TCHR welcomes the visit to Sri Lanka by the UN High Commissioner of Human Rights, 23-26 June 2025.

Mass Graves in Sri Lanka are nothing new to anyone globally. They started soon after the PTA – Prevention of Terrorism Act provided the police with broad powers to search, arrest, and detain suspects. On 14th July 1979 six Tamil youths were taken from their homes in Jaffna. The following day, the mutilated bodies of two of them were found near the Pannai causeway near Jaffna town. Another died later in the Prison hospital in Jaffna. Three were never seen again.

The Prevention of Terrorism Act – PTA, initially passed in 1979 as a temporary measure, gave freedom to the security forces in Sri Lanka to launch many mass graves in the North and East, including some in the South.

A Brief History of the Chemmani Mass Graves: By the end of 1983, the LTTE – Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam were running a de facto government with its infrastructure in the Jaffna peninsula. But in 1995, the Security forces took over the Jaffna peninsula from the LTTE. Since then, most of the civilians in the Jaffna peninsula suspected of being LTTE sympathisers or supporters were taken overnight from their homes and never seen again by their kith and kin.

However, in 1998 an Army soldier who was on trial for the rape and murder of Tamil schoolgirl Krishanthi Kumaraswamy in the Jaffna peninsula, testified in court in 1996 said that many civilians were killed and buried in mass graves near the village of Chemmani. He further said that he knew where those three hundred to four hundred (300-400) bodies were buried.

TCHR was established in 1990, and since then, our representatives have regularly attended the UN Human Rights Forums in Geneva and other global conferences concerning human rights and issues affecting victims in Sri Lanka. We have worked tirelessly and filed numerous cases of disappearances, arbitrary killings, arrests, torture, violence against women, etc. Our website, www.tchr.net contains our published Press Releases, Urgent Actions, reports, and documents.

As far as Civil and Political rights and Economic Social and Cultural rights of the people mainly in the North and the East of Sri Lanka, TCHR was the only organization regularly reporting to the global community from every nook and corner of the North and East, especially to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights – OHCHR and other stakeholders of the UN. 

Of course, other international human rights organisations were also reporting but they had their limits. There were occasions when the TCHR covered some incidents taking place in other parts of Sri Lanka as well.

During the ceasefire agreed in 2002 between the two conflicting parties, namely the government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE – representatives of the TCHR made two fact-finding missions to the North and East, the areas worst affected by the bloody conflict for nearly two decades. Our reports are on our website.

Our task eventually evolved into a high-profile lobbying effort with state leaders and diplomats to find a durable solution to this long-standing conflict, in Asia. The people from the North and East belong to the world’s oldest linguistic group, “the Tamils”. Even though the history of their existence on the island dates back thousands of years, the Tamils of the North and East have been struggling for their ‘right to self-determination’, in the island of Sri Lanka.

On that basis, in our reporting from 1996 onwards, we have regularly reported on the mass graves in the North and East, especially the mass graves in Chemmani. Our information regarding these alarming affairs was promptly brought to the attention of the then UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and then UN Special Rapporteurs on “Extrajudicial Summary or arbitrary execution” – namely Mr. Bacre Waly Ndiaye, Asma Jahangir, Philip Alston, and many other stakeholders.

The annexes accompanying this press release give information not only about the Chemmani mass graves but also about many other mass graves.

It is to be noted that TCHR’s tireless work on the killing and rape of Krishanti Kumaraswamy and the Chemmani mass graves were side-lined by the Sri Lankan government’s well trained and well-paid lobbyists and representatives of the government in international forums and institutes.

When one looks at the line of command responsibility for the Chemmani mass graves, the President, who was the Commander in Chief of the armed forces, President Chandrika Kumaratunga, the military top brass in charge of the Jaffna peninsula and also members of the paramilitary, namely the EPDP, should be brought to justice.

Therefore, it is the duty of the present government, which talks much about ‘clean Sri Lanka’, to prevent culprits responsible for the Chemmani mass graves and other later violations that took place including in May 2009, from leaving the country and to bring them to justice.

However, it’s no secret that the present government in power – the JVP/NPP- was always in support of the war. Additionally, they opposed any international scrutiny. Well and good, now it is too late for any local investigation or hybrid investigation. Sixteen years since the end of the war is more than enough for meaningful action to have been initiated in favour of genuine justice.

Unfortunately, in 2012, some Tamils, planted in the UN Forums by the government of Sri Lanka with the help of a Tamil Minister, pretended to be working on the Human rights of the Tamils, messing up many initiatives already taking place in the North and East as well as internationally. Those who caused this damage are presently in prison, legally punished by a state and the United Nations.

