March 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Court of Appeal has scheduled a writ petition questioning the eligibility of Minister Dr Upali Pannilage to serve as a Member of Parliament, with the matter set to be taken up on May 13.

The case was listed for mention on that date after the third respondent—identified as the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ruhuna—requested additional time to engage legal representation.

The petition has been filed by social and political activist Oshala Herath, who has named several respondents, including Dr Pannilage, the Secretary General of Parliament, the current Vice Chancellor of the University of Ruhuna, the institution itself, and the Attorney General.

At the centre of the legal challenge is the claim that Dr Pannilage was still formally attached to the University of Ruhuna as an employee at the time he entered Parliament and later assumed ministerial office. The petitioner argues that this alleged overlap may render his appointment invalid under existing laws governing public office.

Counsel representing both sides appeared before the court, with senior lawyers outlining their initial positions as the case moves forward.

The upcoming hearing is expected to determine the next steps in what could become a closely watched legal battle, given its potential implications for parliamentary standards and the holding of dual roles within public institutions.

By: Isuru Parakrama

March 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is stepping up efforts to accelerate relief and reconstruction work in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, as authorities contend with both environmental damage and ongoing economic pressures.

A high-level meeting was convened at Temple Trees on March 28 under the leadership of Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya, bringing together government officials and representatives from civil society groups to review progress and identify urgent priorities.

During the discussions, senior officials outlined the current status of relief operations, including the disbursement of compensation through District Secretariats and the management of temporary shelters established for displaced families.

Updates also highlighted the challenges faced in reaching vulnerable groups and ensuring aid is distributed efficiently.

Particular concern was raised over the situation of estate sector communities, especially members of the Malaiyaha Tamil population who lack formal land ownership. Officials acknowledged that these individuals face difficulties in accessing state assistance and indicated that policy-level decisions will be required to address the gap.

Plans for long-term recovery were also presented, with a focus on large-scale housing initiatives. Authorities aim to construct tens of thousands of new homes while repairing a significantly higher number of partially damaged properties.

Financial assistance schemes are being expanded to support families who possess suitable land to rebuild, while urban housing projects featuring improved infrastructure are also under consideration.

In addition to physical reconstruction, the government has placed emphasis on monitoring the broader well-being of affected communities. Special attention is being given to women, children, and individuals with additional needs, with support mechanisms to be coordinated through community organisations and dedicated oversight groups.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya underscored the importance of rebuilding in safer locations, noting that recent housing efforts have prioritised resilience and access to essential services. She also called for sustained engagement with affected communities to ensure that recovery initiatives are both inclusive and responsive to local needs.

By: Isuru Parakrama

March 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka could soon face limited daily water supply hours as prolonged dry weather begins to place pressure on national resources, according to officials.

Chairman of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Chandana Bandara, warned that if current conditions persist, water distribution may have to be curtailed for several hours each day over the coming weeks. While no formal restrictions have yet been imposed, authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

He explained that although treatment facilities, including major plants such as Ambatale, continue to operate at normal capacity, the declining water levels have already affected distribution in certain areas. Residents in elevated regions are reportedly experiencing reduced water pressure, signalling early strain on the system.

Bandara noted that contingency measures are being prepared, including the deployment of water bowsers to assist communities facing shortages. These mobile supplies are expected to play a crucial role if conditions worsen.

Despite the challenges, there is cautious optimism that anticipated rainfall in the near future could ease the situation. In the meantime, the public has been urged to conserve water wherever possible and avoid unnecessary usage.

Officials emphasised that responsible consumption over the next few weeks will be key to preventing more severe restrictions and ensuring that available resources are shared equitably.

March 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has moved to limit the distribution of urea fertiliser exclusively to paddy cultivation, as authorities grapple with reduced national reserves linked to ongoing disruptions in global supply chains.

The Department of Agrarian Development announced that, for the upcoming 2026 Yala season, stocks of unmixed urea will be allocated solely to rice farmers through Agrarian Service Centres. The decision is intended to safeguard the country’s staple food production at a time of heightened uncertainty in international markets.

Officials have issued directives to Agrarian Development Officers across the island, instructing them to strictly regulate distribution based on the extent of land under paddy cultivation. Fertiliser will be released only after verification, either through seasonal planning meetings or field-level confirmation of crops.

The department indicated that an existing database of registered farmers will be used to match fertiliser allocations with cultivated acreage, ensuring a more transparent and accountable system. This approach is also expected to minimise misuse and prevent over-allocation.

Authorities have further called on local officers to carefully manage available stocks to avoid shortages during the cultivation period. Ensuring uninterrupted paddy farming remains a key priority, given its central role in national food security.

While the restriction may affect growers of other crops, officials maintain that the temporary measure is necessary to maintain stable rice production during a period of constrained supply.

March 30, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Health has opened applications for a new intake of Grade I Medical Officers, targeting 453 medical graduates who completed their internship training in July 2025.

Eligible candidates have been invited to submit their applications as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the public healthcare workforce and address staffing needs across hospitals and regional medical institutions.

According to the Ministry, applications will be accepted until 12 noon on 4 April 2026, with officials stressing that late submissions will not be entertained under any circumstances. Applicants have been urged to ensure that all required documentation is completed accurately and submitted well ahead of the deadline to avoid disqualification.

