By Kumar David –
Prof. Kumar David
Sunil Handunneththi, former MP and JVP Politburo member, has been held in high esteem my many people including yours faithfully for the sterling work he did as COPE Chairman and because he is reputed to be a person of high personal integrity. Handunneththi values the long historical relationship between India and Lanka (see also# below) but an interview he gave Sirimantha Ratnasekera, Sunday Island of 16 Jan, casts a pall over his political credibility. The topic was the (Sri Lankan) government’s alleged plan to allow “India to capture the Trinco oil tank farm and to take forward its (India’s) expansionist intentions”. I do not know whether India, China, Timbuctoo, domestic capitalists or the man on the Moon is best suited to restore the Trinco oil facilities because I have not studied the matter. So, I will let that comment pass. It is what he said next that has provoked my ire and betrays Handunneththi’s pathological relapse into political amnesia.“The government has been compelled to sign this agreement. It is Déjà vu of the Indo-Lanka agreement which was pushed down the throat of Lanka on July 29, 1987. India got the JR Jayewardene government to sign the agreement by coercion. They dropped ‘parippu’ here, violating our air space. They sent an army of 150,000 while Sri Lanka’s army had only 72,000 cadre strength. This time they have used economic means for coercion”.
It seems Handunneththi prefers not to mention the other half of this story. The shameful outburst of Sinhala extremism fomented by the JVP against the Indo-Lanka Accord, murder of Vijaya Kumaratunga, the NSSP’s Chandrawimala and others, bombs thrown at numerous NSSP meetings and rallies by other groups supporting the Accord, and the anti-Tamil racism it instigated in the country. This indeed was the forerunner to the JVP’s suicidal lunacy in 1989.
It has appeared for a while, I have been following Anura Kumara’s statements, that the JVP was reassessing its reactionary positions on the national question. It appeared that it was close to saying sorry to the Tamil people for associating with state forces that brutalised and murdered Tamil civilians during the civil war. The same forces pulverised the JVP cadre in 1989-90. The JVP has long suffered from the delusion that if it bums extremism and sucks-up to the military, sadhu-sadu that will open the road to power.
Handunneththi throws into doubt whether the JVP is doing any serious rethinking. Are Anura and Sunil playing at ‘good-cop bad-cop’? ‘You fool the minorities and the liberals machang; I’ll rebuild our credibility among Sinhala-Buddhist extremist voters’. Or is there a tussle within the leadership about party policy on the national question? Whichever, it is of concern for all who for the last few years hoped that the JVP-NPP was the way out of the filthy sewer that the Sri Lankan political scene had degenerated into.
# [The deep relationship between India and Sri Lanka may motivate readers to link to an on-line lecture sponsored by the National Trust of Sri Lankan on Thursday 27 January at 6.00 pm by renowned historian Prof. Romila Thapar, Professor of Ancient History at JNU, Delhi. Link to lecture: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85174934993.]
Thiru / January 19, 2022
None of the Sinhalese-Buddhist leaders clamoring to gain power in Sri Lanka is free from: Buddhism first; Sinhala only majoritarian rule in the island.
Neither do these Sinhalese leaders understand that majoritarianism and meritocracy are not compatible with each other.
Does any one of them realize that the country cannot be in peace, prosperity or progress without meritocracy, free competition and entrepreneurship with one race and religion rewarded by the state in discrimination against the talented and hard working minority communities?
They started digging the grave for meritocracy and and buried it deep; we see the results now – abject poverty in the country.
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old codger / January 19, 2022
I think the JVP is as double-faced as any other party. It makes nice reasonable statements via Anura Kumara, who apparently means what he says. Handunhetti, on the other hand, talks about giving incentives to foreign investors, but apparently doesn’t want Indian investment. He also apparently believes in the magical powers of men in yellow clothing. What kind of Marxism is this?
The problem with many of this post-independence generation is that they actually believe Sri Lanka is a fully sovereign entity that is entitled to do what it likes. The bitter truth, which those of us with longer memories know, is that we are no more independent than, say, Goa or Tamil Nadu. Otherwise, why are we begging for oil from LIOC and not Saudi Aramco?
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Native Vedda / January 19, 2022
old codger
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Sunil and his fellow old guards are not only racists but anti Hindians as well. They didn’t mind Hindians bearing presents during most difficult times of this island, such as Tsunami, war against its own people, according one guesstimate Hindians provided nearly $2 billion loan/aid between 2007 and 2009,……………
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If you want to learn about hypocrisy its easy, watch JVP and its leaders.
I found AKD an amicable man however if you ask him about their past behaviour and their policies towards minorities and war crimes he maintains a calculated silence.
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I am sure AKD is a good man who unfortunately leading a racist undemocratic party.
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Those who believe this island enjoys sovereignty are unable to define what it is.
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SJ / January 19, 2022
OC
“What kind of Marxism is this?”
I have applied this phrase to everything that the JVP said and did since its founding.
It is still in its famous five classes mood.
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Lanka Canuck / January 20, 2022
OC,
You are right!
During 1987 – 1989, JVP was the worst racist party. The Tamils hated them and has still not forgotten that past. The reason why they killed the actor turned politician Vijay Kumaranathunga was because he was talking in support of the Tamils. Later, they were flirting with Chandrika after killing her husband. The JVP can never be trusted. When you talk to a common man, he/she will say, these fellows (SLPP/SLFP) are as bad as those fellows (UNP/SJB) and the only alternative is JVP but at the polling station, they remember all the atrocities done by the JVP during 1987 – 1989. That is why the JVP can never win an election and AKD can never become a president. When it comes to Tamils, they will never vote for JVP in the Presidential election. First of all, the JVP should openly apologise for their racist behaviour during 1987 – 1989. From this article, it is clear that they are still the same racists.
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Eagle Eye / January 19, 2022
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Eagle Eye / January 19, 2022
Thiru,
“…rewarded by the state in discrimination against the talented and hard working minority communities?”
—
At the time Sinhalayo gained independence, a section of Tamils who scratched the back of British were the most privileged community in Sinhale. They dominated the Administration and discriminated indigenous Sinhalayo.
There was a thing called ‘Loganathan’s Bank’ that gave loans only to Tamils.
There was ‘Kanakasabei’s Department of Railway where about 75% of the employees were Tamils. This guy came out with a policy to give preference to the children of employees when making new recruitments to keep Tamil monopoly and discriminate Sinhalayo.
Sinhalayo who gave evidence to Sansoni Commission revealed how Tamils discriminated Sinhalayo.
Prof. P.P.G.L. Siriwardena, Head of the Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo exposed how these talented hardworking people cheated in examinations.
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GATAM / January 20, 2022
EE,
Most railway employees at that time were labourers, near slaves. Just ike tobacco and tea plantation workers. Everything was done manually.
Don’t quote out of context.
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old codger / January 21, 2022
EE,
“There was ‘Kanakasabei’s Department of Railway where about 75% of the employees were Tamils. “
That’s the very reason that trains ran on time, with clean toilets.
With Sinhalayo running the railway, you can get to Kandy in a week when they aren’t on strike.