This is the time for the Tamil diaspora, wherever they live in Europe, UK, Canada, Australia, and elsewhere, along with those genuinely concerned about the mass graves and other gross violations, to concentrate on International Jurisdiction.

We know that, especially three loud voices, talk pure racism in the South for their political mileage. Whether they spoke or not, they were fit neither to contest nor to win an election in their constituencies. Those three are political clowns – U.G., S.W.and V.W. of the South.

Please see the annexes for further information regarding Chemmani mass graves, right from the beginning.

July 01, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities have sounded the alarm as preliminary findings from a nationwide inspection indicate that roughly 20 per cent of properties examined are conducive to mosquito breeding.

The discovery was made during intensified inspections launched in tandem with National Mosquito Control Week, which officially began yesterday (30) and will continue through July 05.

Dr Prasheela Samaraweera, a Community Medical Specialist with the National Dengue Control Unit, revealed that the situation is more serious than initially anticipated, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas where stagnant water and improper waste disposal have become common.

The inspections, which span 16 high-risk districts, are being carried out by 1,100 field teams tasked with identifying breeding hotspots and raising public awareness.

The campaign comes amid a sharp increase in mosquito-borne illnesses, most notably dengue and chikungunya, which have surged in the wake of persistent rainfall across much of the island.

This wet spell has created ideal conditions for mosquito larvae to thrive, especially in water-collecting containers, discarded plastic items, gutters, and overgrown gardens.

So far this year, 28,752 confirmed cases of dengue have been recorded, with the Western Province continuing to report the highest incidence. Sixteen deaths linked to the disease have also been reported, underscoring the seriousness of the current outbreak.

Officials are urging the public to take immediate action by eliminating potential breeding grounds in and around their homes. Regular checks, proper disposal of household waste, and maintaining clean water storage practices are being stressed as key steps in controlling the spread.

July 01, Colombo (LNW): A fatal shooting took place late last night along Andana Road in Kahawatta, claiming the life of a young man and leaving another seriously injured.

The incident unfolded under murky circumstances, with authorities confirming that an unknown group of assailants arrived at the scene and opened fire before fleeing the area.

The deceased, a 22-year-old male, was pronounced dead at the scene, whilst a 27-year-old man who sustained gunshot wounds was rushed to Kahawatta Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Police have launched a full investigation. At this stage, no arrests have been made, and the identity or motive of the attackers remains unclear.

July 01, Colombo (LNW): A proposed cut in bus fares, originally scheduled to take effect from today (01), has been put on hold following a sudden rise in fuel costs.

The National Transport Commission (NTC) confirmed that the anticipated 2.5 per cent reduction will no longer be implemented, citing the recent hike in diesel prices as the driving factor behind the reversal.

Late on June 30, the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) announced an increase in fuel prices, including a Rs. 15 jump in the cost of auto diesel — a key expense for public transport operators.

This prompted immediate concern within the transport sector, leading the NTC to reconsider the fare revision.

In a brief statement, the NTC explained that the revised pricing of fuel has directly affected the calculations used to determine public transport tariffs. As a result, the previously announced fare reduction was deemed unfeasible under current conditions.

A spokesperson for the Commission noted that a new fare structure is under urgent review and is expected to be made public later in the day. Until then, fares will remain unchanged.

July 01, Colombo (LNW): Former Minsiter Gamini Lokuge has passed away aged aged 82.

His demise was confirmed yesterday evening (30), bringing an end to a lengthy presence in Sri Lankan politics.

Over the course of several decades, he held various ministerial positions under different administrations, including in the areas of Sports, Energy, and Transport.

Affiliated initially with the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and later aligning with the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Lokuge represented the Colombo District in Parliament through multiple electoral cycles.

His political activities spanned numerous regimes, and he remained a visible—albeit frequently controversial—figure in the national political landscape.

July 01, Colombo (LNW): In a move poised to reshape the balance of maritime influence in the Indian Ocean, India’s state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL) is preparing to take a controlling interest in Colombo Dockyard PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s key shipbuilding and repair facilities.

The initiative, backed by the Indian Ministry of Defence, represents not only a commercial investment but also a strategic foray into a highly sensitive geopolitical space.

The proposed acquisition, estimated at up to US$ 52.96 million, was greenlit by MDL’s board of directors, according to Indian media reports. A tripartite agreement, signed on June 27, outlines MDL’s plan to purchase the majority shareholding currently held by Japan’s Onomichi Dockyard.

This will give the Mumbai-based defence shipbuilder effective control of the Sri Lankan facility.

Mazagon Dock, often referred to as the “Shipyard of the Nation,” has a long-standing reputation for building complex naval assets, including warships and submarines. With a market capitalisation exceeding US$ 15 billion as of late June 2025, MDL’s financial and technical credentials make it a formidable player in the regional shipbuilding industry.

