By Muhammed Fazl –
Muhammed Fazl
“There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest” – Elie Wiesel
Much has been said, petitions submitted and protests held, but what is disconcerting to the Muslim community is the absence of even a single case in a court of law against possible encroachment of lands belonging to Wilpattu forests or its reserves… and to this day. In this context, rise it does questions about mala fide propaganda and allegations leveled at Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Rishad Bathiudeen and against original inhabitants-turned-refugees in the Mannar/Puttalam districts.
At a time when the judiciary and concerned departments are operating far more independently, the ‘holy truth’ cannot be more obvious than when men in saffron colored robes jump into the fray when issues concerning Muslims and/or Muslim politicians surface. As an investigative writer/activist, I hope I am not alone in sensing a deep-rooted and a well organized campaign against Muslims taking shape.
Wanting to see ground realities for myself and intending to expose the truth, I set on a journey a couple of weeks back to all areas surrounding the Wilpattu jungle. Having met local inhabitants and settlers while on the inspection tour, I am of the view that at no stage, illegal grab of state or protected lands had taken place in order to settle Muslims who were living as refugees for almost a quarter of a century. Interestingly, it is the Sinhalese community from Hambantota areas who had ‘invaded’ and who had set up shop in lands foreign to them. And that too at a time when around 100,000 Muslims continue to live as refugees.
Every Sri Lankan, irrespective of race or religion should have the right to settle down in any part of the island at any stage. But when the Rajapaksa government intervened and relocated 2860 Sinhalese families in the Mannar district (from elsewhere) by presenting 3 acres of land to each family as against half (1/2) acre for a Muslim family, does it not signal a pattern of clinical discrimination of Muslims? Under these circumstances, would it be fair to make unsubstantiated allegations against Mr. Bathiudeen solely for standing up for the rights of his community?
The following video interview with Rev. Athuraliye Rathana Thero, Rev. Galagoda Atte Gnanasara Thero of BBS and with Minister Rishad Bathiudeen was to give each one of them an opportunity to air their individual versions of the story and for the intelligent viewer to make better judgements.
Though Minister Rishad Bathiudeen seems to be innocent of illegal encroachment of Wilpattu lands, I believe allegations of establishing settlements in a haphazard manner while disregarding requirements of infrastructure facilities needs to be looked into by professionals in respective fields. On a positive note, credit should be given to Mr. Bathiudeen for his relentless struggle to uplift the standard of living of his constituents and that which I believe should be emulated by other politicians.
Engaging more in politics than in teaching the philosophy of Buddhism, Rev. Athuraliye Rathana Thero should be thanked as well for his willingness to address the matter. While questions can be raised on his poorly-thought-of decision to present a petition directly to President Maithripala Sirisena before discussing any issues with local residents, officials or politicians, one can also question the wisdom and timing behind a Buddhist religious figure meddling in affairs concerning minority communities. While Rev. Rathana Thero seems to be choosing a balanced and a middle path, I believe the Muslim community will continue to keep a close tab on his future movements in this regard.
Amusing, contradicting and a little disturbing at times, Rev. Galagoda Atte Gnanasara came across as a person who would opt for the limelight at any cost. Now that Rajapaksas are out of power, with clipped wings and zero ‘fire power’, the Bodhu Bala Sena (BBS) seems to be a spent force with their regular and empty rhetoric… not to mention the fast dwindling numbers of their ‘fan club’.
Interestingly, both monks I interviewed seemed to be disinterested in curbing activities such as gambling, alcoholism, substance abuse, violence etc., and that which directly contradicts the beautiful teachings of Lord Buddha. And it sure would be refreshing if their sponsors are not ethanol importers or casino/brothel owners among other undesirable characters. Sri Lanka, ranked among the top 5 countries for alcohol consumption, suicide and rape cases, I am forced to wonder why prominent personalities don the robe of a Buddhist monk when they are least interested or spend the least time in addressing matters concerning Buddhism. This trend may look innocent to the unsuspecting since it is one’s personal freedom of choice, but when religion or the race of the majority is used to subjugate minority communities, I am afraid we are heading towards a volcano waiting to erupt… and that which would engulf us all!