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Native Vedda / January 23, 2022
old codger
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“That’s the very reason that trains ran on time, with clean toilets.”
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I am sorry are you saying there was no single handed Fascist therefore trains ran on time?
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Lanka Canuck / January 21, 2022
EE
None of the European colonials helped the Ceylon Tamils or developed the North and East. The American Missionary that arrived in Jaffna in 1812 (before the British arrived) built well-equipped leading schools which helped the Ceylon Tamils to receive an English education, an advantage they had over the Sinhalese when it came to white collar government jobs under the British.
The British Never helped or favored the Tamils. However, when they needed people for the white collar jobs in the Ceylon Civil Service, they had no choice because only the Ceylon Tamils were English educated. That is how the Ceylon Tamils ended up as Doctors, Postmasters, Railway Station Masters, Police OICs, PWD overseers, School Head Masters, University Professors, and most of the Executive Officers in the public/civil service in the whole country, even in remote Sinhalese village government dispensaries, the Doctors were Ceylon Tamils whereas the laborers, attendants, peons, and drivers were the Sinhalese.
Not only the Sinhalese but even the British were not happy that only the Tamils were holding white collar jobs so they brought down Tamils of a different class (labor class) from South India by promising them a fortune. The British only helped the Sinhalese who were collaborating with them.
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Sinhala_Man / January 21, 2022
Not the full story, dear LK, but over-all you are correcting the picture for us Sinhalese. Thanks!
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Education for Tamils was mainly in Jaffna. The typical Hindu statement that there is truth in all religions may have made it easier for missionaries to work there. Is it correct to say the Americans got there in 1812? I must check with the Hoole brothers. Rajan hates being disturbed right now because of his next book, which is going to deal with the politics of Lanka from 1900 up to Independence. He is a guy who feels very guilty at the way Up-country Tamils were neglected by those from the North.
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My ancestors from the Galle District were among early converts to Christianity. Missionaries got there in 1814. Result to be still seen: I claim that my English is as good as yours!
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More observations can be made. After I see your response.
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Now, I really must email Handunetti, with copies to Vijitha Herath and Harini Amarasuriya. I don’t have AKD’s contact details.
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We’re not professional politicians; just fallible humans trying to figure out The Truth which may have different facets.
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Panini
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GATAM / January 20, 2022
Same goes for Tamils and Muslims.
e.g. ITAK, TNA, ACTC, TMVP, SLMC, ACMC
SL is a total mess.
Only solution is to divide the island into 3 mono-ethnic nations with relocation of people.
India, China, Saudi, USA, etc. will be very happy too.
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SJ / January 20, 2022
Where is the map?
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Sinhala_Man / January 21, 2022
Dear old codger,
.
This comment was written for submission to Kumar’s earlier article.
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There are comments there by Human Touch, Dr Siri Gamage (calling himself “siri”), and yourself, expressing unease with the latent racism within the Sinhala mindset. This article by “siri” just accepted a comment:
.
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/voter-the-politician-how-do-they-relate-to-each-other-what-matters/
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Unsure how to identify racism, I have claimed after listening to the 53 minute speech by Sunil Handunneththi, that it is racism-free.
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This other article, by Rajan Philips, also has the author stating clearly that the attitudes of the JVP have now changed,
.
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/anura-is-ready-to-lead-sajith-asks-the-government-to-leave-gota-mulls-referendum-sirisena-calls-it-silly/
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However, this belief is queried there too by HT, and I have linked readers to the same speech by Handunneththi. “leelagemalli” and I have throughout agreed that the JVP (now contesting as the NPP) has indeed changed.
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Your comment here has come after I reported my admittedly awkward conversation with Handunneththi during which Handunneththi himself claimed that he is by no means anti-Tamil, and spoke about some visits of his to Jaffna. He also said, however, that I must note that he himself is a “proper Buddhist,” referring to a few Pali texts which were Greek to me.
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old codger / January 21, 2022
S.M,
The problem here is that Handunnetti has , perhaps unwittingly, exposed that there are extremist and irrational streaks in JVP thinking. Which will dominate in a JVP government? H talks about
promoting FDI by eliminating corruption. But the JVP’S own union leaders make unrealistic wage demands. Is this compatible? Then there is anti-Indian animosity. What would investors think about a regime that repudiates agreements? In any case, is it wise to antagonize a giant only 30 miles away? Perhaps the JVP knows that it can’t get into power without pandering to majoritarianism. But are we sure it won’t be majoritarian in government?
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Sinhala_Man / January 21, 2022
Continuing:
.
I desisted from complicating issues by referring to my Christian background, because I honestly don’t think it matters. When I subsequently emailed Sunil at 16.19 on the 17th, I linked him to this very article.
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Another article by Professor Kumar David appeared yesterday, the 19th:
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https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/handunneththi-degenerates-into-chronic-amnesia/
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The new article amounts to an attack on Handunneththi. Now where do I stand? I think that I must start doing a re-think, and write to Handunneththi, tomorrow at least, that he, too, should ask himself if his position on too many subjects marks him out as a man who unwittingly harbours atavistic fears.
.
I have now found that in Dr. Ranga Kalugampitiya we have a kindred spirit who is stoutly claiming that the NPP is a political party which is fighting against racism.
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https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/revisiting-the-jvp-npp-equation-in-conversation-with-dayan-jayatilleka/
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Having said all that, I must claim that whether naively or delusively, all of us named there are fighting against racism, and all of us, including Handunneththi, are sincere. At least we’re trying to find answers is what I want to end-up claiming. How will History judge us?
.
Panini Edirisinhe of Bandarawela. NIC 48 3111 444V
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leelagemalli / January 22, 2022
Part 1
If you, the ones with some sanity, would question yourself today, your heart would not allow you to ignore the question.
Which govt (in post independece period) treated srilankens as human beings and homo sapiens? In the same time, which govts treated the people like ultra fools ?
Buddhism as I learnt it in the daham school, it should be based on „non-violence“. Unfortunatley, what is being displayed in our country is something else which constantly promotes „ crimes“:… crimes wearing „ pirith noole“:
We have put a religion, calling it „BUDDHAGMA“ aka „fake buddhism“, keeping it above, not leaving space its citizens to enjoy equal rights. Buddhagama per se promotes divisions in this country from the day one. As almost every buddhagama adherent, I was also born to a powerful sinhala buddhist family. But today, I am become an atheist not being able to believe my eyes the way ” fake buddhist monks” in my naturally beautiful island misbehave and react unethical and unmoral alsopublicly being close to heartless/totally greedy politicians.
In retrospect, the truth as it is, tremedous improvment in basic human rights in this country became contrast only during CBKs terms and also during good governance. As a result, the govts earned the respect among powerful nations. I dont think it is right to attack each govt for the mess Rajapakshes‘ ill adminstrations deliberately created
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tbc
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leelagemalli / January 22, 2022
Part II
Just imagine, if the current govt was in power, at the time monstrous Tsunami waves destroyed the country in 2004, not many from the west, nor USA would ever donate a single dollar, particularly looking at the unethical inhuman manner the current govt moves foward.
