The 2016 Foreign & Commonwealth Office report on Human Rights and Democracy was presented to the UK Parliament by the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs.
According to the report published yesterday, in 2015, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) designated 30 “Human Rights Priority Countries” (HRPCs) including Sri Lanka. The other HRPCs areAfghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Burma, Burundi, Central African Republic, China, Colombia, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Libya, Maldives, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Yemen and Zimbabwe.
Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson
“We designated HRPCs following careful consideration against three separate criteria: the human rights situation in the country; the country’s human rights trajectory; and the UK’s ability to influence change. The purpose of selecting HRPCs was to help us prioritise our efforts. This is not to say that we do not work on human rights in many other countries in the world, and indeed through multilateral fora. HRPCs have been treated as priorities for funding from the Magna Carta Fund for Human Rights and Democracy. The cut off point for this report is 31 December 2016. At https://www. gov.uk/government/collections/human-rights-and-democracyreport-2015-priority-country-reports you will find our latest assessments of human rights in the HRPCs.” said the Foreign & Commonwealth Office.
“Our Annual Human Rights Report reviews developments over the last twelve months. This year it paints a stark picture of continued human rights violations and abuses in Syria, Iraq, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and many other countries across every continent. However, the picture is not unremittingly bleak, and the UK has been instrumental in promoting and protecting human rights in many areas around the world. For example, a landmark Human Rights Council Resolution at the UN, co-tabled and driven forward by the UK, successfully encouraged the Sri Lankan Government to continue making progress on promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights, in line with its commitments.” said the Minister for Human Rights, Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon.
“Supporting reconciliation and reform in Sri Lanka remained important throughout 2016. In June the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein provided an update on implementation of HRC resolution 30/1 on Sri Lanka. The UK will continue to support the Government of Sri Lanka in its fulfilment of resolution 30/1, encouraging determined political leadership and inclusive consultations with all communities.” the report highlighted.
We publish below the relevant section on Sri Lanka:
The human rights situation in Sri Lanka saw some improvement in 2016. The Government of Sri Lanka made progress against some of its commitments reflected in UN Human Rights Council (HRC) Resolution 30/1, but much remains to be done. The UK welcomed the passing of legislation establishing an Office of Missing Persons. This was an important step towards reconciliation, although it is yet to come into operation. A constitutional reform process is underway. It is hoped that this will address issues of devolution and introduce a Bill of Rights. The Sri Lankan Government is committed to repealing the much criticised Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and is drafting new counter-terrorism legislation which it intends will be compliant with international human rights standards. These would be important steps in removing historic grievances and strengthening human rights and the rule of law in Sri Lanka.
The government announced further land releases in 2016. While the military maintained a significant presence in the north, the lower profile it took was generally welcomed. The UK has consistently called for the acceleration of land releases and the demilitarisation of the north. Some prisoners held under the existing PTA were released, though many remain in detention without charge. Reports of surveillance, intimidation and harassment by the security forces continued in the north and east, although at much lower levels than under the previous government. Intercommunal tensions remained an area of concern. Tensions were fuelled by hate speech by members of extremist nationalist groups. Sri Lanka continued to engage with the UN and invited a number of UN experts to visit the country, including the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture. He reported full cooperation by the government, but raised concerns about the standard of detention centres and continued cases of torture.
Discrimination against LGB&T persons remained a problem, with a report from Human Rights Watch highlighting that transgender people, and others who did not conform to social expectations about gender, faced discrimination, abuse and mistreatment.
The UK continued to support Sri Lankan Government efforts to develop a more capable, professional and accountable police force, with the aim of reducing the risk of human rights violations, including torture, and improving public confidence in the rule of law. The UK also provided support for the UN’s work on reconciliation and peace building, and demining in the north. The then FCO Minister for Human Rights and the Commonwealth, Baroness Anelay, visited Sri Lanka in November and underlined the UK’s commitment to support reconciliation and accountability. The minister also highlighted UK work to help tackle sexual and gender-based violence in Sri Lanka and the importance of accountability and tackling the stigma suffered by victims. She welcomed the Sri Lankan Government’s endorsement of the Declaration of Commitment to End Sexual Violence in Conflict earlier in the year.
In 2017, the UK will continue to support and encourage Sri Lanka to make further and faster progress on human rights. We will continue to work with the Sri Lankan Government, international partners and civil society to support delivery of the commitments that Sri Lanka has made to promote accountability, reconciliation and human rights and look forward to the report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka’s progress before the HRC in March 2017.
