Hon. S. Sritharan

¶ 01 Despite our efforts toward coexistence, it is disheartening that even now some of our Muslim brothers express hostility in harsh words. Individuals like Sehu Iszadeen were not driven by animosity; he worked for Tamil–Muslim unity. His family should find solace, and his thinking should grow stronger; the unity between Tamil and Muslim peoples must be strengthened.

¶ 02 The North and East are the ancestral lands where Tamils were born and raised — their homeland. No one can deny this. No one has the right to say they will not accept the homeland concept. It is our homeland. Standing on that soil, the Tamil-speaking people living there have duties and responsibilities. That is why the Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi has clearly stated in its constitution its position rejecting any notion of a separate “Muslim state,” while affirming Tamil unity and the Tamil homeland concept as permanent. I conclude by praying that the soul of Sehu Iszadeen attains peace and by conveying condolences to his family. Thank you.