Daily NEWS Srilanka

President Rajapaksa has called on the nation to transform 2014 into an Year to work with a new vision devoid of liquor.

The President made this call joining in the inauguration of the national function for the awarding of 40,000 land deeds of the Mahaweli Zone. The ceremony was held at the Magam Ruhunapura International conference Centre in Hambantota this morning. Land deeds were presented to 5000 Mahaweli recipients of the WalaweValley under the first stage. The President presented land deeds to 35 recipients symbolizing the presentation of deeds. The issue encountered by the farmer fraternity of the Mahaweli Zone for more than 50 years was sorted out in this manner honouring a pledge given by the President to these farmers at Dehiattakandiya.

Further expressing views on the occasion, the President recalled how the farmer community of the Mahaweli Zone, who give the highest contribution to make the country self-sufficient in rice, experienced hardships due to lack of land ownership. President Rajapaksa made a fervent appeal from the farmers to dedicate themselves for the development of the country building a healthy and strong generation through the consumption of food sans poison.

The President said that Sri Lanka is the leading country in the world using chemical fertilizer. It is true that a bumper harvest can be achieved with the application of chemical fertilizer. But the people are being poisoned through such productions. The economy strengthens temporarily. But on the other hand kidneys are being destroyed. It is time that these should be taken into account. The use of unnecessary fertilizer should be reconsidered. It should not be used in large quantities. He President emphasized that it is also the same with liquor. The President added that the coming year will be a happy one if liquor is not consumed with the intention of protecting the posterity and building a strong nation.

Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa, Ministers Nimal Siripala de Silva, Mahinda Amaraweera and Jagath Pushpakumara, Deputy Minister W.B. Ekanayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Irrigation and Water Resource Management K.W. Ivan de Silva and Director General of the Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka Gamini Rajakaruna were among those present on the occasion.

Milk powder storage facilities and go-downs should be registered with the Consumer Affairs Authority.

The Ministry of Cooperatives and Internal Trade had emphasized that this law will be enforced with effect from tomorrow, January first.

It is prohibited from stocking milk powder packets at Storage facilities, go-downs or any other similar locations which are not registered with the Consumer Affairs Authority.

This law is enforced from tomorrow, January first, in accordance with the 42-21 Gazette Notification No: 18 issued by the Consumer Affairs Authority. Minister Johnston Fernando has asserted that accordingly the Consumer Affairs Authority is vested with the power of examining milk powder storage facilities at any time.

The violation of human rights by Britain, which inquires into human rights around the world, is now surfacing.

Britain which is impressing upon other countries calling for reports on human rights, is attempting to conceal the infringement of human rights by its Police. However, these are now surfacing in the world.

Britain’s Independent Police Complaints Commission Report has now been released. The Commission’s research has found that 333 people had died in Police custody between 1998-99 and 2008-2009 including 86 who died after being restrained. This figure also included 16 of the most controversial cases which were classed as restraint-related. Between 1998 and 2009, according to the Commission, there were 16 cases of restraint related deaths in Police custody.

The data however, on which this conclusion was based, was not available for scrutiny. After months of protracted argument and Freedom of Information requests the Commission finally released to the Bureau the names of 86 people who died in circumstances where restraint was used but was not necessarily a direct cause of death. It is from this that the list of 16 is derived. The Commission cross-referenced these names with other cases in the public domain and found there were other cases that did not appear in the list of 16 in which restraint clearly played a part in the deaths.

Although the Complaints Commission sought reports, the British Government had been unsuccessful in submitting a clear report. What is the moral right that Britain has to impress upon other countries to forward reports on minor incidents, when Britain was embroiled in such issues? A dialogue is building throughout the world on this morality.

The Divi Neguma Department will commence operations on January 03rd. The Government’s decision has earned accolades of Samurdhi Managers and Coordinating Officers. Religious ceremonies countrywide will mark the occasion.

In addition to 27,000 officers, around five million Divi Neguma beneficiaries will immensely benefit by the establishment of the Department. Joining in a news conference held in Colombo, Secretary of the All Ceylon Samurdhi Development and Agricultural Research Assistant Officers Union, Jagath Kumara said they commend the decision taken by the Government to set up the Department.

Mr. Jagath Kumara said that the law related to the granting of pension benefits to Samurdhi Officers was recently enacted. The Government made a significant dedication to the granting of these rights. It became a reality due to the enormous efforts of particularly President Rajapaksa and Minister Basil Rajapaksa. All their rights were won due to their unstinted dedication. As such they extended the tribute of all Samurdhi officers to the Government for the initiatives taken to make this progressive decision a reality.

Some seem to have forgotten the massive destruction unleashed by the tiger terrorists in the country throughout 30 years. Some are willfully attempting to forget these incidents, while some are determined to draw back the country to that dark era.

The entire country is being appraised so that such a calamity would not be experienced again. The episodes are being recalled so that such a dark period may not recur in the country.

The tiger terrorists took away the life of a war hero in the Mankulam area on 31^st December 1984 and thus commenced their killing spree on this day during the dark era. On 31^st December 1987, the tiger terrorists displayed their brutality to the world slaughtering eight innocent civilians in the Maha Divulwewa village in Trincomalee. The tigers who shocked the entire country through this cold blood killing fled the village by setting 15 houses on fire.

On the same day the entire country also grieved as a result of another remorseless attack. They opened fire on the Kattankudi Muslim village and slaughtered 30 innocent villagers, thus quenching their thirst for blood. On 31^st December 1995, the terrorists exploded a pressure bomb at Kopai in Jaffna, killing five war heroes. On the same day, the brutal tiger terrorists unleashed an attack on a group of Army soldiers in the Batticaloa area depriving the country of the valuable services of four war heroes.

Killing two brave soldiers in Jaffna on 31^st December 1996, the tiger terrorists mooted another attack on a group of war heroes within the Puliyankulam area.

The country lost five war heroes in this incident. Jaffna was the next target of the LTTE terrorists on 31^st December 1999. 11 gallant soldiers made supreme sacrifices on behalf of the unity of the country in this massive attack. On 31^st December 2008, seven war heroes sacrificed their lives on behalf of the country in two more attacks launched by the terrorists in the Paranthan and Sinna Paranthan areas.

When terrorism which scourged the country for 30 years was annihilated on 18^th May 2009, the terrorists had taken away the lives of 40 innocent civilians and 41 war heroes on 31^st December throughout the fear psychosis period. The number of lives taken away by the terrorists during this period, displaying their brutality to the world is inestimable.

The total number of civilians killed by the terrorists during the month of December from 1984 to 2009 was 242, while the number of brave soldiers killed by them within this period was 2072. Accordingly the total number of lives taken away by the terrorists during the month of December was 2314. The war heroes who advanced due to the direct and prudent leadership of President Rajapaksa and the bold decisions taken by him, succeeded in liberating the country from this curse.

These soldiers enthroned permanent peace risking their lives. However, certain local as well as extraneous forces cannot bear the peaceful environment prevailing in the country. As such they are determined to create a chaotic situation in the motherland. The large scale killings carried out by the United States and Britain blatantly violating human rights is not a secret to the world. Moderates query as to why they are inquiring into the human rights of Sri Lanka.

The peace loving and patriotic citizens are not prepared to destroy the peace prevailing in the country, whatever strategies are mooted by them. It is pathetic to note that those who orchestrate these forces lack the knowledge to understand it.

“Beyond Outrage” is a 2012 Japanese yakuza film directed by Takeshi Kitano, starring Kitano, Toshiyuki Nishida, and Tomokazu Miura. It is a sequel to Kitano’s 2010 film, Outrage.

The film begins with two anti-corruption detectives observing the discovery of dead human bodies in a car being recovered from the bottom of a harbor. The detectives suspect that the drowned bodies are related to the recent gang war and power struggle at the huge Sanno-kai crime syndicate which covers a large portion of eastern Japan.

Sri Lanka were bowled out for 204 in their first innings of the first Test against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi today.

Sent into bat, Sri Lanka were comfortably placed at 66-1 before losing seven wickets for 101 runs before Angelo Mathews (91) and Shaminda Eranga (14) added 61 for the ninth wicket.

Opener Dimuth Karunaratne scored 38 after Sri Lanka were sent into bat at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

Pacemen Junaid Khan grabbed 5-58 while fellow fast bowler took 3-65.

Pakistan were 46 for one in 18.1 overs at stumps.

Captain Graeme Smith scored the winning runs as South Africa knocked off a modest 58-run target to beat India by 10 wickets in the second Test at Kingsmead and win the two-match series 1-0.

