February 2015 - Daily NEWS Srilanka

Feb 28

18 crores as compensation for Dr. Samitha Samanmali

18 crores as compensation for Dr. Samitha Samanmali! Dr. Miss Samitha Samannmali who was made permanently incapacitated as a result of a trade exhibition stall at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall premises collapsing on her head was asked to be paid a sum of Rs. 180 million as compensation. This order was given...

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Feb 28

Experts urged to provide guidance

President Maithripala Sirisena has said that the guidance of experts is needed to protect people and the country from natural disasters and inclement weather conditions. The President said that it is the responsibility of experts to brief about such matters to the political authority. The President mentioned this while attending ...

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Feb 28

SLFP opinion on vital issues next week

The Opposition Leader says that the reduction of executive presidential powers and changing of the present elections system should be done together, according to the opinion of his party. He said that the opinion of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party on establishing a National Government and constitutional amendment, will be ...

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Feb 28

UN Under Secretary General arrives in the country

UN Under Secretary General for Political Affairs, Jeffrey Feltman arrived in the country today for a four day visit. Following his arrival in the island, he met Deputy Foreign Minister Ajith P. Perera. Mr. Feltman is expected to meet Senior Officials of the Government, Political Parties and Civil Society Groups. ...

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Feb 28

2,500 kilograms of spoilt rice seized

Public Health Inspectors have seized 2,500 kilograms of spoilt rice, which have been stored to be distributed among the estate workers. The management of the Estate has brought the rice to be given to the workers. A part of the stock has already been distributed among the estate workers. The ...

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Feb 28

Appeal Court to hear petition against former CJ

The Appeal Court has decided to hear the petition against former Chief Justice Mohan Peiris for alleged malpractices. It will be heard on 11th of next month. Attorney at Law Nagananda Kodituwakku has filed the Petition against former Chief Justice Mohan Peiris. The Petitioner has said that Sri Lanka Customs ...

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Feb 28

Flower pots on Temple Trees wall removed

The removal and handing over of flower pots which adorned the wall of the Temple Trees, to the Gampaha Botanical Garden, commenced today. 45 thousand flower pots were used to decorate the wall of the Temple Trees. A statement issued by the Prime Minister’s office states that the flower pot ...

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Feb 28

Deyata Kirula Exhibition premises neglected

Oyamaduwa “Deyata Kirula” Exhibition premises has been neglected at present. People in the area request to use the resources without allowing them to be destroyed. All constructions at the premises except the Divisional Secretariat office, Live Stock Development Board and the Navy Holiday Resort are in danger of destruction due ...

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Feb 28

Youth games to recommence

State Minister Niroshan Perera says that the Youth Games will re-commence. He has paid his attention on not holding the games last year. He expressed these views while taking part on an inspection tour of Puttalam District -Youth Services office in Chillaw. Plans have been drawn-up to establish ten Youth ...

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Feb 28

Protest in Rakwana

The traffic on Rakwana – Ratnapura main road has been disrupted due to a protest. People in the area launched the protest urging to resolve environmental problems that have arisen due to un-methodical removal of earth by a Construction Company. The protesters have blocked Rakwana – Ratnapura road by burning ...

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Feb 28

Landslide occurs in Hanguranketha

The threat of reoccurrence of landslides has occurred on Udagala, Udawatta route, due to torrential rains experience at present. Cracks are visible in Kobeithuduwa area where the landslides have first occurred. Civilian life has been disrupted due the danger of landslides. An area of about three kilometers has been affected ...

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Feb 27

President instructs officials to prevent illegal activity harming the environment

President Maithripala Sirisena has issued instruction to officials not to leave any room for an illegal activity that harms the environment. The President instructed the Inspector General of Police to stringently enforce the laws related to the prevention of illegal mining and transport of sand. The President gave these instructions ...

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Feb 27

Foreign Minister meets Chinese PM

Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera is now on a two day visit to China with the firm intention of further strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and China. Minister Samaraweera has met with Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang. Their discussions centred on several matters related to the two countries. He also ...

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Feb 27

MP Muralitharan claims 1990 massacre of 600 policemen by LTTE was a war crime

Parliamentarian Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan has emphasized that the massacre of more than 600 unarmed policemen in 1990 was a war crime. The Parliamentarian said that the policemen had been murdered after they had surrendered to the LTTE terrorists in the year 1990. The massacre of these policemen amounts to a war ...

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Feb 27

SC issues stay order on Puthukudiyiruppu and Maritimepattu polls

The Supreme Court today issued an order postponing the elections scheduled for the Puthukudiyiruppu and Maritimepattu Pradeshiya Sabhas in the North. Following repeated postponements since 2011, based on court orders, the polls for the two Pradeshiya Sabhas were scheduled to be held tomorrow. The ruling was given by a three ...

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Feb 27

Shashi Weerawansa enlarged on bail

Shashi Weerawansa, who was arrested and remanded on charges of falsifying documents to obtain a diplomatic passport, has been enlarged on bail. The Colombo Magistrate’s Court released her on a 15,000 rupee cash bail and two surety bails of 500 thousand rupees each. This and rulings related to several other ...

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Feb 27

BMICH ordered to pay 180 million rupees to Dr. Samitha Samanmalee

Samitha Samanmali who was paralyzed after the collapse of a shelter at the Deyata Kirula exhibition has been awarded a compensation of 180 million rupees. The Colombo District Court ordered the Management of the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall to pay the compensation. The petition filed by Dr. Samitha Samanmali ...

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Feb 27

Appeals Court to take up General Fonseka’s case seeking Parliamentary seat

The Appeals Court has decided to take up the petition filed by former Army Commander General Sarath Fonseka seeking his Parliamentary seat for consideration on the 09th of next month. Notices were issued on the Elections Commissioner, the Parliamentary Secretary General and Parliamentarian Jayantha Ketagoda to make submissions in this ...

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Feb 27

John Kerry notes Sri Lanka’s progress

US Secretary of State John Kerry has noted the progress made by Sri Lanka with the new Government assuming office. John Kerry was speaking before the House Foreign Affairs Committee in Washington. The US Secretary of State said that he saw more democracy in places where it was non-existent or ...

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Feb 27

Army Chief assures national security

Army Commander Lt. Gen. Chrishantha de Silva has emphasized that he will leave no room for a threat to national security. The Lieutenant General gave this assurance after paying courtesy calls on the Mahanayakes of the Malwatte and Asgiriya Chapters since assuming office as the Army Chief. The new Army ...

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Feb 27

Navy arrests 86 Indian fishermen

Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 86 Indian fishermen last night on charges of illegally crossing the maritime border and poaching. Naval Media Spokesman Commander Indika de Silva said that 10 trawlers were also seized from the Eastern Sea. The Navy said that there was a decline in the number of ...

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Feb 27

Kegalla private bus strike called off

Private buses in Kegalla staged a strike this morning accusing that Sri Lanka Transport Board had launched the operation of buses. The arbitrary strike mooted by the private buses created inconveniences to the commuters. However, the authorities succeeded in ending the strike this afternoon after a discussion. All private buses ...

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Feb 27

Elephant pageants at the Dehiwala Zoo to resume

Elephant pageants at the Dehiwala Zoon are to be resumed. This has been revealed by Director General of the Zoological Gardens Anura De Silva. Elephant pageants were halted with the recovery of tuberculosis pathogens from blood samples of this species. Elephant pageants at the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens was a major ...

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Feb 27

Over 3000 arrested for power theft

More than 3000 persons who had illegally tapped electricity have been nabbed in raids conducted last year. The Special Investigative Unit of the Electricity Board announced that the Board had earned a revenue of over 212 million rupees through fines imposed on them. The Special Unit of the Electricity Board ...

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Feb 26

Sri Lanka get the better of Bangladesh by 92 runs

Tillakaratne Dilshan and Kumar Sangakkara gave Bangladesh a proper first run around the Melbourne Cricket Ground. They made merry, particularly Sangakkara who reached his 22nd ODI hundred in the final over of the innings, in his 400th ODI. Sri Lanka lost just one wicket as they piled on 332 runs ...

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Feb 25

UN envoy due in Sri Lanka this week

The United Nations has announced that Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s highest political official Jeffrey Feltman will be visiting the country this week. Mr. Feltman will travel to Sri Lanka on Saturday. He plans to meet with senior officials of the Government of Sri Lanka, political parties and civil society groups. ...

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Feb 25

Government to introduce pension scheme for all workers

Deputy Minister Dr. Harsha de Silva has pointed out that a pension Scheme will be introduced to all workers in the country under a Government that they will be setting up after the 100-day programme. He made this reference addressing a news conference at the Government Information Department. The Deputy ...

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Feb 25

Shashi Weerawansa further remanded

Shashi Weerawansa, the wife of former Minister Wimal Weerawansa has been further remanded. Colombo Fort Chief Magistrate Gehan Pilapitiya remanded her until the 04th of next month. Shashi Weerawansa, who is accused on charges of submitting false documents to prepare a passport, was produced in Courts today. The case which ...

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Feb 25

Malaysia willing to invest in Colombo-Kandy Expressway

A group of Malaysian investors has expressed willingness to launch construction work on the Colombo-Kandy Expressway which was only limited to a foundation stone. A discussion between the investors concerned and Minister Lakshman Kiriella was held in Colombo today. The Minister requested the Malaysian investors to undertake the project not ...

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Feb 25

India releases 19 Lankan fishermen

19 Sri Lankan fishermen who were in Indian custody have been released. It is reported that these fishermen were arrested along with their trawlers.The 19 Sri Lankan fishermen were detained in the Kanyakumari area. The Indian Coast guard arrested the Lankan fishermen. Indian media reported that the Lankan fishermen were ...

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Feb 25

Local Council poll campaign in Mullaitivu ends tonight

Campaigning for the Puthukudiyiruppu and Maritimepattu Local Government polls will draw to an end at midnight today. Polling for the Puthukudiyiruppu and Maritimepattu Local Government poll in Mullaitivu is scheduled to be held on Saturday.The Elections Secretariat announced that the campaigning related to the poll will end at midnight today. ...

