantribune.com/index.php?q=node/8494
Veteran Journalist and Asian Tribune Editorial Adviser H.L.D. Mahindapala made this observation yesterday (Nov. 29) delivering the D.A. Rajapaksa Commemorative Oration at the BMICH, Colombo today (Nov. 29).
He said:
"Every exploding point on the globe has become the happy hunting ground of these hired professionals in NGOs and academia who are skilled in blurring the lines of human rights. Armed with theories of human rights these professionals trot the globe professing to be holier-than-the state. But their morality is wearing thin because they are seen increasingly as hired agents serving political goals of the power-brokers in the West " .....
Read more,
http://www.asiantribune.com/index.php?q=node/8494
Iran supplies 70 percent of Sri Lanka's oil requirements
Talking about the achievements gained during Sri Lanka's president's visit to Tehran, the Finance Ministry Secretary Dr. PB Jayasundera stated that Iran is to supply 70 percent of his country's oil requirements.
Speaking to Sri Lanka's national newspaper, P B Jayasundera said that during the president's visit to Tehran they could secure 7-month credit facilities to import oil from Iran.
These credit facilities make it possible for Sri Lanka to pay the costs of the imported oil not immediately after receiving it.
He also asserted that following the negotiations between the two presidents, the high tariffs imposed on importing Sri Lanka's tea to Iran were lifted.
Read more,
http://www.isna.ir/Main/NewsView.aspx?ID=News-1043376&Lang=E
Speaking to Sri Lanka's national newspaper, P B Jayasundera said that during the president's visit to Tehran they could secure 7-month credit facilities to import oil from Iran.
These credit facilities make it possible for Sri Lanka to pay the costs of the imported oil not immediately after receiving it.
He also asserted that following the negotiations between the two presidents, the high tariffs imposed on importing Sri Lanka's tea to Iran were lifted.
Read more,
http://www.isna.ir/Main/NewsView.aspx?ID=News-1043376&Lang=E
Murali better than Warne says KP
Kevin Pietersen has admitted that Muttiah Muralitharan is a harder bowler to bat against than the great Shane Warne.
The England batsman has had battles against both Muralitharan and Warne, but as he gears up to face the Sri Lankan spin wizard in the first Test in Kandy starting on Saturday, Pietersen said Muralitharan is tougher challenge because of his ability to spin the ball both ways.
"I know the way Shane tries to get you out and the way Muralitharan tries to get you out," said Pietersen.
"The difference is Muralitharan spins the ball both ways and is harder to pick; he is a lot harder challenge because of the way he spins it both ways with a pretty similar action.
Read more,
http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/autocodes/countries/sri-lanka/
The England batsman has had battles against both Muralitharan and Warne, but as he gears up to face the Sri Lankan spin wizard in the first Test in Kandy starting on Saturday, Pietersen said Muralitharan is tougher challenge because of his ability to spin the ball both ways.
"I know the way Shane tries to get you out and the way Muralitharan tries to get you out," said Pietersen.
"The difference is Muralitharan spins the ball both ways and is harder to pick; he is a lot harder challenge because of the way he spins it both ways with a pretty similar action.
Read more,
http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/autocodes/countries/sri-lanka/
A cannibalistic fascist cannot be allowed to destroy Tamil people’s democratic rights! – Douglas Devananda
A fascist who only knows the taste of human flesh couldn’t be allowed to destroy the democratic rights of Tamil people says Minister of Social Services and Social Welfare and Leader of EPDP Dougles Devananda. Minister Devananda said this making a special statement on the attempt on his life by a tiger terrorist human bomb at his office at Narahenpita yesterday (28th). Minister Devananda was participating at the committee stage of the budget debate.
Full text of Minister Devananda’s statement:
Prabakaran, who alleged that he would usher in liberation for Tamil people, assassinated many democratic leaders of Tamil people. Were Tamils liberated? I am not scared of Velupillai Prabakaran’s threats, growls or attacks. I am dedicated for the democratic rights of the Tamil people. I shall never flee from democracy fearing a tiger who only desires human flesh. I will never allow a terrorist to destroy the democratic rights of the Tamil people...
Read more,
http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Nov/29/20071129_04.htm
Full text of Minister Devananda’s statement:
Prabakaran, who alleged that he would usher in liberation for Tamil people, assassinated many democratic leaders of Tamil people. Were Tamils liberated? I am not scared of Velupillai Prabakaran’s threats, growls or attacks. I am dedicated for the democratic rights of the Tamil people. I shall never flee from democracy fearing a tiger who only desires human flesh. I will never allow a terrorist to destroy the democratic rights of the Tamil people...
Read more,
http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Nov/29/20071129_04.htm
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Malaysian Indians look at LTTE
Angry ethnic Indians who marched in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday to protest race-based discrimination in Malaysia carried portraits of Mahatma Gandhi as a symbol of their non-violent struggle.
“But if their genuine grievances continue to be ignored, (Sri Lankan Tamil Tigers leader) Velupillai Prabakaran could soon replace Gandhi as their inspiration,” warns P. Ramasamy, former professor of history at University Kebangsaan Malaysia.
In an interview to DNA from Singapore, Ramasamy, who was appointed by the LTTE to its Constitutional Affairs Committee in 2003, connected the dots that link the Tamil diaspora in Malaysia (which accounts for most of the Indian population there) to the Tamil Eelam movement in Sri Lanka.
The chilling picture that emerges is one that holds serious foreign policy implications for India, quite similar to what it faced in Sri Lanka in the early 1980s.
Read more,
http://www.dnaindia.com/report.asp?newsid=1136140
“But if their genuine grievances continue to be ignored, (Sri Lankan Tamil Tigers leader) Velupillai Prabakaran could soon replace Gandhi as their inspiration,” warns P. Ramasamy, former professor of history at University Kebangsaan Malaysia.
In an interview to DNA from Singapore, Ramasamy, who was appointed by the LTTE to its Constitutional Affairs Committee in 2003, connected the dots that link the Tamil diaspora in Malaysia (which accounts for most of the Indian population there) to the Tamil Eelam movement in Sri Lanka.
The chilling picture that emerges is one that holds serious foreign policy implications for India, quite similar to what it faced in Sri Lanka in the early 1980s.
Read more,
http://www.dnaindia.com/report.asp?newsid=1136140
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
16 civilians killed over 35 injured - Nugegoda
LTTE terrorists carried out a cowardly bomb attack targeting innocent civilians in the densely populated Nugegoda town around 5.50p.m, this evening (November 28).
The explosion took place in front of the 'NOLIMIT' building complex on S.D.S Jayasinghe Mawatha, at Nugegoda junction.
According to available information, the bomb was inside an unattended parcel which was found at the counter of the shopping complex.
Several civilians have suffered serious injuries and admitted to Kalubowila hospital and National Hospital Colombo. According to the Kalubowila hospital sources 16 people have been killed and over 37 injured in the explosion. Three victims including one schoolgirl in critical condition have been transferred to National Hospital Colombo.
Latest hospital reports state, 07 females and 09 males to be among the 16 civilians killed.
Read more,
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071128_09
Photo,
http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Nov/28/20071128_04.htm
Suicide Bomb Blast in Nugegoda Town
LTTE terrorists have carried out a cowardly suicide bomb attack targeting innocent civilians in Nugegoda this evening (November 28 ).
According to the available information the bomb has been exploded at the Nugegoda Junction around 6 p.m. and a bus has caught fire after the attack.
Extracted from,
http://www.defence.lk/
According to the available information the bomb has been exploded at the Nugegoda Junction around 6 p.m. and a bus has caught fire after the attack.
Extracted from,
http://www.defence.lk/
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Air Force war planes attack LTTE radio station - Kilinochchi
Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets bombed LTTE's clandestine radio station at Kilinochchi this evening (November 27), Air Force sources said.
The targeted location has been identified as the place where LTTE produces its propaganda products aimed at luring Tamil youth to join the terror outfit and also at tarnishing the good image of Sri Lanka.
Fighter pilots have confirmed that the radio station was completely destroyed, the sources further said.
The targeted radio station was to air the annual speech of terror chief V. Prabhakaran this evening.
Extracted from,
http://defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071127_11
The targeted location has been identified as the place where LTTE produces its propaganda products aimed at luring Tamil youth to join the terror outfit and also at tarnishing the good image of Sri Lanka.
Fighter pilots have confirmed that the radio station was completely destroyed, the sources further said.
The targeted radio station was to air the annual speech of terror chief V. Prabhakaran this evening.
Extracted from,
http://defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071127_11
Sri Lanka vows to kill Tamil Tiger leader
Sri Lanka's government has marked the birthday of Tamil Tiger leader Velupillai Prabhakaran with a vow to kill him.
The island's powerful defence secretary, Gotabhaya Rajapakse, said Colombo now had the upper hand in the long-running conflict, with the elusive guerrilla chief limited in both his movements and ability to score strategic victories.
Earlier this month the political head of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), S.P. Thamilselvan, was killed in what the government said was a precision air strike on the north and not a mere lucky hit.
"The killing of Thamilselvan sent a very powerful message: they know we have good intelligence on their movements," Rajapakse told AFP in an interview Monday at the heavily-fortified defence ministry in Colombo.
Read more,
http://www.afp.com/english/news/stories/071127014209.pwzwzbh1.html
The island's powerful defence secretary, Gotabhaya Rajapakse, said Colombo now had the upper hand in the long-running conflict, with the elusive guerrilla chief limited in both his movements and ability to score strategic victories.
Earlier this month the political head of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), S.P. Thamilselvan, was killed in what the government said was a precision air strike on the north and not a mere lucky hit.
"The killing of Thamilselvan sent a very powerful message: they know we have good intelligence on their movements," Rajapakse told AFP in an interview Monday at the heavily-fortified defence ministry in Colombo.
Read more,
http://www.afp.com/english/news/stories/071127014209.pwzwzbh1.html
Sri Lankan president: We support Iran's peaceful nuclear program
Visiting Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapakse, in a meeting with Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki here Monday, said his country supports Iran's inalienable right to use nuclear energy.
According to Foreign Ministry Media Department report on Monday, in the meeting, Mottaki presented a report on the latest situation of Iran's peaceful nuclear program, active cooperation with International Atomic Energy Agency( IAEA) and (IAEA Chief) ElBaradei's report to the IAEA Governing Council.
Referring to the level of bilateral ties, Mottaki said, "Iran is interested to expand ties with Sri Lanka in all fields and the visit is a new chapter in mutual relations."
Read more,
http://www2.irna.ir/en/news/view/menu-236/0711262832212908.htm
According to Foreign Ministry Media Department report on Monday, in the meeting, Mottaki presented a report on the latest situation of Iran's peaceful nuclear program, active cooperation with International Atomic Energy Agency( IAEA) and (IAEA Chief) ElBaradei's report to the IAEA Governing Council.
