The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration

¶ 01 Hon. Member, the answer to all three is “Yes.”

¶ 02 By way of detail: - In 2014, when the case commenced, the OMP was not yet established; it came into being around 2018. Interventions stalled during a later period. Following renewed petitions, on 26 August 2025 an expert team—including JMOs, forensic anthropologists and archaeologists—sought Court leave to access the mass grave site. As we speak, they are on site under OMP coordination. Upon initial findings, an interim report will be submitted, and the Magistrate will order excavation and exhumation.

¶ 03 - Budget: Experts will submit requirements through proper channels; I will approve funding. Adequate funds are available, and this matter will not be sidelined—similar to the Chemmani inquiries, which proceed due to continuous funding.

¶ 04 - Methods: Investigative modalities will follow expert opinion and international protocols. My Ministry will fully facilitate modern and advanced technologies to ensure accuracy, efficiency, preservation of evidence, and minimally invasive excavations adhering to best practices and SOPs in forensic archaeology and human rights investigations. If technology is not available locally, we will seek international assistance.

¶ 05 - Inter-agency coordination: The Court will determine collaboration among relevant institutions, including the Attorney-General. A multidisciplinary, inter-agency approach will ensure legal and procedural compliance and strengthen credibility and transparency. The OMP and Office for Reparations have prepared proposals to partners, including UN agencies, for expertise and support.

¶ 06 - Last rites: After collecting ante-mortem data and upon Court determination based on scientific processes, we will, in consultation with religious leaders, civil society and families, ensure dignified last rites according to their faith. Activities will be conducted with the highest confidentiality and sensitivity.

¶ 07 Our goal is to reveal the truth, provide answers, honour the deceased and uphold human dignity. Weather permitting, by October this process should commence.

¶ 08 Thank you.