To sum it all up and to my understanding, allegations of illegal settlements around Wilpattu forests is all about scoring the highest percentage of votes among the majority community at the upcoming elections and for racist and hate groups to vent out their frustrations. Unlike the instance where President Sirisena professed to be a President for the entire country whilst retaining the position of Leader of the SLFP, I believe it would seriously damage his credibility should the President’s decision be tilted in favor of racist Sinhalese/Buddhist opponents of Muslim settlements. As in the case of North American politics, where people belonging to the Islamic faith happens to be the perfect bait for one’s petty political gains, for the sake of flag bearers and leaders of racist agendas, let us just hope Sri Lankan Muslims are not pushed to the edge.
*The writer is an independent social/political rights activist and can be contacted at muhammedfazl@msn.com or through Facebook (FB ID – Fazl Muhammed Nizar)
Sithy Hussain / June 21, 2015
Muslims (not just in SL) nowadays tend to play the ‘victimization’ card and this blinds them to view issues in a holistic perspective. The facts of the case as I understand from reading all the numerous studies that have been done:
1)Yes, there were small settlements bordering Wilpattu but they were not just Muslims
2)Tamil Christians were relocated to another village ‘cos the Navy had taken over ther original land on the borders of Wilpattu
3)The villages near Wilpattu were fishing villages and as such the only livelihood was through fishing – paddy & cashew cultivation were further north
4)Animals like elephants have encroached out of the Willpattu borders due it it becoming a secondary forest. 5)Interviews with Muslim IDPs have shown that they are ambivalent about returning to these jungle areas with concerns about livelihood, security, schooling etc.
6)2nd & 3rd generation of IDPs have swelled the numbers far above the original settlers
7)The original settlers had land rights – which is basically to use the land but no recourse to deforestation or title So instead of making it an ethnic issue – we should look at the issue of how viable this resettlement is from the point of view of humans and flora & fauna. That there is an impact on the reserve(s) and its flora & fauna cannot be denied – whether it is justified to disturb that equilibrium with no real gains is a question to be asked. Are the IDPs problems going to be solved by resettling them on the borders of Wilpattu? Is their quality of life going to be significantly better in that precise location? Are their issues about livelihood, security, schooling etc addressed? Can they be addressed at all considering the precise location taking into consideration the obvious subsequent effect it will have on the environment? If not – can’t an alternative location be sourced. As far as I see it – this was a very short-sighted resolution of a long-standing issue. Just because it is long-standing and a sore-point does not justify ‘quick fixes’. As such we need to ask ourselves – in the end who really gains from this resettlement program. The IDPs? I think not.
/
Amarasiri / June 21, 2015
Sithy Hussain
” Muslims (not just in SL) nowadays tend to play the ‘victimization’ card and this blinds them to view issues in a holistic perspective. The facts of the case as I understand from reading all the numerous studies that have been done: “
The facts of the case are that LTTE starting from the 1990s, killed and expelled Muslims from the Northern provinces. If they were not expelled by the LTTE, this problem would have been a small minor problem. Unfortunately, it was the the WAR CRIMES of LTTE, at the root of the problem. Ethnic cleansing is a war crime.
DOUBLE STANDARDS
Forgotten People – The Evicted and Displaced North Muslims of Sri Lanka (English)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JV60McNQ9o
This is DOUBLE STANDARDS.The ONLY Reason, this became an issue was it was Muslims. However, it exposed further the DOUBLE STANDARDS of the so-called Environmentalists and Sangha.
/
Slayer / June 21, 2015
Amarasiri seems a psudonym for another Islamist.
In addition to desecrating Buddhism and Buddhists, now they have begun to masquerade under Sinhala names too.
Very soon, we will have to check the Sinhalese to see whether they arecircumsied or not!
fakirs will use all their disguises to rob Sri lanka claiming persecution and victimisation like the Jews did in Europe.
/
Native Vedda / June 21, 2015
Slayer
“Very soon, we will have to check the Sinhalese to see whether they arecircumsied or not!”
Note Sinhala/Buddhists usually have their circumcision on the top part and inside their skull not the parts underneath.
Sinhala/Buddhist circumcision is visible.
/
Amarasiri / June 22, 2015
Slayer
“Amarasiri seems a psudonym for another Islamist. “
Amarasiri is Agnostic. If you have a Hypothesis or Theory, please come up the data in support of that hypothesis of your beliefs. That is precisely what Copernicus, Galileo, Kepler., Newton and Foucault did.