The top-ranked nation achieved victory soon after tea on the last day to complete a highly satisfying result against their closest challengers in the world test rankings. It was also a fitting farewell for South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis who made a century in his final Test.

India had been bowled out for 223 earlier in the day, failing to offer much resistance after being precariously placed at 68 for two overnight. South Africa took just 11.4 overs to knock off the required runs with Alviro Petersen 31 not out and Smith unbeaten on 27 after a six and a four from the last two balls of the game.

President Rajapaksa has emphasized that he is not prepared to grant any power that would lead to a division or fragmentation of the country.

The country achieved these victories with great dedication. As such he pointed out that everyone should work in unison.

The President was addressing a function organized for the opening of Dakshina Paya, the newly constructed Southern Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex today. It is a Complex equipped with all facilities for the provision of a more efficient service to the public. The building was put up at a cost of 575 million rupees. The Southern Provincial Chief Secretariat was feted with the ISO 9001 2008 Standards Certificate for maintaining a streamlined service.

The President handed over this certificate of Conformity to Southern Provincial Chief Secretary W.K.K. Athokorale. Southern Governor Kumari Balasuriya presented a memento to the President for the yeoman service he is rendering on behalf of the welfare of the Southern polity.

Further expressing his views on the occasion, the President pointed out that various opinions are being expressed on the Provincial Council system. But he emphasized that the welfare of the people was his opinion. Everyone should cooperate and work together on one programme in one country respecting the state policy. The President noted that no one can move forward if they do not serve the people properly.

The President said that may be a Local Council, a Provincial Council or Parliament, every institution expects to discharge a service on behalf of the people. All of them are vested with a responsibility. They should clearly have an awareness of the problems of the people and make their full dedication to solve these problems. It is more conducive if rifts are averted between politicos and officials, while respecting the state policy. The President said that he considered that various problems, particularly in new Provincial Council areas have arisen due to their unawareness. The President said that they should move forward having a clear awareness of these issues. The President underscored that they never intends to grant powers that would lead to a division of the country. No one could be permitted to effect such changes. He added that he believed that they should work within this united country.

Minister Gunaratne Weerakoon, Southern Province Chief Minister Shan Wijayalal de Silva, Deputy Speaker Chandima Weerakkody, Deputy Minister Nishantha Muthuhettigama, Parliamentarians Ramesh Pathirana, Mohan de Silva and Manusha Nanayakkara and many people’s representatives were present on the occasion.

Foreign conspirators in disguise are arriving in Sri Lanka to gather information against the country.

The conspiracy is purely targeted at searching information to submit reports against Sri Lanka at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva in March.

British Prime Minister David Cameron under the guise of

the Commonwealth Summit undertook unofficial tours of

several parts of the country to gather information against Sri Lanka and returned to his country making a serious statement on the island nation. Since then Parliamentarians of many western countries arrived in the country on tourist visas and conspired against the island while Immigration and emigration authorities deported them after arresting and interrogating them.

As part of the conspiracy a person calling himself a journalist from Tamil Nadu loyal to the LTTE arrived on a tourist visa and was covertly shooting scenes of military installations in the North for the production of documentaries against Sri Lanka. But as a result of the alertness of the Security Forces, he was apprehended and action initiated to expel him from the country.

The latest individual to arrive in the island on a conspiratorial mission is Radhika Sitsabaiesan who was born in Jaffna and is now domiciled in Canada and is now serving as a Canadian Parliamentarian of the New Democratic Party. She is now in Jaffna. It is reported that she has already had discussions with newly elected members to the Northern Provincial Council. She is also reported to have had discussions with Non Governmental Organizations. She has also visited a Camp where the displaced have taken shelter and which was also visited by the British Prime Minister.

No one had the right to undertake discussions utilizing tourist visas and blatantly violating the immigration and emigration laws. Sources emanating from the Security Forces said that the attention of the Department of Immigration and Emigration is now focused on her whereabouts. Foreign forces are arriving in the island and behaving in this manner with the intention of gathering information against Sri Lanka for the UN Human Rights Council session which is slated to be held in Geneva in March.

The Education Minister has emphasized that he will not at all obstruct the educational opportunities of the village children.

Minister Bandula Gunawardena expressed this view to brief the media on the report of the National Education Commission on changes to be effected to the Grade Five Scholarship Scheme.

The Minister displaying a report said that it is clearly mentioned that an examination should be held for one hour to measure the knowledge level of the children overcoming their mental pressure and the burden of the parents. The educationists of the Commission have clearly mentioned in their recommendations as to how the knowledge of the children should be measured according to their ages. The Commission made recommendations that whether it is necessary to further conduct this examination by the year 2016, when the 1000 schools within the villages receive the necessary resources.

The Education Minister said that an examination will be held to measure the knowledge level of the students, to increase the scholarship allowance provided to talented students and also to permit those who wish to come to Colombo, replacing the system of exerting pressure on the village students. A majority in urban areas, based on their financial strength impart the necessary education to their children without permitting them to take the Grade Five Scholarship Examination. He emphasized that they would not mediate in obstructing the opportunities available for the children of the villages.

Customs have seized a container of radioactive material. The container which contains material harmful to human beings is to be transshipped.

An establishment in the Yakkala area had got down this container to the ColomboHarbour on the 12^th of this month from Japan with motor spare parts and machinery. Customs officials said that the ColomboHarbour is the only location in the south Asian region which possesses equipment to identify radioactive material. Even the Atomic Energy Authority had confirmed that the container contained radioactive material. Customs Officer Prabath Chaminda Daya Fernando said that serious health issues would have been encountered if by chance this material reached the public.

The Committee Report on the running of a locomotive sans a driver has been handed over to the Transport Minister.

A locomotive without a driver proceeded a distance of 15 kilometres on the Southern rail track from the Dematagoda Yard to Ratmalana on the 5th of this month at midnight. No damage was caused and no one suffered injuries as the engine operated on this track in the midnight. The engine was brought to a halt due to the dedication of the railway employees. Various sectors expressed different views on the operation of this locomotive without a driver. Some referred to the operation of an engine in this manner on December 5th midnight about one hundred years ago. However, a three member Committee was appointed to inquire into how the locomotive operated without a driver.

The report of this Committee was handed over at the auditorium of the Railways General Manager’s Office to Transport Minister Kumara Welgama today.

Handing over the report to Minister Welgama, Deputy Transport Superintendent A.D.G. Seneviratne said that the shunting driver and the assistant were responsible for the incident.

Mr. Seneviratne mentioned that they were able to uncover the truth in this ordeal. He revealed that the shunting driver and his assistant who were serving at that time are at fault. The Committee decided that the incident happened due their negligence.

Expressing views to the media after the receipt of the inquiry report, Minister Kumara Welgama said that he considered the incident as a mistake and if it was an act of sabotage, Mr. Sumanaratne would not have run behind the engine. However, the Minister said that it was a serious mistake.

The remorseless terrorists spread terror throughout the country for 30 years. The devastation unleashed by the terrorists to public property and the many lives taken away by them are countless.

This is another episode of the brutality of the terrorists that is being reminisced in this episode.

The ruthless terrorists killed three war heroes on 30^th December 1984 in the Jaffna area and thus commenced their killing spree on 30^th December throughout the dark era. On 30^th December 1998, a group of tiger terrorists covertly entered Paranthan and were attempting to take away many lives. But the war heroes succeeded in foiling the attempts of the terrorists.

Three war heroes lost their lives following an attack unleashed by the fleeing terrorists. On 30^th December 2008, two war heroes lost their lives following another attack mooted by the terrorists at Akkarayankulam. On the same day, the terrorists mooted a massive attack in the Paranthan area. Four brave soldiers made supreme sacrifices on behalf of the unity of the country.

Terrorism which plagued the country in this manner was uprooted from the Nanthikadal Lagoon on 18^th May 2009. By that time the terrorists had taken away 27 lives on 30^th December in the fear psychosis period. Of this one was a civilian. The other 26 were war heroes. If terrorism was not annihilated from the country due to the far sighted policies of President Rajapaksa successfully handling the members of the Security Forces, it would not have been possible to halt the flow of blood in every part of the country.

All communities are now breathing a sigh of relief and living in a peaceful environment. However, it is the aim of certain local as well as extraneous forces to create rifts among these communities and witness clashes. But the peace loving citizens cannot be duped by such sinister strategies. They have already proved to the entire world that they dedicated to safeguard the peace enthroned in the country even by sacrificing their lives.