Health authorities noted that the recruitment drive forms part of a broader plan to improve service delivery and reduce pressure on existing medical staff, particularly in underserved areas.

The Ministry further emphasised that responsibility for timely submission rests entirely with the applicants, warning that no exceptions will be made for delays regardless of the reason.

March 30, Colombo (LNW): A nationwide initiative aimed at encouraging more mindful use of energy has been officially introduced, as Sri Lanka seeks to safeguard its resources amid growing global uncertainties.

The programme, titled “Surakimu Lanka”, was unveiled today with the backing of the President’s Media Division, which described it as a collective effort to build a culture of conservation across the country. Authorities say the campaign is intended to raise awareness about the importance of reducing unnecessary energy consumption at both household and institutional levels.

Officials noted that the move comes against the backdrop of potential disruptions to fuel and energy supplies linked to ongoing instability in the Middle East, as well as concerns over possible El Niño weather patterns that could affect hydropower generation in the months ahead.

Rather than imposing strict limits, the initiative focuses on voluntary public participation. Citizens are being encouraged to cut down electricity usage during peak evening hours—particularly between 6.00 p.m. and 10.00 p.m.—and shift energy-intensive activities to daytime wherever feasible.

The campaign, which will run for approximately five months, forms part of the broader “Clean Sri Lanka” drive and carries the theme of unity and shared responsibility. It is expected to involve a wide range of stakeholders, including government bodies, private sector organisations, and community groups.

Authorities emphasised that efficient management of national resources, coupled with greater transparency, remains central to the effort. With a significant portion of the country’s electricity generated through hydropower, the programme also highlights the need for prudent water usage to ensure long-term sustainability.

By placing responsibility in the hands of the public, officials hope the initiative will not only ease pressure on the national grid but also strengthen resilience in the face of uncertain global energy conditions.

March 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has expressed appreciation for India’s assistance in stabilising its fuel supplies during a period marked by global uncertainty and supply chain disruptions.

Speaking in a recent interview, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra noted that the support arrived at a crucial juncture, as ongoing tensions in West Asia continue to disrupt international energy markets. He emphasised that the swift response helped ease mounting pressure on the country’s essential fuel requirements.

According to the Deputy Minister, the episode highlights the close relationship between the two nations and their ability to act decisively when challenges arise. He pointed out that such cooperation goes beyond immediate relief, reflecting a broader commitment to regional stability and mutual support.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also acknowledged the assistance, noting that recent discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped facilitate urgent fuel deliveries to Sri Lanka. The arrival of a significant consignment in Colombo was described as a critical step in maintaining continuity in energy distribution at a time of heightened uncertainty.

Officials further underlined that India’s role carries wider significance for the region, particularly as countries grapple with external shocks affecting key sectors. The government views this cooperation as an example of how neighbouring states can work together to address shared challenges effectively.

Hemachandra added that the situation has reinforced the importance of trust, responsiveness, and coordinated action among regional partners. He stressed that frameworks promoting collective responsibility are increasingly vital in navigating volatile global conditions.

Looking ahead, Sri Lanka aims to strengthen its long-term energy security while continuing to engage constructively with international partners. Authorities maintain that ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply remains a top priority, especially as global market conditions remain unpredictable.

March 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan authorities are set to bring back Prabhath Madusanka, widely known by the alias ‘Midigama Chuti’, following his arrest overseas in connection with a string of serious criminal allegations.

Madusanka, believed to have links to an organised underworld network, was detained in Oman last year after international law enforcement agencies flagged him under a red notice. His arrest was seen as a significant breakthrough in efforts to track down suspects who have fled the country to evade justice.

Officials confirmed that a team of officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) travelled to Oman to take custody of the suspect and oversee his return. He is expected to arrive in Sri Lanka later today under tight security.

Investigators say Madusanka is wanted in connection with several high-profile offences, and his return is likely to accelerate ongoing probes into organised criminal activity. Authorities have indicated that further arrests could follow as inquiries expand based on information obtained during questioning.

Law enforcement agencies have increasingly relied on international cooperation in recent years to apprehend fugitives operating beyond Sri Lanka’s borders, signalling a more coordinated approach to tackling transnational crime.

By: Isuru Parakrama

March 30, Colombo (LNW): Efforts are still underway to restore the computer network at the Department for Registration of Persons, with officials working to bring services back to full capacity in the coming days.

In the interim, the department has arranged a special one-day service on 30 March at its head office in Battaramulla as well as at provincial branches. This provision is specifically aimed at applicants who were unable to collect their National Identity Cards during earlier one-day service dates affected by the technical disruption.

Applicants attending the special session have been advised to carry all required documentation to avoid further delays, as authorities seek to clear the backlog that has built up over the past week.

The department confirmed that its standard one-day NIC issuance service will recommence from 31 March at both the main office and regional centres. However, some functions—such as identity verification for institutions and document translation into English—will continue on a restricted basis until systems are fully stabilised.

Officials added that while limited services are being maintained, certain সরকারি and private sector organisations may need to rely on temporary alternatives during this period.

Full operations across all offices are expected to resume from 6 April, once technical repairs and system checks have been completed. Authorities expressed confidence that services will return to normal without further interruption once the restoration process is finalised.