What is bothering you? Calling a Spade, a Spade? Calling Double Standards, Double Standards?
So, when somebody points outs Double Standards, against Muslims by LTTE or by the Sinhala Buddhist dominated State, anybody is an Islamist, if the victims are Muslims.
If the Victims are Tamils, and double standards are pointed out, then they are LTTE Terrorists or sympathizers.
When the Victims are Christians, then they are Christian fundamentalists or sympathizers.
It is question of Rule of Law and Single Standard, what Amarasiri is after.
Is this Sinhala Buddhism? Monk Mahanama Buddhism? Buddha didn’t teach that.
Amara and siri are not Sinhala names. So are Silva, Pereira, Fernanda Rodrigo, Cooray, including Perumal, Pandara Nayakam, Bandara Nayakan and Bandaranaike.
Remember, this is the Land of Native Veddah Aethho. Everybody else is a Paradeshi, Para for short.
/
Slayer / June 22, 2015
[Edited out]
/
Leelagemalli / June 21, 2015
I salute this kind of Journalism. Hat off to you brother Mohammed.
You ve been doing a great service – fearlessly. This kind of articles having interviewed even Radical Ghanasara the pseudo monk but standing for so so called estranged buddhists of the country. For me, as a buddhist, this man Ghanasara has no right to fight this way.
Where had the man been during the 30 year war period ?
This man has gone on record doing all harm to SInhalaya and Muslims of the country. I hate him further.. Please all buddhist get together to fight to isolated this Ghanasara. Better ask him to get married to a woman and live us all in peace. He is not at all real SANGAYA we are familiar with .. in thi scountry. Alone his way of talking should be changed.
/
Samuel Jayaweera / June 21, 2015
[Edited out] Ghanasara -how can he say- that this is aperata only for sinhalaya. I hate to hear this . actually. All those born lanka should have their all rights equally regardless of the ethinic background is not his talk. How come. This man [Edited out]we can finally feel harmoneious in this country. Why cant the ministry of cultural affairs go against this kind of so called monks. Our buddist image is destroyed by this Ghanasara.
/
Ben Hurling / June 22, 2015
Problem is we have to take lectures from “Sinhalese-Buddhist racists such as Gandasara. And Islamic extremists such as Fazl.
None of these two groups have any credibility on this matter what so ever. They are out to glorify & justify either racist or religious causes they live and are willing to die for.
Tragic circumstances of Sri Lankan Muslims of that region is a grave matter for the state to resolve. Not for racists or religious extremists to meddle in. Be they Sinhalese or Islamic.
State must re-settle these people who have suffered much. At once. Provide all support required to start a new life.
Above all state must ensure the gifted natural beauty Sri Lanka is blessed with will not be touched. Not by Sinhalese racists or by Islamic fanatics. Who are involved in this game to increase their numbers only. They don’t give a damn about environment of majestic Wilpattu or its’ reserves. Just look at the destruction around Mattale airport in Hambantota by Rajapassa cronies. What a crime against Sri Lanka!
State should not outsource this matter to Rishad Bathiudeen, Athuraliye Rathana Thero, Gandasara or Fazl.
This problem should not be outsourced to funding from primitive, religious extremists from the middle-east either. Often that kind of funding from corrupt, so called “Islamic” dictatorships comes with conditions attached. Sowing the seeds of religious intolerance.
State must involve professionals and provide solutions to all our citizens. Their race or religion is not relevant. Full stop.
Cheers!
/
Izeth hussain / June 23, 2015
As a Muslim I feel grateful to Muhammed Fazl for being courageously outspoken on discrimination against Muslim, even though I may not agree with him on every particular. I agree with Sithy Hussain about the importance of seeing things in a “holistic perspective”, but we must ensure that in that process the fact of discrimination doesn’t get erased away. – IH
/
Amarasiri / June 21, 2015
Muhammed Fazl,
RE: Wilpattu – Where The Lion’s Reign Ends
“There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest” – Elie Wiesel
Well said. Expose, Expose and Expose DOUBLE STANDARDS.