Human rights breached by Britain and the United States in Iraq and Afghanistan are now surfacing in the world. But Human Rights outfits which do not speak even a word on such violations are seeking reports from Sri Lanka on various incidents that took place during the final stages of the humanitarian operations.

Sri Lankan war heroes did not kill innocent civilians. They took the initiative of liberating more than 300 thousand civilians from the clutches of the blood thirsty terrorists. Isn’t it the best report that could be forwarded with respect to the protection of human rights?

A German Mayor who understood the reality life through the Buddha Dhamma entered the Sasana at the Mihintale Sacred Area recently.

Herman Akar, the Mayor of the Oberndorf Municipal Council in Germany entered the priesthood. AS the head of a Local Council he had rendered yeoman service on behalf of the welfare of the people. He was trained in methods of meditation for mental development. He also took the initiative of securing a better knowledge on the Buddhist Philosophy when he met the Chief Incumbent of the Mihintale Raja Maha Vihare, the Ven. Walawahengunuwewe Dhammaratana Thera.

He entered the priesthood as the Ven. Germaniye Ratanasiri Thera at Aaradanagala in Mihintale doing away with laity hood.

Ace spinner Rangana Herath is hoping lack of Tests will not affect his bowling in the first of three Tests against Pakistan starting in Abu Dhabi from tomorrow. Sri Lanka have not played the five-day format since beating Bangladesh at home in March this year, but Herath claimed he is ready to play in the first Test.

The 35-year-old left-armer is seen as Sri Lanka’s answer to Pakistan’s off-spinner Saeed Ajmal in the Tests but Herath said he was not concerned with the hype. Herath took 12 wickets in Sri Lanka’s second Test win against Bangladesh in Colombo. And his record against Pakistan, 51 in 12 matches also speaks volume for his success.

Eden Hazard and Samuel Eto’o scored first-half goals as Chelsea came from behind to secure a 2-1 win over title rival Liverpool in the Premier League. Martin Skrtel put the Reds in front from close range at Stamford Bridge, Hazard hit back in the 17th with a superb strike. Eto’o gave Jose Mourinho’s team a decisive lead from Oscar’s back.

Third-place Chelsea trails leader Arsenal by two points and Manchester City by one point. Liverpool is six points adrift after slipping to a second consecutive loss.

“The Best Offer” is a 2013 Italian romantic mystery film written and directed by Giuseppe Tornatore.

The film stars Geoffrey Rush, Jim Sturgess, Sylvia Hoeks and Donald Sutherland, while the music score is composed by Ennio Morricone. The film tells a story of love and deceit, set in Europe in the world of high-end art auctions and antiques.

The story revolves around Virgil Oldman, an elderly and esteemed, but somewhat eccentric, managing director of an auction house. The Movie is to be releases on Wednesday the first, the New Yer’s Day.

The President has stated in Hambantota that the responsibility of moulding a future generation that identifies the local values lies with women.

The 24th convention of the Hambantota Women’s Development Federation was held this morning under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and the First Lady at the Singapore community service centre in Hambantota. Speaking at the occasion the President stated that the main responsibility of creating a moral society in keeping with the cultural values lies with the women.

He said that taking care of the woman is a responsibility of every government. He expressed his appreciation on the services rendered by the Hambantota District Development Federation. The President also presented excellence awards for 6 zonal secretaries of the federation that has a membership of mothers from low income families. The First Lady awarded 6 manageresses.

The quarterly publication Devi was presented to the President after the award presentation. Parliamentarian Kamala Ranatunge, Hambantota Mayor Eraj Ravindra, Professor Carlo Fonseka and Chairperson of the Hambantota Women’s Development Federation K. Indrani were among those who participated in the occasion.

The President has inaugurated Sethsuva Medura the safe food outlet.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa inaugurated the Sethsuva Medura this morning set up with a view to provide nutritious food devoid of toxins. The Sethsuva Medura is being operated under the guidance of the Chief Incumbent of the Sambodhi Vihare Ven. Daranagama Kusaladhamma Thera and the observation of the GMOA. After the inauguration the President visited the stalls and exchanged views with the sales personnel. Expressing his views the President stated that while the country is being built after ending a 30 year war the need of the hour is to provide indigenous foods devoid of toxins. The President called on the farming community to be dedicated to this noble undertaking. The President stated that it is important to introduce an indigenous meal to the people. He called on the farmers to refrain from using chemical fertilizers.

The Sethsuva Medura will remain open on all Sundays at the Sri Sambodhi Vihare in Colombo 7 providing indigenous foods free of toxins. A clinic is also being held on non communicable diseases. The President launched a website that raises awareness on food nutrition. He handed over souvenirs to Chef Publis Silva for promoting local recipes and Baladuruge Chandrasiri for his contribution to promote tourism through arts. A list of proposals prepared by the GMOA for the creation of a healthy society was handed over to the President. The President also observed the main control room of the Buddhist Channel. Ministry officials including the Secretary to the Health Ministry Dr. Nihal Jayatillake, the Commanders of the security forces and the IGP participated in the occasion.

The President participated in religious observances at a number of temples in Tangalle.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa who visited the Nakulugamuva Sri Shailaramaya last evening called on the Chief Incumbent of the temple Ven. Urugamuve Ratanapala Thera and thereafter participated in religious observations. He also called on the Chief Incumbent of Sri Pushparama Vihare in Kadigamuva Ven. Pasgoda Samidi Thera. The President also participated in the meeting of the Bhikku Federation of the Southern Province. The President thereafter visited the Henkaduwa Raja Maha Vihare in Tangalla where a number of religious ceremonies are currently being held to invoke blessings on the country. The President paid his obeisance to the Crest Gem placed at the Dhatu Mandira. Blessings were invoked on the President by the Chief Incumbent of the temple Ven. Weeraketiye Nalaka Thera. First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa also participated in the occasion.

Meanwhile the President visited the award winning sculptor Thilak Vidanagamage at his residence in Galagama, Beliatta. Belonging to a generation of sculptors, he has made his contribution to the sculpture of Buddha statues in a number of temples. Secretary to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Wasantha Ekanayake also participated in the occasion.

A conspiracy to mislead the international community by indicating that there is a security lapse in the north has been exposed.

A Tamil youth who was said to have disappeared was located at a friend’s place. Police have also been informed of organized groups that go into hiding after lodging complaints at the Police stations that the concerned persons were missing. Their objective is to carry false propaganda to the international community through foreign media, seek assistance from the diaspora and to prevent the Tamils enjoying the ‘refugee status’ from returning to the country. Police have been able to locate a resident of Pointpedro following a complaint lodged at the police that he was missing. Making a statement to the Police the youth said that he wanted to obtain Australian citizenship. He said that his father assisted him. He went to a friend’s house in a bus and informed sister over the phone that he was abducted by four persons at the Mulaitivu town. That is why they lodged a complaint.

Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana that the Tamil politicians in the area alleged on several occasions, that members of the security forces abduct innocent youths in the area. However the 22 year old Suriyakumar was found in Mullaweli in Mulaitivu. It was found out that he wanted to hand over a copy of the complaint to the Australian High Commission to seek refugee status in Australia. The Police Media Spokesman said that he was arrested and strict action will be taken against those who betray the country in this manner.

Meanwhile Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that the operations will be continued to arrest drunk drivers.

He said 1306 persons were arrested in the operation that was carried out from 6.00pm on the 24th to 6.00am today.

During the last 24 hours 246 persons were arrested.

The operation will continue round the clock until the 5th of this month covering all Police divisions. He said that more Police personnel will be deployed from tomorrow to the 1st of January.

The reason for the current budget defeats in the local government institutions is the focus on wealth and power instead of principled politics.

The General Secretary of the SLFP pointed out that those who aspire to undertake a long political journey under the party should be principled and disciplined.

SLFP General Secretary Maitripala Sirisena expressed this view addressing the gathering at the inaugural function of the new auditorium. It was constructed at the expenditure of 6 million rupees. The Chief Minister of the Southern Province Shan Wijayalal de Silva also participated in the occasion. Speaking further he said that a number of senior politicians in the country started their careers at the local government institutions. They climbed to the top positions as they honoured the party leadership and the decisions made by the party while conducting themselves in a disciplined and principled manner. The Minister pointed out that some politicians have to abandon their political career at the starting point due to their behaviour.

Minister Maitripala Sirisena stated that as the General Secretary of the party he sees the situation as arising when attempts are being made to improve the economic situation with the power they have. The Minister said that those who are engaged in quality politics carry out humanitarian work paying no regard for money and wealth.