Referring to the level of bilateral ties, Mottaki said, "Iran is interested to expand ties with Sri Lanka in all fields and the visit is a new chapter in mutual relations."
Read more,
http://www2.irna.ir/en/news/view/menu-236/0711262832212908.htm
Manmohan Singh expected to visit Sri Lanka in Feb
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is likely to be the chief guest at the 60th anniversary celebrations of Sri Lanka's independence in February next year.
"The Sri Lankan government had extended an invitation to the Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and he has accepted it," a senior Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry official said.
"He will visit Sri Lanka on 4th of February," the official said.
The official, however, said it was not yet finalised whether Singh's visit will be for one day or two days.
Earlier in the day, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama told Parliament that Singh will be the chief guest at the 60th anniversary celebrations on February 4.
Extracted from,
http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/0/CE7EEA3AFEE2A9F5652573A00041CE58?OpenDocument
"The Sri Lankan government had extended an invitation to the Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and he has accepted it," a senior Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry official said.
"He will visit Sri Lanka on 4th of February," the official said.
The official, however, said it was not yet finalised whether Singh's visit will be for one day or two days.
Earlier in the day, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama told Parliament that Singh will be the chief guest at the 60th anniversary celebrations on February 4.
Extracted from,
http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/0/CE7EEA3AFEE2A9F5652573A00041CE58?OpenDocument
Koertzen out of Lankan series
Umpire Rudi Koertzen, who angered Sri Lankans this month by wrongly giving Kumar Sangakkara out on 192 in the second Test against Australia, has been withdrawn from the series against England.
South African Koertzen, 58, was due to stand in the series between Sri Lanka and England starting in Kandy on Saturday, but officials said the International Cricket Council had replaced him.
"The ICC has taken Koertzen off the roster for the series," Sri Lanka Cricket media manager Samantha Algama said.
Read more,
http://www.theage.com.au/news/cricket/koertzen-out-of-lankan-series/
South African Koertzen, 58, was due to stand in the series between Sri Lanka and England starting in Kandy on Saturday, but officials said the International Cricket Council had replaced him.
"The ICC has taken Koertzen off the roster for the series," Sri Lanka Cricket media manager Samantha Algama said.
Read more,
http://www.theage.com.au/news/cricket/koertzen-out-of-lankan-series/
Monday, November 26, 2007
LTTE shifting operations to Kerala coast: Top Navy offcial
With its movement restricted on the Tamil Nadu coast due to constant surveillance by Navy and Coastguard, the LTTE has started shifting its operations to the Kerala coast, a top Naval official on Monday said.
The Sri Lankan forces have understood LTTE's tactics and the Indian Navy has increased vigil on the Tamil Nadu coast, making it virtually impenetrable, Flag officer Commanding-in-Chief Southern Naval command, Vice Admiral Sunil K Damle said.
Now attempts are being made by the LTTE to slowly use Kerala coast for smuggling arms and ammunition and drugs. Efforts are also being made by other terrorist organisations to use Malabar as a landing point for RDX, he told reporters.
Read more,
http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/LTTE_shifting_ope
The Sri Lankan forces have understood LTTE's tactics and the Indian Navy has increased vigil on the Tamil Nadu coast, making it virtually impenetrable, Flag officer Commanding-in-Chief Southern Naval command, Vice Admiral Sunil K Damle said.
Now attempts are being made by the LTTE to slowly use Kerala coast for smuggling arms and ammunition and drugs. Efforts are also being made by other terrorist organisations to use Malabar as a landing point for RDX, he told reporters.
Read more,
http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/LTTE_shifting_ope
LTTE fires artillery at Catholic school in northwest Sri Lanka, four students and two teachers wounded
Hours after the killing of four civilians in the border village of Mahawilachchiya, the Tigers fired heavy artilleries at a Roman Catholic school in Pulleadi Irrakkam in the Mannar district, injuring four students and two teachers.
Military said that two boys, two girls and two teachers were among the seriously injured and admitted to the general hospital in Murunkan. Another two, a girl and a teacher have been admitted to Mannar Hospital. They said that more than 10 artillery shells exploded inside the school premises around 1.20 pm.
Read more,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November26123941JV.html
Military said that two boys, two girls and two teachers were among the seriously injured and admitted to the general hospital in Murunkan. Another two, a girl and a teacher have been admitted to Mannar Hospital. They said that more than 10 artillery shells exploded inside the school premises around 1.20 pm.
Read more,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November26123941JV.html
LTTE terrorists kill 04 villagers including a woman - Anuradhapura
Four civilians including a woman were shot dead by LTTE terrorists today (26 November) at Mahawilachchiya village bordering Wilpaththu Sanctuary, Mahawilachchiya Police said.
According to Police sources, terrorists have opened small arms fire at the villagers and fled into the jungles area at the bordering Wilpaththu Sanctuary.
Police and security forces are now engaged extensive search and clearing operations in the area, Mahawilchchiya Police said.
Defence sources viewed this as an LTTE genocide attempt to cause fear among the villagers forcing them to flee their traditional lands, at the boarders of the ancient Anuradahapura Kingdom.
Read more,
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071126_04
According to Police sources, terrorists have opened small arms fire at the villagers and fled into the jungles area at the bordering Wilpaththu Sanctuary.
Police and security forces are now engaged extensive search and clearing operations in the area, Mahawilchchiya Police said.
Defence sources viewed this as an LTTE genocide attempt to cause fear among the villagers forcing them to flee their traditional lands, at the boarders of the ancient Anuradahapura Kingdom.
Read more,
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071126_04
Sri Lankan president in Tehran
The Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has arrived in Tehran heading a political and economic delegation for a three-day visit.
Iran's Commerce Minister Massoud Mir-Kazemi welcomed Rajapaksa at Tehran Mehrabad International Airport Monday morning.
The Sri Lankan president was later welcomed by his Iranian counterpart Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
During the ceremony, the national anthems of the two countries were played and the two presidents reviewed a guard of honor.
Ahmadinejad and Rajapaksa then started private talks.
Read more,
http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=32637§ionid=351020101
Iran's Commerce Minister Massoud Mir-Kazemi welcomed Rajapaksa at Tehran Mehrabad International Airport Monday morning.
The Sri Lankan president was later welcomed by his Iranian counterpart Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
During the ceremony, the national anthems of the two countries were played and the two presidents reviewed a guard of honor.
Ahmadinejad and Rajapaksa then started private talks.
Read more,
http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=32637§ionid=351020101
Sanath to quit Test cricket
Sri Lanka’s aging batting superstar Sanath Jayasuriya will announce his retirement from Test cricket during the first Test against England which will get underway at the Asgiriya Stadium next Saturday, according to a very senior member of Sri Lanka Cricket. He said “Sanath is due to make this announcement during the Test match in Kandy”.
One of the explosive batsmen that the cricketing World has ever produced made his Test debut against New Zealand at Hamilton, on February 22 1991. However he made his mark on the field of cricket during the 1996 World Cup pairing off with wicket-keeper batsman Romesh Kaluwitharana taking pinch hitting at the top of the order into a new height. He was chosen as the most valuable player even prior to the end of the series.
Read more,
http://www.sundaytimes.lk/071125/Sports/sp218.html
One of the explosive batsmen that the cricketing World has ever produced made his Test debut against New Zealand at Hamilton, on February 22 1991. However he made his mark on the field of cricket during the 1996 World Cup pairing off with wicket-keeper batsman Romesh Kaluwitharana taking pinch hitting at the top of the order into a new height. He was chosen as the most valuable player even prior to the end of the series.
Read more,
http://www.sundaytimes.lk/071125/Sports/sp218.html
Amnesty for Lankan army deserters, over 1,500 report for duty
Over 1,500 Sri Lankan army deserters have rejoined duty after being offered a general amnesty, boosting the military's fight against Tamil rebels.
"The deserters who do not have any criminal record were offered amnesty and given time between November 12-25 to re-join," Defence spokesman, Udaya Nanayakkara, said.
He said over 1,500 army deserters have already joined duty and the number of such personnel could cross 1,600 before the deadline ending on Sunday.
"They will be given training to bring them back into high fitness level before resuming duty in their respective regiments," Nanayakkara said.
The amnesty applied not only to army deserters, but also to those who remained absent from duty without getting official leave.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200711251820.htm
"The deserters who do not have any criminal record were offered amnesty and given time between November 12-25 to re-join," Defence spokesman, Udaya Nanayakkara, said.
He said over 1,500 army deserters have already joined duty and the number of such personnel could cross 1,600 before the deadline ending on Sunday.
"They will be given training to bring them back into high fitness level before resuming duty in their respective regiments," Nanayakkara said.
The amnesty applied not only to army deserters, but also to those who remained absent from duty without getting official leave.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200711251820.htm
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Air strikes pound LTTE satellite, communication center and meeting place
Sri Lankan Air Force jet fighters pounded a LTTE satellite communications and coordinating center in Dharmapuram area, North East of Kilinochchi today (26) at 7.20 a.m.
The air strike was carried out after confirmation of information and intelligence gathered that the center was also as a clandestine meeting place for LTTE leaders.
Air Force pilots affirm that the air strike was a success.
Extracted from,
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=8836
The air strike was carried out after confirmation of information and intelligence gathered that the center was also as a clandestine meeting place for LTTE leaders.
Air Force pilots affirm that the air strike was a success.
Extracted from,
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=8836
LTTE loses 19,887 cadres in 25 years
The LTTE has lost 19,887 cadres including S.P. Thamilselvan in the past twenty-five years according to the list of dead cadres released last week. The list is released by the organisation annually in November, according to reports from Killinochchi.
The list of dead cadres released during the outfit's so-called 'Martyrs' week' in November coincides with the birthday of LTTE leader V. Prabakaran on November 26.
This year's list of dead cadres of the LTTE indicates that from November 27, 1982 to November 20, 2007, 19,887 LTTE cadres were killed in clashes with the Security Forces, reports said.
Read more,
http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2007/11/25/sec01.asp
The list of dead cadres released during the outfit's so-called 'Martyrs' week' in November coincides with the birthday of LTTE leader V. Prabakaran on November 26.
This year's list of dead cadres of the LTTE indicates that from November 27, 1982 to November 20, 2007, 19,887 LTTE cadres were killed in clashes with the Security Forces, reports said.
Read more,
http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2007/11/25/sec01.asp
LTTE suffering heavy losses, says Colombo
At least 57 cadres of the LTTE and three soldiers of the Sri Lanka Army were killed in fierce fighting along the Forward Defence Lines (FDLs) in the north in the last three days, the military claimed on Saturday.