Colombo Dockyard, meanwhile, has been grappling with financial distress for several years, teetering on the edge of default. Amidst growing economic challenges, Sri Lankan authorities have reportedly been encouraging regional partners to invest in strategic national assets, and India emerged as a suitable candidate, given its naval expertise and proximity.

The entry of an Indian defence-linked enterprise into Colombo Port — a major transhipment hub — introduces a new dynamic into the island’s already complex foreign relations. Analysts suggest the deal enhances India’s leverage in South Asia, particularly as a counterweight to China’s growing footprint in Sri Lanka, notably through its long-term lease of Hambantota Port.

Observers warn that this acquisition could reignite regional rivalries. Whilst Japanese ownership of Colombo Dockyard was generally perceived as neutral, India’s involvement — especially through a defence manufacturer — is expected to raise eyebrows in Beijing. China has already expressed concern over India’s influence on Sri Lanka’s foreign policy, particularly following Colombo’s decision to restrict Chinese research vessels from docking in its ports.

Critics within Sri Lanka have also voiced alarm. The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) has condemned the agreement. They argue that handing over a strategic asset to a foreign military-linked entity undermines national sovereignty and poses long-term risks to national security.

The party further claims that the deal lacks transparency and could result in significant economic loss for the country if not properly regulated.

Despite these concerns, the Sri Lankan government appears to view the investment as a necessary step toward revitalising a critical industrial facility and securing foreign capital. Negotiations are said to be ongoing, with final regulatory approvals pending.

July 01, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan government is preparing to initiate talks with financial institutions and key stakeholders following growing unease over the renewed enforcement of the Parate law, according to Deputy Minister of Economic Development Dr Anil Jayantha Fernando.

The discussions, aimed at identifying a workable path forward, are expected to commence within the next few days.

The Parate law, which legally empowers banks to repossess mortgaged property without court intervention when borrowers default on loans, was reinstated as of midnight on June 30. Its return has ignited widespread concern amongst small and medium-scale entrepreneurs, many of whom fear that aggressive enforcement could trigger a wave of bankruptcies and force numerous local businesses to shut their doors.

Previously, the government had temporarily halted the application of the law, granting borrowers a three-month reprieve. An earlier moratorium under former President Ranil Wickremesinghe had extended the suspension for six months. These pauses were welcomed by business owners struggling with financial strain in a challenging economic climate.

With the reactivation of the law now in effect, business leaders are calling on the authorities to reconsider. Many within the SME sector are urging the government to extend the suspension for a further twelve months, arguing that many enterprises are still in recovery mode after years of economic instability and external shocks.

Responding to these concerns, Dr Fernando stated that the administration is committed to finding a “sustainable and fair” solution that considers both the financial system’s stability and the survival of local industries. He acknowledged the delicate balance between ensuring banks’ ability to recover loans and protecting struggling businesses from potential collapse.

July 01, Colombo (LNW): Motorists across Sri Lanka will see a fresh wave of fuel price increases taking effect from midnight yesterday (30), as the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) introduced revised rates.

Under the new pricing, Petrol 92 Octane will now cost Rs. 305 per litre—reflecting a Rs. 12 rise—whilst the price of Kerosene has climbed by Rs. 7 to Rs. 185 per litre. The rate for Auto Diesel has also seen a significant increase of Rs. 15, bringing it to Rs. 289 per litre.

Notably, there has been no change in the cost of higher-grade fuels: Petrol 95 Octane remains at Rs. 341 per litre, and Super Diesel continues to be priced at Rs. 325.

The revised pricing applies not only to CEYPETCO outlets but has also been mirrored by Lanka IOC (LIOC) and Sinopec Energy Lanka, both of which adjusted their rates in tandem with the CEYPETCO.

The full list of revised fuel prices now stands as follows:

• Petrol 92 Octane – Rs. 305 per litre (up by Rs. 12)
• Auto Diesel – Rs. 289 per litre (up by Rs. 15)
• Kerosene – Rs. 185 per litre (up by Rs. 7)
• Petrol 95 Octane – Rs. 341 per litre (unchanged)
• Super Diesel – Rs. 325 per litre (unchanged)

July 01, Colombo (LNW): A few showers will occur in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Nuwara-Eliya, Kandy, Galle and Matara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (01).

Fairly strong winds of about (30-40) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.

Marine Weather:

Condition of Rain:
A few showers may occur in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo and Galle.

Winds:
Winds will be /south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph.

Wind speed can increase up to (50-55) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.

Wind speed can increase up to 45 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle and from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu.

State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be rough at times.

The sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle and from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu will be fairly rough at times.