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Feb 25

Sarath Fonseka goes to Court seeking his Parliamentary seat

Former Army Commander General Sarath Fonseka has filed a petition in the Appeals Court requesting that the Parliamentary seat which was deprived from him be restored. Several persons including the Elections Commissioner have been cited as correspondents. In his petition General Fonseka mentioned that Jayantha Ketagoda appointed after his Parliamentary ...

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Feb 25

Report on Missing Persons to be submitted to President

The Presidential Commission on Missing Persons says that the re-examining of the report prepared by Sri Lanka on Missing Persons is now in progress. Commission Chairman Maxwell Paranagama said that their intention is to submit the report to the President before report scheduled to be presented by the United Nations ...

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Feb 25

Statues robbed from Hindu Kovil in Anuradhapura

An ancient Hindu Kovil in the Anuradhapura Sacred City has been burgled. It is reported that an ancient statue had been robbed. A group of burglars had entered the Sri Kathiresan Kovil in the Anuradhapura Sacred City last night and broken into the Sri Pulleyar Kovil. They have stolen several ...

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Feb 25

Complaint on Printing Department made to Bribery Commission

A complaint has been lodged with the Commission to Investigate allegations of Bribery or Corruption Commission with regard to malpractices that had taken place at the Department of Government Printing. Convener of the Trade Union Collective of the Department Sarath Lal and Deputy President of the National Printers Workers Union ...

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Feb 25

Residential students of National Colleges of Education to receive 4000 rupees

The Commissioner of National Colleges of Education has said that Cabinet approval has been received to increase the 2,500 rupees granted to the residential students of Colleges of Education to 4,000 rupees. State Minister for Education V. Radhakrishnan and National Colleges of Education Commissioner A.C.D. Dharmasena made this reference undertaking ...

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Feb 23

Requisite backdrop for people experiencing economic difficulties, to lead a better life will be created – President

The President has announced that the requisite backdrop will be created for people who are experiencing economic difficulties to lead a better life under a conducive economy. Addressing a function in Polonnaruwa, he emphasized that politicians as well as state officials should be dedicated to meeting the needs of the ...

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Feb 23

SLFP reaches key decisions to work towards formation of a National Government

The Sri Lanka Freedom Party has reached several key decisions to work towards the formation of a National Government. It is the stand of the SLFP to enter into a new political path amending the Executive Presidential system. The Sri Lanka Freedom Party has emphasized that it was not proper ...

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Feb 23

CID grills Wimal Weerawansa – Submissions made to Court on two identity cards of his wife

Jathika Nidahas Peramuna Leader and former Minister Wimal Weerawansa appeared before the Criminal Investigations Department to record a special statement. He was accompanied by two lawyers. Mr. Weerawansa was summoned to the CID headquarters to record statements with regard to the organization of an illegal assembly in Kaduwela in the ...

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Feb 23

Finger prints of Wele Suda directed to the Finger Print Examiner

The finger prints obtained from Samantha Kumara alias Wele Suda have been forwarded to the Finger Print Examiner to secure a report. The Colombo High Court has issued an order to secure a report on the finger prints of the suspects after he was served with a charge sheet related ...

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Feb 23

New Army Chief Lt. Gen. Chrishantha De Silva assumes office

The new Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, Lieutenant General Chrishantha De Silva took office this morning at the Army Headquarters. He assumed duties as the 21st Army Chief amidst multi-religious observances. On arrival at the Army Headquarters the new Army Chief was greeted with military honours and other ceremonials ...

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Feb 23

More preferences cast for those who spend large sums – Susil Premajayantha

Secretary General of the United People’s Freedom Alliance Susil Premajayantha has said that more preferences were cast in elections not for those who worked with dedication for the Sri Lanka Freedom Party but on behalf of those who expended large sums. Susil Pemajayantha pointed out that those who spend a ...

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Feb 23

Opportunity for Samurdhi sector officials to rise to the top

Minister Sajith Premadasa has said that officials in the Samurdhi sector would be given the opportunity to rise to the top based on their skills. He revealed of plans to implement a streamlined programme in this respect. The Minister assured that he would prepare a programme to mete out justice ...

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Feb 23

Many lawsuits on politicians taken up in Courts

Lawsuits with respect to politicians in various areas were taken up for hearing in several Courts today. This is a brief description of such reports filed by our correspondents. Suspects including former Deputy Minister Premalal Jayasekara were further remanded, when the related case was taken up for hearing before Pelmadulla ...

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Feb 23

23,000 miligrams of heroin seized

The Wadduwa Police have apprehended two suspects with 23,000 miligrams of heroin. The raid was carried out following a tip off received by the Mount Lavinia Police. The Crimes Division of the Mount Lavinia Police carried out the raid. One of the suspects is a resident of Polwatte, Wadduwa. The ...

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Feb 23

Safety helmets mandatory for children

It is a well-known fact that many sudden accidents happen due to negligence. Many have seen that safety helmets are not worn when small children are taken on motorbikes. This is a report filed on such an incident which was recorded on our cameras. It is mandatory to wear safety ...

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Feb 22

The President assures to uphold the pledges

The President says that as pledged during the Presidential Elections, an environment will be created where all communities can live in peace and harmony. President Maithripala Sirisena expressed these views while attending a prayer service at Kaduruwela Majeedia Mosque. They prayed for the President who arrived at the mosque. A ...

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Feb 22

NFF accuses the Indian fishermen

Media spokesman of the National Freedom Front M. Muzamil has charged that the Indian Fishermen are fishing in the Sri Lankan waters. During a media briefing today he expressed his doubts whether the Sri Lanka Maritime Boarder has been relaxed. As a reply to this allegation acting Military Spokesman Brigadier ...

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Feb 22

Obesity reduction programme become successful

Dr. Palitha Saman Jayakody has been able to reduce the obesity of people through physical activities. Obesity contributes to many non-communicable diseases. It can be controlled by getting used to correct food habits and maintaining a good weight to height ratio. Dr. Palitha Saman Jayakody of Gampaha Watupitiwala Base Hospital ...

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Feb 22

White Sandalwood forest requested to be saved

The only sandalwood forest in the Matara District has come under the grip of timber racketeers. The Galewela Path-kola-golla Vehera Bendi-hinna historic Rajamaha Vihara is surrounded by a sandalwood forest. Timber racketeers are gradually destroying the forest which is about 20 acres. Villagers say that the racketeers’ are using electronic ...

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Feb 22

Dengue Eradicating Programs implemented

Special Dengue eradication programs were conducted in Colombo, Kalutara and Gampaha districts. Court cases have been filed against 375 households which had dengue mosquito breeding places. The joint operation conducted by the three Armed Forces and Police, took place for three days. They have inspected more than 60,000 houses, institutions ...

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Feb 22

Clean Restaurants to be certified

The Colombo Municipal Council is taking steps to fix boards in front of restaurants in Colombo city after inspecting their standards. Chief Medical Officer of the Colombo Municipal council Dr. Ruwan Wijayamuni said that it would be launched tomorrow. Dr. Ruwan Wijayamuni said that the Colombo Municipal Council will introduce ...

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Feb 22

Wimal’s wife in hospital

Reports say that wife of former Minister Wimal Weerawansa is under treatment at a private hospital. She has been accused of possessing two passports. Although the name board of her room at the hospital should have her name on it, we found that it was blank. It is reported that ...

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Feb 22

Disease Prevention Special Task Force in operation

A special programme has been implemented to prevent diseases in the Western Province. The new programme comes under the purview of Western Province Health Services Director General’s Office. The special programme aims to eradicate communicable, non-communicable diseases and to prevent accidents in the Western Province. Disease prevention support teams have ...

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Feb 22

Ravi Wettasinghe remanded until the 25th

Businessman Ravi Wettasinghe has been remanded until the 25th of this month after being produced before the Negombo Magistrate yesterday. Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that the suspect would be produced at the Bandarawela Magistrate Courts tomorrow and in Colombo Magistrate Court on the 25th. Suspect Wettasinghe was ...

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Feb 22

President attends Architect 2015 Exhibition

The exhibition which examines the role of Architects in development and social welfare is now being held at the BMICH in Colombo. President Maithripala Sirisena viewed the Architects -2015 Exhibition at the BMICH premises. The exhibition organized annually by the Chartered Architects, is being held this year under the theme ...

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Feb 22

Sevanagala Sugar Factory commences production

The Sevanagala Sugar Factory has commenced productions for this year with the aim of producing more than 21,000 metric tons of sugar. The production commenced this morning. 3,500 farmer families are providing sugar canes to the factory. Two new machines which can load the sugar canes to the tractors have ...

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Feb 22

Rikillagaskada Hospital in need of an Anesthetist

The services of Rikillagaskada Base Hospital which won the productivity award last year, have deteriorated at present. The patients are severely inconvenienced due to the lack of an Anesthetist. The Rikillagaskada Base Hospital is the hospital which has most facilities in Hanguranketha and Walapane areas. It has many facilities including ...

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Feb 22

Train Accident in Kantale injures one

A man who was travelling on a tractor has been injured in an accident at a rail crossing in Kantale. The tractor has collided with the train bound to Colombo from Trincomalee. It had collided with the train at the Senanayaka Cross Road, near the Kantale Railway station. The tractor ...

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Feb 22

Hand bomb found near rail track defused

A hand bomb found at Telwatta area in Anuradhapura was defused this morning. The hand bomb was found about 1 ½ feet away from the Vavuniya – Colombo rail track near the 27th Mile Post at Telwatta in Anuradhapura. Although it was reported last evening, steps had not been taken ...

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Feb 22

The draft to abolish Executive Presidency being discussed

Many people are interested to find out the fate of the proposal to abolish the executive Presidency under the Government’s 100 day programme. We asked about it from an expert of constitution affairs Dr. Jayampathi Wickremaratne. Dr. Jayampathi Wickremaratne said that the preliminary draft on abolishing the executive presidency has ...