Twenty Indian fishermen who illegally encroached on the Sri Lankan waters were taken into custody in the northern seas.

The Navy said that they intentionally encroached on the boundaries when they possessed location tracking high tech GSP devices in their vessels.

The arrested fishermen have been brought to the Kankesanthurai harbour along with 6 vessels that belonged to them. Navy Spokesman Commander Kosala Warnasuriya said that they will be handed over to the fisheries inspector of the area to carry out further investigations.

The tiger terrorists should be held responsible for the colossal damage that they caused to this country.

The following report deals with the LTTE brutalities that certain sectors are attempting to forget. The LTTE cadres killed three soldiers on 29th December 1991 in Welioya and started the spate of violence on December 29th. In an attack targeting a group of soldiers on foot patrol on 29th December 1992 in Poonakari four soldiers were killed. Five soldiers were killed in an ambush carried out on 29th December in Palali, Jaffna in 1996. Two soldiers on duty in Batticaloa were killed on 29th December 1999. Eleven members of the security forces were killed in clashes that occurred in Paranthan and Kumalamunai in Jaffna on 29th December 2008. When terrorism was flushed out from the soil on 18th May 2009 36 lives had been lost to the LTTE including 3 civilians and 33 members of the security forces. The soldiers who advanced under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa eliminated terrorism that had cast a shadow over the country for 30 years. All communities are living in harmony in the peaceful environment in the motherland today. Certain foreign forces are attempting to destroy the peace and freedom. Their main objective has been to create discord among the communities. The US and Britain that committed serious human right violations in Iraq and Afghanistan are tight-lipped about such incidents. It is absurd that those quarters are seeking a report from this country. It is highly regrettable that they have forgotten that they are hurling stones from glass houses.

The evaluation of the answer scripts of the GCE (O) Level Examination will start tomorrow.

The evaluation will be conducted under two stages. The first stage that starts tomorrow will be continued until the 7th of January at 79 schools. The second stage will start on the 16th and will be carried out at 19 schools. It will be concluded on the 24thof January. 1842 evaluation boards consisting of 40,000 teachers will be engaged in marking the answer scripts at 122 centres.

The Indian customs arrested three Sri Lankans who smuggled a stock of illegal gold jewellery to Chennai.

The jewellery was found in the possession of the Sri Lankans who flew from Katunayake to Chennai. The Indian custom officials said that the jewellery weighed 1.6 kilo grammes and worth more than 5 million rupees. Indian media reports said that the suspects are residents of Kandy and further investigations are being carried out into the incident.

“The Lego Movie” is an upcoming 2014 American-Australian computer-animated adventure comedy film directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller and based on the Lego line of construction toys. The film features the voices of Chris Pratt, Will Arnett, Elizabeth Banks, Morgan Freeman, Will Ferrell, and Liam Neeson. The Movie is scheduled to be released on 7th February.

Chris Rogers struck a sparkling century to fire Australia to a dominant eight wicket win in the fourth Ashes test, leaving an insipid England staring down the barrel of a humiliating series whitewash. The victory pushed Australia to a 4-0 series lead and the prospect of sweeping England in the fifth and final test in Sydney seven years after the team whitewashed the tourists in 2006-07. Australia captain Michael Clarke joined Watson to administer the last rites for England, who played out the final sessions with a deflating weariness to allow the hosts to mow through the 231 runs required for victory without breaking sweat. Watson whipped a boundary square to secure the win in style. Australia paceman Mitchell Johnson, who took eight wickets, was named man-of-the-match, having won the award for both the first two tests in Brisbane and Adelaide.

Today marks the first anniversary of former England captain and Television Commentator Tony Greig’s death. Tony Greig died of a heart attack at the age of 66 last year after being diagnosed with lung cancer. Greig, who played 58 Tests for England, was initially diagnosed with bronchitis in May 2012, then the condition lingered and testing revealed he had lung cancer. He finished playing for England at the age of 30. In his 58-match Test career, Greig scored 3thousand 599 runs at an average of 40.43 and picked up 141 wickets. He slammed eight centuries during his Test career. In 22 ODIs that he played, Greig scored 269 runs and managed 19 wickets. He later became a popular commentator and had worked for Nine Network.

The UNP is once again facing a crisis that might cause a split.

The leadership council may also stop functioning. The party sources said that the crisis intensified following the 55th convention of the party. The leadership council set up by a group led by Karu Jayasuriya who vouched to remove the leadership and rebuild the party became the leadership council of Ranil Wickramasinghe at the 55th convention of the party. The internal party sources say that the dreams of Sajith Premadasa to achieve the top position have been shattered as Ranil Wickramasinghe has consolidated his position. There have been indications that deep divisions may occur in the party in the near future. The sources say that the biggest problem faced by the party is selecting a candidate for the Presidential election. The party activists say neither Ranil Wickramasinghe nor the leadership council can even win a Pradeshiya Sabha election. The internal sources say that a group led by Mangala Samaraweera is attempting to destroy the party by proposing a common candidate. The surveys have revealed that the party will definitely lose. The internal sources say that the leadership council will be dissolved following the local government election as cracks are imminent in the next few days. It is hinted that a few stalwarts may even leave the party.

The Human Rights record of the US that calls for investigation reports from Sri Lanka on the incidents alleged to have taken place during the war is now being exposed to the world.

Although the US is in an attempt to cover up the violation of human rights by their Army on foreign soil under the pretext of state secrets, the founder of WikiLeaks Julian Assange has started revealing them to the world.

The July 12, 2007 Baghdad airstrikes were a series of air-to-ground attacks conducted by a team of two United States Army AH-64 Apache helicopters in Al-Amin al-Thaniyah, in the district of New Baghdad in Baghdad, during the Iraqi insurgency which followed the Iraq War. The attacks received worldwide coverage following the release of 39 minutes of classified cockpit gun sight footage in 2010. In the first strike, the crew of the two Apaches directed 30mm cannon fire at a group of nine to eleven men in the path of advancing U.S. Army ground troops. Among the group were two Iraqi war correspondents working for Reuters, Saeed Chmagh and Namir Noor-Eldeen. Eight men, including Noor-Eldeen were killed during this first strike. The second strike, also using 30 mm rounds, was directed at a wounded Chmagh and two other unarmed men as they were attempting to help Chmagh into their van just before American soldiers arrived on the ground. Two children inside the van were wounded, the three men were killed, including Chmagh.

In a third strike the helicopter team fired three AGM-114 Hellfire missiles to destroy a building they believed was the source of enemy gunfire. Reuters had unsuccessfully requested the footage of the airstrikes under the Freedom of Information Act in 2007. The footage was acquired from an undisclosed source in 2009 by the Internet leak website WikiLeaks, which released the footage on April 5, 2010, under the name Collateral Murder. Recorded from the gun-sight Target Acquisition and Designation System of one of the attacking helicopters, the video shows the incident and the radio chatter between the aircrews and ground units involved. An anonymous US military official confirmed the authenticity of the footage.

The system of recording complaints in Sinhala or Tamil language at Police Stations will be streamlined.

Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that the programme launched targeting Tamil speaking people in the north and the east has been expanded. He said that a special programme was launched in 2009 in the post war period to entertain complaints in Tamil where the there is a predominantly Tamil speaking population. He said that a programme has been commenced to send all reports to the courts in Tamil

Parliamentarian Dilum Amunugama has said that what lies behind the budget defeats of certain local government institutions are personal agendas and therefore it’s not a political defeat.

The Parliamentarian said that Kandy Municipal Council was governed by the UNP for 58 years and the Gangawata Korale for 13 years. Now they are being administered by the UPFA but the budgets were passed without clashes.

He said that only in a few local government institutions that the budgets are defeated. At certain places it has been due to the activities of certain Chairmen and at others it has been due to someone’s need to oust the Chairmen in order to climb to that position. He said that certain sections of the media have attempted to show it as a defeat of the SLFP. It is wrong as the budget was won in most of the local government institutions. He said that the UNP General Secretary had asked the members of Kandy Municipal Council and Gangawata Korale Pradeshiya Sabha which were earlier UNP bastions to vote against, although the budgets were passed unanimously.

A new website on food and nutritional requirements will be launched tomorrow in Colombo to raise public awareness on nutrition.

