The 67 year old ethnic problem in Sri Lanka remains unsolved, said the Northern Provincial Council Chief Minister CV Wigneswaran and former Supreme Court Judge, in a meeting with Representatives Co-operatives Movement and Former Organisations.
Commenting on government pledges to return 1000 acres of an estimated 6500 acres of appropriated Tamil land, Mr Wigneswaran, speaking at the Jaffna Public Library Auditorium, added,
“We are equally aware of the fact that a proper resolution of our problems could not be achieved merely by giving back what we are already entitled to.”
The Chief Minister went on to express concern over the government’s recent affirmation to not reduce military numbers in the North-East, stating,
“ Please remember we feel very strongly against the continued stay of the Armed Forces in our areas. Until they are removed except in areas of strategic importance we would feel threatened. They are cultivating our fertile lands for their benefit; they are using our good water and depriving us of our water in an area where water is precious. They are polluting our areas with their waste; they are a source of irritation and fear in our midst.”
See full statement here.
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