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Page 3
SAPRIL 2002
“I do not agree with a word of what you say, but I'll defend to the death you
right to say it."
Woltai
Tanil
TIMES
ISSN 0266 - 44 88 Vol. XX No. 4 15 APRIL 2002
Published by: TAMIL TIMES LTD PO Box 121, Sutton, Surrey SM13TD United Kingdom Phone: 020 - 8644 0972 Fax: 020 - 8241 4557
Email: prajanG)gn.apc.org editor(a)tamiltimes.org adminGltamilitimes.org
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CONTENTS
LTTE's Crucia Test 03 News Review O4 Pirapaharan Faces Media 09 Reactions to Media Conference 14 An Assessment 17 People & Politics 19 A Voice from the East 20 Pongu Thamizh - Cultural and
Poilitical Antecedents 21 Budget 2002 24 Bringing hope and peace 29 Classified 30
LITT
There is no doubt th Of Over 300 international him, but also for the CO places might have been in public. Orit might hav made a breakthrough to event, those who expect abandon the armed stru However, those who from his COmments that and that if a solution aCC separate state, they wou ing but a repetition of the that they are being mac accompanied by a bindi future. One also should major countries in which in Sri Lanka. The other ance and legitimacy by t One of the issues ra of over 100,000 Muslims Inhumanity then and COI made by the LTTE leade the right and proper stel Muslim Congress that ps The LTTE leadershi intolerance towards and the Tamil Community itse tioning the organisation' Of the LTTE that its lead whatever their policies w Towards the end of Alliance consisting of th (ACTC), Tamil Eelam Li Liberation Front (EPRLF parties too have a roletc nced by the LTTEastrai ver, now these parties L LTTE and are generally: LTTE for discussions Or process. Similarly, the came to an agreement c ary to its previously held lim people although they the SLMC in participatir place in Thailand betwe which one is able to det There is no doubt t over the years, but it she it powerful enemies. DC earned through genuine and choose their repres The LTTE is expect up to run the administral is in this COntext that the differing ethnic, religious a whole will be put to the The legitimacy that the
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

TAM TIMES 3
'E'S Crucial Test
at the appearance by the LTTE leader, Velupillai Pirapaharan, in front and local journalists was an unprecedented media event, not only for ntry as a whole. One reason that attracted journalists from far away the mystery Surrounding the reclusive Tiger leader, who is rarely seen e been the expectation of a dramatic announcement that would have Wards a solution to the protracted violent Conflict in Sri Lanka. In the 2d him to give up his quest for an independent state of TamilEelamor Jgle as a means to achieve it must have been SOrely disappointed. are eager to see an end to the conflict in the island can draw comfort le and his organisation were Committed to the ongoing peace process, eptable to the Tamil people could be worked out as an alternative to a ld go along with it. Critics may suggest that these comments are nothLTTE's old positions. But the significant difference on this occasion is e in the Context of a peace process with Norwegian facilitation and ng ceasefire with the prospect peace talks commencing in the near not ignore the fact that there is enhanced international interest and the LTTE remains proscribed are watching closely the developments mportant factor is that the LTTE also is seeking international accepthe removal of the proscriptions in these countries ised at the conference was the forcible expulsion in 1990 by the LTTE from Jaffna and other northern areas. We condemned this act of gross htinued to do so and find Ourselves vindicated by the public apology rat the media conference. The LTTE has now, though belatedly, taken ) when its leader came to an agreement with leader of the Sri Lanka ovided for the return of the displaced Muslims to their former homes. ) cannot be unaware of the fact that they have acquired a reputation for targeting its political rivals, opponents and dissidents, particularly within lf. It was therefore not surprising that journalists raised the issue quess democratic Credentials. Contrary to its past practice, it is to the Credit br's Comments in response gave an assurance that all political parties, fere, would be free to function and operate in the north-east.
