The Hon. V.S. Radhakrishnan

¶ 01 Madam Deputy Chairperson of Committees, I wish to raise some points on public security. Serious crimes, particularly shootings, are increasing widely. People carrying firearms openly, often linked to narcotics trafficking, are engaging in gunfights, and ordinary people become targets. The Police must act decisively against crime just as against bribery and corruption, so people can carry on their livelihoods.

¶ 02 I request the Minister: during upcoming recruitment to fill vacancies, please include youth from the Hill Country—both as officers and constables. The President agreed when we met last week.

¶ 03 Recently a professor was abducted and killed in Batticaloa; similar crimes occur in Jaffna, including the killing of a mother and child for a thali chain. Strong action is needed. Do not create ethnic or regional rifts. We must maintain unity.

¶ 04 Due to global conflicts, our government faces challenges. We appreciate India’s assistance but urge proper implementation to address shortages of diesel, petrol, and essential goods. Fertilizer shortages affect vegetable farmers; ensure adequate supply, or secure it through Middle East arrangements if peace holds.

¶ 05 At the recent GCE A/L, many Hill Country students obtained 3 A’s—even from schools without full resources. This disproves the stigma that Hill Country people are uneducated. A student from Kilinochchi, Thirukumar, topped the nation in mathematics. Do not belittle any community. Let us build a country free of regionalism, sectarianism, and racism. Thank you.