The Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi

¶ 01 The National Security Council met. It was noted there are currently 81 Tamil-speaking officers serving in the Department of Archaeology in the Northern and Eastern Provinces, but also a shortage. The President stated all remaining vacancies will be filled and that efforts will be made to recruit officers who can serve in Tamil. He also emphasized special attention to archaeological sites in the North and East, and that work will proceed in a manner that does not disrupt people’s daily lives. This was reiterated this morning at the National Security Council.

¶ 02 Mr. Chairman, regarding the Kurundi Vihara issue raised, we have given it deep attention. An expert committee has been appointed to inquire. Until the situation is resolved amicably, no archaeological officers have been deployed to conduct excavations in the Kurundi area. Likewise, in the Wadunagala area, the problem arose because individuals acted beyond the recommendations approved by the Department.

¶ 03 Finally, I must answer the OQ regarding the Hindu Kovil at Kochchikade. I am pleased to state that Rs. 36 million has been allocated for developing the related infrastructure. The Hindu Cultural Fund is a very valuable fund dedicated to serving the people. Its fixed deposits generate interest, and currently it has Rs. 42 million in fixed deposits. Development work is funded from the interest. As needed, funds are available under the above allocations for kovil development. If a request is made to the Department of Hindu Religious Affairs, the necessary action will certainly be taken.

¶ 04 Hon. Mujibur Rahuman raised the issue of the mosque at the Mahara Prison. This mosque, which has existed since 1903, was closed after the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks on security grounds. There is a proposal to provide a suitable land parcel near the Mahara Prison mosque; however, a suitable land has not yet been found, which is the problem. We are paying full attention to this.

¶ 05 Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for the time given to me.