last year, the LTTE encouraged the formation of the Tamil National e Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), All Ceylon Tamil Congress beration Organisation (TELO) and the Eelam Peoples Revolutionary -Premachnadran Faction), thereby reflecting an acceptance that these ) play in the political process. These were all parties previously denoutors, mercenaries andquislings and targeted for violent attacks. Howeinder the banner of the TNA have accepted the predominance of the supportive of it. Recently, all TNA parliamentarians were invited by the matters of mutual interest and Concern including the Ongoing peace LTTE leadership also had a meeting with the SLMC leadership and in many matters that were of Concern to the Muslim Community. Contrposition, the LTTE has also accepted the "unique identity of the Mustoo speak the Tamil language like Tamils, and hence the rightful role of g and representing their interest in the proposed peace talks to take en the government and the LTTE. These are salutary developments in ect trends towards the recognition of political pluralism by the LTTE. hat the LTTE has demonstrated its military prowess in the battlefield uld also understand that some of its actions in the past have Created for minance secured by military power is not a substitute for legitimacy democratic processes in which the people exercise their rights freely ontatives, 2d to play an enhanced role in the Interim Council that is going to be set ion in the north-east pending apolitical settlement at the peace talks, it willingness and the capacity of the LTTE to recognise and respect the , political, social and economic interests represented in the SOCiety as test and watched closely by many within Sri Lanka and internationally. TTE seeks will depend on how it fares in this Crucial test.

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4 TAM TIMES
O PEACE PROCESS
All indications are that the projected peace talks in Thailand between the government and the LTTE which were expected to commence in May next month are likely to be further delayed.
The Tigers insist that the government should lift the four-year-old ban on the LTTE before peace talks can begin. The ban issue is not part of the Norwegianbrokered February 22 ceasefire agreement, but the LTTE has made it a precondition for direct talks. LTTE leader Pirapaharan made it clear at the April 10 media conference with international journalists that the ban on the LTTE should be lifted and the LTTE recognised as "the authentic representatives" of the Tamil people and only thereafter that it will participate in peace talks. At the same conference, it was also stated by the LTTE leader that proposed talks in Thailand would be confined to the issue of forming an interim administration for the Tamil dominated northern and eastern provinces, and its composition and structure thereby ruling out the prospect of talks on the substantive issues for a political settlement.
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is on record as saying that the government was not averse to lifting the ban on the LTTE and the issue was being considered. All the indications are that the ban will be lifted. However, he has also expressed the view that the ban imposed by other countries like the USA, UK, India, Canada and Australia should be retained. This view expressed publicly would certainly not have pleased the LTTE leadership for it was their publicly declared intention, following the anticipated lifting of the ban in Sri Lanka, to mount a campaign internationally to secure the de-listing the LTTE as a terrorist organisation.
Now the LTTE has announced that direct talks between the Tigers and the government could take place in Thailand in the middle of June only after the full implementation of the terms and conditions ofan indefinite ceasefire agreement signed by the two sides in February. This view of the Tigers was conveyed on 17 April to the Norwegian delegation led by Norway's Deputy Foreign Minister, Vidar Helgesen, that met for two hours with Mr Pirapaharan, who was accompanied by his chief advisor Anton Balasingham and political wing leader S P Thamilchelvan.
The LTTE, in an apparent move to bring pressure on the Sri Lankan government during the past few days, have got
civilian groups to withdrawal of the a as on the grounds civilian populated a 16 April, there was nmarachchi divisio led by a parliament. ing the Army to va area that soldiers ol memorandum to th the protestors said recently opened Jal way if the house quickly. Eyewitnes tary vehicles kept c to avoid provocatio Pongu Tamil rally place on the same da ing of the LTTE’s
Political analys think that the LTT dictate the agenda by setting down pri about talks'. On rights, they point Ceasefire Agreeme there would be a restrictions beginn Ceasefire Agreeme all restrictions on will be removed of days from the sign except within anal the agreement. The of the LTTE and t terim Council for matters that are c
ment.
Prior to going the LTTE leadersh egation led by No ister met with P Wickremasinghe Bentota Beach Ho ka and reportedly for the first roun the LTTE. The P had in detail map ule for the first scheduled to be month. “What is speed, but the di to say that the cu both,” Vidar Helg ing with the PM.