Looking back, this reminds me how German and UK govts invited SORYSENA in 2015 to visit them immediately, they got elected as presidents. Not even Belarus, Swaziland invite Rajapakshes today.
Whoever, whatever, being said and done, if CBK’s govts did not appoint late Mr Kadirgamar as the best ever foreign minister srilankens ever produced, it would not have been easier Rajapakshes to eleminate terror within the country.
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If Kadirgamar`s external affairs failed to get LTTE activities banned on the rich soils, LTTE would not have been branded on the west, north america and other powerful countries. So called fake war victory was sold out to the stupid majorities as if Rajapakshes are the saviours oft he nation. But their nakedness is exposed as of today even to little ones.
tbc
/
leelagemalli / January 22, 2022
Part III
Biased media men transported the untruths fooled the nation. Rajapakshes reaped out the harvest what Ms CBK sowed during her terms. Collosal amounts western rich countries donated to the country in the backdrop of tsunami disaster were fully embezzeled by Rajapskhes.
Gold confiscated from nothern srilankens were totally looted by Mahinda Rajapkash’s wife who has now become one of the laughing stocks of the day. Rajapkashes are eternally indebted to nothern srlankens for their rise today.
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Her sons that are not even passed olevels at schools, to spread lies as to have obtained doctorates, are planted lies to continue fooling the nation for their political gains. Who do they think the people are ? Are people eternally stupid fools ?
Biased main stream media behaves as if they are powerless. They just ignore the danger before the very nation.
Sadly, the kind of fake perception destined this nation.
If elected govts failed to serve justice why to expect rebells tob e saints ? They might have committed crimes 89-92; the kind of high crimes are not new to this nation. Vijaya kumarathunga, journalists, univ professors and other professionals were killed, but are the kind of atrocities which are not new to the nation.
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hanchopancha / January 19, 2022
The trouble with the Sighalese is, their perennial malaise is that what they say they never mean it and what ever they mean, they ever say it.
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Eagle Eye / January 19, 2022
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SJ / January 19, 2022
h
Would you say much different of the Brits?
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hanchopancha / January 20, 2022
Certainly yes. Never got screwed by Brits but certainly by Singhales at every nook and corner.
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SJ / January 22, 2022
What has getting screwed up to do with hypocrisy?
*
As for screwing up, ask descendants of people from the plantations and coolies who worked on the railway system over a century ago.
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Mallaiyuran / January 20, 2022
Got hurt by hanchopancha’s comment?
Are your back at the brick wall that if Brits not able to fix them, you never can?
Now I see why Brits put you out but accommodated many others,who cannot say “A”..
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Jit / January 19, 2022
“………. murder of Vijaya Kumaratunga, the NSSP’s Chandrawimala and others……….”
Well, what about my contemporary Daya Pathirana? And poor Nandana Marasinghe?? And thousand of others?? So many community leaders and other innocent people who opposed to JVP draconian theories in the 80’s were wiped off pathetically!! I am not saying we should keep demanding the pound of flesh, but at least JVP should be humble enough to apologize for all those despicable murders of utterly innocent people, in order to get an overall reconciled social consent and to spearhead a healing process with the broken families affected. I still cannot see that attitude coming from them at all, but their ‘no guilty’ authoritarianism still lingers high in the air.
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hanchopancha / January 21, 2022
Surely, terrorism was not a monopoly of LTTE for sure.
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chiv / January 19, 2022
KD, people should accept the simple fact that nothing changes in Lanka. No political party or politician will make or bring any change. I feel pity for those who dream that it’s still possible, after 70 years. Any such capable person will not survive Lanka politics in the first place, but recognized in any other part of the world, as in Singapore. (there are many more around the world). Months ago many did not appreciate me pointing out JVP/NPP continuing with their anti India/US/West policy but never raising concerns related to China. In fact though India was funding some projects they avoided getting into any deals, until recently when China turned belligerent at their borders and aggressive in Lanka ,capturing strategic locations. This week India bailed out, by providing $ 500 million in emergency loan and additional $ 1.5 Billion to purchase food and fuel. Instead of reading from a written script why not Hadunenneththi use his expertise and connections in getting much needed food, milk powder, fuel, $ loan ——in saving Lankan public ???
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Native Vedda / January 19, 2022
Prof. Kumar David
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Being part of gang of old guards Sunil has to stick to his script. It is a futile exercise to straighten dog’s tail. He and his party are also active participators of competitive racism.
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He requested Mahanayake Theras to intervene as if they understand present politics of Oil. In fact even the dumb-ass president wants to import electric vehicles hence reducing the demand for oil. Even Sunil should know why he should not mix saffron with politics.
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This was another stupid comment he won’t regret.
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We should invite Sunil to visit Sri Lanka as these opportunists have had easy ride and should be taken to task by people if not by its party members.
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soma / January 19, 2022
” Indo-Lanka agreement was pushed down the throat of Lanka on July 29, 1987. India got the JR Jayewardene government to sign the agreement by coercion.”
True or false this is what every body believes.
Socialist or otherwise Handunnethti cannot change history.
It is not too late to put it up for a referendum.
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Soma
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Jit / January 20, 2022
Before JRJ, UF government was under the heavy influence of Indian Congress party pumped up by the then USSR communist regime and Sirima religiously followed Indira Gandhi for anything and everything. Although he was highly critical of Gandhi dynasty before, and worshiped Reagan constantly instead, JRJ too had to gulp down the Indian ‘kohomba thel kashaaya’ (bitter medicine) in late 80s. There is nothing strange about that because India is humongous compared to tiny Thambapanni so they have in the past and will always want to keep it under their firm control. Sad reality, and don’t dream of any act of heroism but learn to live with it. What JVP or their pseudo NPP do not understand (or rather pretend not to) is that simple fact.
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Native Vedda / January 20, 2022
soman
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TID officers said I’m a terrorist because I didn’t own Buddhist books: Ahnaf Jazeem
https://www.themorning.lk/tid-officers-said-im-a-terrorist-because-i-didnt-own-buddhist-books-ahnaf-jazeem/
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This is another attempt to Talibanise Sinhala/Buddhism.
Is there any law that demands every household must keep Sinhala/Buddhist books?
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“It is not too late to put it up for a referendum.”
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Your leader the single handed strongman pure Sinhala/Buddhist, Asgiria blessed Hitler Gota, his brothers and his functionaries going around the world begging for “more loans”. Did they get approval from the public?
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Grow up.
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chiv / January 19, 2022
There is no politics or politician in Lanka without anti India, anti West, Anti minority, SB, Sangha, Prelates ——.
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Gus / January 20, 2022
Chiv
“There is no politics or politician in Lanka without…. Anti minority”
A ceylon tamil living in the west told me that he is amused by beggar sinhalas complaining about racism. That ceylon tamil said that after his experience of manifest institutionalised racism in sri lanka the very occassional mild racism that he has experienced in the Wester does not bother him. But it seems this mild racism is a SHOCK for the sinhala beggars. Anyway isn’t being a beggar a fundamental tenet of the begging bowl buddhist monk buddhism!