An outlet that sells vegetables and fruits that were organically grown will also be inaugurated at the Sambodhi Vihare in Colombo 7. The website on the food requirements has been designed by the Government Medical Officers Association to raise awareness on food. Arrangements have been made to launch the website at the Sambodhi Vihare tomorrow. The first part of the website consists of advice on breast feeding while the second part will be launched next month. The GMOA said that awareness will be created about the nutrition of the infants between 6 months and one year during that stage. The prevalence of non communicable diseases is believed to have increased due to the consumption of instant food and food containing chemicals. The ratio has been much higher in comparison to the spread of communicable diseases. The death rate due to non communicable diseases has also increased. The GMOA said that the website consists the required information on food that must be consumed, taking the prevailing situation into consideration.

The fire that erupted in Hantana has been brought under control.

The fire that occurred in Hantane around 4.00pm was brought under control by the fire brigade of the Kandy Municipal Council. A Bell -412 helicopter of the Air Force was also used to douse the fire. Army teams have also been sent to the area. The cause of the fire has so far not been ascertained. Special Police teams are carrying out investigations.

Although terrorism is a thing of the past, the people of this country remember the gloom that prevailed over the country during the period.

Brutality was the hallmark of terrorists. The following report is shedding light on that dark period. The LTTE terrorists carried out a bomb attack on 28th December 1985 in Sirinoppu area. One soldier was killed in the explosion. On 28th December 1990 two soldiers were killed in an attack carried out with small arms in Nanattan. On the same day in an ambush in Bakmitiyawa 7 soldiers were killed. Two soldiers were killed in another attack on Nilaweli on 28th Dec.1999. Three soldiers were killed in a brutal attack in Chavakachcheri on 28th December 2008. The terrorists triggered a bomb explosion near St. Anne’s church in Wattala just three days after Christmas, paying scant regard for the international law of war. Seven soldiers who were on duty providing protection the people overnight were killed in the blast that targeted innocent civilians. During the 30 years of terrorism a total of 31 lives were lost on this day including one civilian and 30 soldiers. Neither did the terrorists understand the value of human life nor did they respect any religion. The colossal damage they caused to the country is difficult to be erased from our memories. The soldiers who advanced under the leadership of the Commander in Chief of the Security Forces President Mahinda Rajapaksa and the proper guidance provided by Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa could annihilate terrorism on 18th May 2009 at the Nandikadal lagoon. What the security forces released was not a land that was under the LTTE rule but hundreds of thousands of lives from the clutches of terrorism. It was a humanitarian operation in the real sense. The humaneness of the soldiers who put a stop to terrorism taught a lesson to the world. It disturbed certain quarters. The sinister forces here that act against the country and the international pro-LTTE factions have joined hands in hurling accusations against the country. They are asking for investigation reports. They need to seek investigation reports from the tiger terrorists who committed a big massacre. The above is an investigation report on the LTTE brutality.

Minister S.B. Dissanayake has said that the renowned international universities and educational institutes are setting up their branches in the country to provide their services.

He pointed out that the higher education in the country has reached a very high standard. The Minister stated that measures are being taken to upgrade the universities to the international level. The main universities in the world are permitted to start their braches in Sri Lanka. A Japan Sri Lanka friendship university will soon come up with aid from The Japan International Cooperation Agency. He said that students from Japan, China, Pakistan and India will start arriving in the country.

He made the observation when he participated in a programme to award scholarships to the children of low income families until they finish their education. The scholarships were awarded to 310 children from a number of families. It was organised by the ‘Sri Lanka Senehasa’ Foundation under the guidance of Ven. Galagama Dhammaransi Thera who is the consultant to the Foundation.

The fifth session of the Youth Parliament has begun.

The fifth session of the 2nd Youth Parliament organised by the Sri Lanka Youth Services Council got underway under the patronage of Minister Dallas Alahapperuma today. The session will continue tomorrow at the youth centre in Maharagama where a debate will be held on the 2014 budget. The NYSC said that it is the first time when a debate will be held among the youths, in favour of and against a budget. The youth Parliament consists of 412 Parliamentarians. The keynote address of the first day was delivered by the Secretary to the Ministry of Finance Dr. P.B. Jayasundara. The second day will be inaugurated under the patronage of the Chief Minister of the Northern Province C.V. Vigneshwaran.

The turtle that has become a hot topic today is entitled to a life time spanning hundreds of years although the species is facing extinction.

Is there a truth to the stories that are making rounds about the albino turtle? Our production team reached the turtle conservation centre in Benthota south in search of the truth.

A number of turtle conservation projects are underway along the coastal areas from the Western Province to the Southern Province. Kithsiri Kannangara who is charge of the turtle conservation projects in Bentota South said that the turtles lay eggs at night on the beach that stretches from Mt. Lavinia to Hikkaduwa. Due to human activity the eggs get destroyed. The turtle hatcheries have come up in those areas to protect them. The eggs are kept inside protective cages. No sooner the hatchlings come out they are released to the sea. There are 5 varieties of turtles in the country. They are the green turtle, the Olive Ridley turtle, Hawksbill turtle, loggerhead turtle and leatherback turtle. The World Wildlife Fund has identified the turtle as an endangered species. Therefore it has been prohibited to keep them, collect turtle eggs or consume them. He said that albino turtles can be born in any of the above varieties and their life span can be short as they are more fragile.

It is the duty of the people to conserve the turtle which is an innocent animal.

Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones is an upcoming 2014 American supernatural horror film written and directed by Christopher B. Landon. The story begins in June 2012, at a party in Oxnard, California. After a woman dies in the apartment beneath the party, some party goers camera to investigate. They discover items associated with black magic rituals, even the missing tapes from Paranormal Activity 3. When Jesse, the film’s lead protagonist, discovers an inhuman bite mark on his arm, strange forces pursue him while Jesse’s loved ones attempt to save him. The movie will be released on the 3rd of next month.

Customs Officers have seized a container with ethanol. The container has been imported from Malaysia. This is the ninth occasion that the customs had seized a container with ethanol.

Customs at the yard seized the 20 foot long container with 80 barrels containing 16,000 liters of Ethanol today. Its value was 3.2 million rupees. The container was imported by a resident of Borella from Malaysia and was deemed to have evaded millions of taxes. The container of Ethanol had been imported under the guise of MDS boards.

The government has incurred a loss of almost 10 million rupees due to tax evasions by the stock of Ethanol. An establishment in the Kotahena area had been tasked with clearing the container. Director General Customs Jagath P. Wijeweera said that further investigations are being carried out.

Mr. Wijeweera pointed out that the ethanol concentration was 96 percent. Investigations were being pursued. It is not a banned liquid. It can be imported by paying the required import duty. He mentioned that intelligence services have been strengthened. As such he said that they had been able to uncover such rackets.

A stock of fruits ripened with the spraying of ethephon has been seized. The value of the stock is 10 million rupees. The Consumer Affairs Authority seized the stock from Pettah. The Authority said that a stock of 75,000 kilograms of fruits was seized. Special operations were launched in the Pettah area in search of fruits being ripened with the application of chemicals.

The Officer of the Consumer Affairs Authority in charge of carrying out raids in Colombo Pradeep Kalutharachchi said that action was initiated to appraise the vendors of the damage caused to the health by the use of chemicals to ripen fruits.

Mr. Kalutharachchi said that they examined all fruit stalls at the Manning Market. They uncovered a mechanism of the application of chemicals to ripen the fruits. It is an improper strategy. Such fruits are not suitable for consumption. He said that these vendors had been engaged in such a process for a long period. Mr. Kalutharachchi added that they expected to continuously carry out raids to detect the use of chemicals to ripen fruits.

The External Affairs Minister has said that Sri Lanka can fully undertake the tasks set out by the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission and guarantee the rights of its citizens. Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris made this comment in an interview with the Latin American News Agency Prensa Latina

The Minister said Sri Lanka has the institutions, the resources and the will to take forward the rebuilding of the country, continue strengthening the economy, and ensuring a decent life for all, no matter their religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.

It has been a little more than four years since the end of the war against the LTTE, and signs of progress are visible in every part of the country.

The Minister underscored that threats and international pressure are not the path for them to go forward. The international community should give the country a vote of trust, because the Sri Lankan government has the greatest will to do things right and is dedicating great resources to reconciliation and reconstruction.

It is a mistake to apply selective and subjective standards to Sri Lanka. He added that the UN Human Rights Council must consider the facts, by their own merits.

A suspect from Tamil Nadu who was videoing Army Camps in the North has been arrested. Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that the suspect who had breached immigration and emigration regulations was under interrogation.