O PRESIDEN Meanwhile, Kumaratunga, V

15 APRIL 2002
terim administration in the north-east to reflect the pluralism of the region and has stressed that its setting up should be linked to a time-frame
otest calling for the my from certain areley were occupying eas. For example, on a protest in the Theof Jaffna peninsula, ian of the TNA, askate the houses in the cupy at present. In a e Sri Lankan Army, hey would block the na-Kandy A9 highwere not vacated ses reported all miliff the roads in Jaffna of participants in the that was also taking y following the openpolitical office. its Colombo seem to E is already trying to of the peace process conditions for "talks the issue of fishing to the fact that the ‘nt clearly states that, gradual relaxation of ing from the day the nt was signed, and that lay and night fishing the conclusion of 90 ng of the Agreement, ea clearly specified in issues de-proscription he setting up of an Inhe North-East are not vered by the Agree
o Kilinochchi to meet p, the Norwegian delwegian Foreign Minime Minister Ranil ut on 15 April at the el in southern Sri Landiscussed modalities
of negotiations with 1 and the Norwegians ed out a work schedound of discussions eld in Thailand next important is not the ction, and I am happy ent peace process has sen said after the meet
'S VIEWS 'resident Chandrika nts the proposed in
for talks with the LTTE for a permanent solution.
“The interim administration should be a part of the composite whole, a part of the entire peace process,” the presidential spokesman, Harim Peiris, said.
It is generally recognised that the interim administration to be set up will be dominated and controlled by the LTTE. However, the interim administration should represent "the totality of the interests of the north-east', Mr. Peiris said. "It must recognise that the area is multi-cultural and multi-religious. The interim administration must be civilian in nature, he said. A key issue would be the human rights of the Tamil people in such a set-up, and the President was eager to ensure that there was no deterioration on this front, he added. Ms. Kumaratunga wanted the Government to drive a hard bargain with the LTTE on this question as a price for legalising the group, he said. "We do not necessarily see the ban as an impediment to talks. At the same time, we do not intend to be dogmatic and stand in the way of anything that can help the peace process. But what we want is that the Government negotiate, and negotiate hard with the LTTE, not just flirt with them,” Mr. Peiris said, adding that "the timing of the ban and the time-frame between lifting the ban and talks,' should be considered.
President Kumaratunga, who is scheduled to leave for New Delhi to deliver the first Madhavrao Scindia memorial lecture on April 23, is expected to meet the President, the Prime Minister, and the Minister for External Affairs, and the Leader of the Opposition. She will be accompanied by the former Foreign Minister, Lakshman Kadirgamar.
O LSSP ON INTERIM. COUNCIL
The LSSP cannot acquiesce to any arrangement resulting in the handover of the North and East to an armed LTTE, says a press release issued by the LSSP on 16 April.
"An interim administration should in fact be the process which allows the LTTE controlled districts of Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi to pass over to civilian administration which accords with democratic norms of administration and respect for fundamental and human rights of the people", the press release says.
"The media conference held by the LTTE leader in Kilinochchi and the

Page 5
15 APRIL 2002
publicised response to it by the Prime Minister together project a new stage in the peace process. It is indicative of a carefully orchestrated move to allow the administration of the North and East by the LTTE. Although it is presented as an interim measure there is every likelihood of the UNP Government and the LTTE working on the major assumption that this is in fact the final solution. From what the LTTE leader stated at the media conference the indication is that there is already agreement between the UNP and the LTTE on the nature and meaning of the purported interim administration. “The Lanka Sama Samaja Party takes pride in the fact that it has always stood for a political solution to the ethnic problem. It cannot however acquiesce in any arrangement or strategy which would result in the handing over of the administration of the Northern and Eastern Provinces to an armed LTTE.
"An interim administration should in fact be the process which also allows the LTTE controlled districts of Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi to pass over to civilian administration which accords with democratic norms of administration and respects the fundamental and human rights of the people. The people living in these districts and in the Eastern province should be free of the threat to their rights by an LTTE that remains an armed political movement. "The LSSP sees nothing sacrosanct in the proscription of the LTTE. But it urges that the question of the de-proscription be considered only in relation to the proof the LTTE could furnish to the people of its genuine disengagement from its terrorist politics.”
O PEACE COUNCIL WELCOMES
In a statement the National Peace Council (NPC) based in Colombo said on 16 April that one of the positive developments arising out of the prevailing ceasefire agreement between the government and the LTTE, mediated by Norway is the increased engagement and dialogue between the LTTE and the outside world.
“The LTTE leader Velupillai Pirapaharan’s briefing to the local and international media in the Vanni demonstrated the changing character of the LTTE from being primarily a military organization to that of a political force. In the course of the media conference, the LTTE leadership delivered an important message to the country that it was necessary to deal with legitimate Tamil grievances and aspirations in a principled manner.