A report by the Defence Ministry maintained that the LTTE continues to suffer “heavy losses”’ as the security forces’ hold in the northern region is getting stronger.
“Despite the absence of a major counter terror offensive in the part of the security forces, the terrorists have been getting soaring death and casualty figures in scattered and intermittent clashes occurred along the Wanni and Northern Forward Defence Lines”, it said.
The Ministry said that over 57 LTTE cadres were killed and at least another 16 were injured in sporadic clashes in Jaffna, Vavuniya and Mannar from Thursday morning to Saturday afternoon.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/2007/11/25/stories/2007112556391400.htm
A report by the Defence Ministry maintained that the LTTE continues to suffer “heavy losses”’ as the security forces’ hold in the northern region is getting stronger.
“Despite the absence of a major counter terror offensive in the part of the security forces, the terrorists have been getting soaring death and casualty figures in scattered and intermittent clashes occurred along the Wanni and Northern Forward Defence Lines”, it said.
The Ministry said that over 57 LTTE cadres were killed and at least another 16 were injured in sporadic clashes in Jaffna, Vavuniya and Mannar from Thursday morning to Saturday afternoon.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/2007/11/25/stories/2007112556391400.htm
President leaves for Iran tonight
President Mahinda Rajapaksa will take wing to Tehran late tonight, for a high-level four-day state visit during which he will hold talks with his Iranian counterpart, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, defying what diplomatic sources say were heavy ‘representations’ from the US to defer the visit.
The relatively miniature Presidential delegation, which will include Deputy Foreign Minister Hussein Bhaila and Foreign Secretary Palitha Kohona, leaves the Ugandan Capital of Kampala at midnight tonight, where Rajapaksa was attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. Four media personnel are also scheduled to leave for Tehran with President Rajapaksa’s delegation.
The US Government recently imposed unilateral sanctions on Tehran after it refused to suspend its controversial nuclear programme and is reported to have brought heavy pressure on Colombo about cancelling the visit. However, the US denies the claim, while authoritative diplomatic sources told The Nation that the Sri Lankan Foreign Affairs Ministry had managed to allay US fears ahead of the President’s visit.
Read more,
http://www.nation.lk/2007/11/25/news17.htm
The relatively miniature Presidential delegation, which will include Deputy Foreign Minister Hussein Bhaila and Foreign Secretary Palitha Kohona, leaves the Ugandan Capital of Kampala at midnight tonight, where Rajapaksa was attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. Four media personnel are also scheduled to leave for Tehran with President Rajapaksa’s delegation.
The US Government recently imposed unilateral sanctions on Tehran after it refused to suspend its controversial nuclear programme and is reported to have brought heavy pressure on Colombo about cancelling the visit. However, the US denies the claim, while authoritative diplomatic sources told The Nation that the Sri Lankan Foreign Affairs Ministry had managed to allay US fears ahead of the President’s visit.
Read more,
http://www.nation.lk/2007/11/25/news17.htm
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Pakistan lauds Sri Lanka's opposition to Commonwealth suspension
Pakistan Friday welcomed Sri Lanka's stand which opposed Islamabad's suspension from the Commonwealth.
Sri Lanka and Malaysia objected to the Commonwealth's decision to suspend emergency-ruled Pakistan, according to reports.
"The government of Pakistan appreciates the decision of the government of Sri Lanka to disassociate itself from the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG)'s decision to suspend Pakistan from the councils of the Commonwealth," the Pakistani foreign ministry said in a statement.
"Sri Lanka is a member of CMAG and its foreign minister, who represented his country at the CMAG meeting, urged the Commonwealth to send a delegation to Pakistan to assess the ground situation rather than taking the hasty decision of suspending Pakistan's membership. Pakistan itself had proposed such a visit to CMAG member countries," it said.
Read more,
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/24/content_7135501.htm
Sri Lanka and Malaysia objected to the Commonwealth's decision to suspend emergency-ruled Pakistan, according to reports.
"The government of Pakistan appreciates the decision of the government of Sri Lanka to disassociate itself from the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG)'s decision to suspend Pakistan from the councils of the Commonwealth," the Pakistani foreign ministry said in a statement.
"Sri Lanka is a member of CMAG and its foreign minister, who represented his country at the CMAG meeting, urged the Commonwealth to send a delegation to Pakistan to assess the ground situation rather than taking the hasty decision of suspending Pakistan's membership. Pakistan itself had proposed such a visit to CMAG member countries," it said.
Read more,
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/24/content_7135501.htm
Friday, November 23, 2007
Sri Lanka seeks expulsion of UNICEF staff: officials
The Sri Lankan government on Friday called for the expulsion of staff of the United Nations children's fund, accusing them of overstepping their legitimate functions, the foreign ministry said.UNICEF country chief Phillipe Duamelle was called to the foreign ministry on Thursday, where officials "expressed serious concern" over the agency's participation at a public protest in June, the ministry said in a statement.
"The Country Representative was requested to take appropriate action against the staff members who participated in the demonstration including the withdrawal of the concerned international staff," the foreign ministry said.
The government also asked UNICEF to dismiss its local UNICEF staff who joined the demonstration outside the main railway station in Colombo, the ministry said.
Read more,
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5hLRHj_zJp1DeZ8_4AHK9UZIPosmg
Image,
http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/images/unicef_logo.gif
Sri Lanka Navy kills Seventeen LTTE Cadres and foils their Attack on Pesalai Police
In a bid of abortive attempt to attack the police, a cluster of few LTTE boats mingling with fishing boats, approached by sea towards the Pesalai Police in Mannar in the morning today (November 23rd) around 8.30.
On detection of the approaching LTTE craft, naval craft rushed to the location and chased away those boats with the augmented fire support extended by the ground troops.
One LTTE craft sustained damages in the brief confrontation that took place and it was towed by the fleeing LTTE boats towards the un-liberated area in Vedithaltievu.
Monitoring of LTTE radio communication transmissions later revealed that the seventeen (17) LTTE cadres have been killed in the confrontation.
Read more,
http://www.navy.lk/index.php?id=552
On detection of the approaching LTTE craft, naval craft rushed to the location and chased away those boats with the augmented fire support extended by the ground troops.
One LTTE craft sustained damages in the brief confrontation that took place and it was towed by the fleeing LTTE boats towards the un-liberated area in Vedithaltievu.
Monitoring of LTTE radio communication transmissions later revealed that the seventeen (17) LTTE cadres have been killed in the confrontation.
Read more,
http://www.navy.lk/index.php?id=552
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Sri Lanka bans TRO
The Government has decided to proscribe the Tamil Rehabilitation Organisation (TRO) whose bank accounts were frozen by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka last year (2006).
This decision was taken by the Cabinet of Ministers following the findings of TRO links with the LTTE terrorist group.
The United States last week froze TRO assets accusing the organization which has raised funds on behalf of the LTTE through a network of individual representatives. "According to sources within the organization, the TRO is the preferred conduit of funds from the United States to the LTTE in Sri Lanka." U.S. Department of the Treasury announced.
The TRO under guise of a charity organization collected and directed funds to the LTTE for procurement operations. Those operations included the purchase of ammunitions, equipment, communication devices, and other technology for the LTTE.
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071122_05
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Miss Srilanka to act with Big B
Legendary actor Amitabh Bhachan will be acting with Miss Srilanka in the film “Alladin”. Miss Srilanka Jacqueline Fernandez would play the character of Jasmine the Princess in the film “Alladin”. And Amitabh will be the Jeannie in this film. Jacqueline is said to be a big fan of Hindi cinema. She is known to watch all the hit film in Hindi which release in Srilanka . She is also well preparing to brush up her Hindi language and also is said to learn some words with their expression. She is very much interested in learning Hindi grammar, as she does not like her dialogues to be dubbed for the film.
Jacqueline is working for a newspaper as a columnist and is also known to host a business programme in Srilanka.
This film also stars Ritesh Deshmukh in the title role and also stars Sanjay Dutt in a prominent role. Vishal and Shekhar are composing the music for this film.
The animation series of “Alladin” was a hit in the past. Now let us see how the audience will receive this film.
Photo and News Extracted from,
http://bollywoodpoint.com/Bollywood/Bollywood-News/
‘LTTE responsible for 30,000 Tamil deaths’
V Anandasangaree, President of the moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) and one of the most senior Tamil leaders of Sri Lanka, has appealed to the political parties in Tamil Nadu to stop supporting the LTTE and protesting against the killing of the group's political commissar, SP Tamilselvan.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the veteran politician said that the people and the political parties in Tamil Nadu were not aware that the LTTE's unrealistic bid to secure an independent "Tamil Eelam" had already resulted in the sacrifice of 30,000 Tamil boys and girls generally hailing from poor families.
Overall, more than 70, 000 Tamils, Sinhalese and Muslims had died and more than 30,000 widowed and orphaned, he noted. Muslims who were driven out from the North by the LTTE and robbed of all their belongings, were languishing in about 160 refugee camps for the past 17 years, seeing no light at the end of the tunnel, Anandasangaree pointed out.
Pointing an accusing finger at the LTTE's Supremo, Velupillai Prabhakaran, the moderate leader said: "I believe he has already sacrificed more than 20 thousand Tamil boys and girls, most of whom had been recruited forcibly against the protests of the parents. Every day, a good number of boys and girls are sent to the battlefront not to return alive. Apart from this, more than 10 thousand Tamils of other Tamil groups also had been killed by them (the LTTE)."
Read full article here,
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=
In a statement released on Tuesday, the veteran politician said that the people and the political parties in Tamil Nadu were not aware that the LTTE's unrealistic bid to secure an independent "Tamil Eelam" had already resulted in the sacrifice of 30,000 Tamil boys and girls generally hailing from poor families.
Overall, more than 70, 000 Tamils, Sinhalese and Muslims had died and more than 30,000 widowed and orphaned, he noted. Muslims who were driven out from the North by the LTTE and robbed of all their belongings, were languishing in about 160 refugee camps for the past 17 years, seeing no light at the end of the tunnel, Anandasangaree pointed out.
Pointing an accusing finger at the LTTE's Supremo, Velupillai Prabhakaran, the moderate leader said: "I believe he has already sacrificed more than 20 thousand Tamil boys and girls, most of whom had been recruited forcibly against the protests of the parents. Every day, a good number of boys and girls are sent to the battlefront not to return alive. Apart from this, more than 10 thousand Tamils of other Tamil groups also had been killed by them (the LTTE)."