“Much has been said, petitions submitted and protests held, but what is disconcerting to the Muslim community is the absence of even a single case in a court of law against possible encroachment of lands belonging to Wilpattu forests or its reserves… and to this day. In this context, rise it does questions about mala fide propaganda and allegations leveled at Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Rishad Bathiudeen and against original inhabitants-turned-refugees in the Mannar/Puttalam districts.”
“Wanting to see ground realities for myself and intending to expose the truth, I set on a journey a couple of weeks back to all areas surrounding the Wilpattu jungle. Having met local inhabitants and settlers while on the inspection tour, I am of the view that at no stage, illegal grab of state or protected lands had taken place in order to settle Muslims who were living as refugees for almost a quarter of a century. Interestingly, it is the Sinhalese community from Hambantota areas who had ‘invaded’ and who had set up shop in lands foreign to them. And that too at a time when around 100,000 Muslims continue to live as refugees.”
Forgotten People – The Evicted and Displaced North Muslims of Sri Lanka (English)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JV60McNQ9o
This is DOUBLE STANDARDS.The ONLY Reason, this became an issue was it was Muslims. However, it exposed further the DOUBLE STANDARDS of the so-called Environmentalists and Sangha.
Let’s Look at the MAHINDA RAJAPAKSA MATTALA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. The Ego Project of Medamulana Mahinda Rajapaksa.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=JBJE_h7PAf0
1. 5,000 odd Acres of Pristine Jungle near Yala was cleared.
2. A Bird Sanctuary was destroyed and the birds put a risk. Elephant habitat was destroyed. The Elephants ate moving ti the surrounding villages destroying crops. Now this Medamulana Mahinda Rajapaksa wants to be Prime Minister?
3. There were no hardly any effective Protest by the so-called Double Standard Environmentalists and the so-called Sinhala Buddhist Sangha.
4. A White Elephant was created using Chinese Loans, that will have to be repaid back, as this Project, or Development will not produce any income. To make it worse, there are maintenance expenses, with no income.
5. The “MAHINDA RAJAPAKSA MATTALA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT”, is now now used by cattle, buffaloes and elephants, to whom it belonged in the first lace, at leas the remnants of it.
6. Some people using the abandoned roads to dry pepper, at least one good use, at the cost of billions.
MaRa Mara Chatu Mara Amana Mara……..
/
Chamara Perera / June 21, 2015
Dear Fazl,
When were these settlers last occupied these lands prior to this? I am asking you this because a similar incident took place when the American company Dole together with Letsgrow (a company in which Muttiah Muralidaran and Pramodya Wickramasinghe had interests in) started a banana cultivation in Somawathiya reserve. This land was infact a part of the Kandakadu NLDB farm which was abandoned during the war time. But when they returned, a piece of regulation brought in by the Wild life department declaring a forest reserve (a new buffer zone bordering the forest) overlapped the farm land making it illegal to engage in any activity in this area.
Since the abovementioned land area too is bordering the Wilpattu forest, I have the feeling that while Muslims claim of right to occupy the land seem to be reasonable, the protesters claim of the land being a part of the reserve could also be correct.
One thing for sure is that the Muslim settlement seems to be done in a hurry as there is absolutely no infrastructure for anybody to live there nor anything planned in the near future.
May be they are just fighting over a bureaucratic bungle. I think you should investigate a bit more on what I mentioned.
/
salmajunaideen / June 21, 2015
In sri lanka in general, infrastructure is provided for IDPs after much delay and even protest by the IDPs and other concerned citizens. This happened in Puttalam when the Muslims who were ethnically cleansed by the LTTE and occupied areas in Puttalam. Toilets and water was provided long after the IDPs settled in Puttalam.
Maricchikattu Muslims have gone back to their original place. I have been to the place and the dilapidated mosque is still there to be seen.
These protests are based on racism and politics. Itis not not correct to protest against the Muslims who were original settlers without protesting against others who had parachuted from elsewhere. Why only the Muslims?
/
K.A Sumanasekera / June 21, 2015
Why does Muhammadi Fazi always keep telling his Elite readers that Sinhala Buddhists are racists?..
Haven’t these racists helped a few Muhamadians to become Billioners, like the ones who sell Rags to the poor in their bib ass shoppe which are built like Taj Mahals?.