"Another example of a positive development is the public admission by the LTTE leadership that the expulsion of the Muslim population from the north in 1990 was a political mistake. The acknowledgment by leaders that they are
responsible for the hatreds and tensions i ponent of the peace responsive to the hur ple, any apology is a in the process of re National Peace Cou the LTTE's pledget tion will be taken a who are alleged to h; vilian population. A tal pledge against po by government me! ngthen the prospects proach to the peace rently absent and col bility of the peace pr
“The fact that ir continue to simmer demonstrates that the to gain in-depth so as els of society. Last w pute between individ town of Beruwela lec hes between Sinhale which six people we hundred injured. Sin been taking place pe parts of the country a
"In this context that the government a more inclusive in the Civil society shoul treated as mere spec process but as part an process. We urge th LTTE to be more inc suit of peace and to fi civil society in plans a erate inter-ethnic solic ation."
O JVP'S OPPOS
Janatha Vimukth People's Liberation F to a marxist political campaign against th ment, which it descr tion of surrender', an which it regards as a On 18 April, it a a mass pubic campai ment’s proposals to Tamil Tigers and of administration in the ern regions.
The JVP with 16 seat Parliament has b up its protest campaig moves, but they have to gather mass suppo In less than five mont liamentary elections : ity of the people vot National Front (UN peace, there is no do finding it hard to builc However, any de proposed governmer

TAM TIMES 5
rise of inter-ethnic s an important comprocess. By being ts and fears of peomajor step forward conciliation. "The ncil also welcomes hat disciplinary acgainst its members ve harassed the cisimilar governmenlitical victimization mbers would strefor a bipartisan approcess that is curld threaten the staocess in the future. ter-ethnic tensions beneath the surface peace process needs to permeate all lev'eek a property disuals in the western to communal classe and Muslims in re killed and over a hilar incidents have riodically in other is well.
t is very important ind LTTE should be ir pursuit of peace. d not be seen and tators in the peace il parcel of the peace e government and lusive in their purind ways to involve ndactionsthat genlarity and reconcili
ΓΙΟΝ ni Peramuna (JVP, ront), which claims party, continues to 2 Ceasefire Agreeibes as a “declarad the peace process 'gross betrayal'. nnounced plans for gn against governlift the ban on the er them an interim northern and east
members in the 225een trying to build in against the peace so far not been able rt for their protests. hs after the the parand with the majoring for the United F) government for ubt that the JVP is up their campaign. lay in opening the t-LTTE talks, and
further delay commencing talks on substantive issues leading to a political settlement could provide the context and the time needed to build its campaign.
JVP's propaganda secretary and parliamentarian Wimal Weerawansa, told a news conference in Colombo that the party has begun discussions with other political parties including the main opposition People's Alliance to launch their protest campaign. "We do not believe that the talks with the LTTE will be successful. The LTTE should be militarily weakened before they are called for talks," Weerawansa said.
He said that the JVP plans to hold a mass protest from the main railway station in the capital to the Prime minister's residence on 23 April to mark their protest against the talks between the government and the LTTE due to commence shortly.
"We have analysed the LTTE leader's comments made at the press conference (on April 10) and arrived at the conclusion that the LTTE is not willing to give up its demand for a separate state. Our question is why do you need to discuss with the LTTE to give them a separate state," he said. He said that it appeared that the government was giving in to the demands of the LTTE, but the LTTE were not agreeing to fulfill their obligations. He said among the outstanding issues has been the full opening of the road between the Jaffna peninsula and the rest of the country. The JVP also called on Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and President Chandrika Kumaratunga to make their position clear regarding Pirapaaran's comments at the press conference where the LTTE's chief spokesman Anton Balasingham said that Pirapaharan is the "President and the Prime Minister of the State of Eelam”.
O HIGHWAY TOJAFFNAREOPENS
The last closed section of the A9 highway running from Kilinochchi to Jaffna was reopened on 7 April in a joint ceremony by senior officers from the Sri Lankan military and the LTTE. Following the opening of the highway at Muhamalai, fifteen cadres from the LTTE's political section entered Army-controlled territory to travel to Jaffna where they are to begin political work'
The head of the Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission, Norwegian Major General Tronde Furohovde introduced the commanders from both sides at the ceremony. The LTTE was represented by Col. Banu, commander of the LTTE's artillery corps, Col. Theepan and Ram, another senior officer. The Sri Lanka Army delegation was led by Major General Sisira Wijesuriya.