He mentioned that after the arrest the Police examined the video camera. It was revealed that there were scenes and photographs of military installations, military camps and the movement of soldiers.

SSP Ajith Rohana said the suspect was entrusted to the Terrorist Investigation Division. He had been brought to Colombo for further investigation. Investigations have revealed that TNA MPs had got down this person from Tamil Nadu. The Police Media Spokesman added that this persons is 20 years old and called Tamil Prabhakaran Manik.

The second stage of the modernized Racecourse Grandstand is now opened to the public. The renovated Colombo Racecourse grandstand was declared open by Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa at a ceremony held at the Racecourse Ground. The opening took place in the presence of Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. The reconstruction of the racecourse grounds commenced under the Colombo City beautification programme on the instructions of President Rajapaksa and the guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

The reconstruction under the first stage carried out with the immense contribution of the security forces members was declared open recently. It was the second stage of the project that was vested in the public yesterday.

Having established while retaining its historic importance and architectural uniqueness, the new refurbished Racecourse Grandstand comprises a pavilion, restaurants, dress boutiques, sport shops, handy craft and gift shops. The old racecourse, once a land mark site in Colombo had been neglected for a considerable period of time.

Security Forces members who played a significant role in the modernizations were feted in parallel to the opening ceremony. Senior Minister A.H.M. Fowzie, Ministers Prof. G.L. Peiris and Rajitha Senaratne, Parliamentarians J.R.P. Suriyappepruma and Duminda Silva and Chiefs of the Security Forces graced the occasion.

A programme has been launched to sell coconuts at reasonable prices. The Chilaw Plantations in collaboration with the Coconut Development Authority and the Coconut Cultivation Board is launching the programme at the behest of Minister Jagath Pushpakumara. Accordingly coconuts can be purchased at reasonable prices from specially established outlets at Chilaw Plantations at No: 11, Duke Street, Colombo 01, the Coconut Development Authority at Nawala Road in Narahenpita and at the Coconut Cultivation Board located at Denzil Kobbekaduwa Mawatha in Battaramulla.

The maximum price of a coconut sold at these outlets is 45 rupees. Minister Jagath Pushpakumara pointed out that plans are afoot to set up special trading outlets at more locations within next week.

Families are now permitted to enter Padiyapelella which was uninhabited due to a landslide threat.

Almost half of the Padiyapelella town was threatened with landslides due to the extreme weather conditions experienced for nine days in the entire area. Thereafter the National Building Research Institute uninhabited the entire town and action was initiated to relocate the entire town. With the mediation of the Disaster Management Ministry, the uphill task of conserving the town again was undertaken incurring an expenditure of over 50 million rupees.

This project has now been successfully completed. The second bridge built with bricks by the Britons in 1847 is also located in this town. There were 160 trading establishments while the number of families living in the town was 235. The Padiyapelella town is located on either side of Belihuloya which is flowing to the Randenigala Reservoir from Mandaram Nuwara. It is also the only commercial town for several areas within the suburbs.

The National Buildings Research Institute has carried out the constructions and processed the land in a manner conserving the entire Padiyapelella town. It pointed out that a need will not arise to relocate the town again.

A large scale kasippu den has been raided while a racket of transporting marijuana has been also uncovered.

The Mirigama Police successfully detected a large scale den which was brewing illicit liquor utilizing modern machinery. The operation has been carried out in a two storeyed house situated near the Bothale Pahalagama bus route in Mirigama. The Police said they were able to apprehend three suspects. The owner had obtained a monthly rental of 25,000 rupees. The Police also seized a van modified with special tanks for the transport of kasippu. It has been found that an unidentified chemical and fertilizer had been used for the production of this illicit liquor. Several packets of fertilizer had also been recovered from the location.

In the meantime the Moneragala Police have succeeded in uncovering a racket of transporting marijuana from Wellawaya under the guise of transporting sand. 84 kilograms of marijuana were recovered from a tipper that was plying from Wellawaya towards Ampara. Two suspects were nabbed while the Moneragala Police are conducting further inquiries.

The damage unleashed by the terrorists to public property as well as the people cannot be estimated. More blood would have been shed by these notorious terrorists if the war heroes did not rout them and bring peace to the country due to the prudent leadership of the President.

The tiger terrorists waging a battle with the war heroes in Eluwativu and Nayanathivu areason 27th December 1988 killed a soldier, thus commencing the shedding of blood in the dark era. The terrorists unleashed an attack on a group of war heroes in the Muttur area in Trincomalee on 27th December 1994, killing two soldiers.

Again on 27th December 1997, two war heroes who were providing security to civilians in the Jayanthiyaya area were killed in a terrorist attack. On the same day a group of terrorists who reached the vicinity of the Vavuniya Forward Defence Line mooted an attack on the war heroes killing two war heroes. Elephant Pass was the next target of the tiger terrorists. 52 war heroes made supreme sacrifices in this assault on behalf of the unity of the motherland. In another terrorist attack on the same day, the terrorists took away the lives of three gallant soldiers.

On 27th December in the year 2005, the terrorists exploded a bomb targeting a vehicle of the 524th Brigade in the Orankatti area, thus depriving the country the noble services of 12 war heroes. Four innocent civilians died in an attack unleashed by the dreadful tiger terrorists in the Kurumankadu area on 27th December in the year 2007. The attack was targeted at EPDP members.

In the year 2008, on a day like today, the remorseless terrorists mooted several attacks in the Iranamadu, Kumalamunai and Oddusudan areas targeting the war heroes. In these attacks, 41 war heroes made supreme sacrifices on behalf of the unity of the country.

When terrorism which was scourging the country for 30 years was annihilated on 18th May 2009, the terrorists had taken away the lives of four civilians and 126 war heroes on 27th December throughout the fear psychosis period. Freedom was endowed to the country by President Rajapaksa without being deterred in the face of local as well as extraneous forces with the intention of creating a peaceful environment for the posterity.

The patriotic fraternity of the country had already proved to the world that they will not permit any force to betray the freedom that prevails in the motherland. It is pathetic to note that foreign forces as well as their stooges had not yet understood this phenomenon.

Measures have been taken to immediately halt the import of bean seeds. Minister Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena has instructed the Director General for Agriculture to suspend the import of bean seeds.

The Agriculture Minister issued these instructions to the Director General of Agriculture Dr. Rohan Wijekoon at a function held at the head office of the Hadabima Authority at Getambe marking its 35th Anniversary. The Minister revealed at this function of plans to gradually reduce the import of vegetables and fruits.

At present the country possesses 25,000 kilograms of high quality bean seeds. As such the Minister said that there is no need of importing bean seeds.

Facilities for tourists visiting the Dunhinda Waterfall have been enhanced.

The location is visited not only by local tourists. It attracts many foreign tourists. The water level of the Dunhinda falls has risen due to the incessant rains that are being experienced in the area. As such it is more attractive at present. The access road to the Dunhinda Waterfalls has been developed with a grant of 2.7 million rupees and with the mediation of the Tourism Ministry of the Uva Provincial Council.

The development of the roadway to the Falls will enable the tourists to reach the location safely and without encountering hindrances. The economy of the traders on either side of the roadway has also enhanced.

The entire country remained silent for a while. No one could believe the Information the received. They were astonished after hearing that information. The country could not believe as to what had happened. It was exactly on 26th December in the year 2004.

The Full Moon Poya day dawned with Christmas day drawing to a close. Many were in Vihares observing Sil. The information received was bitter. Tsunami killer waves have crashed into the land snatching away thousands of lives. Can anyone believe it? History has recorded such incidents but had not witnessed in life.

There is no one who does not wish to watch sea waves, as the sea is most beautiful. But no one would have ever thought that tears would surface from such a beautiful scene. Such a tribulation was experienced on 26th December 2004. It was a long holiday with Christmas and Poya coming together. Many were enjoying their holidays during this long holiday season also along with school holidays. Families in their entirety were enjoying the scenic beauty by the sea side.

The Southern, the Northern and the Eastern beaches were filled with holiday makers while many fishermen had ventured into the sea as usual to earn their living. A scene hitherto not witnessed was experienced from the sea. Sea waves as usual did not kiss the beach and flow into the sea but flooded the land areas several metres inwards. Some waves were several metres high. The rough waves thus crashed into the land.

What happened to those who were spending their holidays in the beach? Exactly at 9.25 in the morning of 26th December 2004, waves crashed landed inland from the Northern and Eastern seas as well as from the South up to Colombo. It was so violent. What happened to the sea that was calm? No one ever believed as to what had taken place. Many were washed away into the sea.