Unreal / July 21, 2017
These Human Rights Reports are a kind of tamashas that help the monitoring nation(s) to keep a controlling effect on the reported States. Nothing is binding. The government of SL knows only too well that it is in their interest to ‘accept’ the Reports. Once the reporting nation has been pacified the unhealthy practices continue unabated. Dodging the reporting nation is all in a day’s work for GOSL. The reporting nation is also not overly concerned about the breach of promises made or understandings reached.
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Analyst / July 21, 2017
While these Racist Nincompoops lives in there FOOLS PARADISE !! SL is heading to a downward turn. All because of mass propaganda to the village idiots oh! Our First world country is a ( fools) Paradise n we do not need the outside help nor advise.
The racist news media connects this no author story to the man in the picture to spread Hate to the first world country , then run with bogus passports and human smuggling , these are our Racist bigots of Ape Aanduwe Buddha cultured Liars.
Get a head count of how many liars from the majority community living a lie in several countries!!
Either hiding or applying for stay visa with bogus cause hundreds of TIMES.
These people do they love their country called SL??
This is the reason the country is descending similar to THIRDWORLD COUNTRIES.
The Racists are the first ones in the queue to catch a plane to the west ( UK) the country they CURSE about always which is not so equal but much better than Parayah state SL!
The wonder of Asia!!
No brainier than the village punnakku eating donkeys.
On the subject of Human rights our Ape aanduwe President can’t even remember whether the visiting officials were permitted to see and speak to the victims of war and the prisoners!!!
Really so shameful to read one minute the Prez is asking who gave permission to speak or meet the victims, where as the PROMISE IN WRITING when the GOOD GOVERNANCE CAME TO POWER was agreed upon!!
Is it to do with O/L Education or suffering with ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE???
Are they all suffering with this grave disease in the Parliament of SL???
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE ?? In the Cabinet too??
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Analyst / July 21, 2017
The Real Racists of Srilanka not only spreads HATE IN SRILANKA BUT THEY SPREADS HATE OF OTHER PROSPEROUS COUNTRIES TOO TO THE VILLAGE IMBECILS.
IS IT JEALOUSY OR JUST HATE???
They are the ones jumps in the plane to do shopping in Manhattan Macey’s or in the West end of London in Harrods or John Lewis.!!!!
Sad people.
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Ben Hurling / July 21, 2017
Sir, Where is Israel though? Among those 30 Human Rights Priority Countries or HRPCs! Go Figure Boris! Sri Lanka has a well deserved slot. My fellow citizens, congrats!
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Native Vedda / July 22, 2017
Ben Hurling
Alright we know Israel is responsible for many atrocities in Palestine and Elsewhere. Does it mean by blaming Israel Sri Lanka could absolve itself from historical war crimes and crimes against that had been committed over 46 years?
How long can you postpone war crime investigation by blaming Israel, USA, West, …..
Its our problem we have the moral obligation to deal with it ourselves. This island’s rulers can run but cannot hide indefinitely. Get it over and done with.
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Ben Hurling / July 22, 2017
Native, Own up to our Republic’s inhumane, criminality over the past 50 years? YES! At the behest of a cunning, geo-political report issued by world-class hypocrite Boris & his FCO monkeys? Who forgot to name Israel? Haha! Just the tip of legendary British Iceberg of double-morals. It is time we issued a report on war criminals in Britain. Cheers!
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Native Vedda / July 22, 2017
Ben Hurling
” Just the tip of legendary British Iceberg of double-morals. It is time we issued a report on war criminals in Britain. Cheers!”
You should urgently do that and you know I will be right behind. Leaving the brvado aside when will the Sri Lankan state bring its bogus investigation to close. Don’t offend the Brits who are doing everything possible to absolve MR, GR, Sri Lankan state, armed forces, its death squad, ……………….. from war crimes and crime against humanity.
Tell us how many Sri Lankan war criminals have been investigated, found guilty, and punished by the International Community? The war ended in 2009, more than 8 years ago.
You will never be able to do anything to the West therefore I suggest you keep your rhetoric bit quiet. You need some rest.
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Ben Hurling / July 23, 2017
Native,
Let me be clear. Sri Lanka’s post 1948 history is soaked in blood. Nobody has been punished. It is an utterly repulsive record. I am on your side on that matter. I am just amused by things Brits do to project a sense of moral superiority. Cheers!
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take_that / July 22, 2017
“Go Figure Boris! Sri Lanka has a well deserved slot. My fellow citizens, congrats!””
WhooooHoo, Ambude on Fire!!
Bittare Rakenna Ben- Plumeria temple flower has no nectar is a pedo- and simply dupe their pollinators- the breed of the hyena beast!
What Libtard Commie Ken L could not achieve you plan to teach BoJo-
You would get better than the F word from him- your servitude ambude would be on fire better you do Sati.
