Sitting of Friday, 22 August 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 1756894696039492 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
Order of business
Speeches load per item. Summaries shown here are AI-generated and labelled; verbatim text is on each speech page.
- 1 Opening Parliament Opening 1 speeches
- 2 Papers Papers Presented 6 speeches
- 3 Committee report Committee Report: Draft Budgetary Estimates for the National Audit Office 1 speeches
- 4 Petitions Petitions 7 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Questions and Answers (Q.846/2025, Q.1024/2025, Q.1068/2025, Q.1070/2025, Q.1073/2025, Q.1076/2025, Q.1092/2025) 35 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Questions (Second Round and Standing Order 27(2) Questions) 15 speeches
- 7 Procedural Ministerial Statement: Reviewal of Policies in the Leasing Sector 4 speeches
- 8 Procedural Procedural Matters and Sittings of Parliament 8 speeches
- 9 Adjournment Adjournment Motion: Human Rights Issues Faced by the Tamil Community in the North, East and Hill Country 81 speeches
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake formally moved the motion to adjourn Parliament. The motion, “That the Parliament do now adjourn,” was then proposed for consideration.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan moved an adjournment motion calling for action on longstanding human rights and political issues affecting Tamils in the North, East and Malaiyagam, including power-sharing negotiations, release of political prisoners, land release, resettlement, justice for the disappeared, and protections against PTA use and military interference. He argued that successive agreements and proposals from the Bandaranaike-Chelvanayakam Pact through the Indo-Lanka Accord, constitutional reform efforts and APRC proposals had not been implemented, leaving the national question unresolved for decades. He also sought specific measures for Malaiyagam estate communities on housing, land, education, livelihoods and implementation of commitments such as the Hatton Declaration.
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa proposed that Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara take the Chair. The House agreed to the motion, after which the Speaker left the Chair and Hon. Nanayakkara assumed the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan stated that Tamil representatives remain willing to negotiate a political solution within Sri Lanka, citing previous talks from S.J.V. Chelvanayakam’s era through R. Sampanthan’s leadership. Referring to the upcoming UN Human Rights Council session, he raised the unresolved question posed by the late Bishop Rayappu Joseph to the LLRC about 146,679 people unaccounted for after the 2009 conflict. He noted that several UN officials and panels had investigated related issues and that the matter remains before the UNHRC.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan criticised the Government for rejecting the hybrid accountability mechanism with international participation accepted at the UN Human Rights Council in 2015, arguing that victims cannot receive justice if alleged perpetrators control investigations. He raised concerns over mass graves and skeletal remains found in Ariyalai and Chemmany-Sindupathy, tabled letters to the President on military involvement in civil matters and mass graves, and condemned the alleged military killing of a young man in Muthaiyankaddu. He urged the Government to address the long-standing Tamil political question through dialogue, mutual recognition, and a clear plan, noting its past opposition to the Indo-Lanka Accord and the North-East merger.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan requested additional speaking time and addressed the NPP Government’s past stance, arguing that measures toward resolving the ethnic question had previously been weakened or dismantled. He emphasized that his comments were not hostile and called for cooperation as equal partners to develop the country.
Ethnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Mano Ganesan SJB
AI summary Mano Ganesan supported the adjournment motion and urged the Government to take credible steps on Tamil grievances, including holding long-delayed Provincial Council elections, beginning constitutional reform talks, and implementing key LLRC recommendations. He argued for an inclusive Sri Lankan identity recognizing all communities, languages, and religions, while noting that responsibility now lies with the current Government despite many issues originating under previous administrations. He also called for land and housing rights and stronger local governance for plantation communities, citing measures taken during 2015–2019, and demanded affirmative action for estate schools and other marginalized groups. He reminded the Government of its 2023 Hatton Declaration commitments on plantation people’s rights and urged implementation.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Vijitha Herath - Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism JJB
AI summary Vijitha Herath said the Government inherited a severe economic crisis and has prioritized IMF engagement, debt restructuring, poverty reduction, welfare support, and economic stabilization while linking recovery to national unity and reconciliation. He stated that the Government would hold Provincial Council elections after resolving legal obstacles, and would pursue a new Constitution through public and parliamentary input followed by a referendum. He rejected external pressure in constitutional matters, said the Government is committed to protecting human rights and addressing isolated incidents, and emphasized that economic justice is central to reconciliation and national rebuilding.