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Feb 21

Relief within a democratic framework

The President says that providing relief to the people should be done within the democratic framework. He pointed out that everyone’s support is needed to achieve that goal. President Maithripala Sirisena expressed these views while taking part at a progress review meeting of the 100 day programme at the Presidential ...

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Feb 21

37 taxes to be reduced to 15

There are 37 tax systems in the country at present. Minister Ravi Karunanayaka has said that the number would be reduced to 15. He said that the aim of the Government is to improve the living conditions of the people by providing them with relief. Minister Ravi Karunanayake said that ...

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Feb 21

Lifetime jail sentences for child abuse

State Minister Rosy Senanayake has said that laws would be introduced to impose lifetime jail sentences for those who harass and abuse children. State Minister Rosy Senanayake said that steps would be taken to create the environment in the future where the people’s rights are ensured under a democratic system. ...

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Feb 21

Foreign currency seized at Bandaranike International Airport

The Customs has seized foreign currency to the value of 8.2 million rupees at the Bandaranaike International Airport. Custom officials said that the money was hidden inside a baggage of a passenger who was to travel to Dubai. Initial inspections of the passenger did not reveal the hidden cash. The ...

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Feb 21

New Army Commander to assume duties

The new Army Commander has been presented with the Sward and the Baton according to the tradition of the Sri Lanka Army at the Army Headquarters. Army Commander Lieutenant General Daya Ratnayaka who rendered a yeoman service to protect territorial integrity, independence and unitary state of the motherland bid farewell ...

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Feb 21

Illegal fishing gear banned

Fisheries Minister Joseph Michael Perera says that strict legal action will be taken against those involved in fishing activities using illegal equipment. The Minister has instructed the Fisheries Department to take legal action against those who engage in fishing in Sri Lankan waters without a license. Minister Joseph Michael Perera ...

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Feb 21

Chinese national rescued from Worlds End accident

The Air Force has rescued the Chinese National who fell down from the Worlds End. He has been admitted to the Diyatalawa Hospital for treatment. The Air Force launched a special operation to rescue the Chinese National. 4 Air Force officers in a Bell 212 Helicopter rescued the Chinese National ...

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Feb 21

Brick industry revived in Vavuniya

The Brick industry in Vavuniya has been re-commenced. Industrialists say that the production of bricks is taking place successfully in the entire district. The Brick industry in Vavuniya collapsed due to terrorism and various other reasons during the past period. Industrialists have re-commenced the production of bricks due to the ...

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Feb 21

Rubber Industry in trouble

The Rubber cultivators have requested the Government to provide them with guaranteed prices. They say that the daily decrease of rubber prices have made it difficult to maintain the industry. They said that the rubber price which was earlier 500 rupees, is 230 rupees now. The cultivators say that although ...

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Feb 20

Gampola health worker falls out of bus sustaining injuries

It was recently reported that an expectant mother suffered serious injuries after being thrown out of the bus in Gampola due to the negligence of bus drivers and conductors whose prime aim is to earn money. Now another woman suffered the same fate also in the Gampola area. She is ...

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Feb 19

CID permitted to detain Wele Suda till March 23

The Colombo High Court ordered that Samantha Kumara alias Wele Suda, the notorious drug baron, be kept in the custody of the Criminal Investigations Department until the 23rd of next month for further interrogation. The suspect was produced in Courts today. The suspect was produced in Courts on charges of ...

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Feb 19

AG seeks more time for action against KP

A request has been made from the Appeals Court to grant one more week to intimate the measures that are to be initiated against former international chief of the tiger outfit KP alias Kumaran Pathmanathan. The request has been made by the Attorney General. This announcement was made when a ...

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Feb 19

Local Government elections postponed

Minister Karu Jayasuriya has said that various views had been expressed on the forthcoming Local Government polls. Although this poll is slated to be held in March, the Minister revealed today that the Government had decided to postpone it. He was speaking at a ceremony held at the Ministry of ...

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Feb 19

Anti-Corruption Secretariat launched

The Anti-Corruption Committee Secretariat which will handle the investigation of large scale fraud and corruption was opened in Colombo today. The opening of this Secretariat took place under the patronage of Secretary to the Prime Minister Saman Ekanayake. The Secretariat is located at Perahera Mawatha in Colombo-03. The public now ...

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Feb 19

Opposition Leader optimistic of securing majority seats in elections

Opposition Leader Nimal Siripala de Silva has said that a Sri Lanka Freedom Government will be formed by gradually moving forward. The Opposition Leader made this reference joining in the assumption of office of the New National Organizer and Treasurer of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. Susil Premajayantha who has ...

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Feb 19

Purchase of Maha paddy harvest begins

The purchase of the Maha paddy harvest from the farmer fraternity ensuring a guaranteed price commenced today. As such the Paddy Marketing Board has called on the cultivators to sell their paddy produced according to proper standards. The inauguration of paddy purchases of the Maha season was held at the ...

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Feb 19

Clarification sought in Parliament on NPC proposal for international probe

The Opposition Leader has sought a clarification in Parliament on the initiatives taken to build the image of the country in the face of the UN Human Rights Council. He said that the House should be informed of the initiatives taken by the Government on the international inquiry proposed by ...

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Feb 19

Special Panel to handle former CJ’s case

The Appeals Court has taken a decision to direct to a special panel of judges, a petition filed calling for the impounding of the passport of former Chief Justice Mohan Peiris. The request was made during the hearing of a petition claiming that the Sri Lanka Customs lost a sum ...

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Feb 19

Vass Gunawardena and son’s case postponed for tomorrow

The case with respect to former DIG Vass Gunawardena and his son Ravindu Gunawardena was postponed until tomorrow. This follows an order given by the Colombo High Court. Vass Gunawardena and his son Ravindu Gunawardena are suspects in the murder of millionaire businessman Mohamed Shyam. The case was taken up ...

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Feb 19

Landslide in Hanguranketha threatens Victoria Power Plant

A landslide is occurring throughout three weeks, splitting the Udawatte-Gala Uda Road in Hanguranketha. This is also reported to be impacting the Victoria Power Plant. The landslide is said to be occurring on fertile land spanning more than 500 acres. It has already devastated 18 houses. Another 20 houses and ...

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Feb 19

Suspects in Czech theft arrested

The Anuradhapura Police have taken into custody two suspects who had stolen a stock of goods belonging to two Czech nationals. Its value was 400 thousand rupees. The Police succeeded in nabbing the two suspects within 18 hours of the burglary. The baggage containing the goods was robbed while the ...

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Feb 19

Funds raised from DIG’s CD donated for social welfare

The funds raised through the sale of CDs containing songs of the “Maage Kirilli” musical show presented by the Senior DIG Anura Senanayake were donated for welfare activities. The donation took place at the DIG’s office situated in Pettah. Present on the occasion was a group including musicians and artistes. ...

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Feb 18

US welcomes India-Sri Lanka nuclear agreement

The United States has welcomed the signing of civil nuclear cooperation agreement between India and Sri Lanka, saying it is consistent with International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards and other international standards and practices. Referring to the recent agreement signed between India and Sri Lanka on civil nuclear co-operation, US State ...

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Feb 18

President returns after inking several agreements with India

President Maithripala Sirisena who successfully completed his first foreign visit marking a milestone in relations between Indian and Sri Lanka has returned home. The President arrived in the island this morning. During the visit, several agreements were inked achieving many benefits for the two countries. President Sirisena’s first foreign visit ...

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Feb 18

Corrupt will not go scot free – PM

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe has said that no room will be left for a crisis to surface between China and Sri Lanka following the situation that has arisen based on the construction of the Colombo Port City. The Prime Minister made this reference in Parliament today. Making a special statement ...

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Feb 18

PM instructs release of Frontline Magazine

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe has given instructions for the release of the Frontline Magazine which had been seized by the Customs Department, saying that it does not threaten national security. The Customs Department had stopped the release of Frontline Magazine’s 30th anniversary edition when it was shipped to Sri Lanka. ...

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Feb 18

Crowds at Nugegoda will decide SLFP’s stand – WP Chief Minister

Western Province Chief Minister Prasanna Ranatunge has said that a decision would be taken whether the Sri Lanka Freedom Party would work with the Alliance or work according to the National Government concept depending on the crowds that attend the Nugegoda rally. He expressed this view to ITN before joining ...

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Feb 18

Inquiry into Sabaragamuwa undergraduate’s suicide

An inquiry has begun into the suicide committed by the undergraduate of the Sabaragamuwa University. It is reported that the inquiries are being carried out at the Ministry level and also within the University. Amali Chathurika, a student of the Faculty of Applied Science committed suicide in her home by ...

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Feb 18

Duminda’s statements to AG

The Criminal Investigations Department has said that action is being taken to direct the statements of Parliamentarian Duminda Silva to the Attorney General’s Department for further investigations. The CID took measures to record statements from Samantha Kumara alias Wele Suda, a drug baron. The CID obtained statements from Parliamentarian Duminda ...

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Feb 18

Ratnapura Water Supply Scheme enters final stage

The construction of the mega Ratnapura Water Supply Scheme that will provide water to around 80,000 round the clock has entered the final stage. Deputy Minister Dunesh Gankanda said that work on the second stage will also be launched soon.The Deputy Minister made these revelations joining in a progress review ...

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Feb 18

Report on the Welikada Prison saga in five weeks

Minister Wijayadasa Rajapaksa has pointed out that action will be taken to release the report of the Committee which is inquiring into the revolt that was staged at the Welikada Prisons within the next five weeks. At least 27 people died in clashes between inmates and guards at Welikada Prison ...

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Feb 18

SC dismisses Kumar Gunaratnam’s petition

Three cases to which special attention has been directed were taken up in Courts today. It included a Fundamental Rights petition filed calling for the prevention of the deportation of Kumar Gunaratnam. The Supreme Court took up for hearing a petition calling for the prevention of the deportation of Kumar ...