Read full article here,
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=
Opposition press set on fire in Sri Lanka
Unidentified gunmen stormed a pro-opposition newspaper office in Sri Lanka on Wednesday and set fire to the printing presses, police said.More than a dozen armed men started the blaze after breaking into the Sunday Leader newspaper building -- which is within a high-security air force complex on the edge of the capital Colombo -- and forced the staff out, police said.
The paper's chief editor, Lasantha Wickrematunga, accused the government of carrying out the attack. His newspaper has been highly critical of the administration of President Mahinda Rajapakse.
"It is a cowardly attack within a high-security zone by a regime that is acting like a terrorist organisation," Wickrematunga said. "What can you expect from a regime that is involved in human smuggling? We will prevail."
Read more,
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5hcW58Rz9MKu7gEmsyy4NYrYVq4sg
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Sri Lanka opposition targets to defeat the budget at third reading
Sri Lanka major opposition United National Party (UNP) sources say that the party will attempt to defeat the budget at the vote of the third reading which is scheduled to be held on December 14.
UNP MP Lakshman Kiriella issuing a statement accused the government of spending a massive amount of money and threatening some MPs to win the budget at the second reading.
The government won the budget with a majority of 16 votes yesterday. All the government coalition parties voted in support of the budget while UNP, People’s Liberation Front (JVP), Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and Western People’s Front (WPF) voted against it. MPs Wijedasa Rajapakse, Nandana Gunathilaka and two TNA MPs abstained from voting.
Extracted from,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November20114525SL.html
UNP MP Lakshman Kiriella issuing a statement accused the government of spending a massive amount of money and threatening some MPs to win the budget at the second reading.
The government won the budget with a majority of 16 votes yesterday. All the government coalition parties voted in support of the budget while UNP, People’s Liberation Front (JVP), Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and Western People’s Front (WPF) voted against it. MPs Wijedasa Rajapakse, Nandana Gunathilaka and two TNA MPs abstained from voting.
Extracted from,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November20114525SL.html
TNCC demands stern action against LTTE supporters
Taking a cue from the critical remarks by the AICC over a poem by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi eulogising slain senior LTTE leader S P Tamil Selvan, the TNCC on Monday demanded stern action by the state government against the supporters of the banned outfit.
TNCC president M Krishnaswamy, attending office for the first time after he was attacked by unidentified persons near Mathukalathur in Ramanathapuram district on October 29, told reporters today that the activities of LTTE supporters should not be tolerated.
He said the "elements", praising the slain LTTE political wing secretary Tamilselvan, should be dealt with firmly.
The AICC in a resolution had said that sentiments were bound to get hurt by such eulogies.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/004200711191542.htm
TNCC president M Krishnaswamy, attending office for the first time after he was attacked by unidentified persons near Mathukalathur in Ramanathapuram district on October 29, told reporters today that the activities of LTTE supporters should not be tolerated.
He said the "elements", praising the slain LTTE political wing secretary Tamilselvan, should be dealt with firmly.
The AICC in a resolution had said that sentiments were bound to get hurt by such eulogies.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/004200711191542.htm
Presidential Commission to probe Athukorale's death
Chief Government whip Minister Jeyaraj Fernandopulle told Parliament yesterday that President Mahinda Rajapaksa has decided to appoint a special Presidential Commission to investigate the sudden death of former UNP General Secretary and Ratnapura District MP Gamini Athukorale.
President Rajapaksa has made this decision paying special attention towards the statement made by Ratnapura District UNP MP Thalatha Athukorale regarding the pledges made on Presidential Commission to probe the sudden death of Gamini Athukorale.
Minister Fernandopulle told Parliament that President has conveyed his decision to the Government Parliament Group Meeting.
Read more,
http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/11/20/pol04.asp
President Rajapaksa has made this decision paying special attention towards the statement made by Ratnapura District UNP MP Thalatha Athukorale regarding the pledges made on Presidential Commission to probe the sudden death of Gamini Athukorale.
Minister Fernandopulle told Parliament that President has conveyed his decision to the Government Parliament Group Meeting.
Read more,
http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/11/20/pol04.asp
Lankan banks to track pornography payments
Worried over the spread of Internet child pornography through paid websites, leading banks in Sri Lanka have decided to track down payments made for viewing such sites.
The programme, launched today to coincide with Universal Children's Day is aimed at eradicating the menace of child pornography, an official said.
Speaking at the gathering, the central bank governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal expressed concern over the menace.
"The Internet has done a lot of good things for the banking sector and it will continue to provide us with greater opportunities in the future but, we also find that the Internet provides us with bad features as well," the Daily Mirror reported quoting Cabraal.
Read more,
http://www.zeenews.com/znnew/articles.asp
The programme, launched today to coincide with Universal Children's Day is aimed at eradicating the menace of child pornography, an official said.
Speaking at the gathering, the central bank governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal expressed concern over the menace.
"The Internet has done a lot of good things for the banking sector and it will continue to provide us with greater opportunities in the future but, we also find that the Internet provides us with bad features as well," the Daily Mirror reported quoting Cabraal.
Read more,
http://www.zeenews.com/znnew/articles.asp
Atapattu announces his retirement
Marvan Atapattu, one of Sri Lanka's finest batsmen, has finished his eventful tour of Australia by ending his international career. Atapattu announced his retirement in a letter to Duleep Mendis, the Sri Lanka Cricket chief executive, before lunch on the final day of the second Test in Hobart.
He was due to face a hearing on his return to Sri Lanka for his outburst during the opening match in Brisbane when he said the Sri Lankan selectors were "muppets headed by a joker". Despite the complaints about the administration, he retained the support of his team-mates and signed off with a satisfying 80 as he gave Sri Lanka a chance of saving the second Test.
The decision is not a surprise as there have been reports he will lead Delhi Jets in the Indian Cricket League and he is also considering playing for the St George club in Sydney grade cricket.
Read more,
http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/ausvsl/content/current/story/321194.html
He was due to face a hearing on his return to Sri Lanka for his outburst during the opening match in Brisbane when he said the Sri Lankan selectors were "muppets headed by a joker". Despite the complaints about the administration, he retained the support of his team-mates and signed off with a satisfying 80 as he gave Sri Lanka a chance of saving the second Test.
The decision is not a surprise as there have been reports he will lead Delhi Jets in the Indian Cricket League and he is also considering playing for the St George club in Sydney grade cricket.
Read more,
http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/ausvsl/content/current/story/321194.html
Monday, November 19, 2007
Sethu’s right hand man arrested in Colombo
LTTE’s websites nitharsanam.com and neruppu.org run by Nadarajah Sethurupan alias Dirty Sethu has come to a halt for the past few days. Sources say the LTTE web up-loader for both sites have been arrested in Colombo in a cordon off and search operation.
Following his arrest, it has become clear Dirty Sethu had used the arrested person in Colombo to upload the article for him from Colombo. Whilst nitharsanam.com has come to a standstill, its sister neruppu.org has lost all humiliating news items from the website.
Read more,
http://lankaguardian.blogspot.com/2007/11/sethus-right-hand-man-arrested-in.html
Following his arrest, it has become clear Dirty Sethu had used the arrested person in Colombo to upload the article for him from Colombo. Whilst nitharsanam.com has come to a standstill, its sister neruppu.org has lost all humiliating news items from the website.
Read more,
http://lankaguardian.blogspot.com/2007/11/sethus-right-hand-man-arrested-in.html
Sri Lanka Gov. Wins 2008 Budget by 16 Votes
Sri Lanka government has won the second reading of its 2008 budget today (19) evening, by 16 votes.
118 voted in favor while 102 opposed. JVP decided to vote against budget at the last moment. UNP and TNA also voted against the budget.
Former JVP MP Nandana Gunatillake, now acting as an independent MP, was abstained from voting. Wijedasa Rajapakse and two TNA members were also abstained from voting.
JVP MP, Anura Kumara said two hours earlier, that their decision will depend on the situation in parliament within following two hours. A political analysis told NIDAHASA News, that JVP might be decided to vote against the budget after clarifying that government could win without their support.
Extracted from,
http://news.nidahasa.com/news.php?go=fullnews&newsid=393
118 voted in favor while 102 opposed. JVP decided to vote against budget at the last moment. UNP and TNA also voted against the budget.
Former JVP MP Nandana Gunatillake, now acting as an independent MP, was abstained from voting. Wijedasa Rajapakse and two TNA members were also abstained from voting.
JVP MP, Anura Kumara said two hours earlier, that their decision will depend on the situation in parliament within following two hours. A political analysis told NIDAHASA News, that JVP might be decided to vote against the budget after clarifying that government could win without their support.
Extracted from,
http://news.nidahasa.com/news.php?go=fullnews&newsid=393
Sri Lanka still fighting in Hobart
Australia still need seven wickets to defeat Sri Lanka and complete a series whitewash in the second Test at Bellerive Oval in Hobart.
Chasing a victory target of 507, the tourists reached 3 for 247 at stumps on day four, the total so far highlighted by an unbeaten century to Kumar Sangakkara.
Sangakkara was on 109 at the close of play while Sanath Jayasuriya was on 33, the pair having put on 89 runs for the fourth wicket with Sri Lanka now needing a further 260 runs for an unlikely victory.
The world record fourth innings run chase for victory was 7 for 418 by the West Indies against Australia in Antigua in May 2003.
Read more,
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/11/19/2095137.htm
Chasing a victory target of 507, the tourists reached 3 for 247 at stumps on day four, the total so far highlighted by an unbeaten century to Kumar Sangakkara.
Sangakkara was on 109 at the close of play while Sanath Jayasuriya was on 33, the pair having put on 89 runs for the fourth wicket with Sri Lanka now needing a further 260 runs for an unlikely victory.
The world record fourth innings run chase for victory was 7 for 418 by the West Indies against Australia in Antigua in May 2003.
Read more,
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/11/19/2095137.htm
Foreign employment opportunities in Libya
Employment Promotion and Welfare Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said, Sri Lankans could enter the Libyan labour market in the fields of tourism, construction, trade, ports and aviation.
Minister Rambukwella made this assertion after holding discussions with Libyan Ambassador in Sri Lanka Essa Ahmed Emhemed Gssa at his Ministry premises recently.
Libyan Ambassador Essa Ahmed Emhemed Gssa said employers in Libya are keen in absorbing Sri Lankan employees for the country’s development work.
Minister Rambukwella assured the Ambassador that all possible steps would be taken to provide Sri Lankan labour for the development of Libya.
Read more,
http://www.libyaonline.com/news/details.php?id=1246
Minister Rambukwella made this assertion after holding discussions with Libyan Ambassador in Sri Lanka Essa Ahmed Emhemed Gssa at his Ministry premises recently.
Libyan Ambassador Essa Ahmed Emhemed Gssa said employers in Libya are keen in absorbing Sri Lankan employees for the country’s development work.