- The Hon. K. Kader Masthan SLLP
AI summary K. Kader Masthan supported the adjournment motion on human rights issues affecting Tamils in the North, East and Malaiyaha region, linking longstanding minority grievances, disappearances, PTA-related abuses, torture allegations and lack of accountability to the need for urgent government action. He called for swift repeal of the PTA, release of lands held or gazetted by the military and state departments in the Vanni, relaxation of restrictions on NGO activity, and improvements to women’s rights, equal pay, education and health infrastructure. He also urged the Government to allow the importation of 16,000 Tamil translations of the Holy Qur’an and hold responsible those who blocked them.
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Saroja Savithri Paulraj - Minister of Women and Child Affairs JJB
AI summary The Minister thanked Hon. Shritharan for the motion in the context of the upcoming UNHRC session and argued that sustainable peace depends on equal opportunity, justice, accountability, and equitable economic development across communities and regions. She outlined Budget priorities for the North and Malaiyaha areas, including rural roads, bridges, agriculture, transport, education, housing, land, sanitation, and recognition of Malaiyaha people as Sri Lankan citizens. She also highlighted legal measures prohibiting child domestic labour, child begging, and hazardous work under 18, and emphasized women’s political participation, women’s action societies, cottage industry development, equal pay, media freedom, and protection of fundamental rights.
- The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake NDF
AI summary Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake raised concerns about disputes and protests at Tissa Viharaya in Kankesanthurai, arguing that law, religion, peace, and historical heritage should be treated equally across all regions. He also called for Government action to protect Uva potato farmers by restricting or managing imports during the local harvest season and ensuring better market prices. He questioned the influence of social media on legal processes, citing commentary before court decisions, and urged that courts and police act independently and properly. He further said public servants who supported the Government now face unresolved service issues, including permits, transfers, appointments, and school staffing changes, and urged the Government to address them fairly rather than through pressure or intimidation.
- Hon. Chamara Sampath Dassanayake NDF
AI summary Hon. Chamara Sampath Dassanayake argued that voters, including estate Tamil communities, graduates, farmers and workers, placed significant trust in the Government at the recent election but are now facing unresolved problems. He said estate workers still receive only Rs. 1,300 a day and continue to live in line rooms, calling for more housing and meaningful wage improvements. He also cited Mahiyanganaya farmers and ongoing public sector strikes, stating that the Opposition was not organizing these protests and warning against attempts to suppress or intimidate striking workers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary The Minister welcomed the Adjournment Motion on human rights and said the decline of the Tamil population in the North, displacement, disappearances, emigration and land loss have weakened Tamil political and social presence, particularly in Jaffna. He argued that protecting Tamil existence requires both justice measures and accelerated development, citing planned industrial zones in Kankesanthurai, Paranthan and Mankulam, expansion of Palaly airport, KKS rail and harbour services, Mayiliddi harbour, and the Kurikattuwan bridge. He said the Government has not forgotten commitments to release lands, address disappearances, resolve the Thayiddi Viharaya issue amicably within one or two months, and improve local services including a passport office in Jaffna from the following month.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna welcomed the Minister’s remarks but challenged the Government to act on them. He demanded the release of Ananda Sudhagar, the return of lands in Mayiliddy and Palaly, and resolution of the Thayiddi Viharaya issue, stating that support from his side would depend on such actions being taken.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran ITAK
AI summary Hon. Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran supported the Adjournment Motion on human rights ahead of the UNHRC session, alleging a long history of violations against Tamils, including disenfranchisement, pogroms, disappearances, mass graves, and failures to investigate sites in the North and East. He argued that domestic accountability mechanisms have lacked credibility and called for international justice through the ICC and ICJ, while also questioning action on claims about the Easter attacks. He demanded repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, equal respect for all religions and languages, inclusion of Tamil perspectives in education reforms, and stressed that development projects cannot replace the protection of rights.
