The Tamil Refugee Council (TRC) has condemned the Australian government for the removal of four Tamil asylum seekers to Sri Lanka earlier this month, stating the situation remains dangerous for those who are deported despite the change in government on the island.
“This is another shameful act by a callous Australian government,” said Tamil Refugee Council convenor Trevor Grant, after four Tamil asylum seekers were intercepted by Australian authorities at sea and deported.
Commenting on the change of government in Sri Lanka earlier this year, Mr Grant added that Maithripala Sirisena taking office has led to “no perceptible change for these people”.
“[Sirisena] has made a point of saying he will maintain the military occupation in the north and east and the draconian Prevention of Terorrism Act,” said Grant.
“These are the main drivers of the terror that sends these people, who are mostly Tamil, fleeing from the island.”
“It's a documented fact that asylum seekers often face horrendous consequences when they are sent back,” continued Mr Grant. “Immediately upon return, they are locked up and charged. Then they face two years 'rigorous' imprisonment in a jail system renowned for torture, rape and disappearances.”
See the full press release here.
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