Has Fazi made Batththudeen Basnayake Nilame of Wilpattu?.
BTW, Venerable Rathne worked for the UNP,CBK,TNA, SLMC, and even signed the Singapore MOU to make Baththudeen this all Powerful Minister.
While Ven Gnanissara worked for the Norwegian Solhein who put the above mighty alliance together with the addition of the mighty BTF.
So what t is the problem?.
Wonder why Muhammadi Afzal didn’t interview the Mannar Bishop?..
Because Wipattu is the traditional land of his people including Kuragala…
/
Amarasiri / June 21, 2015
K.A Sumanasekera
“Wonder why Muhammadi Afzal didn’t interview the Mannar Bishop?”
A very good question to ask, but the LTTE, the Norwegians, The Israelis and the Western Funding Christian Fundamentalists may not have approved it.
Let’s Look at the MAHINDA RAJAPAKSA MATTALA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. The Ego Project of Medamulana Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Mahinda Kreuwawa and Mahinda Chintanaya.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=JBJE_h7PAf0
/
janaka / July 10, 2015
SINHALEESE GIVING MORE CHANCES TO MUSLIMS IN SRI LANKA TO DO WHAT THEY WANT.WE SHOULD CHANGE OUR VIEWS LIKE INDIAN HINDUS.
/
janz / June 21, 2015
In a larger perspective the entire world is hard pressed to find living space and food for exploding Muslim populations. Similar to the constant human elephant conflict we read daily Muslim non Muslim conflict too will be a part of our daily existence in not so distant Sri Lanka. The future belong to Muslims as others are constrained by their own moral scruples.
/
tinpotjihadi / June 21, 2015
No of course not Muslims are just pacifists. It’s the fault of others that a certain minister and his brother smuggle drugs via Talaimannar. It’s the fault of others that they benefit and jump ship to the winning camp every election to further their greedy ways. It’s the fault of those terrible sinhala buddhists always for welcoming Muslims when they came as traders. Now they even claim they’re older than sinhalese peoole. Hell they might next say they’re native veddahs. ISIS Alqaeda, Boko Haram, Taleban are just buddhists. The Americans Americans just misunderstood them. Saudis are warm and tolerant not like buddhists.
Bro, you need to confess to your increasingly hateful crap too. BBS are not representative of buddhists .
Facts are facts. Reason a certain minister jumped to the winning camp is to keep his drug empire and racialist politics alive to become even richer. Look at the houses he built on wetlands / bogs in Talaimannar which are uninhabitable. If you cared to drive there, it’s hard to miss. They’re PINK houses on the left hand side of the road heading up the island of Talaimannar. Next I predict you’ll claim Adams and Eve are Muslim and claim that 40 foot grace site is where they’re buried. Do some scanning to expose that canard so you guys won’t think to claim all that like Kuragala.
/
Natha / June 21, 2015
Even though I used to criticize the Quran I didn’t support BBS. But after reading this I think I should support that.
If you like to understand thoughts of Sri Lankan Muslims Extremists read above article completely.
Sri Lanka, Muslims Extremists, Al Qaeda, Islamic State, ISIS, Sri Lankan ISIS, Sri Lankan Al Qaeda, Sri LAnkan Muslims Destroy Wild Animal Sanctuary To Grab Lands For Their Community.
/
Kamal / June 21, 2015
“Even though I used to criticize the Quran I didn’t support BBS”
just like Gananasara. Started like a chuti baby in the middle like rabid dog ended like upasika nona.
Our country is full of such people.
/
Natha / June 23, 2015
[Edited out]
/
Goraka / June 21, 2015
Natha, before you criticise Quran read it.
After you read, then criticise.
It’s common sense.
/
Jim softy / June 22, 2015
[Edited out]
/
RAJA / June 22, 2015
[Edited out]
/
Natha / June 22, 2015
[Edited out]
/
El Bardei / June 21, 2015
One needs to take a very dispassionatte
look at the Wilpattu encroachment issue.
There was no doubt a cause for concern
for Muslims. Rather sadly though Rishad B.
has turned this into a political circus.
It is not a battle for the Muslims. It is
rather a battle to retain his vote base.
