The Hon. Anuradha Jayaratne, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees,

¶ 02 At the outset, I note that the Deputy Minister of Defence did not present a convincing necessity for extending Emergency now. We supported imposing Emergency at the time of Cyclone “Ditwah,” but today we do not see a justifiable need for extension.

¶ 03 If the Government believes Emergency is required to manage fuel, gas and diesel stocks amid global uncertainties, the President already has powers to Gazette for 30 days as needed. To extend now, citing the past cyclone, is not good governance and erodes public trust in the law.

¶ 04 There are pressing practical issues: from Kandy to Matale, no train service for three months; no trains to Nawalapitiya or Colombo; only limited buses deployed, leaving thousands stranded at Panideniya Junction. The Transport Minister or Deputy should state clearly when rail lines will be repaired. Emergencies should facilitate solutions—compensation, assessments, shelter, land for resettlement—not merely control people.

¶ 05 In Gampola, merchants were told compensation would be paid to all affected; yet many shops have not even been assessed. In Mawatugama about 17 houses slid; 28 died; 6 are missing—families have received only Rs. 25,000 so far. In Ududumbara and Gangoda, 11 family homes slid; 23 deaths reported; NBRO reports are still pending. At Doluwa and Rajathalawa, whole villages were affected, but no lands have yet been allocated. Even the Peradeniya Black Bridge was washed away. Please present clear timelines to this House.

¶ 06 We acknowledge fuel risks linked to the Iran situation as indicated by the Deputy Defence Minister; prepare accordingly with proper procedures, rather than closing issues off. I conclude with that request.