March 13, Colombo (LNW): The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has issued a statement today confirming that there have been no revisions to the maximum retail prices for raw rice, despite reports circulating that some rice mill owners and wholesalers are attempting to sell rice at inflated prices.
According to the CAA, these traders have been misleading retailers, suggesting that the government’s price regulations on rice have been altered.
As a result, numerous retailers have been approaching authorities with queries, uncertain whether the controlled prices still apply.
The CAA has firmly stated that the maximum retail prices for raw rice, as per the official gazette notification, remain intact. There has been no change to the prices set by the government, and they continue to be as follows:
Raw red rice – Rs. 220 per kg
Nadu rice – Rs. 230 per kg
Samba rice – Rs. 240 per kg
Keeri Samba rice – Rs. 260 per kg
The regulatory body has also reassured the public that it will continue to monitor and enforce these price controls with the utmost diligence.
Regular raids and investigations will be carried out across the country, with legal action planned against any vendors found attempting to sell rice at prices above the regulated limits.
March 13, Colombo (LNW): A man believed to be the brother of infamous organised crime figure Balachandran Pushparaj, more commonly known as “Pukudu Kanna”, has been apprehended at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake.
The arrest occurred earlier this morning (13th March) when officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) detained the individual as he arrived in Sri Lanka from India.
Authorities confirmed that the 36-year-old, identified as Balachandran Gajendran, was attempting to enter the country with a forged passport.
Gajendran, who hails from Jampettah Street in Colombo 10, is currently in police custody. He is expected to appear before the Negombo Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.
Sources within law enforcement have indicated that Gajendran’s ties to the criminal underworld, particularly his association with his notorious brother, are of significant interest to investigators.
March 13, Colombo (LNW): Medical professionals and staff at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital have officially ended their strike following successful discussions with the relevant authorities, the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) announced.
Earlier today (13) at 8.00 am, the 24-hour nationwide strike initiated by the GMOA was also brought to a close. The strike had been called in response to the distressing sexual assault of a lady doctor at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital, which had left the medical community in shock and disbelief.
Whilst the main suspect in the assault was promptly arrested, medical staff at the hospital initially chose to extend their protest, citing concerns over the lack of adequate security measures for hospital employees.
The call for better safety protocols within hospital premises had become a key demand, as healthcare workers expressed their fears over the safety of both staff and patients.
The strike, which garnered significant attention, sparked widespread outrage and sympathy within the medical sector, with healthcare professionals across the country urging the authorities to take immediate action to improve security in medical institutions.
In light of the recent discussions with hospital and government officials, assurances were made regarding enhanced security measures, leading to the decision to call off the strike at Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital.
It is hoped that these measures will not only address immediate concerns but also set a precedent for improving safety in healthcare settings nationwide.
March 13, Colombo (LNW): In a startling development, the Attorney General’s Department informed the Court of Appeal yesterday (12) that former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon had been running a criminal network, allegedly exploiting police officers under his command for unlawful activities.
During the proceedings of Tennakoon’s petition to prevent his arrest, Additional Solicitor General Dilipa Peiris presented shocking details that implicated the police chief in orchestrating an attack on the W15 Hotel in Weligama.
According to Peiris, the assault, which resulted in the tragic death of a police sergeant, was not a random act of violence but rather linked to a personal vendetta between Tennakoon and the hotel’s owner.
Peiris went on to accuse Tennakoon of using officers from the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD) to target individuals and settle private disputes, essentially turning law enforcement officers into a “paramilitary force” for personal gain.
The shocking claims suggest that the IGP had employed the resources of the police force not for official duties but to pursue his own interests and settle scores outside of the law.
The Additional Solicitor General also disclosed that Tennakoon had been evading arrest since February 27, with law enforcement authorities intensifying their search for him.
This revelation has raised serious questions about the extent of corruption within the highest echelons of the police force, as well as the abuse of power by senior officials.
The Court of Appeal is scheduled to make its ruling on Tennakoon’s petition on March 17, with the legal community and public eagerly awaiting the decision.
March 13, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has retracted her earlier statement, in which she had directed education officials to refrain from inviting politicians to school events.
Speaking in Parliament yesterday (12), she clarified that no official rule had been implemented regarding the matter, and insisted that her comments had been misunderstood.
In her address, the Prime Minister emphasised that there was no formal prohibition against politicians attending school functions, but underscored her belief that educational events should not be used as a platform for political purposes. She strongly rejected reports suggesting a ban, labelling them as inaccurate and misleading.