Imbecile when given the opportunity to elect a responsible government you burnt the the people with your rhetoric on CT- Servitude of the island- The breed counts!
You never play sticks and stones right all that was done was paid to the bookmakers via your Dayasiri/Sumathipala. – Turf accounts- it’s your Sinhala Buddhist culture.
Live in the markella Gonibilla Porkistan culture of selling Kuddu.
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Manel Fonseka / July 25, 2017
Israel has been included
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Emil van der Poorten / July 23, 2017
Unreal:
What you have to say is, unfortunately, true. “The caravan moves on” after duly paying lip-service to all the great precepts!
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tatcher / July 23, 2017
BoJo has his business cut to size.
As per the law How UK reacts is for the tory party alone. The governing party is not liable to discuss everything it does with the opposition when it deals with foreign affairs.
What happens to Lanka which refused to back either India or UK on the matter of Diego Garcia will be the deciding factor. So the final state of Lanka would be between India, UK and Mauritius.
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John / July 21, 2017
Briton must stop bullying Sri Lanka immediately. Briton has no moral right to put their nose (interfere) in Sri Lanka’s affairs because they were the ones as colonialists who created all these mess. Briton shed ‘crocodile tear over’ other countries’ human rights while they violate human rights of billions nonchalantly. These British politicians are corrupted to the core, they are paid in millions of pounds ‘££££££££££££’ by Eelamist diaspora with their ill-gotten money. ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- So called HRC resolution 30/1 was written by donkey Eelamist diaspora, signed by Al Hussein the idiot. —————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
*Human Rights Watch reports on Sri Lanka are all lies.
*There is no much of a LGBT community in Sri Lanka.
* It’s time that Sri Lankan government must meddle in British politics.
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James / July 21, 2017
Britain (who created this mess) has all the rights to interfere in Sri Lanka and they should. North & East of Sri Lanka was an independent State (Jaffna Kingdom) before it was taken over by the Portuguese and then it was a federal state before it was annexed by the British to form the unitary Sri Lanka. Now it is time for Britain to interfere and correct the blunder that they made before leaving.
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John / July 21, 2017
James,
You are wrong!!!!!!!!!!! There was never a Tamil Kingdom in SL. If they had it, just like Sinhalese, Tamils should have built their very own architectural marvels. Can you show at least a foundation stone of a palace ????? ————————————————————————————————————————-
And, yes, Britain should interfere and correct the blunder by taking their Tamil coolies back to Britain and paying compensation to Sinhala victims.
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Appuhamy / July 22, 2017
John,
You are wrong!!!!!!!!!!! There was never a Sinhala Kingdom in SL. Anuradapura and Polonaruwa (created by the Cholas) were never known as the Sinhala kingdoms. Could you tell me where it is mentioned that they were Sinhala kingdoms? All the architectural marvels were built by Tamil architects who were brought from South India. Their descendants are still living and building marvels in India whereas SL does not have any such architects.————————————————————————————————————————-
Most of the Dalit Tamil coolies were settled by the Portuguese and Dutch in the South to grow cinnamon. Today they have become Sinhala Buddhists and Sinhala Christians. Check your DNA, it will definitely match the South Indian Dalit community.
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Real Siva Sankaran Sharma / July 22, 2017
There is hardy any ruins in the north and east , thanks to the Portuguese. It is the same in the former Kotte kingdom , the only ruins found are in the interior Kandyan kingdom , which was only captured by the British and also thanks to the jungles.
The Portuguese launched two unsuccessful attempts, in 1560 and in 1591, to take the Jaffna kingdom. Jaffna repelled these attacks, sometimes with help from Kandy. Jaffna finally fell in 1619 and the incumbent ruler Sankli Kumaran and his family were taken to Goa and was hanged in 1621. Filipe D’Olivera, the commander of the Portuguese army proclaimed himself the governor and started one of the most despicable episodes of desecration destruction and vandalism of religious monuments in recorded human history: Nallur Kandasamy Kovil was razed down and the stones were used to build a Christian church at Nallur and the Jaffna fort; Saraswathy Mahal, the oldest Tamil museum and library that housed valuable historical documents was burnt down.
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Real Siva Sankaran Sharma / July 22, 2017
.