- The Hon. Ananda Wijepala - Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary Minister Ananda Wijepala said the Government had stabilized key economic indicators while re-establishing rule of law, citing revived investigations into the Lasantha Wickrematunge, Keith Noyahr, Eknaligoda and Easter Sunday cases and stressing that officials and politicians are subject to the law. He said commemorations of war dead would be permitted without banned symbols or glorification of terrorism, and that measures were being prepared to facilitate the return of Sri Lankan refugees from Tamil Nadu. He announced plans to repeal the PTA by September and replace it with legislation meeting international standards, amend the Online Safety Act after consultations, and review NGO legislation with civil society input.
- The Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan ITAK
AI summary Gnanamuththu Srineshan argued that the Prevention of Terrorism Act, introduced as a temporary measure in 1979, has been used for decades to undermine democracy and facilitate abuses including torture, disappearances, wrongful convictions and mass graves, particularly affecting Tamil and Muslim youth. He called for the unconditional repeal of the PTA, the release of long-detained political prisoners, and accountability for killings of journalists including Ayathurai Nadesan, Sivaram, Sugirdharajan, Lasantha Wickrematunge and Prageeth Eknaligoda. He also raised employment as a human rights issue, requesting progressive appointments for around 2,700 locally qualified traditional medicine graduates awaiting state opportunities.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Dammika Patabendi - Minister of Environment JJB
AI summary Minister Dammika Patabendi said the Government views human rights as linked to economic stability, equitable regional development, and environmental protection, including a commitment to increase forest cover to 32 per cent by 2030 through the “Vanaspathi” programme. He stated that GPS-based reserve demarcations after the war had wrongly included private lands and public buildings in the North and East, and announced plans for a Cabinet paper to appoint a special committee to verify and recommend land releases, with over 100,000 acres already identified in Mullaitivu, Mannar and Vavuniya. He also referred to resolving forest and wildlife management issues, improving drinking water access through schemes including Pali Aru, and bringing legislation to recognize and protect Indigenous Peoples’ rights.
- The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam welcomed the Motion but criticised the omission of explicit commitments to federalism and international accountability, arguing that these were part of ITAK’s electoral mandate. He questioned the Government’s assurances of impartiality in light of continued PTA use and recent incidents involving a journalist and the military, and argued that Tamils require constitutional guarantees rather than reliance on the intentions of any current government. He called for recognition of Tamils as an indigenous people with a homeland and the right to manage their affairs, and urged the Government at least to state that federalism is not secession and permit a genuine debate on it.
Ethnic Reconciliation & DevolutionJustice & Human RightsCorruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Ananda Wijepala - Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary The Minister clarified that no journalist had been arrested under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, contrary to allegations. He stated that intelligence information had been referred to the Police, who only recorded a statement in relation to a national security matter, and placed this clarification on record.
- The Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj JJB
AI summary Kitnan Selvaraj supported the Adjournment Motion, framing it as part of addressing Sri Lanka’s long-standing ethnic question and its effects on harmony, human rights, and development. He emphasized the rights of Hill Country Tamils, citing the NPP’s Hatton Declaration, proposals to recognize “Malaiyaha Tamils” as Sri Lankan citizens, provide legal land rights, and improve education through targeted reforms and funding. He also urged that future measures include support and recognition for former LTTE combatants, particularly disabled and destitute individuals.
- The Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan DTNA
AI summary Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan said the imposition of wind power projects in Mannar against local opposition, mass graves in Mannar and Mullaitivu, repression of activists, and disappearances of journalists reflected continuing human rights concerns affecting Tamils. He called for international investigations into wartime violations and urged the Government to demonstrate goodwill by repealing the PTA, pursuing constitutional reforms, and releasing long-detained political prisoners. He said action on these issues was needed to address ethnic grievances and build trust among Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education JJB
AI summary Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said the Government is committed to protecting all citizens equally and to building a culture of respect for human rights, beyond formal laws and treaties. She argued that Sri Lanka inherited institutions and norms shaped by corruption, impunity, abuse of power and divisive narratives, which must be reformed or dismantled. She said the Government has sought to avoid hateful narratives, promote unity and accountability, restore respect for the rule of law, and correct shortcomings in matters such as mass graves and detentions where necessary.