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Paul / January 20, 2022
‘…….sinhala beggars. Anyway isn’t being a beggar a fundamental tenet of the begging bowl buddhist monk buddhism! ‘
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How sad to see overseas Tamils exhibiting the very same racism that they complain about.
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soma / January 20, 2022
Gus
Why do the Tamils consider Sinhala Buddhist society is superior to their own?
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Soma
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Native Vedda / January 21, 2022
soman
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“Why do the Tamils consider Sinhala Buddhist society is superior to their own?”
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Do they?
The Tamils consider themselves being the chosen people, like the Jews, ….
You too have the same problem, don’t think too much about yourself.
You have to be proud of yourself, else you will not fit into the main stream Sinhalese community. As you have been doing this for over 100 years, you have to make loud noises otherwise you have no place in the community, the late arrival of Kallathonie converts have this problem, they have to be Sinhala/Buddhist than Sinhala/Buddhist (whiter than white).
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Good luck with your efforts to mimic Sinhalese and Buddhists.
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By the way Saffron Elle is ready for a riots, are you?
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Paul / January 19, 2022
I recall the JVP as being very vociferous about Indian intentions. They were intensely anti-Indian and anti-IPKF. They killed thousands of their own people but they didn’t kill a single Indian. It was left to the LTTE to do that. They cannot be trusted.
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Native Vedda / January 19, 2022
Paul
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“They killed thousands of their own people but they didn’t kill a single Indian. “
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JVP was known to have killed 20 IPKF soldiers while travelling on a bus. I have no way of confirming the story.
I was told JVP was responsible for killing the Indian finance director of Sugar factory in the East. After this murder, Hindian diplomat warned the JVP through their contacts to stop all such activities. They also advised JVP leadership to continue their campaign against Hindia demanding the people to boycott paripu and medicine.
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It so happened Somawansa and many of his comrades in arms were in Hindia seeking asylum while stupid members of JVP demanded the people to boycott Hindians products.
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Not much difference among stupid JVP, UNP, SLFP, ministers, Theros, nationalists, …. for begging for help from Hindia while sticking two fingers at them.
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Paul / January 20, 2022
Thank you Vedda, I did not know about this.
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Native Vedda / January 21, 2022
Paul
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I also understand escape of Somawansa and his comrades to Hindia was made possible by a Tamil man., who put them in touch with the Hindian authorities.
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Yet that racist remained a public racist and an anti Indian until his death and beyond.
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Paul / January 21, 2022
Vedda I think Somawansa also had connections to the UNP. This may interest you.
https://thinkworth.wordpress.com/2015/04/18/interesting-facts-about-jvps-somawansa-amarasinghe/
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Jit / January 21, 2022
NV, stop spreading OPDP! Sirisena Cooray, the BIL of Somawansha A. was NOT a Tamil. That was THE person who put S.A. in that boat after S.C contacted Indian HC + RAW. I don’t know if Premadasa knew about it or not. But it is a fact S.C helped Somawansha to escape the country.
BTW why do you call India as Hindia?? Are you on a mission to change the names of the countries of the world? If so, why don’t you start with our own as someone has already named it – Silly Lanka??
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Native Vedda / January 22, 2022
Jit
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Why are you getting jittery?
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I am not in the business of profiting from OPDP! (whatever that may be, and am sorry being an ignorant).
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Even if the the passage was arranged by Sirisena Cooray, the fact remains a born anti Hindian public racist Somawansa escaped to Hindia to safe his bum and life leaving his cadres to face dead squads run by Gota, Fonseka, DIG Udugampola, …. and others.
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If JVP honours Somawansa then it should honour all the those who have served sentences for the similar types of crimes. However being a hypocrite Somawansa campaigned for more war against LTTE, a devoted war monger.
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I still believe it was a Tamil living abroad who arranged the initial meeting with Hindian authorities, and was part of the initial negotiations. Therefore please just hang on until we get fresh evidences .
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Sirisena Cooray could have arranged the logistics until Hindians received him and his comrades in mid-sea, international waters.
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Somawansa is spelt Somawansa and not as Somawansha.
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“BTW why do you call India as Hindia?”
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Why not?
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“If so, why don’t you start with our own as someone has already named it – Silly Lanka??”
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I am too busy doing useful things, why don’t you do it yourself?
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Jit / January 22, 2022
NV, Not jittery at all! It was all in lighter vein to tickle an old man, you didn’t get it because I missed adding a :)
“…Somawansa is spelt Somawansa and not as Somawansha….”
The answer is in your answer :- “…..“BTW why do you call India as Hindia?”
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Why not?…..”
:) :) :)
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Jit / January 20, 2022
However, what I have heard is, India (RAW) provided logistics and facilitated Somawansha A. to escape to Europe in that high speed boat on the day Rohana W. was captured.
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Native Vedda / January 21, 2022
Jit
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“…… in that high speed boat on the day Rohana W. was captured.”
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tortured, and burnt alive.
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Jit / January 21, 2022
NV, did I ask you to elaborate?
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Native Vedda / January 22, 2022
Jit
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“… did I ask you to elaborate?”
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Why are agitated when the information was given to you free of charge?
This is a forum where readers share information, opinions, exchange facts, correct errors, ….
So whats your problem?
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Jit / January 22, 2022
NV, just read my reply to your latest. It was all for fun :) take it easy young man!!
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SJ / January 20, 2022
Paul
There were times when the Indian government was soft on the JVP and vice versa.
When India warned the LTTE not to try to capture the SL army camp in KKS in year 2000 (?) the JVP was full of appreciation for India.
There are aspects of the Indo–Sri Lanka accord of 1987 that very few are even aware of, which exposed Indian intentions. A northern left party and the SLFP made reference to them. The JVP strangely said nothing about them– they were too obsessed with 13A.
/
Simon / January 20, 2022
Paul: You say:”….they didn’t kill a single Indian”. Just read the comment of the present-day “Greatest Historian” and “To be Acclaimed Story Teller” “NV”. Are you happy now?
/
Native Vedda / January 21, 2022
Simon
–
“….. “Greatest Historian” and “To be Acclaimed Story Teller” “NV””
–
Please read:
–
How the JVP Fought a Guerilla War Against the Indian Army in Trincomalee
Posted by Administrator on 11 February 2015, 8:58 pm
https://dbsjeyaraj.com/dbsj/archives/37896
–
https://www.dailymirror.lk/62597/fsp-leader-kumar-gunaratnam-fought-a-guerilla-war-against-the-indian-army
–
If you keep reading you too can make it into history books.
/
Simon / January 21, 2022
NV. Thanks. I do not want to be a history book. I live in the present to shape the future. That is my task at the moment.
/
Native Vedda / January 22, 2022
Simon
–
“I live in the present to shape the future.”
–
I appreciate your motive, however I suggest you read and learn from past so that the past could help you to avoid same mistakes again and again.
–
Keep up your good work.
Take care of yourself and your family because we need good people like you.
/
Simon / January 22, 2022
Dear Native: Thank you very much for understanding me. I do always read history based on the situation then prevailing but always to shape things for the present and prospective future that could change.