Portuguese religious conversion and the sovereignty of the Tamils. This depicts the heroism of the Tamils, as well as the barbarity of the Portuguese, who enslaved the Tamils. Therefore, fighting against oppression and suppression is not something new to the Tamils. However, the Karava leader Sinna Meegampillai is no more with us, but his sprit lives on with each Tamil, even today.It must be pointed out that after 1560; the Portuguese began destroying the ancient Hindu Temples over 500. Destruction and vandalism by the Portuguese gathered momentum, immediately after the capture of the Tamil Kingdom in 1621.Filipe de Oliveriya, the Portuguese Governor, who was acclaimed for destroying more than 500 Hindu Temples. Brutal acts of vandalism and destruction carried out by the ruthless Portuguese were, unfortunately being compromised and tolerated even today, without any whimper by the international community. Barbaric destruction by the Portuguese has to be condemned, universally. Tamils today.
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Real Siva Sankaran Sharma / July 22, 2017
The pink color Royal Standard, with recumbent bull, crescent and the rising sun, given by Irama (Rama) to the first Arya Chakaravarthy, fluttered high and aloft, in the proud land of the Tamils, for well over 2500 year long period, displaying loftily their sovereignty and independence. At last, it was brought down forever, on 11 February 1621, when the kingdom fell permanently in the hands of the Portuguese.Nearly, 1200 heads of the Tanjore Nayakar’s troops were lopped off, at the last confrontation that ensued at Atchuvely. The fatalities included Tamil rebels, who joined forces to retrieve the kingdom from the Portuguese. Ultimately, Portuguese managed to hold on with their prized possession, “the Tamil kingdom,” until 21 June 1658, on which day; the Dutch captured and brought the kingdom under their rule.
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Real Siva Sankaran Sharma / July 22, 2017
Filipe De Oliverya, the commander of the Portuguese army, moved his base to Nallur, on 2 February 1621, and proclaimed himself, the Captain Major – the highest Portuguese army official in the region and the governor of the Kingdom. On the same day, most of the Hindu shrines, including Nallur Kandasamy Kovil were razed down on the explicit orders of the fanatic – Oliveriya. Portuguese and the Lascarins (hired Sinhalese mercenaries in the service of the Portuguese) from the South, looted Nallur Kandasamy temple, burnt it down and removed even the stones from the foundations, to build a Christian church at Nallur and a fort in Jaffna. Oliveriya was acclaimed by the Portuguese, as a greatest savior of Christianity, for his feat of destroying more than 500 Hindu temples. The Portuguese historian, Father Fernoa De Queyroz acclaimed him, “God of the Sword
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Real Siva Sankarn Sharma / July 22, 2017
When Filipe De Oliveriya became the Governor of Jaffna, he ruled the Kingdom with a strong hand, ruthlessly and with arrogant resolve. He proclaimed that people continuing with the practice of Hindu religion and rites, are anti-Christians, an act punishable by law. Under his hierarchy, the Society of Jesus – the Roman Catholic missionary, constructed nearly thirty Catholic churches by vandalizing and demolishing Hindu temples. He introduced compulsory proselytizing. Franciscan Friars converted more 6000 Tamils to Christianity.
The destruction of famous Hindu temples such as the Nallur Kandasamy Kovil (Nallur), Kailasanathar Temple (Nallur), in 1575 Muneswaram Temple, Chilapam (Chillaw), in 1588 Vishnu Temple in Devinuwera, Tirukethieswaram Temple, Mathoddam (Matota) and in 1622 Tiru Konesar Temple, Thirukonamalai (Trincomalee), caused great frustration, dissension and restlessness in the hearts and minds of the Tamils.
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Real Siva Sankaran Sharma / July 22, 2017
Oliveriya also burnt down “Saraswathy Mahal,” – the oldest museum and the library, that housed precious and the most valuable historical documents, depicting the origin, history, literature, arts, science, medicine, culture, civilization and other details of the Tamils and of their proud ancestry. Once this ancient museum cum library was burnt down, up to date, the Tamils are left without any authentic records of their antiquity.
The Portuguese conquest of the Kingdom became possible, when the Tamil chiefs revolted against the traditional monarchs, due to their shift in allegiance, after conversion to Christianity. Portuguese managed to create a strong loyal group of Catholics, who provided them with the intelligence reports and reconnaissance to counter the moves of the kings. Portuguese also used the Sinhalese mercenaries for combat, as well as to guard the Tamil Kingdom.
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Siva Sankaran Sarma / July 25, 2017
Cool story, bro :D
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Tamil from the north / July 22, 2017
John –
Briton must stop bullying Sri Lanka immediately.
Human Rights Watch reports on Sri Lanka are all lies.
Hahahaha……..where do you come from bud? Is SL a baby for other countries to bully? also Human rights reports lie about SL? why? are you also one who thinks HR is controlled by the LTTE loving diaspora? Funny man!!!!
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Native Vedda / July 22, 2017
Tamil from the north
“Hahahaha……..where do you come from bud?”