Corruption & Governance ReformEthnic Reconciliation & DevolutionJustice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Rauff Hakeem criticized the handling of the former President’s arrest after a CID visit, arguing that while equality before the law must apply, procedural courtesy should have been extended to a former Head of State through a B report, summons, and magistrate’s decision rather than detention before production. He questioned how a YouTuber appeared to predict the arrest in advance, suggesting possible improper disclosure and warning against public “exhibitionism” in justice processes. He also referred to the upcoming UN High Commissioner for Human Rights report debate in Geneva and welcomed the Government’s proposed independent Public Prosecutor’s Office, citing concerns about prosecutorial discretion, investigative capacity, forensic expertise, Tamil-speaking officers, and impunity.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation and Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake responded to the Adjournment Motion on human rights by citing the 12 August UN High Commissioner for Human Rights report as evidence of a shift toward a more inclusive national identity and of early government action on economic and social rights. He highlighted the inherited economic crisis, including food insecurity and child malnutrition, and pointed to measures such as tax threshold increases, VAT removals on some foods, higher health and education allocations, increased Aswesuma funding, and meeting the IMF social safety net target. He also cited the Proceeds of Crime Act, the National Anti-Corruption Plan, and recent corruption convictions and investigations as signs of action against corruption, arguing that human rights concerns must be considered alongside economic recovery and accountability efforts.
- The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan raised a point of order challenging objections to federalism and stating that Tamil Arasu Katchi’s policy supports federal power-sharing, which he described as a recognized model comparable to systems in Switzerland, the United States and India. He urged the Government to explain federalism to the public, reciprocate respect in debate, and not subsume Tamil rights under development arguments. He also questioned opposition to an international inquiry into wartime allegations, arguing that if no crimes or injustices were committed there should be willingness to establish the truth.
- The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam questioned the Government’s position on federalism in the context of its commitment to a unitary state. He argued that the term “federal” has long been portrayed among the Sinhala public as racist or separatist, and urged the Minister to state clearly that federalism is not equivalent to racism or separatism so it can be discussed openly with the public.
Ethnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam argued that the Government had misrepresented the OHCHR report, citing its criticisms on the PTA, transitional justice, poverty, corruption, militarization, land issues, custodial deaths, and stalled accountability cases. He raised specific allegations regarding NMRA-related corruption and deaths linked to a reintroduced product, intimidation of Tamil journalists, demolition of churches in Palaly–Myliddy, and continued military occupation and land acquisition in the North and East. He also criticized the Government’s unfulfilled promises on plantation wages, Forest Conservation land releases in Batticaloa, and broader reforms, while rejecting claims that demands for Tamil political rights are racist.
Justice & Human RightsCorruption & Governance ReformEthnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law - Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala argued that human rights require equal application of the law and stronger independence among the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, criticizing past abuses of power including executive overreach, pressure on MPs, and attacks on judicial independence. He said the National People’s Power Government is acting on its mandate by ending preferential treatment for the powerful and pursuing reforms such as repealing the Presidents’ Entitlements Act, No. 4 of 1986, and abolishing parliamentary pensions. He framed these measures as part of broader efforts to strengthen institutional independence and access to justice.
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen argued that Sri Lanka belongs to all communities and criticized the Ilankai Thamil Arasu Kachchi hartal slogan of a “Tamil homeland” and the demand to remove the military from the North and East, saying such actions should have been preceded by wider consultation among affected communities. He condemned past abuses against Muslims and Tamils, including massacres, Chemmani, forced COVID-19 cremations, arrests under the PTA, and obstruction of Muslim resettlement, while calling for accountability for all perpetrators. He urged the Government and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to protect the trust placed in them by Muslim voters and to address specific grievances, including the closure of the Mahara Mosque, the Supreme Court-ordered closure of the Mannar-Puttalam road, and halted schools and cultural projects.