Rishad, it is only too well known, is not
lily white. He is a Muslim political businessman
who will grab any money that comes his way. How
did a pole worth Rs 18 become Rs 850 when
tents were built for IDPs in Vavuniya.
helped RB – it was another not so Mr. Clean –
It was formerly ten percent and later
hundred per cent Basil Rajapaksa.
So do not be misled. Some are weeping buckets
of tears after listening to Rishad’s
propaganda. If he can sell the Tigers and
Elephants in Yala, he would not have any
hesitation in doing it. Like the leopard he
does not change his spots.
/
Jim softy / June 21, 2015
Muslims are reproducing like Rats. Mohomad Fazl wants lands for all of them. Muslimization of Sri lanka.
Previous govt gave 200 acres to bathiuddin. He settled muslim in those lands and not they want Wilpattu as their homeland too. Because they want to build a muslim colony from puttlam to Mannar.
/
Hymen / June 22, 2015
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/
/
Goraka / June 22, 2015
Jim softly say “Muslims are reproducing like rats”.
You forgot to included the Chinese, Indians, Mexicans. etc.
And what are the rest of the populations doing – are they Gays and Lesbians, or living in forest?
/
muslim / June 23, 2015
[Edited out]
/
janaka / July 10, 2015
Very true , muslims are talking only their probelems they not belongs to the community
/
janaka / July 10, 2015
very true
/
Afzal / June 21, 2015
Great effort Fazl to bring this topic out in to open.
This issue shows clear double standards of Sri Lankas racist elements.
These settlements were initiated by MR government under the same minister.
During those period all these environmental premi janakaya had no voice. That shows their meekness. Now that the government has changed suddenly so many people have become environment friendly and care so much about the forest. Particularly when it concerns lands of muslims.
Where as during MARA regime 1,000’s of acres of genuine forest land were cleared and given to party supporters and majority community settlers with all facilities built from scratch.
It is this petty double standards and communal minded actions which drags this country down. These people who lived 23 years in camps when returned to their native lands such a big commotion.
how can the previous government gazette this land as forest reserve knowing there were people holding deeds for the land. Nothing but Rajapaksa land grabbing whether it is in the city or in the remote areas.
When will the mindset of these racist eliments change ? what can be done to reform them. One thing is certain by these 3rd class acts growth of Buddhism will not be fueled nor strengthening of Singhala nation will take place.
I do agree muslims in middle east are going through a violent cycle. Causes, instigators and benefactors of these acts are open for debate. However there is no such problem in Sri Lanka. What the defeated MARA wants is to fool the fools and come back to power. Our fools are falling for his trick.
This country is a fools paradise !
/
MsMaralathoni / June 22, 2015
Actually most among the buddhists are not as cruel as Ghanasara. He should have gone through a very bad childhood to behave this way again and again. The Rajapakshe machineries allow the kind of MUSALAYAS to breed under his so call people s friendly politics. The harm Rajapakshe regime done to the country has long terms impact. All the ignorances paid by him not having proper knowledge to react as due has opened all ways to breed the kind of GUANTHANME prisoners like men in saffron robes today. These men are not the real buddhist monk representing lanken buddhist culture. I am coming from a buddhist family my paternal granny was a buddists none and few among onkles too were real sangayas. But today having being compelled to see the current situation – the erosion of lanken buddhism – not taking proper actions by politicians sofar has opened them to breed more of Ghanasaras. How can he express his views to the manner as seen in the interview – if he has a pain not being able to see that APERATA being destroyed by some muslims – why the bugger et al stayed as if kirimati gilapu kimbula during the civil war almost destroyed everything of the country ? These men should not be given the place in lanken society. Public media should be away from the men – more they give the publicity, much more difficulties we will get in the future. To my eye, already now, for what Ghanasara and his acittivies brought should be kept in a long term prison. I ask why the country s law and order system seems not looking at his brutal activities. The manner he spoke and behaved on the aluthgama stage before the riotes occureed was so brutal and beyond all ethics and morals. That caused the riots occured following day- since the muslims of the county, btw they are also srilankens were provocated by his barbari attacking wording. Even during this Interview, he says, that Islam is not respected by him as a religion. How can he say this while we buddhists learn to respect all other religions… that are basics… tolerance… tolerance.. tolerance.. Greetings from Rome
/
Afzal / June 22, 2015
I agree and accept only a very small minority is racist. We have been presented with a new government I hope they will be allowed to move forward rather than petty politics taking precedence.
/
MsMaralathoni / June 23, 2015
Brother we all have homo sapien blood flow through our blood vessels. So why to bother us being Muslim, Sinhala buddhist or whatever. For the peiod we live – why to think that idffierent.. I could feel the way you could feel before sitting the barbaric monk.. and throwing you .. that ISLAM is not a religion for him.. etc.. but never be go after this men.. these men are not real monks.. i am telling you.. real monks stay silent. becasue buddhism would never support other to be aggressive. I know it by myself .. having gone throug hall the buddhist rituals being sent to Europe. But today, this man Rjaapkashe has taken Buddhism to protect him from being captured by lanken law and order system. Can you imagine.
/
jehan / June 21, 2015
keep the Quran out of this comments.
/
Snowden Edward Asange / June 21, 2015
[Edited out]
/
Jim softy / June 22, 2015
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/
/
xlntgson / June 21, 2015
Ram, Ram, Ram! Rams should say how Lord Ram and his followers were in jungle for 14 years without causing any damage to the environment (!)
/
Oma Yang / June 22, 2015
Do you seriously call yourself a journalist or you using it as an excuse to promote and protect you radical kind. Stop blaming everyone else for your misfortunes as a minority.
I don’t like racism but when I see article such as this I seriously wish the BBS is given full power to excite the lot of you Taliban style.
/
vas / June 22, 2015
This blatant enchroachment was when MR ruled. What has he got to say about it? These nominal sinhalese make use of religious and communal politics to get into power but having got power they sell the rights of the sinhalese. What do you call them Hippocrits ? Traitors?
/
Maghribi / June 22, 2015
Nationalism is a marketing gimmick played by politicians to instill brand loyalty to country / nation.
O mankind! Lo! We have created you from male and female, and have made you nations and tribes that ye may know one another. Lo! the noblest of you, in the sight of Allah, is the best in conduct. Lo! Allah is Knower, Aware. (The Noble Quran 49:13)
Islam in its essence promotes open borders. Border protection is recent and a nationalistic concept. Islam encourages free movement of people to live, work and learn from each other and thus enrich their lives. With the advent of technology, virtual borders are fast becoming a reality.
When the authentic Islamic Khilafah returns, the world will be open to mankind.
/
Ben Hurling / June 22, 2015
Maghribi,
The authentic Islamic Khilafah has returned already to parts of Syria and Iraq.
Mankind is indeed burning in hell over there.
Cheers!
PS: Please catch a one way flight there. We will not miss your above average, “divine” behind.
/
Native Vedda / June 22, 2015
Ben Hurling
“The authentic Islamic Khilafah has returned already to parts of Syria and Iraq.”
And the Khilafah is also found in the Islamic Republic of Kattankudy in case you are not informed of the present situation.
/
Sithy Hussain / June 22, 2015
Whether there are double standards or not one thing stands clear: Two wrongs don’t make a right.
Just because it was done before for a different community or politician, doesn’t mean it’s justifiable for the Muslim community. And I think it behoves the Muslim community to do what is right – perhaps there will be more respect then.
If there is a problem which causes consternation to the community & country at large, or which inflicts damage to flora & fauna Muslims are expected to step away from it even though it encroaches their rights.
Even if the settlements go through – think about the status of the IDPs living there, the animosity they will face etcetc – is it worth it or is it better to look for a better solution that makes everyone happy.
[Edited out]
/
Amarasiri / June 23, 2015
Sithy Hussain
“or which inflicts damage to flora & fauna Muslims are expected to step away from it even though it encroaches their rights. “
Double standards, See Below.
Let’s Look at the MAHINDA RAJAPAKSA MATTALA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. The Ego Project of Medamulana Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Mahinda Kreuwawa and Mahinda Chintanaya.
Mara MaRa Chatu Mara Amana MaRa
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=JBJE_h7PAf0
/
baludeen / June 22, 2015
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/
/
ela kolla / June 22, 2015
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/
/
baludeen / June 22, 2015
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/
/
Afzal / June 22, 2015
Mean time a fascinating battle is taking place between these 2 to beat the CT editors scrutiny. Really we have a real mix of people in SL. unfortunately it’s in the majority. ( I did not mean the majority community)
/
K.A Sumanasekera / June 22, 2015
I kinda like Baththudeen’s interview in the Sunday Leader.