The Prime Minister’s clarification came in response to a question from Opposition MP D.V. Chanaka, who raised concerns over the recent visit to Henegama Madya Maha Vidyalaya by former Speaker Asoka Ranwala. Chanaka pointed out the contradiction between Amarasuriya’s statement as Education Minister last year and the continued participation of politicians in such functions, questioning whether her call should be complied with only by the members of the Opposition.
In her response, Amarasuriya expressed frustration over the media’s portrayal of her remarks and reaffirmed that there had never been any official decree preventing political involvement in school activities.
Despite this, it was noted that back in September 2024, a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office had stated that during a meeting with officials from the Ministry of Education, the Prime Minister had explicitly advised against inviting politicians to attend school events.
This earlier directive had sparked confusion, with many interpreting it as an outright ban.
The Prime Minister’s remarks on Wednesday seem to indicate that, whilst she does not want political influence to overshadow educational activities, she does not view the matter as an issue requiring a formal restriction.
Many are left questioning the potential impact of political involvement in schools and whether further guidelines may be necessary to ensure the focus remains on education rather than political agendas.
March 13, Colombo (LNW): A newly formed National Advisory Committee aimed at tackling the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sri Lanka has officially begun its operations.
The committee’s inaugural session was held recently at the Parliamentary Complex, marking the start of what is expected to be a comprehensive effort to support and uplift the SME sector, which plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economic growth.
The committee is co-chaired by Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, the Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, and Mr. Chaturanga Abeysinghe, the Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development.
Both ministers expressed their commitment to addressing the unique challenges that small and medium entrepreneurs encounter while promoting sustainable and practical solutions.
This advisory body brings together a diverse group of experts from various fields to ensure a holistic approach to supporting SMEs. Senior government officials are contributing to policy development, fiscal management, and public administration decisions, aligning these with the specific needs and realities of small and medium-scale businesses.
The committee’s work aims to create a more supportive environment for these businesses by improving access to finance, promoting effective policies, and strengthening the overall business ecosystem in Sri Lanka.
One of the key features of the committee is the inclusion of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, which will provide valuable input on improving access to financial resources for SMEs.
This collaboration aims to streamline banking practices, enhance the availability of credit, and create a more conducive environment for entrepreneurial growth in the sector.
To ensure that the committee addresses all aspects of SME development, experts from various sectors, including financial specialists, bankers, and academics, have been appointed.
These members bring a wealth of knowledge in business, finance, and education, contributing to the formation of well-rounded strategies for SME development.
The Ministry of Finance has outlined the committee’s primary purpose as being the creation of strategies that promote the growth of SMEs while offering guidance on policy formulation.
Additionally, the committee is designed to ensure coordination between government agencies and private sector organisations involved in SME development.
This collaborative approach will help address the numerous challenges SMEs face, from access to capital to market integration and technological advancement.
The specific objectives of the National Advisory Committee for Small and Medium Enterprises include:
• Revising and updating the national policy framework for SMEs to align with the government’s broader development goals and evolving market trends. • Overseeing the national action plan for SME development through coordination with various ministries and stakeholders. • Establishing a robust financial infrastructure to support the needs of SMEs, including the creation of risk-rating systems to assess financial access. • Addressing key obstacles such as fostering a supportive business environment, facilitating technology transfer, promoting research and development, and improving access to domestic and international markets. • Identifying and proposing practical solutions for the financial challenges faced by SMEs.
March 13, Colombo (LNW): The sister of a man accused of sexually assaulting a lady doctor at Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital, along with another individual, has been arrested by police, authorities confirmed.
The two suspects, a 37-year-old woman and a 27-year-old man, were detained late on the evening of Tuesday, 12th March, in the Nidikumbayaya area of Galnewa.
The woman is facing charges of assisting her brother in evading arrest, whilst the man is believed to be in possession of a mobile phone that was allegedly stolen by the main suspect during the attack, according to Police.
The primary suspect, a 34-year-old man from Galnewa, was captured yesterday (12) following a coordinated operation involving Galnewa Police and the Anuradhapura Police Special Task Force.
The man was found hiding in a dense forest area in Galnewa, where he was arrested after weeks of investigation.
The horrifying assault took place earlier this month when the victim, a lady doctor working at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital, was targeted by the suspect. Police say the man threatened the doctor with a knife before committing the attack.