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen urged the Government to complete stalled projects regardless of their association with the previous administration, citing a Qatar Government offer of Rs. 600 million for a building project that he said had not progressed due to official inaction. He asked Ministers to investigate officials who refuse available grants and warned that such conduct harms the Government and the country. He also called for fair action on disappearances and crimes by security personnel, stating that the law should apply equally to all institutions and political actors. He further raised concerns about Muslim representation in public administration and policymaking, including the absence of Muslim District Secretaries and Muslim academics on the Education Reforms Committee.
Corruption & Governance ReformEthnic Reconciliation & DevolutionJustice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary A Muslim scholar will be appointed to the relevant body or process, in response to a prior request.
Religion & Culture Full speech → - The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen briefly queried whether a referenced appointment had been made yet, seeking clarification on the status of that appointment.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that the appointment in question would be made.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Rishad Bathiudeen asked whether an appointment would be made. No further context, position, or policy detail was provided in the quoted intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake stated that an appointment would be made. No further details were provided in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Rishad Bathiudeen urged the Government to appoint qualified people from all ethnic and religious communities to committees and task forces, without political or sectarian bias. He said national progress depends on peace, justice, functioning courts, human rights protection, and ethnic and religious harmony, which he argued are necessary to attract tourism and investment. He called for action against human rights violations regardless of the offender’s background.
Justice & Human RightsEthnic Reconciliation & DevolutionCorruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Muneer Mulaffer - Deputy Minister of National Integration JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister raised a point of order concerning the recent hartal and the Sainthamaruthu issue. He stated that the hartal was held under the slogan “North and East are the Tamil homeland” and noted that the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress had supported it, while adding that discussions were ongoing with relevant parties regarding the Sainthamaruthu mosque matter.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Hansaka Wijemuni - Deputy Minister of Health and Mass Media JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Hansaka Wijemuni responded to concerns raised about medicine supplies, stating that human immunoglobulin is subject to NMRA safety review when adverse concerns arise and that use is resumed only after independent evaluation. He rejected media claims that cardiac surgeries would stop due to Papaverine shortages, saying units had not reported such a crisis and that limited local purchases were being allowed to manage low stocks. He argued that procurement reforms and NMRA price regulation were reducing excessive prices, citing Papaverine price comparisons and stating that government-to-government and other procurement routes would be used to secure supply while maintaining quality verification.
- The Hon. Aboobucker Athambawa JJB
AI summary Hon. Aboobucker Athambawa argued that the Government is committed to protecting human rights by uniting all communities and rejected political approaches based on ethnicity or separatism, including framing issues solely around Sinhala- and Tamil-speaking peoples. He said Tamil and Muslim grievances, including justice for Muslims expelled from the North, should be resolved through discussion with the Government rather than divisive politics. He also cited ongoing development measures in Ampara, including the guaranteed paddy price, road improvements, housing for poor families, and Rs. 900 million for the Gal Oya scheme.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath called for the Government to address longstanding human rights, political, linguistic and cultural concerns of Tamils in the North, East and Hill Country, and asked it to state its framework, timeline and position on a federal solution. He linked economic recovery and stability to resolving the national question, while welcoming anti-corruption and non-violence measures. He raised concerns over excessive troop presence, weak Tamil language implementation, religious and ethnic disparities, political prisoners and the disappeared, and urged concrete proposals to rebuild trust among Tamil communities.
- The Hon. Arun Hemachandra - Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment JJB
AI summary Arun Hemachandra welcomed the Adjournment Motion as an opportunity for the Government to outline its approach to reconciliation, citing the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’ report as evidence of international expectations for reforms on truth, justice, rule of law, and non-discrimination. He said the Government was moving to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act, with a Bill expected by early September, while introducing modern laws to address crime without oppressive measures. He also highlighted land-related measures, including a decision in Trincomalee to release over 55 hectares previously demarcated for Forest Conservation but used by local farmers, and called for more Tamil-speaking Archaeology Department officers. He urged the Opposition to identify shortcomings and assist reforms rather than, in his view, attempt to destabilize the Government.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Susil Ranasinghe - Deputy Minister of Land and Irrigation JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Susil Ranasinghe said the Government was committed to reconciliation and human rights for all communities, linking that commitment to development initiatives in the North, East and Hill Country. He outlined land-related measures including the “Himakama” programme for titles and permits, planned issuance of titles for 700 LRC lands in Mannar, and discussions to release gazetted forest lands being used as farmland. He also cited irrigation and water projects such as Pahala Malwathu Oya, “Chari Mahima,” and the planned Mundeni Aru project as measures to support cultivation, flood control, drinking water supply and reconciliation through development.
