Nearly three decades after occupying the headquarters of the Achchuveli Multipurpose Cooperative Society in Valikamam East, the Sri Lankan military has returned the building to its rightful owners - but not without leaving behind unresolved financial burdens.
In April 2025, the Sri Lankan Army officially vacated the premises, handing over both the headquarters building and approximately eight acres of surrounding land to the Divisional Secretary, who subsequently transferred it to the General Manager of the Cooperative Society. The property, which had originally been identified for the cultivation of medicinal herbs to support a Siddha medical centre, was seized by the military in 1996 and remained under their control until earlier this year.
For the past 29 years, the cooperative society was forced to operate from an alternative location, due to the long-standing military occupation.
However, in June 2025, it was reported that the Army had failed to settle a significant electricity bill amounting to Rs. 140,000 prior to their departure. With no available funds for either renovation or payment of the outstanding amount, members of the Cooperative Society have formally appealed for assistance.
In response, the Divisional Secretary reportedly informed the society that official instructions would be issued to the Jaffna District Commander, requesting the Sri Lankan Army to take responsibility for clearing the overdue payment.
The episode underscores the enduring consequences of militarisation in the Tamil homeland. While symbolic land returns have taken place, Tamils are still left grappling with the material costs of decades of occupation.
Despite the handover in Achchuveli, Tamil residents across the North-East continue to report ongoing state-backed land appropriation. Peaceful protests against these efforts are frequently met with heavy surveillance, intimidation, and interference from security forces.
