The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna

¶ 01 That is how it always is—no problem.

¶ 02 Hon. Presiding Member, first I must condemn an incident yesterday at Anuradhapura Hospital where a doctor was subjected to sexual harassment.

¶ 03 I wish to raise three main issues:

¶ 04 First, in Kilinochchi, Karachchi Pradeshiya Sabha’s actions are harming traders in the Kilinochchi market. Shops built at a cost of Rs. 40 million—eight in number—are reportedly being offered at Rs. 10 million each, pushing small traders with no stable livelihood into dire straits. I bring this to the attention of the relevant Minister.

¶ 05 Second, in Jaffna, there are complaints regarding the Chavakachcheri Divisional Secretariat: according to the GA, Mr. Pradeepan, officers in the Land Division and ICT Division are idling, and people are being turned away.

¶ 06 Third, since today’s debate concerns online and the digital economy: in Ramanathapuram, Kilinochchi, there are allegations of online platforms being misused for immoral activities, publicized via TikTok and YouTube. I bring this to the attention of the Defence Minister and the Minister in charge of Police.

¶ 07 There are also threats alleged from a YouTuber, T. K. Karthik, saying he would kill me. I bring this to the attention of the Minister of Public Security.

¶ 08 Yesterday, Hon. Hisbullah said in this House that I should be sent for a medical examination. If he speaks like that of others, he should be sent for a medical examination. I am not against Islam. I have never said the Islamic path in our country is wrong. I said that marrying off children of 8 or 9 is wrong—no matter which religion—Buddhism, Christianity or Islam. This is one country; if some say separate laws should apply, that is wrong. Think of the children—eight or nine years old—this is wrong.