- The Hon. Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy JJB
AI summary Hon. Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy supported the Adjournment Motion on human rights in the Northern, Eastern and Central Provinces, stating that the Government is committed to protecting rights across all communities and addressing unresolved issues arising from conflict and estate sector marginalization. He referred to personal wartime experiences and to Rohana Wijeweera’s writings to argue for unity, peace, democracy and development, while criticizing recent hartal activity as not reflecting public sentiment in the North and East. He said the Government would act within its term to release occupied lands, address long-term detainees described as political prisoners, and resolve issues relating to the disappeared.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Sellaththamby Thilaganathan JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Sellaththamby Thilaganathan addressed the Adjournment Motion on Tamil human rights issues, describing the death of Kapilan in Muthiyankaddu as a tragic isolated incident rather than one involving ethnic or religious incitement. He said the nearby Army camp had been removed at local request, with land and fencing to be handed over for civilian and temple use, and criticised the subsequent hartal as economically harmful and politically motivated. He argued that people in Mullaitivu prioritise livelihood restoration over separatism or federalism, and cited Government interventions to secure fertilizer subsidies for 1,200 acres and release water under the Muthiyankaddu scheme.
- The Hon. K. Ilankumar JJB
AI summary K. Ilankumar argued that human rights violations in Sri Lanka have historically been linked to efforts to gain or retain political power, citing the 1981 burning of the Jaffna Public Library, the 1982 Referendum, the 1983 pogrom, and later incidents affecting Tamils. He said failures and misuse of State machinery contributed to violence and insecurity, including misattribution of the Vavunativu police killings and failures preceding the Easter attacks. He stated that the current Government is working to strengthen democratic rights, allow institutions to function independently, and issue land titles in the North in Tamil, while alleging that some political actors are spreading fear and attempting to destabilize the Government.
Justice & Human RightsCorruption & Governance ReformEthnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran ITAK
AI summary Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran argued that Tamil national identity and land rights in the North and East continue to be undermined through land acquisition, settlement, military control, and the imposition of Sinhala-Buddhist symbols, and demanded the immediate return of lands and reduction of troop presence. He called for full implementation of the 13th Amendment, including police and land powers, within a merged North-East, and reiterated support for federal power-sharing. He also highlighted development disparities in districts such as Mullaitivu, Mannar, and Kilinochchi, proposing an Economic Development Authority and increased allocations to achieve parity.
- The Hon. Major General (Rtd.) Aruna Jayasekera - Deputy Minister of Defence JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister of Defence Aruna Jayasekera said the Government’s human rights approach is linked to restoring the rule of law, democratic governance, anti-corruption and social justice, while maintaining national security as a basis for stability. He stated that security forces are being educated on human rights and that an independent investigation is proceeding into the 7 August incident at a camp in Muthiyankadu, with three soldiers arrested. He reported that over 75,000 of 85,486 acres of State and private land held by the military in the North and East since 2009 have been released, with further releases planned, while some land will remain for strategic security needs. He also listed several road and land releases in Jaffna, Pulmoddai, Batticaloa and Trincomalee, including sites raised by Hon. Shanakiyan Rasamanickam.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna supported the Adjournment Motion on protecting the fundamental rights of Tamil-speaking people and argued that it had been mischaracterized as an ethnic division between Sinhalese and Tamils. He criticized the Government and the NPP for claiming to reject racism while, in his view, acting with ethnic bias toward the North, and questioned their electoral and administrative record there. He also tabled a report alleging financial irregularities at Tellippalai Base Hospital and demanded equal enforcement of anti-corruption action, asking whether separate standards were being applied in the North and South.