During questioning, the suspect led authorities to the location where the knife used in the assault was recovered, providing crucial evidence to strengthen the case against him.
The suspect is currently being held in police custody, and he is expected to be brought before the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court today (13) for further legal proceedings.
March 13, Colombo (LNW): A key suspect linked to the recent triple murder in Middeniya has been apprehended at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake whilst attempting to flee the country to Dubai, authorities confirmed.
The individual, whose identity has not yet been released, is believed to have played a significant role in aiding and abetting the brutal killings.
In the aftermath of the tragic incident, which took place on the night of February 18, police have arrested over ten individuals, including two police constables and two former military personnel, all of whom are suspected of involvement in the crime.
The deadly shooting occurred near Kadewatta Junction in Middeniya, where the victims were targeted whilst travelling by motorcycle. The primary target, a man known by the alias “Kajja,” was fatally shot in front of his two young children.
His son, aged nine, and daughter, aged six, were both critically injured in the attack. They were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals in Embilipitiya and Tangalle.
Despite efforts to save them, the young girl succumbed to her injuries shortly after being admitted to Tangalle Hospital, whilst her brother died the following day in the same facility.
Law enforcement agencies have suggested that the shooting was not a random act of violence but was carried out as an act of revenge. The motive appears to be linked to the theft of a significant quantity of cannabis from a well-known local drug trafficker, “Backhoe Saman.” Police believe the murder was orchestrated by the drug lord as a reprisal for the stolen goods.
The arrested gunman, along with the other detained suspects, reportedly confessed to carrying out the killing on the orders of “Backhoe Saman,” who had hired him in exchange for settling his personal debts.
Authorities are now investigating the full extent of the criminal network involved and are working to uncover any additional leads that may help them close in on the remaining perpetrators.
March 13, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has reportedly been recognised as the best country for families considering relocation, given the island nation’s education system, affordable childcare, natural beauty, local cuisine, and vibrant culture, ‘Remitly’ revealed.
As families consider relocating abroad, there are many factors to weigh: from the quality of healthcare and safety to job prospects and the overall happiness of locals. For those with children, additional concerns like education and childcare are top priorities.
To help families make informed decisions about their next move, Remitly, a leading American remittance company, has unveiled its 2025 Immigration Index.
Released in March 2025, the report ranks 82 countries on 24 important factors, ranging from healthcare quality and economic stability to safety and digital infrastructure.
The countries are then scored out of 100, giving potential expats a clearer picture of the best places to relocate based on their individual needs.
One of the key elements in the index is an evaluation of how family-friendly each country is. To determine this, Remitly analysed data on the average number of years adults spend in education, the number of years children are expected to spend in school, and the cost of childcare.
This information was used to calculate a score for each country, allowing families to see which nations offer the most supportive environment for raising children.
Surprisingly, the United Kingdom did not make the list of the top family-friendly countries. The UK ranked 19th overall in the general relocation index with a score of 46.5, trailing behind nations such as the United States, which ranked 7th, Germany in 11th place, and Japan in 18th place. While the UK remains an attractive destination for many expats, its performance in the family-friendly rankings suggests it may not be the best option for families prioritising education and childcare affordability.
Sri Lanka topped the list, earning high marks for its educational system, which received an impressive score of 0.7 out of 1.0. But what really set Sri Lanka apart was its affordable childcare. On average, parents in Sri Lanka spend just $354.60 per year on childcare, a stark contrast to the United States, where families face a childcare bill of $16,439.40 annually.
This combination of quality education and low childcare costs has made Sri Lanka the ideal destination for families looking for both affordability and a nurturing environment.
In addition to its family-friendly credentials, Sri Lanka offers a host of other attractions for relocating families. The country’s natural beauty, including its stunning beaches and vast national parks, provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
With a rich history, vibrant culture, and excellent local cuisine, Sri Lanka offers a balanced lifestyle for families seeking both adventure and relaxation. Many of the country’s hotels are also geared towards family stays, making it an increasingly popular destination for multi-generational travel.
The full list of the top 10 family-friendly countries, according to the 2025 Immigration Index, is as follows:
March 13, Colombo (LNW): A few showers will occur in Eastern province and in Mullaittivu district, and showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in Western, Sabaragamuwa and Southern provinces and in Kurunegala district during the afternoon or night, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (13).
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in the sea areas around the island.
Winds:
Winds will be North-easterly or variable and speed will be (20-30) 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.
