A newly released Telugu film titled Kingdom has come under fire for its portrayal of Eelam Tamils, with widespread criticism erupting online and calls for the film to be banned.

The film, which premiered worldwide earlier today, has ignited outrage among Tamils for its depiction of Jaffna Tamils as antagonists, presenting them as mistreating Indian characters. Viewers have denounced the narrative as deeply offensive and rooted in dangerous, revisionist tropes that distort the history and lived experiences of Tamils.

Former Sri Lankan Navy Commander Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne has been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over allegations linked to the abduction and murder of an individual in the Pothuhera area, in a case drawing renewed scrutiny over Sri Lanka’s accountability for human rights violations.

Former Sri Lankan President and credibly accused war criminal Gotabaya Rajapaksa has informed the Supreme Court that he is willing to testify in the habeas corpus case relating to the 2011 enforced disappearance of human rights activists Lalith Weeraraj and Kugan Muruganandan - but has requested that proceedings be held in Colombo, citing “security concerns.”

Sri Lanka has announced visa fee waivers for travellers from 40 countries in a bid to revive its struggling tourism sector - among them Israel, despite international concern over war crimes being committed in Gaza.