Ethnic Reconciliation & DevolutionCorruption & Governance ReformJustice & Human Rights Full speech → - Mr. Presiding Member
AI summary The Presiding Member sought the House’s agreement to extend the allotted time to conclude the debate, which was approved. He also directed that expunged content be removed from the Hansard by order of the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna argued that authorities would not arrest Rasamanickam because, as with Ranil Wickremesinghe, he would have to be released. The remark appears to criticize the handling or perceived futility of politically related arrests.
Law & Order Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna criticized the Government for failing to deliver on its promises, describing its actions as a “fake game” and “empty entertainment.” He said that if the Government implements at least one of its stated commitments, he would urge people in the North to vote for it again, adding that he personally does not wish to return to Parliament.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna questioned whether certain individuals, including Rasamanickam and Ranil, could be arrested, in the context of allegations about money held in Uganda. He challenged claims about funds abroad and called for any such money to be brought back to Sri Lanka, while accusing unnamed parties of making false statements.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna objected to reductions in his allotted speaking time and asked that this not be done. He referred to a report and challenged the authorities to make arrests based on it, questioning why no action was being taken.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary The Minister thanked the mover of the Adjournment Motion and said the issue was timely ahead of the forthcoming UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva. He emphasized that the NPP treats human rights as a national and inclusive concern, citing the presence and participation of Ministers and MPs from different communities, including the North and East. He criticized the main Opposition, the SJB, for its absence and limited participation, arguing that it appeared to regard human rights as mainly a Tamil and Muslim issue.
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna’s remarks were interrupted before he could develop a substantive point. No specific argument, proposal, question, or policy position is discernible from the available excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara rejected claims that the NPP Government was racist or inactive on Tamil concerns, arguing that it had adopted an inclusive national approach and begun addressing issues affecting the North, East and South. Referring to the OHCHR report, he acknowledged that concrete outcomes were still limited but said the Government had been in office for only about a year and would deliver on its commitments. He criticized what he described as divisive racial politics and highlighted the appointment of a committee headed by President’s Counsel Rienzie Arsecularatne to examine repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act.
Justice & Human RightsEthnic Reconciliation & DevolutionCorruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna briefly raised the issue of political prisoners, asking what action or consideration was being given to their situation. The intervention was framed as a question, seeking clarification on the Government’s position or next steps regarding political detainees.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara stated that the Government is moving to replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act with legislation based on an international definition of terrorism while safeguarding human rights and freedom of expression, with technical assistance from UN experts. He said a committee chaired by Justice Thurairaja has been appointed to examine sentence remission for long-term prisoners, including those outside PTA cases, with a policy proposal to be brought to Cabinet. He also said the Online Safety Act is considered oppressive and that a ministerial committee is preparing replacement legislation to address cyberbullying and online harm without restricting free expression.
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna briefly stated that attention should be directed to the outcome. No specific policy proposal, question, or legislative issue was raised in the provided speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara said committees are progressing reforms to the Online Safety Act, the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, and the proposed Independent Public Prosecutor’s Office, with consultation processes planned and the MMDA expected to be finalized by next year. He stated that the Government acknowledges UNHRC concerns as a basis for strengthening democracy, justice and reconciliation, and said the Batalanda Commission Report is with the Attorney-General for consideration of possible criminal charges. He defended the Government’s rule-of-law approach, saying investigations involving former President Ranil Wickremesinghe were not politically instigated and that the Judiciary, Police and investigative authorities are independent, while adding that the Government remains open to correcting mistakes.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara said the Government had acted on reports that returnees from India were being detained, describing it as an isolated technical issue and asking the UN and international partners to cooperate reasonably while offering assistance. He acknowledged criticisms of the Office on Missing Persons, citing weaknesses noted in the UNHRC report, and said he would submit a Cabinet Paper to appoint a 75-member expert panel and seek allocations to expedite investigations. He also said ONUR is working with the UN on a reconciliation roadmap, and that the OMP is engaged with 17 mass grave sites, including Chemmani and Matale, with support being sought from the ICRC and other partners. He urged members to work together on reconciliation and missing persons issues beyond partisan politics.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural