The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) said it ‘unequivocally condemns’ the Sri Lankan government's proscription of several Tamil diaspora groups as terrorist organisations, in a statement signed by party leader, R. Sampanthan.
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“We note with serious concern that this regressive step taken by the government is consistent with many other measures that it continues to take in the North and the East that are against the spirit of reconciliation. These measures include the military occupation of private lands, and the arbitrary arrest, detention and ‘rehabilitation’ of Tamil youth under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA),” the TNA said.Stating that the government had failed to present any reasons for the designation of these organisations and individuals as terrorists despite the passing of two months since the proscription, the TNA called for all organisations and individuals against whom there is no evidence of engaging in or supporting any ‘terrorist acts' to be de-proscribed.
"Among several organisations and individuals listed, are many who have supported the TNA’s question to find a political solution to the National Question based on a framework of devolution that is within in a united Sri Lanka and acceptable to all communities. Such a framework has been enunciated by us continuously at elections and endorsed by the Tamil people," said the TNA.See full statement here.
See related articles:
Sri Lanka's proscriptions do not constrain your freedoms, Australian govt tells diaspora groups (24 May 2014)
UK ‘concerned’ about ban on diaspora groups and arrests of activists (13 May 2014)
ICG, CPA criticise proscription of diaspora groups (03 April 2014)
Sri Lanka's diaspora ban has 'no legal effect in Canada' says Foreign Affairs Minister (30 April 2014)
Diaspora orgs proscription should not be used to stifle free speech and legitimate criticism, UK tells Sri Lanka (02 April 2014)
Diaspora groups reject SL ban, vow to continue struggle (02 April 2014)