August 18, Colombo (LNW): A large-scale shutdown is unfolding across Sri Lanka’s Northern and Eastern provinces today, as communities observe a hartal in response to the controversial death of a local man in Mullaitivu.
The action, initiated by the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK), has drawn support from multiple political parties and civil society groups, reflecting growing unrest and calls for accountability.
The hartal was triggered by the death of 32-year-old Edirmanasingam Kabilraj, whose body was discovered in a water tank days after he reportedly entered a nearby military installation and went missing.
His mysterious death has ignited widespread anger, with many residents and activists alleging foul play and pointing to the militarised environment in the region as a source of tension and fear.
Shops, businesses, and public transport services in several towns have remained closed since early morning, with local organisers urging communities to stand in solidarity with the family of the deceased. The protest has received backing from a range of political groups, including the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA), and the Ceylon Workers’ Congress (CWC), all of whom have expressed concern over the lack of transparency and the handling of the investigation.
ITAK has submitted a formal appeal to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, calling for urgent intervention. The party’s letter criticised what it described as an oppressive military presence in the North and East, and urged the President to take decisive steps to demilitarise the region and restore civilian confidence.
Meanwhile, Cabinet Spokesman Dr Nalinda Jayatissa addressed the media, cautioning against the spread of misinformation and urging the public to remain calm. He acknowledged that three military personnel have been taken into custody and that legal proceedings are underway, though he warned against drawing conclusions before the investigation is completed.
The Army, for its part, has issued a firm denial of any involvement in Kabilraj’s death, maintaining that the matter is under independent judicial review. However, tensions remain high, with activists and residents demanding a thorough and impartial inquiry, and some even calling for international observers to ensure justice is served.