HLD M is finding it difficult to sit properly.
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Jim softy / July 21, 2017
Even though British Foreign Secretary’s photo is in, the report does not have any author. To summarize everything, Britian does not have any good Track record except for exploiting the colonies. What I have to say, here is, What Ex-president Mahinda Rajapakse had had said. that is Sri lanka is no longer a British colony. Besides, Commonwealth is a bankrupt organization trying to maintain their colonial hedgemony. Sri lanka is a sovereign country and its’ people should be able decide their fate not the foreign countries because they get block votes. So, leave Sri lanka alone. It is not Tamils who decide Sri lanka’s fate.
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Spring Koha / July 21, 2017
Load of old punnakku!
Ever since the white mastah left us, we have sniffed their arses looking for favours. When Mathinee wanted help in 1971 to fight a little local resistance she turned to London (among others). We should have left the Commonwealth a long time ago. We should not have gone a-begging to be allowed to play test cricket and join the mastah in his games. We should have expunged English from the local lexicon. What madness was it to invite Prince Charles to be guest of honour at our 50th Independence celebrations. We should have discouraged indulgence in Oxbridge where indeed SWRD was treated like a proper wog. Well he asked for it parading around in Oxford bags and being a bit of a twit. He only went there because of Godfather West Ridgeway anyway. WE have been the ones encouraging the old white mastah to indulge in our affairs. Illan kaava!
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Samuel Jayaweera / July 21, 2017
But dont you think so – Spring koha, that the numbers of student flow to UK is on a rise today than no time in the past.
You may just add your prevarications, but the fact is we depend on them and americans or any other powreful nations so long we the folks would not get up by our own. In a country, politicians and poeple stay talking but not doing the least to the progress, what cant expect ? If we were no partners of CW- ballige putha Rajapakshe would have become the best STATE KILLER of the world by 2020. Thanks to CW only, some values have been maintained in this rascals dominated country.
Be them within media or anyt other areas, there is no sort of sense, but just stay pointing the finger at the other, not doing their part.
Be it garbage dumpes or any other issues, have they ever learnt to do things properly ?
Umaoya is run to that levels, creating the nurseries to allow earth slips than protect the country from them. All these were just because of Ballige putha let it go with a company called FARAB whose records prove today, not to have expertise with countries like ours (More than 90% of Sri Lanka’s surface lies on Precambrian strata,). But not many among MEDIA would criticise MUSALAYAs unbelievable actions taken not thinking twice during previous regime.
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Mudiyanselage / July 24, 2017
Spring Koha “”Illan kaava! “”
drunk at ibanwela handiya??
They followed your above ideas via rajafuckse governance.
now aren’t you guys constipated doing everying thing you have asked for??
Even the yellow senna flower won’t be of any use
.Badde ledde calls for an endoscopy.
Champuka maintained your above mentioned in his spectacular aggression towards Canada and the public cheered the deportation of Bob Rae.
Then came the resolution that the wowlas were cock sure about negating
So now you just have that bo leaf covering your shame.
How it worked out was Deepak Obhrai decided to draw 1 less vote to inform the world who rules the roost. Cambridge club defeated the Oxford club.
Meegomuva gameyata te magic!!
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Raizuh Langai / July 21, 2017
Sure we know your country is an expert in international relations and meditations. Please FIRST solve the problem your country created in Palestine and then meddle in our country’s affairs.
Thank you.
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Native Vedda / July 21, 2017
Raizuh Langai
“Please FIRST solve the problem your country created in Palestine and then meddle in our country’s affairs.”
What has Palestinian’s problem got to do with this island. Did you mean the problem among the various factions of Palestinians. How could the Brits solve internecine warfare of the Palestinians? Please leave their problem to be solved by the Palestinians.
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Eusense / July 21, 2017
Stupid vedda has no clue!
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Raizuh Langai / July 22, 2017
Eurosense
Vadda doesn’t know the history. Please forgive him.
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Native Vedda / July 22, 2017
Raizuh Langai
Please let me hear from you the authentic history.
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Ranjith Gunawaradana / July 21, 2017
There was hundred of Blacks, Arabs , Muslims and Asian died in London fire of building. The Lost of life more than hundreds. It has not address basic rights and human rights of those citizens of their own land? It Is nonsense talk of other nation human right by British Conserversity Party led by MAY and Boris John son
It was shame to say that “War Crime” against People of Iraq has been not address by UNO or other UNO agencies of killed millions of Citizens of Iraq by House of Windsor of British Empire”.
Indeed Still Tamil of LTTE terrorist having land for Britain soil for safe heaven in England.
