Hon. (Mrs.) Anushka Thilakarathne, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, an Opposition Member said no funds were released to Divisional Secretariats in 2026. As of now, Rs. 45.7 billion has been released to Divisional Secretariats to distribute to affected people, with authority vested in District Secretariats.

¶ 02 Poet Bandula Jayawira, reflecting on past landslides in Koslanda–Meeriyabedda, wrote “When landslides occur, may kings be righteous.” In any disaster, the poorest 80% suffer first and most. This time, no one could become a “king” through the disaster; we did not allow robbery. Our representatives across districts worked on the ground with people to clear debris and clean homes. In Nuwara Eliya, every DS division was affected; our members, including local councilors, went to the field, opened school access, repaired roads, and served people.

¶ 03 In Nuwara Eliya, for 55 deaths, full compensation has been paid; Rs. 25,000 cleaning grants to 8,171; Rs. 50,000 item replacement to 1,191; and Rs. 15,000 school support to 1,320 children. Some Opposition figures spread falsehoods about the Kotmale reservoir and claimed we replaced engineers — untrue. If anyone can prove political appointments there, file cases; we are ready.

¶ 04 Beyond numbers, the trauma is real. Do not politicise this. Some who now represent the Opposition have encroached on highlands in Ambuluwawe and Kotmale, degrading the environment; the poor suffer the consequences. We are identifying 212 acres in Nuwara Eliya for resettlement, including in places like Kotmale and Wewandan. We have provided temporary shelter at the Thondaman Cultural Centre for those displaced. Please refrain from political games in this tragedy.

¶ 05 Thank you.