By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): The luxury vehicle belonging to former MP Sujeewa Senasinghe, which had been under court custody following an investigation into its assembly, has been released on a bond of Rs. 100 million.

The Fort Magistrate’s Court issued the order for the vehicle’s release earlier today.

The vehicle, a high-end SUV valued at approximately Rs. 100 million, came under scrutiny after suspicions arose regarding its assembly.

On November 08, following a tip-off from the Walana Anti-Corruption Task Force, authorities raised concerns that the vehicle may have been illegally reassembled, prompting further investigation.

As a result, Senasinghe was instructed to bring the vehicle to the Government Analyst’s Department for examination.

Initial suspicions centred around the possibility that the Land Cruiser had been reassembled using parts that may not have met legal requirements.

On 11th November, the Fort Magistrate’s Court issued an order for the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to seize the vehicle. It was then submitted to the Government Analyst’s Department for detailed inspection and a full report.

The release of the vehicle on bond follows the court’s assessment of the situation, although the investigation into the matter continues.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): Professor Atula Senaratne, a distinguished Geologist from the University of Peradeniya, has strongly advised against relying on myths and engaging in fruitless endeavours, following the recent excavation attempts near the Central Expressway construction site in the Wanduramba area of Veyangoda.

The search for alleged buried treasure, which gained public attention over the weekend, has been dismissed by Senaratne as a misguided effort rooted in folklore rather than scientific fact.

In his comments to the media, Prof. Senaratne highlighted the implausibility of the treasure-hunting claims, particularly the notion that treasures could be buried as deep as 40 to 50 feet below the surface.

He pointed out that there is no historical precedent or evidence to suggest that treasures were ever concealed at such depths, nor could they have been sealed with melted rocks, as some local myths suggest.

“There has never been a technology, either in the past or present, that would enable rocks to be melted or fused in such a manner,” he emphasised, criticising the fantasy surrounding treasure hunting.

Responding to ongoing speculation regarding the possibility of a treasure buried beneath the expressway reservation in Wanduramba, Prof. Senaratne dismissed the idea as unlikely.

While he acknowledged that signs of decaying rocks may sometimes be misinterpreted as evidence of hidden riches, he warned that pursuing such unsubstantiated claims could lead to a significant waste of time, money, and labour.

“Geologists only engage in archaeological surveys at the request of archaeologists, and we would advise against any attempts to excavate without scientific backing,” he remarked.

The professor further elaborated that while there may be historical sites or temples where relics or offerings have been buried, the likelihood of discovering such treasures underground is minimal.

“People’s belief in buried treasures, especially in temple sites or chethiyas, is steeped in myth, and the chances of finding anything significant are very low. In my opinion, those chasing these treasures are merely deceiving themselves,” he said.

With over four decades of experience in geology, Prof. Senaratne reiterated his long-standing stance that people should not rely on myths or folklore in their pursuit of material wealth.

“I have consistently urged against indulging in such exercises. These treasure hunts are nothing more than futile pursuits based on unfounded beliefs,” he concluded.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): Speaker of Parliament Ashoka Ranwala has announced that he will be having a direct conversation with Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. Archchuna Ramanathan to discuss the MP’s recent actions that have sparked widespread controversy.

On November 21, a video showing Dr. Ramanathan seated in the Opposition Leader’s designated chair during the inaugural session of the 10th Parliament went viral on social media.

Despite repeated requests from parliamentary staff for him to vacate the seat, the independent MP refused to comply.

This incident, coupled with several provocative comments made by Dr. Ramanathan on his social media platforms, has stirred considerable debate online and drawn criticism from both political circles and the general public.

Speaking to the media after his visit to Kandy on November 24, Speaker Ranwala expressed concern over the MP’s conduct.

He emphasised that while the specific motives behind Dr. Ramanathan’s actions are unclear, it is vital to consider the broader expectations of the people he represents.

“The aspirations of the public are clear – they want unity and development, not disruption,” he remarked, adding that citizens from all regions of the country seek harmony, particularly in the current political climate.

The Speaker confirmed that he had reviewed the MP’s actions, including his social media posts, and said that a thorough discussion with Dr. Ramanathan will take place to address the matter appropriately.

Ranwala assured the media that, after speaking with the MP, he would determine the most suitable course of action to resolve the issue.

“We are taking a cautious approach,” Ranwala noted. “This is an isolated incident, and it is important to handle it with care. We are committed to ensuring that Parliament upholds its dignity, and we will address this matter in a manner that reflects the best interests of the people.“

Ranwala concluded by reiterating that the current government is fully focused on meeting the aspirations of the public and fostering an environment of national unity and progress.

MP Ramanathan representing an independent political party from Jaffna threw himself onto public attention and met with severe backlash following a self-released livesteream revealing Ramanathan refuse to leave the chair allotted for the Leader of the Opposition and later conjure the name of a figure recognised as a terminated terrorist leader, claiming that he is ‘his god’.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): A specialised three-day workshop for the newly elected members of the Tenth Parliament of Sri Lanka is set to begin today (25).

This intensive training programme, scheduled to run through November 27, aims to equip parliamentarians with essential knowledge and understanding of the country’s legislative procedures, parliamentary culture, and traditions.

The workshop, which is being held annually for all incoming MPs after each general election, is designed to provide new legislators with a comprehensive orientation to their roles and responsibilities.

Topics covered will include the intricacies of parliamentary debates, legislative processes, and the code of conduct expected of MPs during their tenure.

A formal gazette notice outlining the details of the workshop was published on November 16, ensuring that all members were aware of the forthcoming sessions.

The goal of the workshop is to ensure that all newly elected members of parliament are well-prepared to engage in parliamentary proceedings and serve effectively in their capacities.

This year’s workshop follows the inauguration of the Tenth Parliament on November 21, which brought together members elected in the 2024 General Election.

With new faces and a diverse range of political backgrounds entering the legislative body, the workshop is seen as a vital step in fostering a productive and well-informed parliament.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): The low pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal is likely to further intensify into a depression over the central-southwest Bay of Bengal by today morning, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (25).

The system is located about 500 km southeast of Batticaloaat around 0230 this morning. The system is expected to further develop and move closer to the east coast of the island.

Cloudy skies are expected over most parts of the island due to the influence of this system.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the Northern, North-central, Eastern, Central and Uva provinces and in Hambantota district.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places elsewhere of the island during the evening or night. Showers or thundershowers may occur over the coastal areas of Western and North-western provinces during the morning too.

Very heavy showers above 150 mm are likely at some places in Eastern province. Heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in Northern, North-central, Central and Uva provinces and in Hambantota district.

Fairly strong winds of about (35-45) kmph can be expected at times over Northern, North-central and Eastern provinces and in Hambantota district.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Marine Weather: