Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath

¶ 01 People in the North and East, long afflicted by ethnic conflict, were further hurt by the economic crisis. We must not return to that state; we expect a decisive plan to transform the country into a strong economy.

¶ 02 From Batticaloa District: farmers face severe hardship. The production cost for paddy is around Rs. 125 per kg—about Rs. 8,000 per 66 kg bag—leading to big losses. The harvests are imminent; the Government must promptly set a guaranteed paddy price—at least Rs. 150 per kg—to protect farmers; otherwise the wider economy will be hit.

¶ 03 In Batticaloa, the Mayilathamadu-Madhavanai grazing land struggle is nearing 1,000 days. The President assured release at the last District Development Committee, yet implementation is very slow. Please act urgently to release this land and safeguard farmers and livestock rearers, thereby protecting the district economy.

¶ 04 On Kilinochchi singer Ganeshkumar Sangeethsan’s arrest: we urge the Government to act humanely and justly, and ensure freedom of expression and artistic freedom, avoiding a return to the climate of fear. We have long opposed the Emergency and PTA because many innocents have suffered under such laws.

¶ 05 On the broader economy: stability requires a permanent political solution for all peoples. Justice for Tamils must be ensured.

¶ 06 Thank you.