The Hon. S. Sri Bavanandarajah

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, the recently issued Gazette regarding lands in our Province has created concern and fear because it is said lands will be seized. In truth, the aim is to identify owners and regularize their titles; the Government will not seize lands. Owners can submit details to the Land Registry to obtain title; even without documents, evidence of residence, cultivation, or use will suffice. Those abroad can act through authorized attorneys. After identifying private owners, State lands in our areas will be given—preferably to diaspora Tamils who first seek to start industries and invest—not to others.

¶ 02 The work under this Gazette has been temporarily paused. At the next DDC meeting, with cooperation of all MPs, we will decide the next steps. There is no need to be alarmed. Properly understood, this Gazette benefits genuine owners and enables wider public benefit. At the next DDC meetings in each district, with officials and MPs, we will take correct decisions before proceeding.