Minister Rambukwella assured the Ambassador that all possible steps would be taken to provide Sri Lankan labour for the development of Libya.
Read more,
http://www.libyaonline.com/news/details.php?id=1246
Sunday, November 18, 2007
'LTTE trying to engineer govt's fall'
In a bid to bring down the Sri Lankan government, Tamil Tigers have asked a pro-rebel political alliance to be present in full strength on Monday in Parliament to defeat the budget proposals for 2008 as a key aide to President Mahinda Rajapakse said the option to ban the LTTE was still open.
"We have got information that the LTTE representatives have called on the TNA (Tamil National Alliance) to return from wherever they are and be present in Parliament tomorrow to defeat the budget with the aim of bringing down the government," a top government official said seeking anonymity.
When contacted, senior TNA member Suresh Premachandran said it was not true and in fact the group, which has 22 MPs, had taken a decision to vote against the budget one month ago.
Premachandran made it clear that the TNA will vote against the Sri Lankan budget proposals for 2008 that will come up for clearance tomorrow.
"No sensible Tamil person will support the budget which has increased the defence allocation to 166.4 billion Sri Lankan Rupees, up almost 20 per cent as against last year," he said, adding "this was only to fight the LTTE."
Meanwhile, some senior political leaders said the TNA may after all not get all its MPs for a showdown and may restrict its members to vote against the budgetary proposals in Parliament.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200711181541.htm
"We have got information that the LTTE representatives have called on the TNA (Tamil National Alliance) to return from wherever they are and be present in Parliament tomorrow to defeat the budget with the aim of bringing down the government," a top government official said seeking anonymity.
When contacted, senior TNA member Suresh Premachandran said it was not true and in fact the group, which has 22 MPs, had taken a decision to vote against the budget one month ago.
Premachandran made it clear that the TNA will vote against the Sri Lankan budget proposals for 2008 that will come up for clearance tomorrow.
"No sensible Tamil person will support the budget which has increased the defence allocation to 166.4 billion Sri Lankan Rupees, up almost 20 per cent as against last year," he said, adding "this was only to fight the LTTE."
Meanwhile, some senior political leaders said the TNA may after all not get all its MPs for a showdown and may restrict its members to vote against the budgetary proposals in Parliament.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200711181541.htm
Rajapaksa to face toughest political test on Monday
The Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa rode to power in December 2005 on a surging wave of Sinhala majoritarian nationalism. He went on to prove his credentials as a tough cookie when he took the Tamil Tigers head-on and drove them out of the Eastern province in 2006-7.
But by year end, on the eve of the voting on the annual budget, he finds himself on a shaky political wicket in his own turf, the Sinhala-dominiated South Sri Lanka.
The budget for the year 2008 is to come up for voting on Monday, and Rajapaksa is not at all certain if it will get even the simple majority which is required.
This is because of internal dissensions, opposition from those who had been supporting the government from outside, and lack of a firm
commitment from alliance partners themselves.
As per the Sri Lankan constitution, defeat of the budget need not necessarily mean the exit of the government or the dissolution of parliament, because the budget can be presented again by the same government or any other government which the President may cobble together.
Read more,
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=
But by year end, on the eve of the voting on the annual budget, he finds himself on a shaky political wicket in his own turf, the Sinhala-dominiated South Sri Lanka.
The budget for the year 2008 is to come up for voting on Monday, and Rajapaksa is not at all certain if it will get even the simple majority which is required.
This is because of internal dissensions, opposition from those who had been supporting the government from outside, and lack of a firm
commitment from alliance partners themselves.
As per the Sri Lankan constitution, defeat of the budget need not necessarily mean the exit of the government or the dissolution of parliament, because the budget can be presented again by the same government or any other government which the President may cobble together.
Read more,
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=
Congress takes on Karunanidhi over ode to LTTE leader
The Congress Saturday implicitly criticised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi over his ode to a slain Sri Lankan Tamil Tiger leader, saying it was bound to hurt the sentiments of party members.
In a clear reference to a poem Karunanidhi wrote in memory of S.P. Thamilchelvan, the Congress said that the 'sentiments of all Congress men and women are bound to get hurt if the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) is eulogised in any manner'.
Thamilchelvan, the LTTE political wing leader, was killed in a bombing raid by the Sri Lanka Air Force in the island's north Nov 2.
Read more,
http://www.indiaenews.com/politics/20071117/81112.htm
In a clear reference to a poem Karunanidhi wrote in memory of S.P. Thamilchelvan, the Congress said that the 'sentiments of all Congress men and women are bound to get hurt if the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) is eulogised in any manner'.
Thamilchelvan, the LTTE political wing leader, was killed in a bombing raid by the Sri Lanka Air Force in the island's north Nov 2.
Read more,
http://www.indiaenews.com/politics/20071117/81112.htm
Mission in Eritrea to isolate LTTE
Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama on Wednesday moved the Cabinet to approve a Sri Lanka mission in Eritrea, as a precaution against the LTTE claiming Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI).
Political circles are agog with the news that the LTTE might declare UDI by end November and Minister Bogollagama is of the view that Eritrea would recognise them as a separate entity, since they have maintained close links with the LTTE.
It is said that Eritrea has been on the list of main arms suppliers for the LTTE. Eritrea declared independence from Ethiopia in mid 90s.
The Cabinet, looking at the urgency, had approved the proposal on a priority basis.
The government had already delayed the setting up of two other missions in Afghanistan and Madagascar.
Extracted from,
http://www.nation.lk/2007/11/18/news3.htm
Political circles are agog with the news that the LTTE might declare UDI by end November and Minister Bogollagama is of the view that Eritrea would recognise them as a separate entity, since they have maintained close links with the LTTE.
It is said that Eritrea has been on the list of main arms suppliers for the LTTE. Eritrea declared independence from Ethiopia in mid 90s.
The Cabinet, looking at the urgency, had approved the proposal on a priority basis.
The government had already delayed the setting up of two other missions in Afghanistan and Madagascar.
Extracted from,
http://www.nation.lk/2007/11/18/news3.htm
Saturday, November 17, 2007
President sent us a letter, but we need only action - JVP
President Mahinda Rajapaksa had sent us a letter inviting us to discuss four conditions laid down by our party to support the budget. But we do not want negotiations. We need only action.
The President still has time to change his mind and agree for our conditions, JVP leader Somawansa Amarasinghe said addressing a packed media conference in Colombo.
Extracted from,
http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/11/17/news/13.asp
The President still has time to change his mind and agree for our conditions, JVP leader Somawansa Amarasinghe said addressing a packed media conference in Colombo.
Extracted from,
http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/11/17/news/13.asp
LTTE suicide squads targeting President in Colombo: MP
A 20-member suicide squad of the Tamil Tigers has intruded into the capital and are planning to kill President Mahinda Rajapaksa and ten union ministers, an MP warned on Thursday.
"A 20 member LTTE suicide cadre is in Colombo targeting President Mahinda Rajapakse, his three brothers (holding important posts in the government) and ten ministers and steps needed to be taken to enhance security in the capital," United National Party MP Mahinda Ratnatillake who defected to the ruling United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) said.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200711152123.htm
"A 20 member LTTE suicide cadre is in Colombo targeting President Mahinda Rajapakse, his three brothers (holding important posts in the government) and ten ministers and steps needed to be taken to enhance security in the capital," United National Party MP Mahinda Ratnatillake who defected to the ruling United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) said.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200711152123.htm
LTTE collects $ 30 million a month, says Lanka
The Sri Lankan government said on Friday that the LTTE had been collecting up to $30 million a month from Sri Lankan Tamil expatriates across the globe.
Praising the US Treasury for freezing the assets of the LTTE front – Tamil Rehabilitation Organisation (TRO), the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama told parliament that Sri Lanka could now expect a "significant decline" in the collections of the LTTE world wide which ranged from $ 20 million to $30 million per month.
The US government had become the "first foreign government to take tangible action against an LTTE front organization," Bogollagama said.
Could assume new guises
But the minister warned that eternal vigilance was necessary because the LTTE had become an expert in circumventing curbs and bans.
Read more,
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=
Praising the US Treasury for freezing the assets of the LTTE front – Tamil Rehabilitation Organisation (TRO), the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama told parliament that Sri Lanka could now expect a "significant decline" in the collections of the LTTE world wide which ranged from $ 20 million to $30 million per month.
The US government had become the "first foreign government to take tangible action against an LTTE front organization," Bogollagama said.
Could assume new guises
But the minister warned that eternal vigilance was necessary because the LTTE had become an expert in circumventing curbs and bans.
Read more,
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=
Nokia’s fight against fakes: a first in Sri Lanka
SMS verifications used to protect IPR
Softlogic, Sri Lanka’s sole agent for mobile phone manufacturer Nokia has created history in the country by being the first to introduce a system to protect Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) via SMS technology whereby constomers can differentiate genuine phones from fakes.
Explaining this revolutionary system to the Daily Financial Times, Softlogic’s Assistant Marketing Manager Nirasha Croos Moraes said, “It’s a very simple solution.
We have got a sticker with a coded number pasted on our products. The customer has to just scratch it and SMS the number to 4656 to verify if their phone is a fake or a genuine one. A reply will be then sent confirming the genuineness of the server.”
She however noted that they were disappointed with the response received so far, as this facility is currently available to only Dialog customers.
“We have not got the expected results so far. The response has been slow with only 0.2% of the people verifying the genuineness.
Read more,
http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/11/16/ft/14.asp
Softlogic, Sri Lanka’s sole agent for mobile phone manufacturer Nokia has created history in the country by being the first to introduce a system to protect Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) via SMS technology whereby constomers can differentiate genuine phones from fakes.
Explaining this revolutionary system to the Daily Financial Times, Softlogic’s Assistant Marketing Manager Nirasha Croos Moraes said, “It’s a very simple solution.
We have got a sticker with a coded number pasted on our products. The customer has to just scratch it and SMS the number to 4656 to verify if their phone is a fake or a genuine one. A reply will be then sent confirming the genuineness of the server.”
She however noted that they were disappointed with the response received so far, as this facility is currently available to only Dialog customers.
“We have not got the expected results so far. The response has been slow with only 0.2% of the people verifying the genuineness.
Read more,
http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/11/16/ft/14.asp
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Army ambushes LTTE vehicle; LTTE's artillery expert killed -Wanni
Sri Lanka army elite units yesterday (November 13) killed LTTE's In Charge for heavy weapons in a surprise attack conducted in the North of Palampiddi area, said the defence sources.
The sources further said that the senior terrorist leader Pullawar Annan alias Thuiyyawan Master and four others were killed when the soldiers ambushed their vehicle movement around 4 last evening.