At the moment, I am insisted upon and pressed by my children (son & Daughter) living abroad to join them soon, perhaps on information sent to them by my contacts here. Yes, Native, I will be careful and thank you again for wishing me
and my family well.
/
leelagemalli / January 23, 2022
Simon,
.
You have been doing a great job. We miss your discussions with Kadamandiya people.
Why I go after them is that their thoughts are the decisive factor in srilanken election outcomes.
:
May you be blessed with all strengths to continue your great work !
/
Sinhala_Man / January 23, 2022
Dear LM,
.
This message comes to you from a confused Panini Edirisinhe in Bandarawela. The time is 14.13.
.
You are writing from Germany on your Sunday holiday. The proof that your mind is clear is that in your comment that came on about 13.30 you say that Simon’s Kadamandiya people who are “the decisive factor in Lankan election outcomes“. We are ineffective in what we do. I because my literacy is mainly in English although I’m a Sinhala-speaking villager who knows zero Tamil.
.
Kumar David, now in Los Angeles, has another article:
.
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/chain-reactions-energy-releases/
.
Responses from RTF in Pennsylvania who means well, but hardly knows the land of her birth any more, and from “chiv”, an intelligent cosmopolitan Tamil who isn’t in the country any more.
.
An excellent article by Tisaranee Gunasekera:
.
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/after-gotabaya-the-deluge/
.
Three responses so far, but how on earth does she know about current happenings in Pradeshiya Sabhas in the Eastern Province?
.
https://www.info-rain.com/lahugala-pradeshiya-sabha-power-captured-by-unp-by-toppling-slpp-due-to-a-split-vote/
.
No date on that report, but the link said “six hours ago”. Where is this area?
/
Sinhala_Man / January 23, 2022
Continuing ……
.
I’m not sure where Rajan Philips lives, but he writes well:
.
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/anura-is-ready-to-lead-sajith-asks-the-government-to-leave-gota-mulls-referendum-sirisena-calls-it-silly/
.
That was his earlier article. Now this:
.
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/gotabaya-his-contenders-what-was-said-not-said-in-the-presidents-policy-speech/
.
Have you heard the entirety of Gota’s speech? I don’t think that I have. Why not provide a link?
.
By now the time has become 15.17 and I must get myself something to eat! I don’t know how my relatively new cylinder of gas is now empty. Just don’t know; it’s difficult for an old man to live alone, however wonderful the climate here!
.
I know that Lanka is a small country, but reaching out to a population of 22 million is not easy.
.
Panini Edirisinhe of Bandarawela
/
SJ / January 19, 2022
The author is bitter that the JVP is not what he liked us to believe that it was.
Frankly, the omission of certain events relating to the JVP is not relevant to what SH was trying to communicate. It was not meant to be a critical analysis of the JVP.
*
If anyone was trying to mislead us on the JVP, it not SH but the author who went out of his way to denounce the critics of the JVP.
There are others who seem to have bitten his bait and adopted his version of the JVP.
Whether or not the JVP apologises, the author owes a big apology to the readers of CT.
/
Mallaiyuran / January 19, 2022
Prof. Kumar,
Sunil Handunneththi is not all that Langkang wants now. Neither is he a fire & water tested, certified, foolproof, solution for Langkang. Naturally his left orientation makes him pro-China & Anti-India, anti-West. Further I guarantee that Sunil will not sell Langkang to China and invest the proceeds in Western markets & Crypto Currencies. But certainly, those natures of his are not equaling Ranil’s anti-West pro-China policy. Sunil is Anti West, pro-China because of his outdated leftism. Ranil’s anti-West, pro-China is because of his nasty, foxy, cunning, tricky nature. My feeling is, I am not scared of Sunil’s leftism, as much as of Ranil’s cunning, these days. People like to rate Sunil on his character, not on his achievements and certainly not based on his leftism. In COPE, he did a good job, but he had a good example from Communist Comedy DEW’s precedent. I am sure Subil was guided by Dew’s wrok. Then, though he doesn’t deserve full credit for that, but that is a very good example, that is telling that if Sunil see good examples, he follows that and straighten the Langkang.
/
Mallaiyuran / January 19, 2022
Evaluation of a candidate should not be like CBK, Sampanthan Aiyya, Madulawe Thero evaluated White Flag murderer for abolish EP Constitution. Rule is to select the candidate to do the job! CBK preferred him to eat Aappa at Temple Tree House before leaving SLFP, as she wanted to teach a lesson to Old Rowdy. But that was the prime disqualification to entrust him with abolishing the EP like a very serious job. Sunil may not be a unifying figure like Vije but he seems to be the only one man to have been born in the Wildlife Sanctuary, SinhaLE, at this time. Further his deficiency in unification doesn’t count because Tamils are no longer looking for any Vije to patch them with Sinhalese for unitary government. So, his difference from Vije is not counting for Sinhalese. So, Sinhalese can go well with him, because Tamil are never going to follow Sinhalese anymore. There are two pre-steps in Tamils seeking a solution for them.
1. Get the International Investigation.
2. Get back where Old Rowdy chased out SLMM and restarted war. Bring back SLMM. Send the Rapist Army back to batteries. Start a new chapter with an interim government for 5 years.
After that an International Community-Tamils agreed solution.
/
Eagle Eye / January 21, 2022
Mallaiyuran,
“…Wildlife Sanctuary, SinhaLE,…”
—
Sinhale became a ‘Wildlife Sanctuary’ after indigenous Sinhalayo accommodated Ts and Ms.
/
Sinhala_Man / January 23, 2022
NV, I find it a bit difficult to understand Mallaiyuran because of his style of writing.
.
Let him keep discussing the problems faced by Tamil speakers. Talking is quite al right, provided there isn’t a call to arms again.
.
We don’t want wars and fighting.
.
This article by Kumar asserts that Sunil Handunneththi is a man of high personal integrity and there is much that he can do in a future NPP government. It is good to communicate with him. I have now spoken to him twice on the phone. The second time it was he who called me. However, I did not talk long on either occasion.
.
He himself told me that we can “agree to disagree”. I said fine, provided they are matters which will not harm anybody.
.
It is good that we continue this dialogue with him so that he knows our views. What matters is that we finally vote for the NPP!
.
Panini Edirisinhe
/
Native Vedda / January 19, 2022
Paul
–
“They killed thousands of their own people but they didn’t kill a single Indian. “
–
JVP was known to have killed 20 IPKF soldiers while travelling on a bus. I have no way of confirming the story.
I was told JVP was responsible for killing the Indian finance director of Sugar factory in the East. After this murder, Hindian diplomat warned the JVP through their contacts to stop all such activities. They also advised JVP leadership to continue their campaign against Hindia demanding the people to boycott paripu and medicine.
–
It so happened Somawansa and many of his comrades in arms were in Hindia seeking asylum while stupid members of JVP demanded the people to boycott Hindians products.
–
Not much difference among stupid JVP, UNP, SLFP, ministers, Theros, nationalists, …. for begging for help from Hindia while sticking two fingers at them.
