April 06, Colombo (LNW): In preparation for the upcoming Local Government Elections, all Secretaries of Ministries along with the heads of public institutions and statutory bodies have been summoned to attend a high-level meeting at the Election Secretariat.
The meeting, convened under the direction of R.M.A.L. Rathnayake, Chair of the National Election Commission, is expected to take place in the coming week.
The central focus of this assembly will be the enforcement of recently gazetted regulations designed to curb the misuse of state-owned assets and facilities during the election period.
These measures aim to ensure the integrity of the electoral process by preventing public resources from being exploited for partisan gain—a persistent concern in Sri Lankan political life.
In addition to resource management, the session will also address broader issues related to election preparedness. These include guidelines for civil servants, procedures for maintaining neutrality in government communication, and strategies for responding to electoral violations at the local level.
The Election Commission has expressed deep concern over recent developments, with six formal complaints lodged in just the past 24 hours regarding alleged breaches of electoral law. Amongst these was a report concerning the improper use of public assets, a matter now under review by the police.
The commission has been vocal in its calls for all government officers to strictly adhere to established election guidelines. It has also reiterated that public trust in democratic institutions depends heavily on the neutrality and transparency of state functionaries during the lead-up to polling day.
With the Local Government Election scheduled for May 06, 2025, the Commission is intensifying oversight to prevent electoral malpractice and bolster public confidence. This includes monitoring campaign activity, assessing the conduct of public officials, and investigating any credible allegations that may emerge.
Idiyappam’s journey from the ancient streets of Tamilakam to the kitchens of Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and beyond is a story of resilience and adaptation.
Idiyappam, the energy-packed, steam-cooked dish, is delicious and delightful. It is yummy and filled with all the goodness that kickstarts your day. However, it is more than just a meal. It’s a glimpse into the history, culture, and traditions of South India and beyond.
This simple yet flavorful dish made from rice flour and steamed into delicate noodles has travelled across centuries, reflecting the shared culinary roots of communities in India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
A steaming plate of Idiyappam, often paired with rich coconut chutney or a spicy curry, may seem like a modern breakfast dish to some, but it has deep roots in the ancient food cultures of southern India. Known by different names like noolputtu, noolappam, and chomai, it’s a dish beloved across various regions, yet its journey begins in the southern tip of India.
The rice flour is carefully kneaded into soft strings and then shaped into small spools before being steamed to perfection. Its texture is light and tender, yet its flavour is rich, making it a popular choice for both breakfast and dinner.
In Sri Lanka, the dish takes on a slightly different character. In the northern and eastern parts of the island, Idiyappam is served with a sweet twist—sugar, fresh coconut, and sometimes even banana are sprinkled on top.
The savoury version, however, is more commonly enjoyed in southern India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where it is often paired with spicy chutneys or vegetable curries, adding a zesty complement to the soft, neutral flavour of the rice noodles. The versatility of Idiyappam, whether sweet or savoury, speaks to the adaptability of this ancient dish, with each region putting its own spin on it.
But where did this humble dish come from? The history of Idiyappam is steeped in the rich culinary traditions of southern India. For centuries, the region has been a melting pot of cultures, thanks to its strategic location along ancient trade routes.
The early trade connections between southern India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia set the stage for the spread of rice-based dishes like Idiyappam. These trade routes were bustling with merchants and travellers, all exchanging goods, ideas, and, of course, food.
Idiyappam’s origins can be traced back to Tamilakam, the ancient Tamil kingdom that spanned much of what is now southern India. Here, rice was not just a staple; it was a symbol of prosperity. The cultivation of rice was central to the economy and daily life.
The Sangam literature, a collection of ancient Tamil texts, offers a glimpse into the culinary practices of this time. In these texts, there are references to dishes like appam, a close relative of Idiyappam. These foods were sold by vendors at the bustling markets along the seashores, where the aroma of fresh rice dishes filled the air.