A senior defence official speaking to defence.lk said that the soldiers had acquired the target with precise intelligence obtained through very reliable sources . He further said that the loss of Tuiyywan Master would have severe impact on the terrorist outfit since he was known to be the most experienced person in heavy weapons such as heavy mortars and artillery guns.
Extract from,
http://defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071114_05
The sources further said that the senior terrorist leader Pullawar Annan alias Thuiyyawan Master and four others were killed when the soldiers ambushed their vehicle movement around 4 last evening.
A senior defence official speaking to defence.lk said that the soldiers had acquired the target with precise intelligence obtained through very reliable sources . He further said that the loss of Tuiyywan Master would have severe impact on the terrorist outfit since he was known to be the most experienced person in heavy weapons such as heavy mortars and artillery guns.
Extract from,
http://defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071114_05
More Crossovers in Sri Lankan Politic; Wijedasa Rajapaksa Goes to Opposition
National list MP of government, MP Wijedasa Rajapaksa crossed over to the opposition today (14) morning at the parliament.
He crossed over amid cheers of opposition MPs. after making a special statement.
Rajapaksa was the Chairman of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE), had earlier accused seniors of the government of blocking investigations into COPE findings.
Wijedasa Rajapaksa was also a senior member and a legal adviser of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP).
Read more,
http://news.nidahasa.com/news.php?go=fullnews&newsid=386
He crossed over amid cheers of opposition MPs. after making a special statement.
Rajapaksa was the Chairman of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE), had earlier accused seniors of the government of blocking investigations into COPE findings.
Wijedasa Rajapaksa was also a senior member and a legal adviser of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP).
Read more,
http://news.nidahasa.com/news.php?go=fullnews&newsid=386
Monday, November 12, 2007
LTTE chief’s days are numbered: air force chief
Sri Lankan Air Force chief, Air Marshal Roshan Goonatilleke has said the days of LTTE chief Velupillai Prabakaran are “numbered” and his force would “go all out to get rid” of him soon.
In an interview to the state run English weekly Sunday Observer, he said it was not a difficult task for the Air Force to get at Prabakaran as he was confined to a very limited area in Wanni.
“I do not think it is that difficult for us to get at him now. We will find him somehow soon. We need a great deal of patience,” he said. Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake told journalists days after the November 2 raid on Kilinochchi in which the LTTE political wing chief Thamilchelvam was killed, that the Air Force would hunt down senior leaders of the LTTE.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/2007/11/12/stories/2007111254151400.htm
In an interview to the state run English weekly Sunday Observer, he said it was not a difficult task for the Air Force to get at Prabakaran as he was confined to a very limited area in Wanni.
“I do not think it is that difficult for us to get at him now. We will find him somehow soon. We need a great deal of patience,” he said. Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake told journalists days after the November 2 raid on Kilinochchi in which the LTTE political wing chief Thamilchelvam was killed, that the Air Force would hunt down senior leaders of the LTTE.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/2007/11/12/stories/2007111254151400.htm
Suspected LTTE men attack fishermen
Suspected LTTE rebels attacked Indian fishermen inside the country's territorial waters off Rameswaram coast and forcefully took away diesel from their boats early this morning, police officials said.
According to officials, the suspected militants carrying country-made weapons, approached around 20 fishermen fishing near Irana Thivu and Natchikuda in five boats, and demanded diesel.
Some of the fishermen who gave diesel stocked in their boats without showing any resistance, were paid by the armed men.
However, militants forcefully took away the diesel from fishermen who refused to give. In this attempt, they also injured one fisherman, Arokiam, by hitting him with a beer bottle.
Read more,
http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID
According to officials, the suspected militants carrying country-made weapons, approached around 20 fishermen fishing near Irana Thivu and Natchikuda in five boats, and demanded diesel.
Some of the fishermen who gave diesel stocked in their boats without showing any resistance, were paid by the armed men.
However, militants forcefully took away the diesel from fishermen who refused to give. In this attempt, they also injured one fisherman, Arokiam, by hitting him with a beer bottle.
Read more,
http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID
Marvan Atapattu gets his captain and coach's backing
Mahela Jayawardene joined Trevor Bayliss, Sri Lanka's coach, in support of Marvan Atapattu as the veteran opener faced an uncertain cricket future following an outburst in which he branded national selectors as 'a set up muppets headed by a joker'.
Atapattu's fate, whether he remains a member of the current Sri Lankan team in Australia, hinges on what action Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) takes over the remarks. The outburst came at the end of the third day's play of the first Test at Brisbane and has become the key topic of discussion in cricket circles ever since.
Read more,
http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/australia/content/story/319475.html
Atapattu's fate, whether he remains a member of the current Sri Lankan team in Australia, hinges on what action Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) takes over the remarks. The outburst came at the end of the third day's play of the first Test at Brisbane and has become the key topic of discussion in cricket circles ever since.
Read more,
http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/australia/content/story/319475.html
Sunday, November 11, 2007
'Selectors are muppets headed by a joker' - Atapattu
Marvan Atapattu launched an astonishing attack on the Sri Lanka selectors, calling them a set of muppets headed by a joker and blaming them for the lack of bench strength in the side. His statements came at the end of the third day of the first Test against Australia at the Gabba, with Sri Lanka fighting to stave off a heavy defeat.
"Sri Lanka cricket at this moment of time is not going in the direction it should be going, especially with a set of muppets headed by a joker," Atapattu said at the end-of-day press conference. "I don't give credit to the way they have handled selections.
Read more,
http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/australia/content/current/story/319220.html
"Sri Lanka cricket at this moment of time is not going in the direction it should be going, especially with a set of muppets headed by a joker," Atapattu said at the end-of-day press conference. "I don't give credit to the way they have handled selections.
Read more,
http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/australia/content/current/story/319220.html
The UNP and media freedom – Daily Mirror clarifies
The main opposition UNP yesterday issued a statement challenging the contents of the Daily Mirror page one comment titled “UNP and the Media Freedom” in which the Editor of the Daily Mirror said that UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe reprimanded Daily Mirror journalist Kelum Bandara.
The first statement sent by the UNP yesterday did not have a signature. However when contacted by the Daily Mirror Mr. Wickremesinghe’s Media Secretary Saman Athaudahetti confirmed that the statement was sent by the UNP. Later the UNP sent a second copy signed by UNP spokesman Gayantha Karunatilleka with similar contents.
Please find below the Daily Mirror response to the contents of the UNP statement.
UNP : In its comment titled “UNP and Media Freedom”, the Daily Mirror has failed to live up to the editorial practice that ‘facts are sacred”. It is a misrepresentation of facts.
DM : It is the UNP that has misrepresented facts. We will prove this point in our answers below.
UNP : The Leadership of the UNP did not contact Daily Mirror journalist Kelum Bandara yesterday.
DM : UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe did speak to Kelum Bandara and he used the mobile number 0777 448224 to call the journalist and reprimand him.
Read the full article here,
http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/11/10/front/2.asp
The first statement sent by the UNP yesterday did not have a signature. However when contacted by the Daily Mirror Mr. Wickremesinghe’s Media Secretary Saman Athaudahetti confirmed that the statement was sent by the UNP. Later the UNP sent a second copy signed by UNP spokesman Gayantha Karunatilleka with similar contents.
Please find below the Daily Mirror response to the contents of the UNP statement.
UNP : In its comment titled “UNP and Media Freedom”, the Daily Mirror has failed to live up to the editorial practice that ‘facts are sacred”. It is a misrepresentation of facts.
DM : It is the UNP that has misrepresented facts. We will prove this point in our answers below.
UNP : The Leadership of the UNP did not contact Daily Mirror journalist Kelum Bandara yesterday.
DM : UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe did speak to Kelum Bandara and he used the mobile number 0777 448224 to call the journalist and reprimand him.
Read the full article here,
http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/11/10/front/2.asp
Kenya pips Sri Lanka, China in tea exports
Kenya has emerged as the world’s largest exporter of tea in the seven months of this year, surpassing Sri Lanka and China.
Recovery in production this year is said to have helped Kenya to become a top exporter of tea. Kenya, which suffered a production loss of 18 million kg in 2006 due to prolonged frost, has reported an increase of 63.6 million kg in the first seven months of 2007 to reach an output of 221.5.
Read more,
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/International__Business/
Recovery in production this year is said to have helped Kenya to become a top exporter of tea. Kenya, which suffered a production loss of 18 million kg in 2006 due to prolonged frost, has reported an increase of 63.6 million kg in the first seven months of 2007 to reach an output of 221.5.
Read more,
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/International__Business/
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
LTTE suffers heavy beating; Troops neutralize offensive advance- Muhamalai
At least 52 LTTE terrorists were killed while scores of terrorist casualties were on the rise following counter attacks from troops at an LTTE offensive advance at Muhamalai this morning, security sources said.
Troops effectively neutralized the LTTE offensive taking over few LTTE bunkers inflicting heavy losses to the outfit, retaliating the terrorist offensive today(07) at 5.30a.m. Scattered LTTE elements were pushed backed assisted with long range artillery barrages, ground sources said. Security forces had full control over the LTTE bunkers till 7.a.m and later consolidated positions along the defences, the sources said.
Eleven soldiers sacrificed their lives and another fourty-one sustained injuries in defending the Muhamalai forward defences, MCNS said. LTTE vehicles were observed ahead of the defences rushing with heaps of slain terrorists and casualties, ground sources confirm.
Extracted from,
http://defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071107_07
Troops effectively neutralized the LTTE offensive taking over few LTTE bunkers inflicting heavy losses to the outfit, retaliating the terrorist offensive today(07) at 5.30a.m. Scattered LTTE elements were pushed backed assisted with long range artillery barrages, ground sources said. Security forces had full control over the LTTE bunkers till 7.a.m and later consolidated positions along the defences, the sources said.
Eleven soldiers sacrificed their lives and another fourty-one sustained injuries in defending the Muhamalai forward defences, MCNS said. LTTE vehicles were observed ahead of the defences rushing with heaps of slain terrorists and casualties, ground sources confirm.
Extracted from,
http://defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071107_07
400 LTTE militants killed since Oct: Lanka govt
As many as 400 LTTE militants have been killed in encounters with government forces since last month, largely due to information provided by civilian inhabitants in embattled northern Sri Lanka, an official said here today.
While 349 tiger rebels were gunned down during October, as many as 51 LTTE militants have been killed this month, Defence Spokesman Udaya Nanayakkara told PTI.
"Besides the success of the security forces during confrontations with the tiger rebels, the common people in northern region are also informing about the presence of the LTTE rebels who are forcing people to join the outfit to carry out attacks," he said.