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Feb 18

Palitha Thevarapperuma given bail

United National Party Parliamentarian Palitha Thevarappepruma who was in remand prison on charges of forcing a Pradeshiya Sabha member of the Freedom Alliance to kneel down before him has been enlarged on bail. Parliamentarian Palitha Thevarapperuma was remanded after being accused of demanding a Local Government member of the Freedom ...

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Feb 18

500 houses for Meeriyabedda landslide disaster victims

Minister P. Digambaram has revealed that the construction of 500 new houses for families impacted by the Meeriyabedda landslide disaster will begin on the 01st of next month. The Minister announced that the Government has taken a decision to provide seven perches to each family. The Minister was speaking undertaking ...

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Feb 18

High income from Pinnawala elephant orphanage since December

The highest income earned from the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage after December 2013 was recorded on the 06th of this month. The income earned from the Elephant Orphanage on the 06 of this month, according to information available at the National Zoological Gardens in Dehiwala, was 4,059,000 rupees. Among the visitors ...

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Feb 18

Wayamba Graduates protest against Chief Minister

Chief Minister of the Northwestern Province Dayasiri Jayasekara who arrived to join in the Public Day had to face a controversy. It is because a group of graduates that gathered opposite the Chief Minister’s Office staged a protest obstructing the path of the Chief Minister. The graduates protested by blocking ...

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Feb 16

Modi says India is interested in making Sri Lanka its closest economic friend

The Indian Prime Minister has said that India is very much interested in making Sri Lanka India’s closest economic friend. Narendra Modi made this reference during a discussion held with President Maithripala Sirisena. The Indian Prime Minister is also ready to undertake a visit to Sri Lanka next month. The ...

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Feb 16

Is there a single owner for the Arumugam Bay Holiday Resort?

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasingh has revealed of a Holiday Resort Complex akin to the Buckingham Palace, built in the Arumugam Bay Coast. The Prime Minister made this revelation addressing a public meeting held in Galle. The Prime Minister said that very recently he came across a new Palace. It is ...

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Feb 16

State media establishments should be institutions giving due place to talented – Media Minister

Media Minister Gayantha Karunatilake is ready to convert state media establishments into institutions that would give a due place to the talented and youngsters irrespective of political differences. The Minister expressed this view during a visit to the Independent Television Network, his first after assuming duties in his Ministerial Portfolio. ...

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Feb 16

Houses for the homeless in the next few years

Minister of Housing and Samurdhi Sajith Premadasa has said that plans are being crafted to provide houses within the next few years to all to provide houses to the homeless. The Minister was speaking to the media after paying courtesy calls on the Mahanayakes of the Malwatte and Asgiriya Chapters. ...

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Feb 16

STF raids factory ready to export dust tea

It’s nearly two decades since the commencement of dust tea racket. The tea discarded from tea factories are returned to the hands of the consumers through various modes. It does not end here. Dust tea is also being exported and a group of racketeers is active in shattering the local ...

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Feb 16

Lands for estate workers

The Government has decided to provide land allotments of seven perches each, for families of estate labourers. Minister P. Digambaram said that the construction of houses will begin on the 05th of next month. Families of estate labourers have been living for a long period in Line houses and they ...

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Feb 16

Chilly conditions blanket Central Hills

Heavy chill is being experienced in the Central Hills at present. The temperature has also declined to four degrees Celsius. Reports say that as a result the climatic condition is having a serious impact on tea cultivations. Cold climatic conditions are being experienced within the Central Hills for the past ...

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Feb 16

Pure drinking water for Puttalam with ADB assistance

The Asian Development Bank has initiated plans to fully contribute to providing pure drinking water to the people within the Puttalam District. The Project is to be launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Water Supply at an outlay of 3809 million rupees. The Pure Drinking Water Supply Scheme will ...

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Feb 16

Lankan President’s visit a turning point in relations with India – Indian Minister

The Indian Transport and Shipping Minister is optimistic that there would be a turning point in relations between India and Sri Lanka following the tour of India of the visit of Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena to India. Minister Pon Radhakirshnan made this reference expressing views to the media in ...

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Feb 16

Young woman arrested for defacing Sigiriya frescoes

A young woman from Eravur, who defaced the world famous Sigiriya Frescoes with the using of a hair pin has been arrested by the Police. The Police said that the arrested woman was a garment employee. This 27-year-old woman had come on an excursion to Sirigiya with a group. She ...

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Feb 16

27th commemoration of Vijaya Kumaratunge

Today is the 27 death anniversary of Vijaya Kumaratunge. The ceremony to commemorate Vijaya Kumaratunge was held opposite his Samadhi located at Katunayake. The commemoration commenced with the paying of floral tributes to the Samadhi. Former President Chandrika Kumaratunge, former Minister Jeevan Kumaratunge, family members as well as a large ...

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Feb 16

Vijaya Kumaratunge lived in the hearts of the people

Vijaya Kumaratunge lived in the hearts of the people. Most Sri Lankans recall that Vijaya was the most handsome and the most humanitarian personality who ever lived in Sri Lanka during the 20th century. This is a brief description of Vijaya, to mark his 27th death anniversary. No one would ...

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Feb 16

Cricket World Cup 2015: Ireland stun West Indies in Nelson

Ireland added West Indies to their list of World Cup scalps with a four-wicket win in their opening match in Nelson. Lendl Simmons shared 154 with Darren Sammy as the Windies recovered from 87-5 to post 304-7. But Ireland openers Will Porterfield and Paul Stirling put on 71 and Stirling ...

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Feb 16

Lionel Messi scored his 23rd hat-trick on his 300th La Liga appearance

Lionel Messi scored his 23rd hat-trick on his 300th La Liga appearance for Barcelona who swept past Levante. The result means Barca are once again only a point behind leaders Real Madrid, who beat Deportivo La Coruna 2-0. Neymar scored the opener with an effort that spun in off his ...

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Feb 16

Ski jump: Fannemel breaks world record again

Norway’s Anders Fannemel cleared 251.5 metres to break the ski jumping world record for the second time in as many days in Vikersund. The 23-year-old produced an extraordinary gravity-defying feat to beat the previous mark of 250 metres set by Peter Prevc on the same slope. Fannemel only leapt 202 ...

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Feb 16

Naomi Campbell wrangles celebrity friends to walk a runway for her charity to support Ebola awareness

Naomi Campbell made a few calls and tapped a few shoulders and a show was put together for New York Fashion Week. The iconic model’s charity Fashion for Relief staged a star-studded catwalk show in New York Friday to support the Ebola survival fund. Actor Jeffrey Wright, who is very ...

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Feb 15

President’s first overseas tour – India

The President has arrived in India commencing his first overseas tour. Plans have been drawn up to sign several agreements during his tour. President Maithripala Sirisena is visiting India on an invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Presidential delegation will stay in India until Wednesday. The President is ...

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Feb 15

No large scale hotels on coastal belt

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe says that he will not allow to build large scale hotels which destroy the beauty of the coastal belt. The Prime Minister said that special attention would be paid on assisting small scale businessman when developing the tourism industry. He emphasized that he would not allow ...

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Feb 15

Steel suppliers protest

Steel suppliers in the country took part in a protest at Madampe in Chillaw today. The protesters demanded solutions arisen due to the removal of tax imposed on imported raw material by the previous Government. They commenced their protest at Sudu-wella in Chillaw and arrived up to Madampe Town. The ...

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Feb 15

Wild Elephants enter villages

People say that there are elephants at Shrawasthipura in Anuradhapura who are not afraid of the electric fence. Shrawasthipura, Pahe Ela-Wadakada, Rambewa, Galwaduwagama and Kimbulagala villages come under constant threat of wild animals. The wild animals are clever enough to break the electric fence and enter the villages. Farmers say ...

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Feb 15

National parks facilities to be improved

Deputy Tourism Minister Wasantha Senanayake says that steps will be taken to improve facilities at the national parks in order to get maximum revenue to the country. Deputy Minister Senanayake mentioned this during his tour to look into the prevailing facilities for local and foreign tourists at national parks. He ...

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Feb 15

All institutions will be free from political interference – Kirialla

Minister Lakshman Kirialla has pointed out that all institutions would be free from political interference, once the new constitution is passed. The Minister expressed these views during a meeting with public servants in Kandy. Minister Lakshman Kirialla said that the Judiciary, Police, the Public Service, Elections Secretariat, Bribery Commission, Attorney ...

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Feb 15

Oluvil harbor to provide employment

Minister Arjuna Ranatunga says that employment will be found for the youth in the area by broad basing investment opportunities at the Olyvil Port. He pointed out that foreign investors have shown a keen interest about the port. The Minister mentioned this while making an inspection tour of the Oluvil ...

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Feb 15

Chief Justice meets Mahanayaka of Asgiri Chapter

Mahanayaka of Asgiri Chapter most venerable Udugama Sri Buddharakitha Thera has pointed out that efforts should be made to establish a fair judicial process by looking in to the problems in the system. Most Venarable Buddharakitha Thera made these remarks when he met Chief Justice K. Sripavan. Chief Justice K. ...

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Feb 15

Moratuwa furniture industry in danger

The furniture industry in Moratuwa is in an unfortunate situation today as the carpentry industry is slowly becoming dysfunctional. The furniture industry was strong in Moratumulla, Willorawatta, Molpe and Kitha-lan-daluwa areas. However it is reported that 60 percent of the places which manufacture furniture have been closed down. Many industrialists ...

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Feb 15

Postmen request to restore benefits

Postmen of the postal department charge that they have not been getting their benefits for some time now. The postmen said that although they are entitled for shoes, socks and caps for every two years, they have not been given these for some time. Some postal officials who have not ...

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Feb 13

US ready to help Sri Lanka – John Kerry

US Secretary of State John Kerry has assured that the United States will extend its maximum support to the future development activities in Sri Lanka. The US Secretary of State gave this assurance at a special media conference held with Foreign Affairs Minister Mangala Samaraweera, who is on a visit ...