The presence of rice-based foods like Idiyappam in Tamil literature shows how deeply embedded rice was in the culture of ancient Tamil society. One poem from the Purananuru, a famous Tamil literary work, describes a prosperous city filled with lush rice fields, buzzing bees, and streets paved with gold.
Another poem from the era praises the king who transformed barren forests into fertile paddy fields, further emphasising the central role of rice in the prosperity of Tamilakam. The imagery in these poems reveals a society that not only valued rice as a food source but also saw it as a symbol of abundance and wealth.
Despite its ancient origins, the spread of Idiyappam across the region can be attributed to the maritime trade routes that connected Tamilakam to distant lands. The Tamil kingdoms, with their powerful naval fleets, established trade networks that reached as far as Southeast Asia. These exchanges allowed for the flow of not just goods, but cultural practices as well. Dishes like Idiyappam travelled along these routes, finding new homes in Sri Lanka and beyond.
While the Portuguese arrived in India in the late fifteenth century, it’s important to note that Idiyappam and similar rice-based dishes predated their arrival by centuries. The Portuguese were not responsible for introducing these dishes; rather, they were already a part of the Indian culinary landscape, passed down through generations of Tamil traders and settlers.
The connections between southern India and Sri Lanka go back as far as the 3rd century BCE, as evidenced by ancient inscriptions found on the island. These inscriptions, written in Tamil-Brahmi script, tell the story of Tamil merchants and settlers who were deeply involved in trade and cultural exchange along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. This cultural exchange likely played a significant role in introducing Idiyappam to Sri Lanka, where it was embraced and adapted to local tastes.
The Tamil influence on Sri Lankan cuisine is undeniable. Archaeological findings, including ancient coins inscribed with Tamil names, suggest that Tamil settlers were present in Sri Lanka as early as the second century BCE. The exchange between the two regions laid the foundation for the spread of culinary traditions like Idiyappam. Over the centuries, this dish found its way into the hearts and kitchens of Sri Lanka, where it remains a popular comfort food today.
The maritime prowess of the Chera, Chola, and Pandya dynasties further propelled the spread of Tamil culture across South and Southeast Asia. These powerful dynasties not only dominated trade but also expanded their cultural influence far beyond the southern tip of India.
The Cholas, for example, embarked on naval expeditions that reached Southeast Asia, bringing with them their language, art, and culinary practices. As Tamil culture spread across these regions, so did their food traditions, including Idiyappam.
In modern times, Idiyappam continues to be a beloved dish in many parts of the Indian Ocean world. Whether it’s served in the bustling streets of Chennai or the tranquil towns of Sri Lanka’s coast, the dish has evolved, yet its essence remains the same.
Today, it connects people across borders, a testament to the enduring appeal of rice as a foundational food. It is a dish that links generations, drawing from the rich history of trade, migration, and cultural exchange.
Idiyappam’s journey from the ancient streets of Tamilakam to the kitchens of Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and beyond is a story of resilience and adaptation. It is a dish that reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and innovation. From the ancient trade routes to the modern-day plates of families, Idiyappam continues to bring people together, offering a taste of history with every bite.
April 06, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has dispatched a dedicated humanitarian relief mission to Myanmar in the wake of a powerful earthquake that has caused significant destruction and loss across the Southeast Asian nation.
A 26-member team, comprising medical and disaster response personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force, departed from Colombo on April 05 aboard a specially chartered flight to provide immediate assistance to affected communities.
The relief contingent is led by Brigadier Punya Karunathilake and is tasked with delivering essential aid, offering medical support, and contributing to recovery operations in collaboration with Myanmar’s local authorities.
The mission forms part of a broader emergency response initiative coordinated at the highest levels of government.
Under the guidance of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the close supervision of Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retired), the deployment demonstrates Sri Lanka’s capacity for rapid and organised humanitarian mobilisation.