"During the month of October itself, we received 29 pieces of information from the common people in the northern region on the whereabouts of the LTTE rebels that also helped us in dealing with the militants," Nanayakkara said.
Read more,
http://news.indiainfo.com/2007/11/05/0711051900_lanka-ltte.html
While 349 tiger rebels were gunned down during October, as many as 51 LTTE militants have been killed this month, Defence Spokesman Udaya Nanayakkara told PTI.
"Besides the success of the security forces during confrontations with the tiger rebels, the common people in northern region are also informing about the presence of the LTTE rebels who are forcing people to join the outfit to carry out attacks," he said.
"During the month of October itself, we received 29 pieces of information from the common people in the northern region on the whereabouts of the LTTE rebels that also helped us in dealing with the militants," Nanayakkara said.
Read more,
http://news.indiainfo.com/2007/11/05/0711051900_lanka-ltte.html
Congress slams Karunanidhi for praising slain LTTE leader
The Congress Monday slammed Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi for 'mourning' slain LTTE leader S.P. Thamilchelvan and reminded him that LTTE was an organisation banned in the country.
'The Congress disapproves Chief Minister Karunanidhi's mourning the death of the LTTE leader Thamilchelvan,' party spokesperson Jayanti Natarajan told reporters Monday.
Karunanidhi has also invited criticism from arch rival AIADMK leader J. Jayalalitha for penning a poem on the slain Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leader, praising his courage and mental strength.
Read more,
http://www.indiaenews.com/politics/20071105/79141.htm
'The Congress disapproves Chief Minister Karunanidhi's mourning the death of the LTTE leader Thamilchelvan,' party spokesperson Jayanti Natarajan told reporters Monday.
Karunanidhi has also invited criticism from arch rival AIADMK leader J. Jayalalitha for penning a poem on the slain Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leader, praising his courage and mental strength.
Read more,
http://www.indiaenews.com/politics/20071105/79141.htm
LTTE breakaway chief may be deported to Sri Lanka
LTTE's breakaway faction leader Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan, better known as Karuna, is likely to be deported to Sri Lanka following his arrest in London for allegedly travelling on a forged passport.
"Karuna, who was booked by the London police for travelling under a forged passport could be deported to Sri Lanka," Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry sources said on Saturday.
Ahead of Karuna's arrest on Friday, uncertainty about his whereabouts persisted for long, though it was widely believed that he was in the UK.
Read more,
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/World/LTTE_breaka
"Karuna, who was booked by the London police for travelling under a forged passport could be deported to Sri Lanka," Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry sources said on Saturday.
Ahead of Karuna's arrest on Friday, uncertainty about his whereabouts persisted for long, though it was widely believed that he was in the UK.
Read more,
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/World/LTTE_breaka
Indian IT co to invest $ 1 million in Lanka
India-based data services provider ValueFirst will invest $ 1 million in the next 18 months to expand its presence in Sri Lanka, which it sees as a potential destination.
"We propose to invest one million dollars in the next 18 months in the Island country as we see major potential to expand in this growing market, ValueFirst CEO Srinand Sridharan told reporters on Tuesday at the launch of its services in Emerald Nation.
ValueFirst, a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), would tap the 7 million mobile phone users in Sri Lanka to expand its services in areas like stock market and banking after tying up with cell phone companies, he said.
The company's co-founder Vijay Shukla ValueFirst said the mobile revolution in Sri Lanka has raced ahead of the internet revolution.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/006200711061622.htm
"We propose to invest one million dollars in the next 18 months in the Island country as we see major potential to expand in this growing market, ValueFirst CEO Srinand Sridharan told reporters on Tuesday at the launch of its services in Emerald Nation.
ValueFirst, a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), would tap the 7 million mobile phone users in Sri Lanka to expand its services in areas like stock market and banking after tying up with cell phone companies, he said.
The company's co-founder Vijay Shukla ValueFirst said the mobile revolution in Sri Lanka has raced ahead of the internet revolution.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/006200711061622.htm
Sri Lanka major opposition national organizer to join the ruling party
Speculations are spreading in media circles that the United National Party (UNP) National Organizer S.B. Dissanayake would join the ruling Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) soon.
Sources say that discussions are underway to redress the UNP leader’s civil and political rights under a special pardon by the President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
S.B. Dissanayake was a former right hand of the ex-President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga. He later defected, joined the UNP and held a senior portfolio under Ranil Wickremasinghe’s premiership.
Read more,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November640300SL.html
Sources say that discussions are underway to redress the UNP leader’s civil and political rights under a special pardon by the President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
S.B. Dissanayake was a former right hand of the ex-President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga. He later defected, joined the UNP and held a senior portfolio under Ranil Wickremasinghe’s premiership.
Read more,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November640300SL.html
Monday, November 5, 2007
Sri Lanka government may consider banning LTTE
Sri Lanka media speculate that the government will proscribe the rebel outfit, Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) soon.
The idea of proscribing the LTTE was in the consideration of the government for a long time. However, the ceasefire agreement signed with the LTTE in 2003 hindered the move although the agreement has been defunct now for some time. The reluctance to abandon the agreement left the door open for peace talks to resume.
Read more,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November4142715SL.html
The idea of proscribing the LTTE was in the consideration of the government for a long time. However, the ceasefire agreement signed with the LTTE in 2003 hindered the move although the agreement has been defunct now for some time. The reluctance to abandon the agreement left the door open for peace talks to resume.
Read more,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November4142715SL.html
Sri Lanka to recruit Tamils to police
Sri Lankan police said Monday that they have embarked on a rapid recruitment program to enlist Tamil speaking officers in the multi-ethnic Eastern Province.
Jayantha Wickramaratna, the police spokesman, told reporters that "we will recruit youth from Ampara and Batticaloa districts", adding that 1,000 of them would be targeted between Nov. 10 and 14.
He said that the police department needed Tamil speaking officers to serve in the Eastern Province's newly opened police stations.
Read more,
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/05/content_7016425.htm
Jayantha Wickramaratna, the police spokesman, told reporters that "we will recruit youth from Ampara and Batticaloa districts", adding that 1,000 of them would be targeted between Nov. 10 and 14.
He said that the police department needed Tamil speaking officers to serve in the Eastern Province's newly opened police stations.
Read more,
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/05/content_7016425.htm
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Sri Lanka to release 97 Indian fishermen
Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has ordered the release of 97 Indian fishermen who were detained by the Lankan Navy for allegedly straying into the waters of the island nation, Tamil Nadu Government said today.
"It is learnt from the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai that the President has ordered the release of detained fishermen from Nagapattinam district. This has been made possible due to the timely intervention of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi," an official release said. The fishermen were expected to be released immediately, the release added.
Read more,
http://news.indiainfo.com/2007/11/04/071104165
"It is learnt from the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai that the President has ordered the release of detained fishermen from Nagapattinam district. This has been made possible due to the timely intervention of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi," an official release said. The fishermen were expected to be released immediately, the release added.
Read more,
http://news.indiainfo.com/2007/11/04/071104165
Expel SLMM tiger agents! – Weerawansa tells Govt.
The government should take immediate measures to expel Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission that is playing the role of international agent of separatist tiger terrorists says Information Secretary of the JVP Wimal Weerawansa.
He said this when ‘Lankatruth’ asked his opinion regarding the message issued by SLMM on the death of tiger deputy terrorist leader Thamilselvan.
Speaking further Mr. Weerawansa said SLMM which hesitated to issue a message when former Foreign Minister Luxman Kadirgamar was assassinated by tiger terrorists or when a tiger suicide terrorist group attacked SLAF base at Anuradhapura on the 22nd irrefutably displays their partiality to separatist tiger terrorists organization by issuing a message when a senior tiger terrorist leader dies in an attack.
Read more,
http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Nov/04/20071104_05.htm
He said this when ‘Lankatruth’ asked his opinion regarding the message issued by SLMM on the death of tiger deputy terrorist leader Thamilselvan.
Speaking further Mr. Weerawansa said SLMM which hesitated to issue a message when former Foreign Minister Luxman Kadirgamar was assassinated by tiger terrorists or when a tiger suicide terrorist group attacked SLAF base at Anuradhapura on the 22nd irrefutably displays their partiality to separatist tiger terrorists organization by issuing a message when a senior tiger terrorist leader dies in an attack.
Read more,
http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Nov/04/20071104_05.htm
Jayalalithaa flays Karunanidhi for condoling LTTE leader's death
Condemning Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi for "eulogising" LTTE political wing secretary Thamilselvan, AIADMK supremo Jayalalithaa on Saturday night demanded the dismissal of his government for violating the Constitution by supporting the banned Sri Lankan outfit.
In a statement here, she said Karunanidhi's "action of praising Thamilselvan", killed in an airstrike by the Sri Lankan airforce on Friday, was unconstitutional as the LTTE was banned in India and its leader V Prabhakaran was a proclaimed offender in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.
She alleged it was clear from Karunananidhi's action he had "secret ties" with the LTTE and had been "helping" them.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200711040346.htm
In a statement here, she said Karunanidhi's "action of praising Thamilselvan", killed in an airstrike by the Sri Lankan airforce on Friday, was unconstitutional as the LTTE was banned in India and its leader V Prabhakaran was a proclaimed offender in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.
She alleged it was clear from Karunananidhi's action he had "secret ties" with the LTTE and had been "helping" them.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200711040346.htm
LTTE is back to zero - TULF leader
With the death of the LTTE's Political Wing Leader S. P. Thamilselvan, the Leader of the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Veerasingam Anandasangaree, the politician who had written the highest number of letters and pleas to the terrorists, has again requested the LTTE leadership to comeback to the negotiating table to save young lives.
In an interview with the Sunday Observer he said that the Tamil political parties are willing to help the LTTE if the terrorists end the armed struggle and entre the democratic stream. These youth have the courage to achieve whatever the deadly desires of the leadership risking their lives. So it is high time to use these valuable lives to develop the country. It is sad that they are sacrificing their lives for an unrealisable cause," he said.
Q: Despite severe defeats, yet there are no clues that the LTTE will enter the democratic path. In this climate do you think the only option to liberate Tamils is militarily weakening the LTTE?
A: I do not agree with you. One thing that I agree is that the LTTE would never come to the negotiating table because they have their own problems. They will not come for a settlement. The government's intention to beat them first and then come for talks would not help to end the problems of Tamils. Terrorism can be defeated by this way but what I hope is that the peace package must come out along with these military operations.
There are people in this country who say that once the problem is solved militarily and since the terrorists are defeated, that there is not problem for the Tamils. They will try to forget our grievances. The problems of Tamils were there for the last 50 years.