Many lives were lost and vast damage unleashed to property. This was the news that spread not only throughout the country but in the entire world. Camera crews toured round the country. Unfortunate scenes were recorded on video footage. It was very pity to hear voices screaming all over the place seeking help. It was pathetic to hear these voices. There are no communal, caste, religious or any other differences for the sea. The rich as well as the poor were caught up in these deadly waves.

Within minutes many lives were lost. Many were being washed away into the seas. Bodies were seen floating. Massive rail tracks were destroyed. An entire train was caught up in these tsunami waves at Pereliya with thousands of passengers. Such a massive disaster had not been hitherto experienced in any part of the world.

It is exactly nine years since this tsunami battered the country. This unfortunate day was being commemorated today. The country lost thousands of lives as a result of the tsunami which battered many coastal areas in the island. No one is yet aware of the exact number of lives lost in this disaster.

Everyone in the country united when the disaster struck the country forgetting all differences. Their desire was that the country should rise up from this debris. All in unison stood up together. The political leadership played a prominent role to overcome the destruction caused. Mahinda Rajapaksa, the then Prime Minister and the incumbent President took the forefront. All political parties united. Even the world community helped the island. Everything was done expeditiously.

The whole country joined hands in supporting the affected. Even the Independent Television took the forefront in assisting the disaster struck persons. The people did whatever they could to assist their colleagues at this hour of calamity. Tsunami affected families were assisted. Houses were put up. Buildings were constructed. Other than lives every thing were dished out to the affected families. Nine years had now passed since experiencing this tragedy. Every one remembers the past even today when passing the beaches.

As such even today two minutes silence is observed on 26th December. It is to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives in the face of tsunami. We wish and pray that such an unfortunate incident will never be experienced throughout our lives.

The National Safety Day was commemorated in Kalutara today.

The National Safety Day commemoration is being held on 26th December every year with the intention of moulding a safe Sri Lanka. This year National Safety Day commemoration was held under the patronage of Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne. It was organized by the Ministry of Disaster Management. The support of the Disaster Management Centre and the Kalutara District Secretariat was extended.

Expressing his views on the occasion Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne said the commemoration organized in memory of those killed by the tsunami is of special significance under several categories.

The Prime Minister said that the President had taken appropriate action for the welfare of the people and the safety of their lives as well as to build houses for those who had lost them in the disaster. Also much had been done in the North and the East for the benefit of the civilians living in those regions.

A Group including many Parliamentarians participated in this function. It was announced at today’s ceremony that the next National Safety Day commemoration will be held in Hambantota.

Addressing the commemoration, Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said that a special hotline will be introduced to the public from today to intimate information regarding any disaster related issues.

He said that the public can give information on disaster related issues via contact number – 117. He mentioned that it will be operative round the clock. The Minister added that the people can report any type of disaster including floods, landslides, Tsunami, droughts as well as road accidents that require immediate relief.

Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana has said that the Police are ready to provide the necessary security to the Baduraliya Hospital at any time. Only the destitute patients are inconvenienced by the closure of the Hospital. SSP Ajith Rohana mentioned that they cannot endorse attempts made by certain elements attempting to exploit the incident to achieve parochial political aims.

The Police Media Spokesman mentioned that a strike is underway at the Baduraliya Hospital for several days. As a result patients in the area are rendered destitute. But a Parliamentarian representing the area launched a fast yesterday. When a group supporting him was obstructing the road, the Police received several calls on contact number 119 that there were obstructions to movement of traffic at Baduraliya.

Accordingly, SSP Ajith Rohana said that action was initiated to evacuate the protesters. The Police will strictly enforcing the law if anyone is protesting obstructing the movement of traffic and inconveniencing the public. Also Medical Associations have also informed that if security was being provided, the doctors are ready to reopen the Hospital.

The Police Media Spokesman underscored that the Police are ready to provide maximum security if the Hospital was reopened. He made an appeal to all parties concerned to reopen the Hospital.

Trains are slated to operate to Palai from Colombo after a lapse of 23 years. The maiden journey is scheduled to take place next month.

The Yaal Devi train is now operating on the Northern rail track up to Kilinochchi. Work on the rail track from Kilinochchi to Palai has already been completed. The installation of the signal network has now entered the final stage. LTTE terrorism brought to a complete halt the operation of trains on the Northern rail track for nearly 26 years.

The Government embarked on a programme to develop the North after the brave soldiers ended LTTE terrorism under the bold leadership of President Rajapaksa and the prudent guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. Under this programme priority was accorded to the construction of the Northern rail track. Work on this track was launched immediately and the work is progressing satisfactorily.

The first stage has already been completed. The track has been developed from Vavuniya to Omanthai. Work thereafter commenced on the second stage to construct the rail track up to Kilinochchi. Work then proceeded on the 40-kilometre rail track from Kilinochchi to Palai. The rail track has been constructed so that the train could run at a speed of 100 kilometres per hour.

Budgets of many Local Councils had been approved with a majority of votes.

The budget of the Kundasale Pradeshiya Sabha was unanimously approved with the support of the Opposition. Chairman Asela Bandara Ekanayake presented the budget. The budget was seconded by Anura Seneviratne Opposition Leader of the Local Body representing the United National Party. The Kundasale Pradeshiya Sabha has 22 members.

Next year’s budget of the Hanguranketha Pradeshiya Sabha was approved without a vote being taken up. Chairman of the Pradeshiya Sabha Ranasinghe Dissanayake presented the budget of the Local Council today.

Some seem to have forgotten the massive destruction unleashed by the tiger terrorists in the country throughout 30 years. Some are willfully attempting to forget these incidents, while some are determined to draw back the country to that dark era.

The entire country is being appraised so that such a calamity would not be experienced again. The episodes are being recalled so that such a dark period may not recur in the country.

Five war heroes died in a landmine exploded by the tiger terrorists targeting a jeep in which members of the security forces were traveling. The incident happened on 26th December in the year 1992 in Vakaneri South. Thus the terrorists embarked on their killing spree on 26th December in the dark period. On 26th December 1997, the terrorists unleashed an attack on the war heroes who were consolidating security in the Ponnankadu area. Seven war heroes were killed in this attack.

The next target of the terrorists was the Thiriyaya area in Trincomalee on 26th December 1998. They attacked the brave soldiers who were providing security to the innocent villagers, killing two of them. The tiger terrorists unleashed a massive attack on the war heroes in the Paranthan area on 26th December 1999. The number of soldiers who made supreme sacrifices in this attack was 15.

Two gallant soldiers were killed in a shell attack unleashed on a bunker at the Nagarkovil on 26th December in the year 2000. Again in the year 2007 on a day like today, the remorseless tiger terrorists killed four more war heroes in an attack at Adampan. On the same day members of the suicide sea tiger outfit mooted an attack on a naval trawler in the Northern sea taking away the lives of eleven brave naval ratings. The country lost the valuable services of three war heroes in a ruthless attack by the terrorists in the Adampan area.

By the time terrorism was annihilated from the country on 18th May 2009, the terrorists had taken away the lives of seven civilians and 55 war heroes on 26th December throughout the fear psychosis period. The members of the Security Forces succeeded in liberating the country from the terrorists risking their lives due to the direct bold decision taken by President Rajapaksa as a the Commander in Chief. All communities are now breathing a sigh of relief and enjoying the fruits of freedom won by the war heroes. Certain forces that cannot bear it are conspiring to destroy this peace and crate rights among the communities.

The nation is aware of the scrupulous strategies of these forces. But the people have not only by words but by deeds proved how they should respond to these forces. Britain and the United States are seeking reports on |human rights and leveling various accusations against Sri Lanka. But they have totally forgotten one fact. That is that they are hurling stones while remaining in glass houses.

Today is the Christmas day on which the birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated.

The Christmas was ushered in last midnight with the pealing of church bells. The midnight masses were held at all churches in the world simultaneous to the Vatican. Pope Francis used his first Christmas Day address to urge access for humanitarian aid in Syria. He told thousands of pilgrims in St Peter’s Square in the Vatican to pray for a peaceful end to violence in Syria and other conflict zones.

Large numbers participated in the Masses held throughout the country. The midnight Mass at St. Anne’s church in Wattala was held under the patronage of His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith. Wattala Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Basil Wickramasinghe and a large number of devotees participated.

The Mass held at St. Mary’s church in Pitipana, Negombo was telecast live on ITN. It was officiated by Colombo Auxiliary bishop Most. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Fernando, on the invitation of Rev. Fr. Sarath Nimal Abeysiri.