The tri-forces, acting in unison, have once again underscored their ability to respond swiftly and compassionately to crises beyond national borders.
The humanitarian cargo includes medical supplies, food items, and other critical essentials, donated by the people of Sri Lanka in a show of solidarity with the people of Myanmar.
The effort has been led by the country’s monastic community, with the Venerable Maha Sangha and the Chief Prelates of the three principal Buddhist chapters playing a central role in mobilising public support and spiritual guidance for the mission.
Diplomatic coordination for the operation was facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, whose officials ensured the logistical and regulatory frameworks were aligned for the team’s entry and cooperation with Myanmar’s disaster management agencies.
The ministry worked in close partnership with its counterparts in Naypyidaw, underscoring the strong diplomatic ties between the two countries.
SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier, has played a pivotal role in enabling the mission’s swift deployment by offering logistical support and facilitating the transport of personnel and cargo to the affected region.
The Sri Lankan government has reiterated its intention to continue monitoring the situation in Myanmar and to offer further assistance as needed. The gesture has drawn praise from both local and international observers, who view this response as part of Sri Lanka’s growing role in regional disaster relief efforts, especially in times of acute humanitarian need.
Chamara Sampath Dassanayake in the Spotlight Over Alleged Corruption Charges
By:Ovindi Vishmika
April 06, Colombo (LNW): Badulla District MP Chamara Sampath Dassanayake, a prominent figure in the New Democratic Front (NDF), is currently facing serious corruption charges related to his tenure as the Chief Minister of Uva Province in 2016.
The case has garnered significant attention, with allegations of financial misconduct and misuse of public funds.
The core of the allegations revolves around the misuse of funds meant for a project intended to provide school bags to preschool children in Uva Province. According to the Bribery Commission, Dassanayake solicited funds from three state banks, claiming that the money would be used for the procurement of school bags for children. Two of the banks—Bank of Ceylon and another state-run institution—agreed to provide the funds, granting Rs. 1 million and Rs. 2.5 million, respectively.
However, the money that was supposed to be used for the project was allegedly transferred into Dassanayake’s personal foundation account, which raised questions about the legitimacy of the entire transaction. When the third bank refused to provide the requested funds, Dassanayake reportedly took drastic measures. In retaliation, he allegedly withdrew fixed deposits belonging to the Uva Provincial Council from that third bank. These actions led the Bribery Commission to claim that Dassanayake caused a financial loss of Rs. 17.3 million to the government.
The Arrest and Court Proceedings
Dassanayake was arrested by the Bribery Commission on March 27 after he provided a statement about the allegations. He was subsequently brought before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court, where he faced multiple corruption charges. The court granted him bail on two of the charges, setting the conditions at a cash bail of Rs. 50,000 and two sureties of Rs. 5 million each. In addition, an overseas travel ban was imposed, and Dassanayake was ordered to surrender his passport to the court.
However, despite being granted bail for two of the charges, Dassanayake remains in remand custody over a third charge related to the withdrawal of the Uva Provincial Council’s fixed deposits. The Bribery Commission alleges that this particular action resulted in a significant financial loss to the government. The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has ordered Dassanayake to remain in remand until April 8, 2025, as investigations into the matter continue.
The Government’s Response
The allegations against Dassanayake have sparked a broader conversation about corruption within Sri Lanka’s political landscape. As a member of the opposition, Dassanayake’s case has drawn attention not just for the details of the alleged crime but also for its potential political ramifications. The New Democratic Front (NDF), of which Dassanayake is a part, has yet to make an official statement regarding the charges, and it remains to be seen how this case will affect the party’s image moving forward.
The Bribery Commission, however, has stated its commitment to pursuing justice in this case and has made it clear that it will continue its investigation. The case is also significant in the broader context of Sri Lanka’s fight against corruption, as it involves a senior politician accused of exploiting his position for personal gain.