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Feb 13

Opposition Leader against former President becoming PM – Prof. Nalin de Silva

Prof. Nalin de Silva has said that Opposition Leader Nimal Siripala De Silva will be the first to oppose the programme mooted by the Rajapaksa loyalists to appoint former President Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister. He claims that the desire of the Opposition Leader is to continuously remain in this ...

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Feb 12

Comprehensive national programme for prevention of narcotics

President Maithripala Sirisena has assured that the Government will launch a comprehensive national programme for the prevention of narcotics. A special discussion in this respect was held at the Presidential Secretariat today. The drug menace is a serious threat to the present society. Religious leaders and various factions have underscored ...

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Feb 12

Former Defence Secretary challenged to declare his assets

Finance Minister Ravi Karunayake has challenged the former Defence Secretary to declare his assets and liabilities by tomorrow if he is flawless. The Minister made this challenge at a media conference summoned to respond to a statement made by the Former Defence Secretary to a newspaper. Former Defence Secretary Gotabhaya ...

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Feb 12

1000 acres from HSZ in the North for original owners

The Cabinet has granted the nod to return 1000 acres from the High Security Zone, which is remaining in the Palaly area in Jaffna to the original owners. Addressing the weekly Cabinet meeting today, Minister Lakshman Kiriella said that the total area covering the High Security Zone is 6,152 acres. ...

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Feb 12

Treasury approves salary increase circular

The approval of the Treasury has been granted to the circular related to the payment of the salary increase announced to the Public Sector from the interim budget. The circular has been issued by the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs. Finance Minister Ravi Karunayayake proposed ...

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Feb 12

CID grills Duminda Silva for third day

The Criminal Investigations Department interrogated Colombo District Parliamentarian Duminda Silva for the third day today. The Criminal Investigations Department has interrogated Duminda Silva at length with respect to facts disclosed by Wele Suda who is already in Police custody. Accordingly Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that the Parliamentarian ...

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Feb 12

A Bill to safeguard witnesses in the judicial sector

United National Party General Secretary Kabir Hasheem has said that justice will be meted out within next week to those who had been politically victimized. Joining in a news conference held at Sirikotha, the UNP General Secretary said that many in several spheres had been subject to political victimization. In ...

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Feb 12

Lankan nabbed for attempting to smuggle 48 million rupees worth foreign currency

A person who attempted to smuggle out foreign currency worth more than 48 million rupees has been apprehended at the Katunayake International Airport. Customs Media Spokesman Leslie Gamini said that Customs officials succeeded in foiling an attempt made to smuggle out a large stock of foreign currency notes. The suspect ...

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Feb 12

Bill to safeguard witnesses

A Bill is to be moved in Parliament to safeguard witnesses within the judicial sector. So said Justice Minister Wijayadasa Rajapaksa. He was speaking during a visit to the Angamuwa area in Padukka to inquire into the infrastructure issue which has not yet been resolved. The Justice Minister said that ...

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Feb 12

Cooperative Hospital complex opened in Kurunegala

The Cooperative Hospital Complex built in Kurunegala has been vested in the public. It cost 660 million rupees. It is the largest Cooperative Hospital Complex within the Northwestern Province. Its opening took place under the patronage of Parliamentarians Ashoka Abeysinghe and Jayaratne Herath and Northwestern Governor Amara Piyaseeli Ratnayake. Parliamentarian ...

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Feb 12

Two suspects arrested for transporting marijuana

Marijuana has been recovered hidden in gunny bags packed with green gram, cowpea, gram and peanuts. The Police have arrested the suspects. The stock of marijuana had been transported from the Balaharuwa area in Thanamalwila to Mulediyawala in Embilipitiya. The marijuana had been stashed in gunny bags packed with peanuts, ...

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Feb 12

Website to lodge complaints on dengue mosquito breeding grounds

It is the human being who provides breeding grounds of the deadliest dengue mosquito. Due to their negligence, many lives have already fallen prey to the dengue mosquito. A new strategy has been introduced to nab those in the Colombo area who create breeding grounds for the dengue mosquito. A ...

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Feb 12

Stolen lorry recovered

The lorry that was stolen from the Dodangaslanda area in Kurunegala has been recovered. The suspects arrested have been produced in Courts. A group which had come in a three wheeler had forcibly taken the lorry near a weekly fair along the Kurunegala-Matale road. The group had forcibly taken the ...

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Feb 12

Paddy yield of Northern farmers impacted by rain

Extreme weather and drought render the farmers helpless. On every such occasion, the rain as well the drought devastate the only wealth of these innocent farmers. At present torrential rain is being experienced in the Northern Province. As a result our correspondents report that there is a danger of hundreds ...

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Feb 11

CID again grills Duminda Silva

Parliamentarian Duminda Silva was again summoned to the Criminal Investigations Department today for further grilling. He was interrogated for about six hours yesterday. Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that the CID is interrogating him based on statements made by Wele Suda, a narcotics baron. He mentioned that the ...

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Feb 11

Tissa Attanayake granted bail

Former United National Party General Secretary Tissa Attanayake has been enlarged on bail. The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court was bailed out on two sureties of one million rupees each today. The former UNP General Secretary and former Minister Tissa Attanayake was arrested and remanded on charges of presenting unscrupulous documents. ...

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Feb 11

Sarana Gunawardena enlarged on bail

The Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court released former Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena on bail today. He was granted a cash bail of 150 thousand rupees and a personal bail of 60 million rupees. The Former Deputy Minister and Gampaha District Parliamentarian is accused of embezzling a sum of 36 million rupees ...

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Feb 11

President Sirisena ushers new chapter of hope for Sri Lanka – New York Times

The New York Times claims that President Maithripala Sirisena has moved swiftly to usher in a new chapter of hope for Sri Lanka. It said that it was just one month ago that Sri Lanka surprised the world by electing opposition candidate Maithripala Sirisena as president, rejecting the authoritarianism, corruption ...

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Feb 11

India against war crimes probe on Sri Lanka

India has emphasized that it will not extend support for an international inquiry against Sri Lanka. The Hindu newspaper has said that more time should be given to the new Government to fulfil sits responsibilities towards the Northern Provincial Council. The Northern Provincial Council approved a resolution on Sri Lanka’s ...

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Feb 11

Sri Lanka keen not to repeat the past

The special ‘Declaration of Peace’ pledge made at this year’s Independence Day celebration in Sri Lanka is an important reminder of the concerted efforts being made in the country to seek reconciliation and to ensure that Sri Lanka does not repeat mistakes of the past. So said Sri Lanka’s Permanent ...

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Feb 11

Mahinda Rajapaksa Vidyalaya teachers protest against baseless allegations

Teachers of Mahinda Rajapaksa Vidyalaya claim that a certain group was making baseless allegations against them. They staged a protest against these allegations within the Homagama town today. The teachers are saying that a group of parents loyal to the former Education Minister and the former Principal of the school ...

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Feb 11

Inquiry reports of Wimal Weerawansa’s wife directed to AG

A complaint has been lodged with the Criminal Investigations Department against the wife of former Minister Wimal Weerawansa for possessing two passports. Inquiries with respect to this complaint has been completed. The CID took the initiative of recording statements from Immigration and Emigration officials and several others. Police Media Spokesman ...

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Feb 11

Eastern PC budget unanimously approved

The Budget of the Eastern Provincial Council has been unanimously approved. Provincial Council sources said that the unanimous adoption of the budget is a significant occasion. Eastern Provincial Council Chief Minister Hafish Nasheer presented to the Provincial Council the Ministerial Votes of the Budget for this year. The budget was ...

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Feb 11

New Appeals Court Judge takes oaths – Bribery Chief receives appointment

An Appeals Court Judge and the Director General of the Bribery Commission took oaths before the President today. Hema Kumuduni Wickremasinghe took oaths before President Maithripala Sirisena as a judge of the Appeals Court. In the meantime Dilrukshi Dias who has been appointed as the new Director General of the ...

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Feb 11

Burglars rounded up in Gampaha

A gang linked to many burglaries including the looting of vehicles has been taken into Police custody. The Police said that vehicles and jewellery possessed by them were seized. The Veyangoda Police said that this group had been involved in many robberies including the looting of vehicles from various parts ...

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Feb 11

Netherlands supporting conservation of historic buildings

The Netherlands is supporting the conservation of historic buildings safeguarding the ancient pristine glory and architecture. This was the result of a discussion the Netherlands Ambassador had with Minister Rauf Hakeem. The meeting between Netherlands Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Minister for Urban Development, Water Supply and Drainage took place ...

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Feb 11

Lankaputhra Chairman assumes office

Deshabandu Lasantha Gunawardena who has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Lankaputhra Development Bank assumed duties in his new post today .He assumed office at the Bank’s Head Office in Nugegoda. Lasantha Gunawardena took over duties giving pride of place to religious observances.Deputy Minister Harsha de Silva and ...

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Feb 09

Loans of food stamp recipients waived off

Minister Sajith Premadasa has said that initiatives have been taken to waive off loans of food stamp recipients who had obtained loans from the one million housing programme. The Minister made this reference at a public meeting held in Matara. The Minister said that the first document he signed when ...

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Feb 09

Committee to explore ways of overcoming accidents faced by students

Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam has said that a Committee will be appointed to look into ways of overcoming accidents caused to children during inter-house sports meets in Schools. Expressing views to ITN in this respect, the Education Minister said that a student of a school in Hambantota had collapsed and ...

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Feb 09

President wants to move forward with determination

President Maithriapala Sirisena has said that they should move forward with determination in the face of insult, plaudits, reproach and opprobrium. The President made this observation opening the new Technical Faculty built at Royal College in Polonnaruwa. The new Technical Faculty which has three floors has facilities to pursue many ...

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Feb 09

Some Alliance leaders want former President as Prime Ministerial candidate, but General Secretary says no decision reached

The United People’s Freedom Alliance has said that it is not ready for a national Government even after the next General Election. It was announced that the first public rally to bring forward former President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Prime Ministerial candidate will held in Nugegoda on the 18th of ...