/
Jayasiri Samarakoon / January 20, 2022
Finally, reality has dawned on Prof. David. But to his credit, he has come out openly with his frustration. This is unlike some of his Left colleagues, academics and others who were bewitched by the JVP/NPP and are now like ‘cats who have defecated on a rock’ as the Sinhala saying ‘gale reepu balalaa vage’ goes. What has he got to say with Handun’s (and JVP’s) opposition to a possible bridge with India? Sometime earlier I pointed out that the NPP’s ‘rapid response’ says different things in different languages. Sinhala version says that ‘until’ a new structure for ‘decentralization’ (NOT devolution) is put in place PCs will be run efficiently. The English version drops ‘until’ making readers believe that PCs would stay under the new structure. What has Prof. David got to say? Also, while Prof. David has been pushing for a broader action front, JVP makes it clear that they will have nothing to do with others. Clearly, JVP is under the illusion that it can get power soon- same as in 1971, 1982 Presidential elections after which Wijeweera did not come out of his room for a week, 1987-9 and 2019.
/
Human Touch / January 20, 2022
Dear Prof.
.
We, Sri Lankans, should understand a few realities of life, particularly with regard to the dollar scarcity.
Our income has to be greater than expenses if we are to keep existing as a satisfactory economy.
To earn money we have to use what we have at our disposal, be it the exploitation of mineral resources, sale of manufactured items, agricultural items, all kinds of services, tourism, foreign labour, and any other viable means of earning.
The Trincomalee oil tanks present a perfectly acceptable revenue source. We have to look at the prospect objectively instead of continuing to be emotional over this matter as we have been over the past 75 years, resulting in loss of revenue all along.
Let us accept the fact that we are unable to put the tanks to use, if it were possible, we would have been generating revenue
Assuming India are given the opportunity to use the tanks,
/
leelagemalli / January 22, 2022
Dear HT/
.
Singapore became what they are today not having oil springs but just improving the avenues for taxes/ they are totally lack of any ground resources/ .
We had those Trinco tanks built by the English that could well be utilized as regional oil storage for bunkering also using the geographical locations to its best. If invested for the restoration of them/ it is estimated that not even 50 million s of US $ would be necessary/ however even if UNP govts failed but the govts in power since 1994 not to have brains to make use should be a greater failure. They only exported cheap labour to middle east similar to an alcoholic father would sell their own kids to the temples making them child monks or human SACRIFICES. 😥😥😥😥😥😥😥
/
Human Touch / January 20, 2022
Continued…
India will put the tanks to use, generate revenue and we will invariably earn our share too.
India will not take the tanks to India, the tanks still be where they are.
.
As a result of economic activity around the tanks, there will be a diverse range of downstream jobs and businesses that will need to be set up to support the tank business.
.
This is a bonus, as the jobs created will add to our economy.
.
A lot of businesses in the world are not necessarily owned or run by the government of that country. Yet the benefits go to the country and it’s people in the long run.
.
I honestly don’t see the big deal about the Trinco tanks. Let them generate income instead of being lifeless.
/
nimal fernando / January 20, 2022
Dunno what Handunneththi’s “Sinhala Buddhism” is …….
–
In recent times, the only “Sinhala Buddhist” who could feed the “Sinhala Buddhists” was Ranil Wickeramasinghe.
–
If “Sinhala Buddhists” don’t want to go hungry they better stay away from “Sinhala Buddhists.”
–
“Sinhala Buddhism” is the shortest path to hunger, pain and suffering …….. “Tamil liberation” too …………..
–
I know bugger all about politics or fancy political theories …….. but can recognize and accept the truth when I see it ……….
–
–
I’m 6’3” tall and have very little insecurities ……… the ones I have, I’ve identified and dealt with …….. my world is not the sum total of my insecurities ……….
–
There’s nothing much wrong with me ……….. as far as I can tell …………..
–
This is not an ego trip: I’m anonymous ……..but just to let people realize how their views are formed ……………
/
Native Vedda / January 20, 2022
Nimal Fernando
–
“I’m 6’3” tall and have very little insecurities ……… the ones I have, I’ve identified and dealt with …….. my world is not the sum total of my insecurities ……….”
–
I am only 5’9 1/2″.
Does it mean you look down on me?
Do you expect me to look up to you?
/
nimal fernando / January 21, 2022
“I am only 5’9 1/2″.”
–
Native,
–
You were 5′ 8.5″ in September ……. you have grown a full inch since then …….. you’re still a growing boy! …….. How do you grow so fast when other children in the country have no food/nourishment for growth?
–
“Does it mean you look down on me?”
–
No, I look up to you …… and Old Codger …… you guys are towering intellectual giants amongst the mini-midgets that masquerade as intellectuals in the country …………
–
“Do you expect me to look up to you?”
–
No. I expect nothing ……… those are not what floats my boat …………..
–
–
Most people don’t take a step back and examine if the views they hold are true/real ………without their knowledge, their insecurities form their views ………. and spend the rest of their lives trying to get others to accept those as the truth/reality …….
–
Teachers have not challenged them to critically examine their views ……….taught them only excellent English ……. English hides/camouflages the hollowness …….
–
Sinhala_Man is to be blamed!
/
Native Vedda / January 21, 2022
nimal fernando
–
“You were 5′ 8.5″ in September ……. you have grown a full inch since then”
–
I am sorry I was typing during electricity outage (thanks to Udaya, Gamini Lokuge, Champika, …… Gota) so I wrongly knocked 9 instead of 8, as you know 8 and 9 are neighbours.
–
“Sinhala_Man is to be blamed!”
–
What can he do?
When 6.9 millions want to remain stupid what could any of the honest intellectuals (becoming a rare breed) do to educate them? To them even Professors Gananath Obeyesekere, Amartya Sen, S Pathmanathan, H L Seneviratne, Noam Chomsky …. Romila Thapar) are jokers.
–
Every time the stupids brand them jokers it reminds me of illiterates living in remote parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan issuing FATWA on Salman Rushdie.
Did you agree with them?
–
The Children are taught by ultra racists, nationalists, crooks, … and child molesters, in some case they are subjected to incest relation by father.
Regrettably Sinhala_man stand no chance ……
–
Don’t worry sooner or later islanders will learn from Chinese the hard way in their “re-education camps, boot camps, internment camps, Chinese gulag, “.
–
Therefore we need to save our energy to fight the Chinese, on a later date, in the air, on the beaches, …. on the roads, …. .
/
Sinhala_Man / January 22, 2022
Dear Native Vedda,
.
“Regrettably Sinhala_Man stands [I have made two corrections here] no chance.”
.
There are many things that I have to thank you for:
.
First, you totally reject what nimal says about my culpability.
.
Secondly, you realise how little clout I have. I’m not taken seriously even in my own neighbourhood. To elaborate slightly on that, I was born in a school; my birth certificate says so. The school can be seen from my home, and I walked there in five minutes to cast my votes for Presidential and Parliamentary Elections. But otherwise, the security guards smile ruefully and inform me that the frocked Headmaster has ordered that “VishramikaGambadaIngirisiIskoleMahattaya” be not allowed through the gates.
.