He reckon he settled only 100,000 families in Wilpattu.
But only 30 % stayed because others couldn’t hack it.
Batthta says he will never betray his country or his people.
I wished our Veberable Rathne , Gnanissara and even Sobitha were at least half patriotic.as Baththudeen.
The way things are panning out even our Ministry of Buddhasasana could end up under Minister Baththudeen , in the next real Yahapalana Government of elected Vicky..
And it will be a good thing ,
Because as a patriot Baththudeen at least will fight not to allow Cameron Uncle Sam and UN drag our war heroes overseas for punishment.
/
nishantha / June 22, 2015
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/
/
Off the Cuff / June 23, 2015
Dear Muhammed Fazl,
No one that you have interviewed objects to resettlement (including the racist idiot Galagoda Atte Gnanasara). What Rev Rathana has made clear is the necessity of a National Policy on allocation of PUBLIC land.
You said “one can also question the wisdom and timing behind a Buddhist religious figure meddling in affairs concerning minority communities”
Public Land is not the sole affair of either the Muslims or the Tamils. It is an affair of Lanka’s Citizens, whatever their ethnicity is.
A look at History will reveal occasions where Buddhist Religious figures have intervened. You may have heard about the Panadura Debate.
You say “While Rev. Rathana Thero SEEMS to be choosing a balanced and a middle path, I believe the Muslim community will continue to keep a close tab on his future movements in this regard.”
Why the word “Seems”?
Do you have proof that he did not mean what he said at your interview?
You have praised Champika of the JHU. Ven Rathana is a leading figure in the JHU. Why are you insinuating that Ven Rathana is not expressing his genuine beliefs? To stir the ethnic pot?
This issue was first brought to public attention by Hiru TV. I found the following Debate on Hiru, where Minister Rishad is also a participant (Under Chandrika, Rishad was the Rehabilitation and District Development Minister and was given the entire responsibility of solving the problems of the Internally Displaced Muslim Families in the Vanni).
It presents both sides of the issue and a wealth of information. I suggest you watch it though it is very long (over 2 hours).
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Fc59mw2q80
.
Note: If these people were not displaced by the LTTE and remained where they were, the land any family owned would have remained constant. It would not increase just because the children became adults and started families of their own. e.g if you owned 80 perches (to which you have a deed) and you had 4 children who are married and you give 20 perches to each of them. The total would still remain 80 perches. Not 80 for you and 40 each for the others or 240 perches.
Hence it is obvious that the people are not simply returning to the Land to which they hold deeds. To say so is to hide the Truth.
Kind Regards,
OTC
/
Bandu de Silva / June 24, 2015
“1)Yes, there were small settlements bordering Wilpattu but they were not just Muslims”-Sithy Hussain.
Sithy Hussain’s above comment speaks the truth.I have remained silent on this issue here and in other fora but I think I would not be doing the right thing if I did not disclose what is on record which has not surfaced in the discussion.
In 1983,when I was the elected pro-tem Chairman of the National Environment Council,the subject of constructing a road along the sea coast of Wilpattu wild life sanctuary came up for discussion. At that time it was noted that there were a few fishing ‘wadiya’at some points like Marichchkadi on the sea coast. These were mostly seasonal and the fisher-folk went back to their original habitations after the fishing season.Such temporary fishing ‘wadiyas’ were occasionally seen along the Yala coast too but were never permanent settlements.
The idea of a roadway was opposed by all in the Council,the representative of the Fisheries Corporation being the most vociferous critic of the idea.
The problem now is the creation of permanent settlements for whoever it is.That is the issue as far as I see. Why are the displaced-Muslims from the north being settled there when they should be settled in their original land in the north. Why hasn’t that question being taken up by everyone concerned, Minister Rishad Bathiuddin or the International Community including India? Isn’t that very strange? Isn’t that the very reason for objections raised by public bodies.The erudite investigate journalist has missed that point. He is only writing on the superficial and not in an objective way. One can see his whole purpose is to defend the Minister named.
Bandu de Slva
Bandu de Silva
/
Deshapriya / June 24, 2015
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/
/