The morning Mass at St. Anthony’s church in Kochchikade, Colombo was held before a large congregation. It was officiated by Most Rev. Most. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Fernando.

The midnight Mass at St. Lourdes Church in Dampe, Piliyandala was officiated by Rev. Fr. Tony Pinto.

The Christians in the east and the central hills also participated in the midnight services. A midnight service was held at St Mary’s church in Puliyantivu in Batticaloa. A large number of Catholics in the area participated.

The people in the north also celebrated the dawn of Christmas. A large number of devotees participated in the service held at St. Anthony’s church in Rambakulam in Vavuniya. Celebrations were held at other churches in the area as well. Special services were held at St Theresa’s Church in Kilinochhci and other churches in the area.

Consumer support is essential in controlling the sale of foods that have exceeded their date of expiry or that are unfit for consumption.

Chairman of the Consumer Affairs Authority Rumy Marzook said that the flying squad has been highly efficient. 8000 -8500 outlets have been raided throughout the country. The consumers should examine the commodities that they purchase. Most of the commodities available at the market have well passed the expiry date and the Consumer Affairs Authority is unable to do everything. He said that the consumers should call on 077 10 88 922 in case of complaints. He thanked the officials for accomplishing their work.

In his Christmas message the President has stated that all Christians in Sri Lanka today have the freedom to celebrate Christmas.

The President stated that this is the beginning of the Christian teaching of universal love and peace among all people that has touched the minds of millions through history. He said that Christmas sends the important messages of simplicity in life, kindness to all, and care for nature and all beings that share this world with us.

The ringing of church bells at this festival sends out the joyous message of ‘love and peace on earth’ to all . He said that the Christians of Sri Lanka are today free to celebrate with joy the birth of the founder of their faith in keeping with the traditions of the past.

In his Christmas message the Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne stated that that people should determine to live as one nation by promoting harmony amongst communities. The Prime Minister’s message stated that the teaching of Jesus who was born in the world to bring goodwill to the people suffering due to selfishness and sin, is eternal.

In his message Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe stated that Christmas should be celebrated with pure thoughts and action. He said that Jesus Christ sacrificed his life for creating a society dominated by love and compassion.

Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has stated that there are no places of origin in the north and east as those are places of birth.

In a special Christmas message he said that it is important to substantiate their right to live in those areas.

He said that people should resolve to live in harmony discarding all communal and religious differences.

He said that Christmas is not an occasion to cater to the commercial economy. It is an occasion to contemplate which raises awareness on the value of life. He called on the people to observe it with humility in an innocent manner. He said that that the home town is the place of birth. Anyone has the right to live there. The Sinhalese have arrived in the north while the Tamils have arrived in the south and it is an appropriate development as the country belongs to all people. The Archbishop extended greetings for a holy Christmas. (END)

The LTTE caused colossal damage to the country for thirty years.

The chain of violence started on 25th December 1990 with the killing of a soldier. The terrorists attacked a group of soldiers who were on duty in Paranthan area killing four of them on 25th December 1999. On the same day a bunker of the security forces was attacked in Vavuniya killing two soldiers. The terrorists triggered a claymore explosion in Meeyankulam on 25th December 2006 targeting a vehicle that transported a group of soldiers. Three soldiers laid down their lives. On 25th December 2008 the LTTE targeted groups of soldiers in Kumanamunai in Mulaitivu killing two of them. When terrorism was eliminated from the land on 18th May 2009 a total of 24 lives including that of 2 civilians and 22 soldiers had been lost to the nation. The security forces that advanced under the leadership of the Commander In Chief of the security forces President Mahinda Rajapaksa ushered in peace at the expense of many sacrifices. All communities are living harmoniously today in the motherland which was won by them. This has disturbed certain sectors here and abroad. Their objective has been to create conflict in the country once again. They exercise numerous strategies in this connection. The patriotic people have a good understanding of such people. They are aware of the action needed to overcome such forces. It is not once that they displayed to the world that they are prepared to make any sacrifice to protect the motherland. Our soldiers rescued nearly 300 thousand people from the clutches of the terrorists and taught a lesson to the world. Those who are unbiased are of the view that is the best certification for the protection of human rights.

Consumer support is essential in controlling the sale of foods that have exceeded their date of expiry or that are unfit for consumption.

Chairman of the Consumer Affairs Authority Rumy Marzook said that the flying squad has been highly efficient. 8000 -8500 outlets have been raided throughout the country. The consumers should examine the commodities that they purchase. Most of the commodities available at the market have well passed the expiry date and the Consumer Affairs Authority is unable to do everything. He said that the consumers should call on 077 10 88 922 in case of complaints. He thanked the officials for accomplishing their work.

The National Safety Day will be observed tomorrow.

The 9th anniversary of the Tsunami disaster will be observed tomorrow. Thousands of lives were lost in various coastal areas including the south on 26th December 2004 due to the Tsunami. Substantial damage was also caused to property. Those who lost their lives due to various disasters including the Tsunami will be commemorated tomorrow.

Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said the ceremony will be held under the patronage of the President. The Ministry of Disaster Management has called on the people to observe a 2 minute silence from 9.25 to 9.27 tomorrow morning. Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said that all preparations are in place in this connection.

A network of surveillance cameras has been installed in trains.

Minster Kumara Welgama inaugurated the CCTV camera network covering Maradana and Fort railway stations to provide protection to the commuters and to monitor the train operations. It was installed at the expenditure of 37 million rupees. The technological support was extended by the Moratuwa University. The network consisting of 84 cameras contributes to the smooth operation of the railway department. The Minister stated that the security cameras will be introduced to the SLTB in the future. General Manager of the Railway Department B.A.P. Ekanayake and high ranking officials of Sri Lanka Railways participated in the occasion.

Measures are being taken to prepare a Public Relations Plan with regard to the kidney disease prevailing in the north-central province.

A media briefing was held in Anuradhapura to raise awareness in the people and to prepare a Public Relations

Plan. The media briefing was held under the patronage of Dr. Asanka Ranasinghe, head of the kidney disease control unit in the north-central province. The media briefing was planned by the research team of Public and Media Relations of the Mass Media Department at the Kelaniya University. It was revealed that a welfare programme has been launched for the welfare of the families that have been affected due to the kidney disease.

An agreement has been reached on granting nursing degrees.

President of the Public Service United Nurses Union Ven. Muruttetuwe Ananda Thera said that the expert committee appointed for the purpose has agreed on this measure.

He said that a unanimous decision was made at a discussion held yesterday under the patronage of the Health Secretary Nihal Jayatillake upgrade the post basic training school to an institute that offer degrees. He said that the measure has been delayed by 20 years. He expressed the gratitude of the Public Service United Nurses Union to the government, President and the officials concerned.

Due to the political turmoil in Bangladesh, there is heavy speculation that the upcoming ICC World T20 in March 2014 could be shifted to India. Sources inform that Eden Gardens in Kolkata and the Jharkhand State Cricket Association International stadium in Ranchi have been kept on stand-by.

A decision on whether to shift base or retain Bangladesh as the hosts for the tournament is expected to be taken soon when the Asian Cricket Council and the organisers of the tournament meet in Dhaka. The tournament starts with the qualifiers leg from March 16 and the tournament proper from March 21, when arch-rivals India and Pakistan face each other.

Dale Steyn’s four-year reign as the world’s best Test bowler has been ended by countryman Vernon Philander. South African Philander, moved top of the International Cricket Council’s rankings after finishing with 7-129 in last week’s drawn first Test against India in Johannesburg. He became the fastest South African to reach 100 Test wickets in 19 matches. Proteas fast bowler Steyn, who has taken 341 Test wickets at an average of 23.07, had been at the top of table since July 2009 after replacing Sri Lanka off-spinner Muttiah Muralitharan. South Africa is also the top Test nation, while AB de Villiers leads the Test batsmen rankings ahead of countryman Hashim Amla in second place.

“47 Ronin” is a 2013 American fantasy action film depicting a fictional account of the forty-seven Ronin, a real-life group of samurai in 18th-century Japan who avenge the murder of their master. Produced by Universal Studios, the film is directed by Carl Erik Rinsch and stars Keanu Reeves, Rinko Kikuchi, Tadanobu Asano, Hiroyuki Sanada and an ensemble of other Japanese actors. Filming started in Budapest in March 2011; it moved to Shepperton Studios in London and was concluded in Japan. The Movie is to be released today in US and will be released in the UK and Hungary tomorrow.