The Hon. (Dr.) Susil Ranasinghe

¶ 01 Mr. Speaker, issuing a title—whether a freehold deed (often termed “Sinnakkara” locally) or a Development Ordinance permit—is governed by specific processes. Across the country, not only in Kilinochchi, there have been longstanding issues in granting permits and deeds. Our Government has now launched the “Himikama” (Ownership) programme to issue permits/deeds. Under the leadership of our Hon. Minister, we commenced this in Kilinochchi—specifically in the Palai DS Division—to signal our commitment to resolve land ownership in the North and East where the need is acute.

¶ 02 This work must be done island-wide, but we began in Kilinochchi due to the special gravity of issues there. Many have been displaced over 75–80 years; some emigrated; others passed away; some have resettled. Old deeds and permits are torn, lost or misplaced. First, we must clarify who owns which land, on what basis, who now occupies and has developed those lands, and their claims. After this regularization, we can issue permits or deeds to residents for the lands they occupy and enjoy. This requires a land clearance (regularization) process. In Kilinochchi, about 60,000 acres remain to be regularized. Once cleared, we can issue deeds expeditiously. We are prepared to proceed swiftly within our programme, but the clearance has to be completed in parts.

¶ 03 Mr. Speaker, we have no hesitation: people must receive ownership. We are ready and are proceeding, while also carrying out necessary land clearance.