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Feb 09

JVP calls for Private Sector salary increase

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna says that relief cannot be granted to the Private Sector simply by making appeals to the Government. It pointed out that laws should be enacted to pass on the benefits of the interim budget to them. The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna referred to the direct contribution made ...

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Feb 09

Dedicate to serve the people sinking differences – Patali Champika

Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka has pointed out that everyone should be dedicated to serve the public sinking party differences. The Minister was speaking at the opening of the Attidiya Weekly Fair built at a cost of 59 million rupees. The Minister said that this is the time for everyone to ...

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Feb 09

New CJ assumes office

New Chief Justice K. Sri Pavan assumed official duties today. The new Chief Justice assumed duties in his post at a simple ceremony organized at the main hall of the Supreme Court. Among those who graced the occasion were judges of the Supreme Court and the Appeals Court as well ...

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Feb 09

Tea mixed with urea poisons students

Tea had been mixed with urea instead of sugar as the bags containing sugar had been placed near some bags containing urea fertilizer. This has been revealed when inquiries were made to determine how 27 students of the Don Bosco Technical School in Negombo had fallen ill after drinking tea ...

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Feb 09

Former Deputy Minister Premalal Jayasekara further remanded

Suspects including former Deputy Minister Premalal Jayasekara taken into custody over the alleged shooting in Kahawatte have been further remanded until the 23rd of this month. The order was given by Pelmadulla Magistrate Dinesh Lakmal Perera. The suspects are accused of a shooting incident at Kahawatte, killing a United National ...

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Feb 09

Former President rejects allegations

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says that false and misleading statements continue to be made about him by members of the present government. In a statement he said that the motive behind this is to deceive the people. Mr. Rajapaksa said that there is no truth in allegations made that 100,000 ...

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Feb 09

Justice Minister and former President visit Tissa Attanayake

The Justice Minister and the former President visited the prisons today to inquire into the wellbeing of Tissa Attanayake. Former General Secretary to the United National Party Tissa Attanayake is now in remand prison. He is accused of preparing unscrupulous documents during the last Presidential election period. Justice Minister Wijayadasa ...

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Feb 09

Jeep suspected to have been used for election recovered

Another vehicle of the Government suspected to have been used for election work has been recovered from Galle. It is a jeep that had been found from a Garage near the Galle City. It is revealed that the vehicle belonged to the Economic Development Ministry. The owner of the garage ...

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Feb 09

State Minister Faizer Mustapha resigns

State Minister for Civil Aviation Services Faizer Mustapha resigned today. The related resignation letter has been handed over to the President. Faizer Mustapha has submitted his letter of resignation from the State Ministerial portfolio to President Maithripala Sirisena. When inquired from him the reason for his resignation, Mr. Mustapha said ...

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Feb 09

Motorbikes distributed among public workers

Motorbikes were distributed among public employees under concessionary terms in several parts of the country today. The handing over of motorbikes to 3400 field officers of the Badulla District took place under the patronage of Uva Chief Minister Harin Fernando. They included 2900 male field officers and 500 female officers. ...

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Feb 09

Seven injured in two motor accidents

Five persons have been injured when a cab fell into the Victoria Reservoir. It is a double cab belonging to the Health Ministry. The Cab had veered into the Victoria Reservoir from near the Moragahamula Bridge along the Mahiyangana-Kandy Road last night. The passengers had opened the doors of the ...

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Feb 09

Three Lankans sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia

Three Sri Lankans have been sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia. The three Lankans have been charged for assaulting a Yemen national to death. The convicted three Sri Lankan have served a 10 year jail term for the same crime, and the Saudi court has extended capital punishment on them ...

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Feb 09

Bumper paddy harvest in Vavuniya

Farmers in Vavuniya have reaped a successful harvest by cultivating paddy. The cultivators in Vavuniya claim that they had succeeded in obtaining a bumper paddy harvest this year in comparison the previous years. They said that they have obtained this plentiful harvest as a result of using the cultivable lands ...

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Feb 09

Grammy Awards: Sam Smith wins four prizes

British soul singer Sam Smith has won four Grammy Awards in the US, including the prestigious prizes for record and song of the year and best new artist. Smith was rewarded for being the only solo artist to sell more than a million albums in both the UK and US ...

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Feb 09

New ways to test drugs on brain tumour patients

A hospital in the US is experimenting with a faster way to test much needed medications for deadly brain tumours. Patients get a single dose of a potential drug, and hours later doctors slice into the brain, looking for signs that the drug was working. A hospital in the US ...

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Feb 09

Malinga fit to face NZ- Mathews

Captain Angelo Mathews said that Sri Lanka paceman Lasith Malinga is fit to start his team’s Cricket World Cup opener against New Zealand on 14th of this month. Malinga has not played a one-day international since August after undergoing surgery on his left ankle. The 32-year-old’s lay-off included missing a ...

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Feb 09

Lionel Messi inspired Barcelona as they moved within a point of La Liga leaders Real Madrid

Lionel Messi inspired Barcelona as they moved within a point of La Liga leaders Real Madrid after winning a breathless 5-2 encounter at Athletic Bilbao. Messi’s deflected free-kick, and a precise finish into the bottom corner from Luis Suarez put Barca in control. Athletic’s Mikel Rico stroked in after half-time, ...

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Feb 08

South Africa beat Sri Lanka ICC World Cup 2015 Warm Up encounter on D/L

South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 5 wickets on the Duckworth Lewis method in the ICC World Cup 2015 warm-up encounter at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. South Africa won the toss and elected field first. Sri Lanka amassed a total of 279 for the loss of 7 wickets in 44.4 ...

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Feb 08

Ships arrive at Magampura Port

A ship transporting 581 vehicles from Japan docked today at the Hambanthota Magampura port. Ships belonging to new shipping companies are arriving at the Magampura port, with the election of a new government. Deputy Chairman of the Ports Authority Captain Asitha Wijesekara and Chairman of Marine International Corporation Yushmantha Karannagoda ...

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Feb 08

24 arrested for gem mining in Yala National Park

Wild life officials have arrested 24 people for illegally mining gems inside the Yala National Wild Life Park. They have been taken into custody at the Fourth Zone in the Yala National Park. The suspects have been arrested during a special operation conducted by the Buttaala Walliamaara wild life officials ...

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Feb 08

Tissa Attanayake expelled from UNP

MP Tissa Attanayake has been expelled from the United National Party. The Working Committee of the Party which met today has taken this decision. Former General Secretary of the UNP Tissa Attanayake has been expelled from the United National Party as he worked against the decisions of the Party during ...

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Feb 08

One killed in Baticaloa train accident

Another accident at an unsafe railway crossing has been reported from Baticaloa. Two youth travelling in a bicycle met with the accident at the Eravur unsafe railway crossing. One of the two men died in the accident. The accident has occurred around 8.00 p.m. last night when the train was ...

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Feb 08

Solangarachchi gives statement to CCD

Chairman of the Kotikawatta Mulleriyawa Pradeshiya Sabha Prasanna Solangarachchi was accused of providing firearms to an Urban Council Member of Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, during the previous Presidential Election time. He gave a statement yesterday to the Colombo Crimes Division. After giving the statement Mr. Solangarachchi said that such accusations are levelled ...

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Feb 08

Child dies after falling into a well

A child in Thalawakele has fallen into a cultivation well and died due to the negligence of the elders. The child Jeyakantha Perumal Sudakaran who was at the preschool going age died unfortunately yesterday. Grandfather and grandmother have been at home to look after him when he returns from the ...

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Feb 08

A child electrocuted

A seven year old child has died due to an electrical short circuit in the fridge. The incident has been reported this afternoon from Sorabora Wewa, Mahiyanganaya. The deceased seven year old boy, Lakmina Bandara had studied in the 3rd Grade of the Sorabora Wewa Maha Vidyalaya. The house of ...

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Feb 08

An Elephant dies in Somawathie National Park

An elephant living at the Somawathiya National Park has died yesterday. The elephant is said to be about eight years old. The elephant living at the Somawathiya National Park died yesterday at the Walikanda Mahasenpura area. It had become a victim of “Hakkapattas” traps used to hunt wild animals. It ...

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Feb 08

People are urged to recycle plastic

It is reported that an individual throws away about 1,000 kilograms of plastic annually in the country. Accordingly more than 320,000 metric tons of plastic is added to the environment of the country annually. The Central Environmental Authority has setup several plastic recycling centres to resolve the problem. The people ...

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Feb 08

Development while meeting basic needs – Wijayadasa

Minister Wijayadasa Rajapaksa says that the country should be developed by meeting the basic needs of the people. Attending a function organized to welcome him, Mr. Rajapaksa said that the people should not be burdened while developing the country. Minister Wijayadasa Rajapaksa said that one of the pledges given by ...

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Feb 08

Malik Samarawickrama is UNP Chairman

Malik Samarawickrama has been appointed as the Chairman of the United National Party. The appointment has been made this morning during a meeting presided over by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe. The Working Committee of the UNP met for the first time today after the Presidential Election. The meeting was held ...

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Feb 08

No camps removed in the North and East – Defence Secretary

Defence Secretary B.M.U. D. Basnayake has disclosed that no military camp has been removed in the North and East. Mr. Basnayake mentioned this when he met the Mahanayakas of the Malwatta and Asgiriya Capters. The Defence secretary pointed out that the security forces are providing their services for the economic ...

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Feb 08

Wasps attack tourists in Sigiriya

A group of tourists has come under a wasp attack near the Lions Paw at Sigiriya this morning. 20 Chinese Nationals have been hospitalized due to the attack. Five local tourists and a tourist guide have also been attacked by the wasps. Following the attack all of them have been ...

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Feb 08

Three Galle Town clocks dysfunctional

Three of the four clock towers in Galle town have become dysfunctional. We wish that officials will open their eyes following this news report. Galle is a town which attracts the attention of both local and foreign tourists. There are four clock towers in Galle town. The three dysfunctional clock ...

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Feb 08

Competition shows best uses for drones

The winners of the “Drones for Good” competition were announced in Dubai, in a contest where participants had to show the best uses for drone technology for society. Competitors from 51 countries applied for the chance to win one million US dollars in the competition hosted by the UAE government. ...