These are old valued of ” democracy” has to change by politics of double standard “Democracy” by House of Windsor>
It has no long-life and room for real democracy in New Global Order of Democracy. If you want change of road map of democracy, you are compelled to change path and model of Old democracy of Imperialism into new fair paly politics of equality of all nation before Global order come into being>
This new generation of think-tank of certain features of Democracy in Globally.
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Native Vedda / July 21, 2017
Ranjith Gunawaradana
“Indeed Still Tamil of LTTE terrorist having land for Britain soil for safe heaven in England.”
My generous ancestors gave asylum and a place to live on this island to your miscreant ancestors of the time however their descendants have been terrorising the entire country and its people ever since.
My people have been practising democracy for thousands of years and continue to to practice it at local level. Come and learn home grown democracy from our Elders instead constantly complaining about west’s double standards,…. hypocrisy, etc.
If you are too clever first you must close all your foreign missions and ban international trade, communication, travel, remittances, …… and invent fire, wheel, democracy, …. yourself.
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Eusense / July 21, 2017
Home grown democracy = terrorism?
Closing foreign missions, trade etc. etc.?? ………. stupidity at its best!
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Native Vedda / July 22, 2017
Hang in there until sach finds your padikkam (spittoon) or borrows one from HLD M. At this age its difficult to control your body functions. You got to be careful to remember where you leave your padikkam. When you remember, make sure you tie it your neck and vomit inside it whenever you get the urge.
A word of caution, HLD M too need several spittoons a day.
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Manel / July 21, 2017
It is time the government put in resources into education, to teach children from the beginning of their educational years, unity and harmony, and acceptance of other religions and ethnicities. We are a multi religious nation, and people of all religions have the right to live in this country, and emphasis should be on acceptance of all. Those making religion and ethnicity an issue for political reasons, should be ashamed for their part in the ethnic strife that raises it’s head from time to time. They should be treated like pariahs for what they do in this country.
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Ananda Munasinghe / July 21, 2017
Appreciate UK government’s initiatives to improve human right situation in SL.But i have very pessimistic view about Srilankan government’s sincerity in implementing any of those proposals.Government’s sole intention is to be in power not reforms .Government is keen to hold international conferences and seminars but we have not seen their implementation yet.
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Sunil / July 21, 2017
This is such a misleading statement!! the problem is not with hate speech, it is with the refusal of the authorities to take action on those who act on this hate speech and resort to criminal behaviour, big difference there!!
This so called hate speech has to be tolerated.(but acting on this hate speech and resorting to criminal behaviour should be punished by the law) banning this so called hate speech will only lead to the banning of freedom of speech under the guise of banning hate speech…
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Ajith / July 21, 2017
Truth about Budhist Sinhala Fundamentalism and its brutal power in Sri Lanka to destroy the humanity and rule of law.
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Estate Labourer / July 21, 2017
The white skinned people have been trying to civilize the dark skinned people over the course of the last two centuries. But some of the latter have a deep aversion towards and distaste for the norms of civilized conduct and behavior. It is good to remember that the use of modern technology alone does not make us civilized. Sri Lankans will continue to remain the ‘white man’s burden’ for a long, long time to come.
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Mudson Amarasinghe / July 21, 2017
Ever since independence in 1948, Buddhist fundamentalism has been the driving force behind Sinhala intransigence on the ‘Tamil question’. A Buddhist monk assassinated S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, the leader of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and the country’s fourth Prime Minister, in 1959. His crime? Making too many (in fact they were too few) concessions to the country’s large Tamil minority had cost him his life and spawned a dynasty. But the deterrent effect worked. Sinhala politicians of all stripes began to pander to the monks. Anti-Tamil discrimination was institutionalized. It was a tragedy for the island. The notion that these warped methods could produce long-term stability is risible.
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Manicka Vasagar / July 21, 2017
Yes, UK’s ability can influence change, with their obligation and responsibility to the Tamils of Ceylon.
Mr. Cameron went to Jaffna, met with the grieving mothers, widows and orphans, warned SL on their face in CHOGM Colombo, “or else” and accelerated the UN HRC resolution of March 2015.
Britain had / has an opportunity to correct past mistakes made in Ceylon, and make good the plight of the Tamils in the island.
Abuse in Human rights will continue under a majoritarian chauvinistic religious mindset, until political rights of the Tamils are restored / corrected.
Stop encouraging, aiding and abetting rogue states like Sri Lanka, and until the UN HRC resolution are fully implemented in words and deeds, and with a permanent political solution, expel Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth, boycott trade, tourism and stop playing cricket, to stop structural genocide of the Tamil Homeland.
Political and Human Rights will fall into place sooner than later, like apartheid, and China will also understand where their economic investment would be, and for regional security.