Read the full article,
http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2007/11/04/pol01.asp
In an interview with the Sunday Observer he said that the Tamil political parties are willing to help the LTTE if the terrorists end the armed struggle and entre the democratic stream. These youth have the courage to achieve whatever the deadly desires of the leadership risking their lives. So it is high time to use these valuable lives to develop the country. It is sad that they are sacrificing their lives for an unrealisable cause," he said.
Q: Despite severe defeats, yet there are no clues that the LTTE will enter the democratic path. In this climate do you think the only option to liberate Tamils is militarily weakening the LTTE?
A: I do not agree with you. One thing that I agree is that the LTTE would never come to the negotiating table because they have their own problems. They will not come for a settlement. The government's intention to beat them first and then come for talks would not help to end the problems of Tamils. Terrorism can be defeated by this way but what I hope is that the peace package must come out along with these military operations.
There are people in this country who say that once the problem is solved militarily and since the terrorists are defeated, that there is not problem for the Tamils. They will try to forget our grievances. The problems of Tamils were there for the last 50 years.
Read the full article,
http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2007/11/04/pol01.asp
Karu J. will be UNP leader after budget - Rajitha
The UNP (D) Group yesterday predicted a power change within the UNP after the forthcoming budget, with another batch of six to eight prominent MPs already in line to join either UNP(D) or the Government directly.
Holding that a victory the UNP (D) was a victory for the UNP, Minister Rajitha Senaratne said there would be an exodus from the UNP and added they (D-group) would grab power within the party after the budget, with heir apparent to the UNP Minister Karu Jayasuriya installed as leader.
Asserting that the UNP(D) would never divert from the policy of being within the UNP Dr. Senarathe said that their fight was to rid the party from a one man dictatorship.
Read more,
http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/11/02/pol01.asp
Holding that a victory the UNP (D) was a victory for the UNP, Minister Rajitha Senaratne said there would be an exodus from the UNP and added they (D-group) would grab power within the party after the budget, with heir apparent to the UNP Minister Karu Jayasuriya installed as leader.
Asserting that the UNP(D) would never divert from the policy of being within the UNP Dr. Senarathe said that their fight was to rid the party from a one man dictatorship.
Read more,
http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/11/02/pol01.asp
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Lanka on high alert after Thamilselvan killing
Sri Lanka went on a high alert on Saturday to guard against any reprisal attack by Tamil Tigers following the killing of their political wing chief S P Thamilselvan in an air raid by government forces.
"We are not willing to take any chances. It could be a dangerous scenario if we don't gear up fully. We are on an alert," defence spokesman Udaya Nanayakkara said.
Security personnel were seen reinforcing the snap checkpoints in Colombo and checking for any suspicious person or vehicle.
The funeral of Thamilselvan and five other leaders of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), who were killed in a raid by Sri Lankan air force in the rebel-dominated northern Kilinochchi on Friday, is scheduled to be held on Monday, according to sources.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200711031861.htm
"We are not willing to take any chances. It could be a dangerous scenario if we don't gear up fully. We are on an alert," defence spokesman Udaya Nanayakkara said.
Security personnel were seen reinforcing the snap checkpoints in Colombo and checking for any suspicious person or vehicle.
The funeral of Thamilselvan and five other leaders of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), who were killed in a raid by Sri Lankan air force in the rebel-dominated northern Kilinochchi on Friday, is scheduled to be held on Monday, according to sources.
Read more,
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200711031861.htm
Sri Lankan police officer killed in capital
A police inspector heading a crime division has been shot dead in the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo, police said Saturday.
Inspector M. Pathirana was shot in north Colombo at 9:30 p.m. (1600 GMT) on Friday and succumbed to his gun shot injuries in the early hours of Saturday, according to the police.
The police officer was shot at by unknown gunmen in a bus stand and was admitted to the Colombo National Hospital.
He was heading the crime division of the Colombo Harbor police station and police are inquiring if his death related to any crime investigations being handled by him.
Extracted from,
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/03/content_7004330.htm
Inspector M. Pathirana was shot in north Colombo at 9:30 p.m. (1600 GMT) on Friday and succumbed to his gun shot injuries in the early hours of Saturday, according to the police.
The police officer was shot at by unknown gunmen in a bus stand and was admitted to the Colombo National Hospital.
He was heading the crime division of the Colombo Harbor police station and police are inquiring if his death related to any crime investigations being handled by him.
Extracted from,
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/03/content_7004330.htm
Friday, November 2, 2007
Karuna arrested in London
Karuna Amman has been arrested in the UK say reports. British Police has taken Karuna Amman into custody and the reason for his arrest is still not known.
As conflicts in Karuna faction escalated, Karuna fled to the UK and when he returned to the island Pilleyan had taken over the leadership. In internal conflicts that erupted several leaders from both factions were killed.
Under this circumstance Karuna fled to the UK again where he was arrested.
Extracted from,
http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Nov/02/20071102_06.htm
As conflicts in Karuna faction escalated, Karuna fled to the UK and when he returned to the island Pilleyan had taken over the leadership. In internal conflicts that erupted several leaders from both factions were killed.
Under this circumstance Karuna fled to the UK again where he was arrested.
Extracted from,
http://www.lankatruth.com/full_story/2007/Nov/02/20071102_06.htm
LTTE terror leader Thamilchelvan and 05 others killed in SLAF air raid
Citing Wanni based LTTE sources; pro-LTTE media confirm the death of LTTE's so-called, Political chief Thamilchelvan (43), following a pin-point air raid carried out by SLAF fighter jets, at Thuruaiaru in Iranamadu around 6 this morning (November 2).The other high profile terrorists killed in the air raid were identified as Anpumani (Alex), Mikuthan, Neathaji, Aadchiveal and Vaakaikkumaran.
According to informed sources, self styled Lt. Colonel Anupumani alias Alex was the chief of LTTE's "strategic communication division". He was the person in charge of handling all communication activities between LTTE leader V. Prabhakaran and the other international terrorist agents.
The SLAF air sorties were carried out following extensive air surveillance and on real-time ground information, military sources earlier reported.
Read more,
http://defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20071102_10
Photos,
http://www.sankathi.net/news/0211/people_news.html
Sri Lanka Opposition Leader will lose his post, predicts Minister
Sri Lanka Minister of Construction and Engineering Services Rajitha Senarathna says that the leader of United National Party (UNP) will lose the post of Opposition Leader since six to eight UNP MPs will join the government after the budget.
Senarathna who is a leader of the UNP dissident Democratic Group that joined the government to assume portfolios said at press briefing yesterday that discussions with UNP MPs are now underway.
UNP currently has 43 seats in Sri Lanka parliament while Marxist People’s Liberation Front (JVP) has 38 seats.
All crossing over MPs are likely to given portfolios with the possibility of increasing the number further.
Extracted from,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November1214236SL.html
Senarathna who is a leader of the UNP dissident Democratic Group that joined the government to assume portfolios said at press briefing yesterday that discussions with UNP MPs are now underway.
UNP currently has 43 seats in Sri Lanka parliament while Marxist People’s Liberation Front (JVP) has 38 seats.
All crossing over MPs are likely to given portfolios with the possibility of increasing the number further.
Extracted from,
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/November1214236SL.html
Lanka inviting Qatari, global energy firms to bid for 3 blocks
Sri Lanka has invited Qatari as well as international energy companies to participate in the bid for oil exploration in three offshore blocks in the country’s northwest.
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Petroleum, A H M Fowzie said the tender would be closed in January and the bid would be awarded sometime in 2008.
A recent study commissioned by Sri Lanka and initiated by an Australian firm revealed the country had oil reserves in excess of 1bn barrels.
Read more,
http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Petroleum, A H M Fowzie said the tender would be closed in January and the bid would be awarded sometime in 2008.
A recent study commissioned by Sri Lanka and initiated by an Australian firm revealed the country had oil reserves in excess of 1bn barrels.
Read more,
http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no
Dialog introduces WiMAX Broadband Internet
Dialog Telekom introduced Broadband Internet powered by WiMAX for the first time to the Sri Lankan customers from yesterday. This is also the first time that it is being introduced to the region. The company which was also the first region to introduce GSM and 3G to the region has invested US $ 10 million during 18 months for provide this service and other facilities.
“A very large investment was made for the fibre-optic network, as it has to be installed outside Colombo. Sri Lankan markets can now experience the fastest Internet connection,” Director/ Chief Executive, Dialog Telekom Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya said at the launch yesterday.
He added that WiMAX is not only a Colombo product. “We offer a range of products including state of art mobile phones,” he said.
Read more,
http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/11/02/bus01.asp
“A very large investment was made for the fibre-optic network, as it has to be installed outside Colombo. Sri Lankan markets can now experience the fastest Internet connection,” Director/ Chief Executive, Dialog Telekom Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya said at the launch yesterday.
He added that WiMAX is not only a Colombo product. “We offer a range of products including state of art mobile phones,” he said.
Read more,
http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/11/02/bus01.asp
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Sri Lankan Air Force bomb LTTE position; 33 rebels killed
Sri Lankan Air Force fighter jets today pounded an LTTE training base inside a rebel-held territory as ground troops killed at least 33 Tamil Tigers in a series of clashes in the island's embattled north, officials here said.
The supersonic jets bombed the LTTE base located at Kokkuthuduwai in Mulaithiuvu this morning, the Defence Ministry said, adding pilots confirmed that the targeted position was severely damaged in the attack.
This was the second aerial raid undertaken by the Lankan Air Force during the last four days.
Earlier on Monday, the Air Force had attacked a regular gathering place of LTTE's intelligence wing leaders in Puthukuduiruppu in Mullaitivu.
The jets, which were flown from the Katunayake air base near Colombo, engaged the target which had been under air surveillance for a considerable time, the ministry said.
In another incident, troops resisting a rebel attack at Muhamalai in Jaffna invaded LTTE's first line of defence this morning, defence sources said.
Driving back the guerrillas, the security forces overran the LTTE's first line of defence, they said.
Read more,
http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/$All/
The supersonic jets bombed the LTTE base located at Kokkuthuduwai in Mulaithiuvu this morning, the Defence Ministry said, adding pilots confirmed that the targeted position was severely damaged in the attack.
This was the second aerial raid undertaken by the Lankan Air Force during the last four days.
Earlier on Monday, the Air Force had attacked a regular gathering place of LTTE's intelligence wing leaders in Puthukuduiruppu in Mullaitivu.
The jets, which were flown from the Katunayake air base near Colombo, engaged the target which had been under air surveillance for a considerable time, the ministry said.
In another incident, troops resisting a rebel attack at Muhamalai in Jaffna invaded LTTE's first line of defence this morning, defence sources said.
Driving back the guerrillas, the security forces overran the LTTE's first line of defence, they said.
Read more,
http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/$All/