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Feb 08

Hot Tub Time Machine scheduled to be released this month

Hot Tub Time Machine 2 is an upcoming American science fiction comedy film directed by Steve Pink and written by Josh Heald. The film stars Craig Robinson, Adam Scott, Rob Corddry, Chevy Chase, Gillian Jacobs, and Clark Duke. When Lou finds himself in trouble, Nick and Jacob fire up the ...

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Feb 08

La Liga leaders Real Madrid suffered their heaviest defeat in over four years

La Liga leaders Real Madrid suffered their heaviest defeat in over four years as reigning champions Atletico Madrid overpowered them in a scintillating derby. Injury-hit Real were forced to name a makeshift defence for the short trip to the Vicente Calderon and it was easily exposed by Atletico’s ruthless attack. ...

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Feb 08

New Zealand claim home sevens crown for eighth time

New Zealand unearthed a new sevens prodigy in Reiko Ioane as they convincingly beat England 27-21 in the final of the Wellington round of the World Sevens series. It was the eighth time New Zealand have won their home tournament, and the final score flattered England who scored two late ...

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Feb 07

Interim budget passed in Parliament

The interim budget of the new Government has been passed in Parliament with a majority of 163 votes. 164 members have voted for the budget and independent member Ajith Kumara has voted against. Meanwhile the opposition proposed a no confidence motion against Minister John Amaratunga, which has been handed over ...

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Feb 07

Security forces camps in the North and East are to remain

Defence Minister Ruwan Wijewardena says that the Government has a clear policy on National Security. Addressing members of the security forces in Jaffna, he emphasized that the Government would not hesitate to give due recognition to the security forces. In his first visit to the North, Defence Minister Ruwan Wijewardena ...

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Feb 07

Ministry Secretaries spent 8 billion rupees

Minister Ravi Karunanayaka has disclosed that Ministry Secretaries have spent 8 billion rupees for various purposes during the time of the Presidential Election. He said that details would be presented in Parliament. Minister Ravi Karunanayake charged that some Secretaries have spent 8 billion rupees for political campaigns. He said that ...

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Feb 07

Small bottled drugs prepared to sell to students detected

Badulla Police have seized a stock of small bottles filled with drugs, which had been prepared to sell to students. Police have arrested a suspect along with the bottles. The small bottles with drugs have been found from an official residence of a school at Wewelhinna Estate in Badulla. Police ...

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Feb 07

Bandula Gunawardena requests early inquiry

Former Minister Bandula Gunawardena has requested the Commission to Investigation Bribery or Corruption, to investigate allegations levelled against him, as soon as possible. Secretary of the Ceylon Teacher Services Union, Mahinda Jayasinghe lodged a complaint against former Minister Gunawardena at the Bribery Commission. The complaint states that malpractices took place ...

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Feb 07

The need to have Medicinal Drugs Act emhasized

Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka has pointed out that the passing of Medicinal Drugs Draft Bill, is essential to control medicines which are sold for high prices under branded names. The Minister expressed these views while attending a discussion in Colombo. It has been organized by the Lawyers’ Association of Jathika ...

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Feb 07

Financial assistance for renal patients

Uva Provincial Council has taken steps to provide 3,000 rupees as financial assistance for renal patients in the province. The financial assistance was given to renal patients in Rideemaliyedda and Girandurukotte in Mahiyanganaya. 1,100 patients have been given 300 thousand rupees each. The presentation of financial assistance has been organized ...

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Feb 07

Tusker called Dalaputtuwa gone missing

The Tusker called “Dalaputtuwa” which was in the Minneriya National Park has disappeared during the past few days. Suspicion has arisen whether the tusker has moved into another area or fallen victim to a poacher. Wildlife Officials say that the tuskers of this elephant were about 4 and half feet ...

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Feb 07

Missing Elephant registry found

There was a major controversy into the disappearance of the Elephant Book maintained by the Wildlife Department. The Wildlife Department maintained a registry of Elephants which were legally handed over. The registry is called “Ali Potha” or the Elephant Book. The former Minister provided various answers related to the disappearance ...

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Feb 07

Paddy purchasing to commence from Polonnaruwa

The Government has made arrangements to purchase paddy harvested in the Maha Season. The Paddy Marketing Board said that the purchasing would begin from the Polonnaruwa District. The Paddy Marketing Board said that all measures are in place to purchase paddy after Maha season as the harvesting season is nearby. ...

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Feb 07

Land Certificates for 30,000

Honoring a pledge of the 100 day programme of the Government, arrangements have been made to provide 30 thousand land certificates. Minister M.K.A.D.S. Gunawardena said that it would be launched from Trincomalee on Monday. Minister M.K.A.D.S. Gunawardena said that steps would be taken soon to provide about 30 thousand land ...

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Feb 07

Bank Officer steals over 1.5 billion rupees

A bank officer attached to a state bank has stolen more than 1.5 billion rupees. A staff officer attached to a state bank has stolen more than 1.5 billion rupees in deposits. She has fraudulently withdrew the money on several occasions. The Fraud Investigation Bureau was able to nab the ...

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Feb 07

Singer Sisira Senaratne’s funeral held

The funeral of veteran singer Sisira Senaratne was held this afternoon. Sisira Senaratne who added colour to the music world for several decades was 76 years at the time of his demise. President Maithripala Sirisena paid his last respects to the remains of the late singer, lying at the National ...

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Feb 07

Funeral of train accident victims held

The funeral of those who died in the train accident at Ragama Batuwatta rail crossing was held this afternoon. Four members of the same family died in this tragic incident. Their funeral was held at Maha Hunupitiya, Porthdowatta cemetery in Negombo. A large number of people gathered at the cemetery ...

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Feb 06

President tells Trade Unions “many pledges fulfilled in three weeks”

The President has pointed out that a major part of the pledges given to the people had been honoured within a short span of three weeks. The President who met the Government and Semi Government Trade Union Collective today, emphatically mentioned that the main target of his Government was to ...

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Feb 06

China’s Assistant Foreign Minister calls on President and PM

The visiting China’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs has emphasized that China would continue to extend every possible assistance for development work in Sri Lanka. He laid this emphasis during a meeting with the President. Special representative of the Chinese President, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Liu Jianchao called on ...

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Feb 06

Sri Lanka has strength to maintain strong relations with countries

Sri Lanka has the strength to maintain strong relations with countries within the Asian region and also other countries in the world. China will be extending its fullest support to Sri Lanka to further solidify the long standing China-Sri Lanka friendly ties. China’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Liu Jianchao ...

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Feb 06

Student dies after collapsing in marathon

A student of the Bolana Maha Vidyalaya in Ambalanthota faced an untimely death while participating in a marathon. It is a serious issue that the country still lack a streamlined checkup for students who come forward to contest a marathon. Chamod Sathsara had to face this untimely death while participating ...

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Feb 06

Japura-clash students arrested and enlarged on bail

Two students who were taken into custody in relation to a clash between two student groups of the Sri Jayawardenepura University were today enlarged on a surety bail of 100 thousand rupees each. Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that five more students involved in the melee have been ...

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Feb 06

Due place assured to those who work with dedication in the construction sector

Minister Sajith Premadasa has emphasized that the present Government will give the due place to those who work with dedication in the construction sector. The Minister laid this stress joining in the programme to make aware of the Build SL 2015 Construction Exhibition. This is a key Exhibition in the ...

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Feb 06

North Central members take oaths

Members of the North Central Provincial Council took oaths yesterday. Also the three Ministers who rejected taking oaths due to a change in their portfolios were also sworn-in. They took oaths before North Central Governor P.B. Dissanayake. Chief Minister Peshala Jayaratne was also present on the occasion. Former Chief Minister ...

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Feb 06

Inland Revenue Officers protest against shortcomings in administration

A demonstration was staged opposite the Inland Revenue Department saying that there are many shortcomings in the administration of the Department. It was organized by the Inland Revenue Officers Union. The demonstrators who joined in the protest claimed that the Government was incurring heavy losses due to the weaknesses prevailing ...

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Feb 06

Southern and Sabaragamuwa Governors assume office

New Governors of the Southern and Sabaragamuwa Provinces assume duties. They pledged to their maximum in fulfilling the services from the state sector for the benefit of the public. The new Governor of the Sabaragamuwa Province President’s Counsel Marshal Perera assumed duties at the Provincial Council Complex in Ratnapura. He ...

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Feb 06

Agitation in the East over the Chief Ministerial portfolio

Change of administration in Provincial Councils is taking place at present. Such a situation is now in the offing within the Eastern Provincial Council and the issue with respect to the Chief Ministerial Portfolio has not yet ended. The power of the Eastern Provincial Council lies with the United People’s ...

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Feb 06

Sri Lanka to expand ties including ports and shipping with Bangladesh and New Zealand

Sri Lanka has drawn its attention to expanding ties in several sectors including Ports and Shipping with Bangladesh and New Zealand. Such attention was drawn to when Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Arjuna Ranatunge met the High Commissioners of Bangladesh and New Zealand. The meeting between the High Commissioner ...

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Feb 06

Police raid marijuana plantation in Lunugamvehera

The Police have raided 12-acre marijuana plantation within the Lunugamvehera National Park. Three suspects were apprehended for being involved in the marijuana cultivation in the Lunugamvehera National Park in the Sella Kataragama area. During interrogation it was revealed that the suspects are residents from the Angunukolapelessa area. The Police have ...

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Feb 05

President will begin his Indian visit on 15th

President Maithripala Sirisena is scheduled to visit India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The President’s Indian tour will begin on the 15th of this month and it will conclude on the 18th. During this visit, the Sri Lankan President is also scheduled to meet his Indian counterpart ...

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Feb 05

Family members of Shantha Dodangoda killed during campaigning meet President

Family members of Shantha Dodangoda who was shot dead during the Presidential election period met President Maithripala Sirisena today. The President expressed his condolences to the family members on his untimely death. Shantha Dodangoda was shot dead in the Kahawatte area. The attack took place when he was engaged in ...