At the same time,the case has captured the public’s attention, particularly as it involves a high-ranking politician. Media outlets have closely followed the proceedings, with many questioning the effectiveness of Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption measures. In a country where corruption scandals are often linked to powerful political figures, this case stands as a test of the Bribery Commission’s ability to hold influential individuals accountable for their actions.
Moreover, the ongoing investigation has raised concerns about the transparency and accountability of public office holders, especially at the provincial level. If proven guilty, Dassanayake could face severe consequences, not only in terms of legal penalties but also in his political career.
What’s Next?
At present, the investigation into Chamara Sampath Dassanayake’s alleged corruption is still ongoing, with the Bribery Commission continuing to gather evidence. The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has ordered Dassanayake to remain in remand until April 8, 2025, while the investigation into the third charge continues.
For Dassanayake, the road ahead is uncertain. While he has been granted bail for two of the charges, the court’s decision to keep him in remand for the third charge indicates that the authorities are taking these allegations seriously. The outcome of the case could have serious implications, not just for Dassanayake but also for the NDF and Sri Lanka’s political scene as a whole.
As the investigation continues, more developments are expected. Whether or not the allegations against Dassanayake will lead to a conviction remains to be seen, but this case has undoubtedly become a key point of focus in Sri Lanka’s ongoing battle against corruption.
The next few weeks are likely to provide further updates, and the public is keen to see how the legal process unfolds. Whether this case will result in significant political fallout or lead to reforms in how corruption is handled within Sri Lanka’s political system is still uncertain. For now, all eyes remain on the ongoing investigations and the eventual court ruling.
April 06, Colombo (LNW): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to conclude his official visit to Sri Lanka with a significant stop in the ancient city of Anuradhapura today (06).
The visit, his first since 2019, comes at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and represents a renewed chapter in Indo-Lanka relations following a period of political transition in Colombo.
Prime Minister Modi will visit the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, one of the most venerated sites in Buddhism, where he is expected to participate in religious observances alongside President Dissanayake.
The presence of the two leaders at this deeply symbolic site underlines the shared cultural and spiritual heritage that binds the two nations.
Later in the day, the two heads of state will jointly unveil the newly modernised railway signalling system at Anuradhapura Railway Station. This upgrade, supported through Indian development assistance, forms part of a broader initiative to revitalise Sri Lanka’s railway infrastructure.
Also being inaugurated is the improved Maho-Omanthai railway line—another key milestone in the bilateral cooperation between the countries.
Over the past three days, the Indian Prime Minister has engaged in a wide range of diplomatic and developmental initiatives aimed at consolidating ties across strategic sectors.
High-level talks between Modi and Dissanayake were held at the Presidential Secretariat, where the leaders explored avenues to strengthen collaboration in defence, renewable energy, digital connectivity, trade, and infrastructure.
Several bilateral agreements were signed during the visit, including a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation. A notable highlight was the trilateral agreement between India, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates, which paves the way for transforming Trincomalee into a regional energy hub—a project expected to have long-term implications for the energy security of the island.
India also extended its support for key developmental and cultural initiatives, including the rollout of 5,000 solar rooftop units across Sri Lanka, the commencement of the 120 MW Sampur Solar Power Project, and the restoration and development of historic religious sites such as the Thirukoneswaram temple in Trincomalee.
The two leaders jointly launched these projects in a virtual ceremony, further reinforcing the emphasis on energy sustainability and cultural diplomacy.
Modi’s arrival on 4 April was marked by a ceremonial reception at Independence Square, making him the first foreign dignitary to visit Sri Lanka since President Dissanayake assumed office in late 2024.
His visit has been viewed as a signal of India’s firm commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and long-term stability in the wake of past fiscal challenges.
To accommodate today’s high-level programme, several roads in Anuradhapura will experience temporary closures. Motorists are advised to expect limited access to key routes including the Anuradhapura Air Force Base Road, areas surrounding the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the railway station, and prominent intersections like Harischandra Junction and the Hospital Roundabout. Road closures are expected to be in effect between 7:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., and residents are encouraged to use alternative routes to minimise delays.
