Hon. Sundaralingam Pradeep - Deputy Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, today I wish to address key points in this debate on extending the Emergency Regulations.

¶ 02 In the past, emergency laws were used to suppress protests, silence the truth, attack media personnel, and even set fires to institutions, all the while claiming to protect democracy but, in fact, acting against it. Such history has instilled fear among minorities that emergency powers might be turned against them.

¶ 03 We must therefore reflect why H.E. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake declared the current emergency 53 days ago. It was to respond, on humanitarian grounds, to the devastation caused by Cyclone “Ditva”: to protect lives and property and to rapidly mobilize food, clothing, essentials, and medical services to the affected. At that time, even the Opposition called for declaring an emergency. Yet today, they speak in different tones.

¶ 04 Those now in Opposition fear accountability for their past wrongs—killings, corruption, and anti-people activities—because our actions today are grounded in justice. The law is equal to all: whether a former ruler, a high official, or an ordinary citizen.

¶ 05 In our hill country areas—mountains, valleys, and steep terrain—Cyclone Ditva caused extensive damage. The emergency greatly aided rescue and relief. Where roads were cut off and distances made access impractical, emergency powers allowed crossing administrative boundaries so nearby Divisional Secretariats could deliver aid swiftly. It also enabled officials to serve affected people beyond their usual limits, cut dangerous trees, allocate land to hill-country families, and provide essential services. These measures helped restore lives and uphold humanity after the cyclone.

¶ 06 Opponents allege that in 53 days the Government abused emergency powers. We ask them to cite even one instance. Our Government has not used the emergency to suppress democracy or target political opponents. We have used it solely for the people.

¶ 07 Some now peddle racism again, trying to divide Tamil, Sinhala, and Muslim communities and parroting foreign agendas. The people see clearly and will teach them a lesson at the next election.

¶ 08 I also urge that women MPs be treated with dignity during debates; we strongly condemn insults directed at them.

¶ 09 Regarding long-standing issues of housing in the hill country, we are implementing projects with Budget 2025 funds; houses are being handed over and salary increases have been provided.

¶ 10 Finally, many politicians own estates and acres of land in the hill country. I ask them: will you give even a small plot to affected hill-country people? Stop the crocodile tears and serve the people on the ground. Thank you.