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Feb 05

Cabinet decides to present National Drugs Policy Bill in Parliament

The Cabinet has granted the nod for the presentation of the National Drugs Policy Bill in Parliament.. Addressing the weekly cabinet meeting, Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne said that accordingly the related Bill is scheduled to be presented at the next Parliamentary sessions. Once adopted, doctors will not be permitted to ...

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Feb 05

KP barred from leaving the country

Kumaran Pathmanathan alias KP is barred from leaving the country. The Appeals Court today ordered the Department of Immigration and Emigration to impound the passport of Kumaran Pathmanathan who is said to be the main weapons supplier to the LTTE. The Appeals Court gave this ruling after considering a Writ ...

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Feb 05

Wele Suda not produced in Court for security reasons

Wele Suda identified as a local drug kingpin was due to be produced in Courts today. However, the Criminal Investigations Department informed the Court that they were not producing him due to several issues related to his security. Wele Suda alias Samantha Kumara was due to be produced in the ...

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Feb 05

Temple Trees and President’s House for public viewing

Temple Trees and the President’s House are scheduled to be open for public display soon. Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne said that the purpose is to display to the people how these were used, wasting public funds. The Minister said that there had been many public requests for the display of ...

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Feb 05

Cultural Pageant “Nidahase Pelagesma” at Colombo Town Hall premises

A cultural pageant under the theme National Unity was held at the Colombo Town Hall premises last night. The pageant which was open to the public was organized by the Colombo Municipal Council. The coordination of the pageant was handled by the Prime Minister’s Office. The pageant was made colourful ...

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Feb 05

Vass Gunawardena and son further remanded

Former DIG Vass Gunawardena and his son Ravindu Gunawardena were further remanded today. The order was given by the Colombo High Court. Vass Gunawardena and his son Ravindu Gunawardena are in remand prison on several charges. They are accused of the murder of millionaire businessman Mohamed Shiyam. The case was ...

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Feb 05

Landslides at several places in hill country

Our correspondent has said that earthslips had occurred at several areas in the hill country following the extreme weather conditions. Heavy showers were being experienced in the Hill Country continuously for four days. This has caused earthslips at some locations in the Hapuwela area in Hanguranketha. Four houses had caved ...

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Feb 05

Liquor raids on Independence Day

All liquor shops were kept close on National Independence Day on orders issued by the Government. But Excise Officials succeeded in raiding several places that were selling liquor violating this order. Liquor had been sold illegally at a Restaurant in the Koswadiya area within the Marawila Police Division. Following the ...

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Feb 05

K.N. Choksy passes away

The funeral of Senior Politician as well as a veteran lawyer K.N. Choksy took place today. Mr. Choksy who passed away today was 81. He has served as a Finance Minister from the year 2001 to 2004. He had also served as Cabinet Minister of Constitutional & State Affairs from ...

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Feb 05

Popular vocalist Sisira Senaratne’s funeral on Friday

The funeral of veteran and popular singer Sisira Senaratne will take place at the Borella Kanatte on Friday. Sisira Senaratne who entered the music field in the 1960s, rose to fame with the song “Eetha Ahase Negee Dinidu Paaya” in the film “Handapana” screened in 1965. It was Sisira Senaratne ...

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Feb 04

Independence messages from President, PM and Opposition Leader

The continuing strength of our freedom that has been gained, requires the advancement of the youth through the acquisition and development of new skills, access to new knowledge and technology, and re-kindling the spirit of freedom throughout our land. President Maithripala Sirisena has made this reference issuing an Independence Day ...

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Feb 02

Former UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake is remanded

Former Health Minister and Parliamentarian Tissa Attanayake has been remanded until the 11th of this month. The Former Health Minister was so remanded today when he was produced before the Colombo Acting Magistrate Jayantha Dias Nanayakkara. Mr. Attanayake was remanded on charges of forging unscrupulous documents. Sleuth of the Criminal ...

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Feb 02

Government will engage in relentless battle against all means of corruption including narcotics – President

The President has said that his Government is geared to engage in a relentless battle against all means of corruption including narcotics that destroy the younger generation. The President made this reference participating in the 40th Anniversary celebration of the All Ceylon Temperance Youth Organization. The President emphatically mentioned that ...

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Feb 02

Nisha Biswal meets PM and FM

Visiting US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Nisha Biswal met Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe and External Affairs Minister Mangala Samaraweera today. Their discussions dealt with many issues important to Sri Lanka. The meeting between Nisha Biswal and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe took place at Temple Trees. ...

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Feb 02

Sajith sacrifices privileges to the Sevana Fund

Minister of Housing and Samurdhi Sajith Premadasa has said that he has decided to not to enjoy any privilege to which he is entitled as a Minister. He said that he had decided to credit all funds with respect to his privileges to the Sevana Fund. Minister Sajith Premadasa said ...

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Feb 02

Polls to two local bodies in Mullaitivu this month

Polls for two Local Councils in the Mullaitivu District will be held on the 28th of this month. The decision to hold polls for the two Local Authorities was taken today. Accordingly the Elections Commissioner has decided to hold polls for the Maritimepattu and Puthukudiyiruppu Pradeshiya Sabhas on the 28th ...

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Feb 02

Cigarette packs should have 60 percent pictorial warnings

The grace period granted to sell cigarettes sans 60 percent of the outer surface of the cigarette packets with pictorial warnings ended on the 31st of last month. Accordingly, the Police said that operations are in place countrywide to raid centres selling packets of cigarettes without the 60 percent pictorial ...

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Feb 02

Irregular teacher appointments to end

Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam has said that he is not prepared to grant teacher appointments in an irregular manner. He expressed this view joining in the National Congress to consolidate the standard of school education organized at the Education Ministry. The Minister said that there are four million school ...

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Feb 02

Former ITN DGM Sudharman Radaliyagoda’s passport impounded

The passport of former Deputy General Manager of the News Division of the Independent Television Network has been suspended. The order was given by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court today. A false report claiming that incumbent President Maithripala Sirisena who contested as the Common candidate during the recent Presidential election had ...

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Feb 02

New Central Province Governor calls on Mahanayakes

New Central Province Governor Suranganie Ellawalla has said that it is an onus placed on everyone to dedicate themselves to carry forward the present Government’s programme. She mentioned that everyone should be dedicated to achieving this task. The Governor was speaking after paying courtesy calls on the Malwatte and Asgiriya ...

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Feb 02

Water supply schemes to solve drinking water issue in Ampara

Minister Rauf Hakeem has pledged to immediately launch water supply schemes and find solutions to the severe drinking water crisis within the Ampara District. The Minister gave this assurance at a special discussion summoned to examine the drinking water problems and small town development activities in the District. The discussion ...

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Feb 01

Private sector to get benefits from the interim budget

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe says that steps will be taken to make available the relief given by the interim budget to the private sector. He mentioned this while addressing a group of UNP Activists in Kandy. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said that he would direct the Labour Minister to provide ...

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Feb 01

Students to get free excise books

The Minister of Education is preparing to provide free text books as well as excise books. Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam has said that the use of names of politicians for schools has been banned hereafter. Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said that a system has been devised to provide free excise ...

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Feb 01

Customs in operation for 24 hours

Customs Services will be operational for 24 hours from today. Customs Media Spokesman Leslie Gamini said that it would enhance the efficiency of imports, exports and re-exports. Mr. Leslie Gamini said that the Finance Minister told Parliament on 29th January 2015, that the Customs would be kept open all 24 ...

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Feb 01

Media Minister asks people to watch

Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka says that the people have the opportunity to look into whether the Government is honoring the pledges, it has given. Welcome ceremonies have been organized at Bentara Elpitiya to receive Mr. Gayantha Karunathilaka who was appointed as the Media Minister and the Chief Government Whip. At ...

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Feb 01

100,000 houses in 100 days

Minister Sajith Premadasa has emphasized that the revolution to construct 100 thousand houses within 100 days will be implemented. He requested the public to handover written proposals in this regard. Minister Sajith Premadasa said that the aim is to commence the construction of 100 thousand houses within 100 days and ...

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Feb 01

New bus fares effective from today

The reduction of bus fares has come into effect from today. According to the amendment the minimum fare of nine rupees, has been reduced to eight rupees. The fare of 13 rupees has been reduced by one rupee. The fares from 17 to 34 rupees, have been reduced by two ...

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Feb 01

President says no to personal use of Helicopters

President Maithripala Sirisena has pledged that he will never use helicopters for personal needs except for essential official functions. President Maithripala Sirisena said that he would attend only functions of national value. He emphasized that his children or wife would not travel in a helicopter without him. He added that ...

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Feb 01

President takes part in religious activities in Kataragama

The President arrived at the Kataragama sacred city today for the first time after assuming office. President Maithripala Sirisena who arrived at the Kataragama sacred city engaged in religious observances. He first called on the Registrar of the Kirivehera Rajamaha Viharaya Venerable Thalagala Gnanananda Thera and received his blessings. Thereafter ...

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Feb 01

Only the President has power to dissolve parliament – Nimal

Opposition Leader Nimal Siripala de Silva has pointed out that the power to dissolve the Government is with the President and not with the Prime Minister. He mentioned this during a media briefing at the Opposition Leader’s Office. Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe said that Parliament would be dissolved after the ...

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Feb 01

Estate workers will get houses soon

Minister P. Digambaram says that the project to construct houses on seven perch lands for estate workers will be launched soon. Minister P. Digambaram met the Mahanayake of the Malwatta Chapter most Venerable Thibbotuwawe Sri Sumangala Thera. Expressing his views on the occasion Minister Digambaram said that solutions would be ...

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Feb 01

Oil Leak sealed

The Ceylon Petroleum Storage Terminals company says that the repairs to the leak on the pipe line have been completed. Managing Director of the company Roshan Gunawardena said that pumping of oil has been commenced. A leak was reported on the pipe line that transport fuel from Colombo Fort to ...

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