April 06, Colombo (LNW): The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has voiced deep alarm following the death of a young man who died in police custody under distressing circumstances during the early hours of April 02, 2025, whilst being held at the Welikada Police Station.
Initial reports suggest that the youth had sustained fatal injuries allegedly inflicted upon himself whilst in custody. However, questions have been raised regarding the mental state of the individual at the time, and whether appropriate precautions were taken by the authorities.
Following his injury, the detainee was transferred to the Mulleriyawa Hospital, where he later succumbed to his wounds.
Rajeev Amarasuriya, President of the BASL, issued a strongly worded statement expressing the Association’s serious concern over the incident and its wider implications for police accountability and public confidence in the justice system.
He urged that the Acting Inspector General of Police initiate an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation to ascertain the true circumstances leading to the young man’s death.
Amarasuriya further highlighted that the BASL has, for many years, raised repeated concerns over law enforcement practices in Sri Lanka, emphasising the need for professionalism, restraint, and a commitment to upholding basic rights, particularly in custodial settings.
“When lives are lost in custody, especially under questionable conditions, it raises serious concerns about the state’s commitment to the rule of law,” he stated.
The incident is yet another addition to a troubling pattern of custodial deaths across the country, which the BASL claims continue unabated despite persistent calls for reform.
The Association expressed its disappointment at the failure of the authorities to implement concrete safeguards and ensure accountability in such cases.
According to Amarasuriya, the recurrence of such tragedies risks fostering a dangerous perception that impunity exists within the law enforcement system.
He cautioned that unless decisive action is taken, the public may lose faith in the institutions meant to protect them. “A state that fails to prevent custodial deaths, or delays justice for those affected, effectively sends the message that violations of rights carry no consequence,” he warned.
The BASL reaffirmed its support for a comprehensive zero-tolerance approach to custodial deaths and offered its cooperation to work with the police and other state institutions on reforms and training programmes to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Association also called on civil society and international partners to continue engaging on these issues, stressing that the safeguarding of human rights within custodial environments is a fundamental obligation of any democratic society.
April 06, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers will occur at most places of the island during the afternoon or night, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (06).
Showers may occur in the coastal areas of Western and Southern provinces and in Puttalam, Mannar, Jaffna and Ampara districts in the morning too.
Fairly heavy rainfall of above 75 mm are likely at some places in Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva, North-central, Southern and Eastern provinces.
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva, Northern and North-central provinces during the morning.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
The Department also announced the sun’s position against the earth, stating that on the apparent northward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka during 05th to 14th of April in this year.
The nearest areas of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (06th) are Kaluthara, Kelinkanda, Kahawaththa, Pokunutenna and Mahawelatota at about 12:12 noon, the announcement further said.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Batticaloa via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota. Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in the other sea areas around the island during the evening or night.
Winds:
Winds will be South-westerly or variable in direction and wind speed will be (20-35)kmph.
State of Sea:
Sea areas around the island will be slight to moderate. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
OCEAN WITH DAVID ATTENBOROUGH takes viewers on a breathtaking journey showing there is nowhere more vital for our survival, more full of life, wonder, or surprise, than the ocean. The celebrated broadcaster and filmmaker reveals how his lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery.
Through spectacular sequences featuring coral reefs, kelp forests and the open ocean, Attenborough shares why a healthy ocean keeps the entire planet stable and flourishing. Stunning, immersive cinematography showcases the wonder of life under the seas and exposes the realities and challenges facing our ocean as never-before-seen, from destructive fishing techniques to mass coral reef bleaching.
Yet the story is one of optimism, with Attenborough pointing to inspirational stories from around the world to deliver his greatest message: the ocean can recover to a glory beyond anything anyone alive has ever seen. Screening in cinemas with theatrically exclusive footage.