Thirdly, given my lowly status, I’m glad that I’ve not been classed with the “intellectuals”. It would have been interpreted as a joke. But let us all listen to that Romila Thapar Lecture, five days from now.
.
Indeed, NV, “What can he do?”
.
Panini Edirisinhe
/
Native Vedda / January 22, 2022
Sinhala_Man
–
What I meant was that good people in this island stand no chance of bringing any relieve to the people as majority of them have been conditioned to believe in one man’s ability to solve problems.
–
Instead the single handed strong man has created millions of problem for the people including those who elected him.
–
Today you may be weak or not in a position to stop and change the country’s destiny however what is important is your “moral convictions”.
I never intended to belittle you in any way.
–
In fact being a minority among majority you stick your principles which I envy.
Keep up your good work.
/
Sinhala_Man / January 23, 2022
Dear NV,
.
Your comment was fine. I meant what I said, “that pressure was not being put on me to deliver the impossible”.
.
Let me tell “old codger” some way below this what happened after daybreak yesterday. The time now is 02.47, and Kumar David has another article; but it’s time I hit the pillow!
/
Sinhala_Man / January 22, 2022
In case somebody begins to seriously imagine that I’m mad at nimal fernando (nobody yet knows his real name. and I fear that he would have told Kavinda not to tell me, although, in the event I didn’t meet him) ………
.
let me tell you that I know how popular his clowning is. (Often it has a serious purpose behind it.)
.
Certain things get said because of him. Without that clowning certain facts and ideas can’t be thrown out by others.
.
I admit not being very good at doing all that myself. However, as a teacher of English, I know my trade well enough to recognise genius when I see it!
.
Oh, no! Have I called that rascal a genius? Now what to do? The erase button on my keyboard isn’t working today.
.
Never mind! Let this be posted as it is!
/
Sinhala_Man / January 21, 2022
nimal,
.
Can you believe Palki Sharma to be capable of such carelessness for detail as she displays here?
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIR3pZmVUpI
.
It’s just four minutes, but at least a dozen details will shock you. Most Tamils will be furious.
/
Lanka Canuck / January 21, 2022
SM,
Palki Sharma is only a North Indian journalist. When there are plenty of Sinhalese who do the same mistake, ignorant about their own country and its people, Palki Sharma’s mistake can be ignored. It was due to the British, when they found that the Ceylon Tamils were having a high ego due to their English education (via American Missionary), they brought Tamils of a different class (labor class) from India knowing very well that the ignorant Sinhalese will not be able to differentiate.
/
nimal fernando / January 21, 2022
“Palki Sharma”
–
SM,
–
I don’t want to break anyone’s heart …….. Hope Old Codger doesn’t read this, now that he has spent big bucks on a widescreen ……..
–
I find Palki crude and unrefined: not my cup of tea ……. She has a nice face and knows how to utilize it to the max for her advantage: nothing wrong ……. good on her ………
–
I’m a patriot ……. perhaps not the smartest of the smart-patriots ……. but I like gals like these ……. educated, refined and classy ……… :))
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epeyuDNbOGw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtJqr33GKBE
/
old codger / January 22, 2022
Nimal,
Here’s a refined, educated, etc lady journalist, a treat to listen to.
.https://youtu.be/HP0PUhK9NkU
/
Sinhala_Man / January 23, 2022
nimal,
.
Both your gals had interesting things to say; as I’ve already said a successful entertainer has to be intelligent.
.
The first “gal”you have introduced us to is a bit long in the teeth, but she drives her points home very well. I request other readers also to listen to that, and the other also, who may be more accurately described as “educated, refined and classy”.
.
Both speak in Sinhalese, although the second is clearly a gal who knows English..
.
One problem in Lanka is that to be considered “classy” these gals have to be amongst those who know English. That naturally generates hostility in those who don’t know the language.
/
Simon / January 20, 2022
Most of these “FAKE” supporters (the so-called Intellectuals) who aspire to creep into JVP have now realized that it is a futile attempt and a dream. As stated by AKD the Chairman of NPP, anyone can join but all of them would be “VETTED” by a “Panel” of the NPP. These “FAKE” intellectuals have now adopted the theory “Attack is the Best Form of Defence”.
This Sunil Handunneththi has now launched a campaign of addressing the ordinary people in the village and markets. He has changed his “Vocabulary” in addressing the commoners so that they could know and understand the NPP’s mission. He tested it and succeeded in the “Village Saba” at Kottawa in Lihinigama temple. With this mission, more and more “FAKE” “Intellectuals” and “Elite” pandits would resort to attack the key figures of NPP. It is a good sign because these are the “Parasites” who always infiltrate into political parties and ruin the administration.
/
Eagle Eye / January 20, 2022
KD,
“Or is there a tussle within the leadership about party policy on the national question?”
—
What is the ‘NATIONAL QUESTION’ you are talking?
/
GATAM / January 20, 2022
EE,
Tamil national question.
It can be resolved only by giving a mono-ethnic nation each to Tamils, Muslims and Sinhalas.
All 3 deserve their very own exclusive nation.
Without resolving the Sinhala national question, Muslim national question and Tamil national question there is no future for the island.
/
Mahila / January 20, 2022
“What is the ‘NATIONAL QUESTION’ you are talking?”
Past editor of a premier Lankan Newspaper for half a decade, asking this question, signifies the magnitude of the problem!!!
Not only Blind, but Deaf and Dumb too, it seems.
The bigger question is How did he last that long in that Hot seat???
Convoluted personae!!!!!!!!!!!
God help Sri Lanka from ineptness and filibustering by retards!!!!!!
What a wonderful place this world would be if idiosyncrasy was absent!!!!!!
God bless.
/
Eagle Eye / January 21, 2022
Mahila,
“National Question?”
—
An issue that exist between separatist Tamil politicians in Yapanaya and indigenous Sinhalayo regarding an effort by Tamil politicians to grab land belong to Sinhalayo and Vedda Eththo to create a separate State for the descendants of Tamils brought to Yapanaya by Portuguese and Dutch to work in their tobacco plantations using a bogus claim ‘Traditional Homeland’.
—
The ‘Panchamars’ in Yapanaya and Tamils who work in tea plantations in Central Highlands branded as ‘Indian Tamils’ by Tamils in Yapanaya have nothing to do with this so called ‘National Question’.
/
soma / January 20, 2022
My definition of NATIONAL QUESTION:
Reluctance of majority Tamils to live in a Tamil only enclave.
–
Soma
/
a14455 / January 20, 2022
wow KD has had a revelation. halleluiah
I wonder what LM SM and the Simple Simon has to say
/
Simon / January 20, 2022
a14455: Please note I don’t pour water on a duck’s back and never try to straighten a “Dog’s Tail” even inserting it in bamboo. Have I made it sound and clear?
/
a14455 / January 21, 2022
This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn’t abide by our Comment policy.
For more detail see our Comment policy https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/comments-policy-2
/
GATAM / January 20, 2022
UNP, SLFP, SLPP, SJB or JVP makes no real difference.
Only color differences and very small initial policy difference.
They all have to fall into the SL trap eventually. And they do.