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halifax / July 24, 2017
thats a tall order!!
nothing comes for free and UK government owes nothing even morally but you owe much for your very survival. See rich Hong Kong after 1999 what’s up now they can’t run and UK won’t turn back to be turned to salt.
the british government was not responsible but EEIC the sociopath corporate raiders. This has been purchased by NRI- MR Patel.
The government is quite capable of pawning the island to India till you become a bihari of Budde Gaya.
UK is playing check mate. Lankans can’t play chess and did the shape shape.
Now appe andu citizens must stand aside and watch the roof being raised by Indian Hanuman.
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kumaran / July 21, 2017
Israel is also in the “list”, as usual!! Europe hates Israel, whereas Europe LOVES to kick Sri Lanka round!!
Israel treats as priority all injured and sick Palestinians brought across the border to their hospitals, BEFORE they treat Israelis. Israel supplies water and electricity despite never being paid by the P.A! Just because Israel defends herself against attacks by Palestinian terrorists, Israel is guilty of “human rights violation”
Thank God, India, with whom we Sri Lankans are ohh!, so close and “lovey dovey”, has established full diplomatic ties with Israel following P.M Modi’s three day visit to Israel.. Just sit back and watch how India is going to bloom.
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K.Pillai / July 21, 2017
kumaran: “…Just sit back and watch how India is going to bloom…”.
India is on the way from a secular state to a Hindu-fundamentalist state. Why? Not to foster Hinduism but to create vote banks.
If unchecked this will lead to bust and not bloom.
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ku / July 22, 2017
Pillai, I agree that it is better not to identify a nation as “Hindu” , “Buddhist” (as our “Sangas” want, or even Christian. Best to go as a secular nation. But my point is that the new connection with Israel is going to have a enormous impact on India economically and militarily.
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Ralli Ameen / July 23, 2017
Kumaran
If you are an old person you won’t be alive to see how India is going to blossom with Israel’s partner ship. If you are young you will see how this scheming devils will create splits in many states (specially southern states), separatist wars with government, supply, supply arms and training to both sides, this is going to be a multi-billion dollar business. So Israel going to bloom not India.
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unitham / July 21, 2017
[Edited out] Please write instead of posting links – CT
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K.Pillai / July 21, 2017
The concern of UK is about one aspect of Lankan issue – not for example about the quality of exports, our preferred allies, our foreign policy and so on. As to whether UK has the moral authority to raise this issue can be debated till the cows come home. It is the message and not the messenger.
After some seventy years it is time to try something lateral. Has the language/religion divide passed the use-by date?
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MANIVANAN MP / July 22, 2017
[Edited out] Comments should not exceed 300 words. Please read our Comments Policy for further details.
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Native Vedda / July 22, 2017
MANIVANAN MP
Are you an MP of Sri Lankan Parliament. Was there a by-election?
By the way when did parliament increase the number of seats from 225 to 226?
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Sriyani Mangalika / July 22, 2017
Our police and professionals are capable. Our problem is politicians have been unduly interfering police and other professionals.Real all have to obey them under fear.The politicians should change their way.
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Native Vedda / July 22, 2017
Sriyani Mangalika
Is it so? How sad.
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K A Sumanasekera / July 22, 2017
Who is this dude……..Yemen has 19 Million people who are suffering from Malnutrition…….Tens of thousands have Cholera and dying are hatin hundreds every week…….This is what the OXFAM Director said on Radio………The director in tact agreed that British Government who backs Saudi Arabia has to take the blame too, for the miserable plight of the Yemani people……..This Dude and his fellow Politikkas perhaps don’t listen to Oxfam……….Wonder whether Boris heard something about Sinhala Buddhists tearing off Burkas, Spitting at them and even physically assaulting them……..And telling them in no uncertain terms where to go…
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Native Vedda / July 22, 2017
KASmaalam K A Sumanasekera
“Yemen has 19 Million people who are suffering from Malnutrition…….Tens of thousands have Cholera and dying are hatin hundreds every week”
When did you take INGO statement seriously? What a Sinhala/Buddhist hypocrite you are. By the way Charity begins at home. Go worry about your people and do something about it rather than worrying about Yemen, of which you have no sympathy nor empathy. As a Sinhala/Buddhist you say things you don’t mean.
Please appeal to Johnson for a grant to subsidise your Scotch.
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Thanga / July 22, 2017
In Goebbelsian style the lie is repeated that the Tamils never had a Kingdom called Jaffna Kingdom. Ibn Battuta, an Arab traveller visited Ceylon in the mid- fourteenth century and has recorded his experience in his book “The Travels of Ibn Battuta” ( A.D.1325 – Volume 1, 11 and 111 – translated with revisions and notes from the Arabic text edited by Defremery C and Sanguinetti B R.