With India factoring in as one of the world’s largest whisky-consuming nations, it’s only fitting that the price range for the amber spirit — both homegrown and imported expressions available in the country — is deliciously eclectic. For instance, the nation’s number-one selling usquebaugh (as of 2025) is McDowell’s No. 1 Luxury Premium Whisky priced at Rs 640, while its most expensive local expression is the Rampur Signature Reserve, which costs Rs 5 lakh a bottle. However, even this ostentatious amount is almost negligible when compared to the most expensive whiskies in the world, many of which have been auctioned for crores worth of rupees. Collectors, bookmark this top five list.
World’s most rare and expensive whisky selections — Emerald Isle Collection (Rs 17 Crore), The Macallan 1926 Fine and Rare 60-Year-Old (Rs 16 Crore) & more
1. The Emerald Isle Collection – US $2 million (Rs 17 crore)
Hailing from the Bushmills distillery, also the world’s oldest distillery comes this collection of two oldest triple distilled Irish whiskey bottles culminating into one extravagant gift pack. The pack is created by The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. and Fabergé. Apart from the whiskey, the box also holds a Fabergé Celtic Egg handcrafted with emerald and 18-karat gold, a 22k gold timepiece and a Cohiba Siglo VI Gran Reserva cigar with gold-plated cutter. Interestingly, the money earned from this sale was sent to charity.
2. The Macallan 1926 Fine and Rare 60-Year-Old – US$1.9 million (Rs 16 crore)
This gift collection comes with not one but two bottles of fine whiskey. However, even if the added quantity is a factor in the pricing, it takes nothing away from the seniority of the spirit. Pop artists Peter Blake and Valerio Adami designed the labels for a limited edition of 24 bottles and one of the bottles was even hand-painted by Irish artist Michael Dillon. Sotheby’s also called the 1926 fine the “holy grail” of whiskey. The collection was auctioned for a whopping US$1.9 million (Rs 16 crore). It is believed that the buyer consumed one of the whiskey bottles and did not even open the second one–it was only added to their collection.
Distilled for a long period of 64 years, the Glenfiddich 1937 Rare Collection is a true work of art. It was bottled in 2001, which means the distillation process began in 1937, before WWII. By 2001, there was only enough stunning whiskey to fill up 61 bottles, hence birthing a super rare brand. The whisky is priced at a whopping US$120,000 (Rs 88,82,460).
From the birthplace of Japanese whisky, the Yamazaki 55-Year-Old is a blend of precious single malts distilled in 1960 under the supervision of Suntory’s founder Shinjiro Torii and then aged in Mizunara casks; and in 1964 under Suntory’s Second Master Blender Keizo Saji and then aged in White Oak casks. Suntory’s Fifth-Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo worked closely with Third-Generation Master Blender Shingo Torii in deploying their signature art of blending to reveal the exceptional depth, complexity matured for more than 55 years and is the House of Suntory’s oldest release in its history.
This one is once again a collection of whiskey bottles, the rarest and vintage ones ever created by The Dalmore, known as The Dalmore Constellation Collection. Created between 1964 and 1992, these whiskies have been aged for 46 years. Flavoured with notes of orchard fruit and cinnamon spice, these whiskies, created by Dalmore’s master distiller Richard Patterson, are priced at US$60,000.
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has seized 12 vehicles in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged illegal registration practices at the Department of Motor Traffic. According to CIABOC, the vehicles were registered without going through the required Customs release procedures, suggesting potential corruption and violations of official protocols.
The seized vehicles include a variety of high-end models, such as one Jeep, six Mitsubishi Montero Jeeps, three Toyota Jeeps, one Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, and one Nissan Double Cab.
CIABOC officials have initiated scientific and technical investigations to determine the methods used to bypass regulations and to evaluate the financial impact of these irregularities on the state. The investigation is ongoing.
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