Only solution is to split the island into 3 mono-ethnic nations (if Tamils and Muslims are willing to share one nation, then split the island into 2 nations) and relocate people.
Until then Sri Lanka will remain Sri Lanka and don’t beg for change.
/
Eagle Eye / January 20, 2022
GATAM,
“Only solution is to split the island into 3 mono-ethnic nations…”
—
Since you are proposing to relocate, why not relocate Tamil speaking people to their ancestral homeland across the Palk Strait. That will solve the problem once and for all.
/
SJ / January 20, 2022
You keep forgetting the map.
/
soma / January 20, 2022
GATAM
Thanks for inclusion “if Tamils and Muslims are willing to share one nation, then split the island into 2 nations”.
I don’t see a single reason why they can’t.
Once the island is devided into two Tamil speaking part is free to split into Hindu, Muslim, Christian , high castle and low caste autonomous areas.
–
Soma
/
Rohan25 / January 21, 2022
Actually, Sinhalese are more casteist than the Sri Lankan or Eelam Tamils. Sinhalese largely marry vote and elect leaders on caste and religious lines. Whereas Eelam Tamil may marry on caste lines but does not vote or elect leaders on caste lines. Most Kandyan Sinhalese still look down on the low country Sinhalese and will hardly marry into them, unless they are from certain upper caste so-called low aristocratic families. As for religion being a Hindu or a Christian is not an issue amongst Sri Lankan Tamils, most of their leaders have been Christian, and unlike in South India, Sri Lankan Tamil Hindu and Christian families are closely related to each other and still maintain close family ties. Most families have a Hindu and Christian( Protestant largely) within their families. Unlike many of the Sinhalese leaders, who were born as Christians were compelled to change their religion to lead the Sinhalese. Tamil Christian leaders do not have to, as it is not an issue.
/
Rohan25 / January 21, 2022
Once there is a separate Tamil state federal or otherwise, in the north and east, there will be no Sinhalese led party or Southern Muslim opportunists and extremists to agitate the local Tamil Muslims from the north and east, in the name of religion and Arabism and they will settle down and as before independence become part and parcel of us. Don’t worry Soma and shed crocodile tears for them, as they are our fellow Tamil sisters and brothers and we will look after them and protect their Tamil Islamic culture and way of life, as this also enriches us. They are hardworking industrious people, good in commerce and trade, and will be an asset to us and will be your loss.
/
soma / January 24, 2022
Rohan25
What will be the fate of Tamil speakers in Sinhala majority provinces?
–
Soma
/
Ajith / January 20, 2022
What we all are trying to say is that Sri Lankan governments and political parties are not suitable to govern this island and it is their politics brought back all powerful international players or super powers to destroy this island. Our politicians created internal problems and do want to solve the problems, invited external sources to interfere in internal problems and now begging all around the world. What should we do?
Resolve internal problems ourself and limit the interference of external powers or
Continue with internal problems and increase the interference of external powers until we sell the whole island to external powers.
/
Plato / January 20, 2022
Is it possible for Leopards to change their spots?
The most riveting of the five lectures of the JVP at the turn of the 70s was the lecture on Indian Expansionism.
A good many of the rural youth were swept off their feet. All the more so with the oratory of its founder Rohana Wijeweera.In essence the JVP was saying that one fine day Lanka will be numerically swamped by the numerically greater Tamils across the Palk straits.
Their flash revolt immediately after the Indo-Lanka accord of July 1987 proved their stand.
It is very unlikely that the JVP WILL CHANGE THEIR STAND ON THIS ISSUE .
Young Sunil Handunetthi has spilled the beans.
And Prof: Kumar David has smelt a rat……………………….
But,I admit the JVP HAD NO HAND IN THE jULY 1983 pogrom against the Tamils.
JRJ did it and foisted it on the JVP!
They have held a Tiger by its tail……………
They reckon that they cannot possibly let go for them to capture State Power.
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old codger / January 22, 2022
Plato,
“In essence the JVP was saying that one fine day Lanka will be numerically swamped by the numerically greater Tamils across the Palk straits.”
Actually, this has been the case since the time this island was a part of the sub-continent. But those who manipulate history don’t usually explain that all the invaders/migrants/ kallathonies eventually mutated into staunch Sinhalayo, thereby proving Charles Darwin correct.
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Sinhala_Man / January 22, 2022
Update!
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At 7.55 am Handun (that’s what guys like me should call him, not the ponderous “Obathuma”) called me in response to the “missed call” that he had got from me. I was determined not to talk unnecessarily, so finished in 2 minutes, 39 seconds.
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He was aware of this article by Kumar; I told him that I had emailed him (Handun) at 7.28 am, with copies to Kumar, Vijitha Herath and Dr Harini Amarasuriya. Handun said that on some matters they would “agree to disagree”, but the differences were not fundamental. He said that he would study all the comments and get back to us.
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I’d like readers to assess the extent of the differences. This is AKD responding to questions:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWPlS6SXTdM
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He names Handun as part of his future cabinet – in the event of their forming a government. I know that Tamil speakers will have a problem. Well, this is why I’m promoting dialogue between Handun and Kumar who is one of the finest users of English in Lanka.
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old codger / January 22, 2022
S.M,
I do hope that good Prof.KD won’t get in trouble with the JVP for pointing out that the king has no clothes. Better late than never.
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Sinhala_Man / January 23, 2022
Dear oc,
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I’m going to hit the pillow soon; there’s another article by Kumar David, but I’d best comment on that tomorrow:
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https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/chain-reactions-energy-releases/
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After being spoken to by Handun at 7.50 am yesterday, I wrote to Kumar, Vijitha Herath, and Harini Amarasuriya. Kumar is very prompt with his responses (I don’t speak to him abroad). It’s best not to disturb busy people with distracting calls, I’m sure.
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Kumar had written to Handun at 9.00 am (our time) saying that owing to my email he now had Handun’s address. Guys like me can’t be major players in all this. I’m glad if I contributed some little bit. We need to ensure that these honest people stay together to save the country.
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I’m hoping that handun makes the adjustments necessary to maintain NPP unity.
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Sinhala_Man / January 22, 2022
Continuing ……..,
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nimal, NV, and oc, please do your bit! I know the limitations that you have placed on yourselves owing to anonymity.
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Of the major areas of concern, Economics I know is where I’m weakest. See what you can make of this:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8SV_Qr8GiY
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English is certainly not the problem here. This guy, Dr Nishantha de Mel, is as fluent as anybody around. Said to have been at both Harvard and Yale. He tries hard to explain, for half an hour, but I just don’t have any knowledge of “Central Banking”.
The interviewer here is a young woman, Alanki. Well, she has interviewed Hanunneththi a year ago; in Sinhala.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdcbpO2Vy04
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Handunneththi certainly knows English; he had done his University studies in English at Jayawardenapura University. But we must face it that political speech-making is usually possible for any politician only in one language. This is understood in most countries, but not by some in this “land like no other”.
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I now have to await responses, and remember that comments will probably end about midnight on Sunday – that’s tomorrow.
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Panini Edirisinhe
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