Ibn Battuta reached Ceylon during the first week of September 1344 near Puttalam (Batthalah). Puttalam was under rule of the Jaffna Kings, the Arya Chakravrthys, at that time. Ibn Battuta described Chilaw (Bender Selawat) as the first little town after leaving ‘Menar Mendely a fine town, situated at the extremity of the Jaffna King’s territory…’. Ibn Battuta has also recorded that pearl fishing was in progress at Puttalam and the king gave him some pearls. That explains the reason for the king’s presence in Puttalam. The pearls were one of the main revenue earners for the king’s coffers. Ibn Battuta also found that the Jaffna King had a powerful navy.
Ibn Battuta went on a pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak from Puttalam. The king gave him a palanquin and sent yogis, Brahmins and other men to accompany him and fifteen men to carry things. He is called Airy Chacarouaty and he is a powerful king upon the sea. I saw in one day, while I was on the Coromandel Coast, a hundred of his ships, both small and great, which has just arrived. There were in the port eight ships belonging to the Sultan of the country (Madurai Sultan) and destined to make the voyage to Yemen. When I entered the presence of the idolater Sultan, he rose and made me sit by his side, and spoke to me with the greatest good will.
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Thanga / July 22, 2017
2
“Let your comrades” said he, “land in all safety, and be my guests until they leave.
There is an alliance between me and the Sultan of Coromondel (Madurai Sultan).” Then he gave orders to have me lodged, and I remained with him for three days, in great consideration which increased every day.
He understood the Persian tongue, and much did he relish all I told him of foreign king and countries. I entered his presence one day when he had by him a quantity of pearls, which has been brought from the fisheries in his dominions. The servants of the prince were sorting the precious from those which were not so.
He said to me, “ Have you seen the pearl fishery in the country whence we have come?’ “Yes”, I answered, “ I have seen it in the island of Keis, and in that of Kech, which belong to Ibn Assaouamely.” “I have heard of them,” replied he; and then took some pearls and added “ Are there at that island any pearls equal to these?” I said, “I have seen none so good.” My answer pleased him, and he said, “They are yours do not blush,” added he, “and ask of me anything you desire.” I replied, “I have no other desire, since I have arrived, but to visit the illustrious foot of Adam.” The people of the country call the first man baba (father) and Eve, mama(Mother). “That is easy enough,” answered he, “We shall send some one to conduct you.” “That is what I wish,” said I, and then added, “ The vessel in which I have come will go in safety to Ma’bar (Tamil Nadu coast) and on my return, you will send me in your ships.” “By all means” said he.
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Real Siva Sankaran Sharma / July 22, 2017
The Sinhalese who are in the forefront of spreading these lies are largely the recently Sinhalised descendants of recent largely low castes and some high caste ( like the Kandyan Radala and many low country upper govigamma) , South Indian immigrants, who migrated to the island only a few centuries ago. Largely imported as slaves and indentured labour from what is modern day Tamil Nadu and then Tamil Kerala. You see them posting here and elsewhere, like Jenal/Janali Borukiyanege, Dayan, Part Malay Mahindapala who thanks to his Tamil wife’s relatives has migrated to Australia and from multicultural Australia is very busy spreading his anti Tamil venom. I wonder what his Tamil wife and her relatives feel about this. Karupan WimalWeerawansa and Nalin Silva are others. They all have to justify their new Sinhalese Buddhist identity and hide their actual lowly recent South Indian origin, therefor start attacking the island’s Tamils and spread hatred against them. Their inspiration is from another recently Sinhalised low caste South Indian import,” The homeless one” .
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Jim Softy / July 22, 2017
British Commonwealth Office updates political situation including big powers such as US, France and Canada. They also issue such warning against big nations. But how can they issue it against Sri Lanka? Sri Lnka is not their colony. it is an independent country governed by Budhists. just leave sri lanka alone and mind your business Boris.
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K.Pillai / July 22, 2017
There is something we can learn from Brexit. UK entry into EU was opposed by Charles de Gaulle. UK wanted to keep the pint, imperial units of length and currency and of course the monarchy. They got in but the a sense of sovereignty (or something to this effect) was whipped up by the Brexiteers. The divorce is bound to be very difficult,expensive and the benefit? Brexit skeptics point out that UK may find themselves isolated.
We found out that “Sinhala Only” was only for the masses – the privileged continued sending their children overseas for education, medical treatment. Religious fervor was whipped up to make some filthy filthy filthy rich.
We must learn that the language/religion divide has had its day and try something different.
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