_{^{Photo reproduced from Jaffna Zone}} 

The locals of Neduntheevu, Jaffna have complained about the heightened illegal occupation efforts by Buddhist monks and the archaeology department - in particular the encroachment of the Vedi Arasan fortress in the Neduntheevu area.

The Buddhist monks claimed the Vedi Arasan fortress belonging historically to a Tamil Buddhist King and then went on to assess the archaeological details of the area with the archaeology department.

The department and the Buddhist monks not only surveyed the area, but also filmed the fortress and its surrounding environment with a drone camera.

These actions have raised doubts as to whether it is being attempted to portray Vedi Arasan fortress as a Buddhist symbol and increasing fears of an imminent colonisation process in Neduntheevu by the Sinhalese. It is also feared that a Buddhist shrine would be erected in Neduntheevu in an attempt to further ‘Sinhalise’ the Tamil homeland.  

This reflects a growing trend of colonisation and occupation across the Tamil homeland by Sinhalese figures – in particular Buddhist monks - with the support of the Sri Lankan state and active assistance by the military.

Archaeological task forces set up by the Sri Lankan government, spearheaded by accused war criminals, have particularly focused on erasing historically-rich Tamil landmarks and areas of cultural significance. Local Tamil fisherman in Batticaloa reported that they were ordered to leave the area by Sinhalese Buddhist religious figures.

Read more here.