The opening of this last section of the A9 links the northern Jaffna peninsula

Page 6
6 TAMLTMES
with the sprawling Vanni district and the south of the island, will allow considerably easier and cheaper travel for the local population. Prior to the opening, access to and from Jaffna was by expensive sea and air transport.
Dispute: However, a dispute has arisen between the government and the LTTE on the issue of buses using the newly opened A9 highway which runs between the northern Jaffna peninsula and Vavuniya through LTTE-controlled area.S.
The highway was opened on 8 April as provided in the Ceasefire Agreement to civilian traffic but no buses are being allowed to run through Omanthai in the LTTE controlled areas.
The dispute centres around the LTTE's reported plan to charge an entry tax from people travelling into areas of the northern mainland controlled by it when the main highway into the region reopened. The LTTE has said that if this was not acceptable, the alternative is to permit it to operate its own bus service on the stretch of the highway that cuts through its territory. According to the monitoring officials said both proposals violated the ceasefire agreement under the terms of which there would be free movement of people, vehicles and goods on the A9. "It would amount to extortion and setting up of a different regime in that part of the country.”
Following a complaint by government, it is learnt that the Norwegian headed Ceasefire onitoring Mission has ruled that the action of the LTTE in preventing the free movement of buses along the highway constituted a violation of the ceasefire agreement. The Monitors said they had given the government and the LTTE 30 days to resolve a dispute over bus service. “They will have 30 days from April 8 to negotiate the movement of buses,"Norwegian Major-General Trond Furuhovde, who is the head of the SLM.M.
O TIGERS OPEN POLITICAL OFFICES LTTE is currently engaged in consolidating itself, both organisationally and politically, in the north-east. It has already opened political offices in Vavuniya, Mannar, Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Jaffna. The opening of these offices have seen highly publicised occasions and the participation of many people of the area, including Norwegian members of the independent monitoring committees appointed under the Ceasefire Agreement to monitor violations, and in some cases even declaring them open by cutting ribbons.
Some have raised the issue whether it is appropriate for the Norwegian monitors, who are supposed to be independent, and government employees like Gov
ernment Agents who engaging in political: in and declare open the LTTE.
The LTTE’s polit niya was opened on Siyambalagaswewa monk of the Vavuni, ple, lighting the cere opening ceremony.T ernment Agent Mr. President of the Vav sociation, Mr. P.S At meeting. Ms. Imelda sional Secretary for V name board of the Melavan, the office LTTE's political win the inaugural speech ratna, the President Foundation and a c UNF minister Mr.S. the ribbon to open which is located ol Vavuniya town.
Dr. S. Nandakum Jaffnal University's ( Department of Manag Sivanathan Kishore, Vavuniya branch of 1 member of the Cea Committee for the di the function.
Four members ol gers of Tamil Eelam Mutur and symb Trincomalee on 9 Api bers led by Trincoma administrative secre were given an emotic they landed at the t They were taken in Post Office Road, Po the district office loc Large cut-outs of L llupillai Pirapaharan main junctions in th occasion. Thereafter trict political office ( clared open by the ncomalee Sri Lanka Ms Victor Lund. The tor Mr.PotSun Westri Venerable Dharma adhipathi of the Bud pated at the opening trict office. Major C resented the Sri Lan
Large numbers welcome to the elev group of the Libera tered Batticaloa tov LTTE group, led by Ampara district Pol tered the Sri Lanka A ugh the Paddiruppu sena, Assistant Supe of the Special Task F ent at the scene.

15 APRIL 2002
ire prohibited from ctivity, to take part bolitical offices of
cal office in Vavu3 April with Rev.
Thero, the chief aos Buddhist temmonial lamp at the ne Vavuniya Gov{. Ganesh and the uniya Traders' Asdullah spoke at the Sukumar, the Diviavuniya, opened the LTTE office. Mr. in charge of the g in Vavuniya made Mr. Harsha Navaof the Seva Lanka ose confidante of B Disanayaka, cut the LTTE's Office Station Road in
ar, the head of the Vavuniya campus) gement Studies, Mr. the President of the he Sri Lanka anda sefire Monitoring strict also spoke at
f the Liberation Tiarrived by sea from olically entered il. The LITTE memlee district political tary, Mr. Iynkaran, onal welcome when own civilian jetty. a procession along Iwer House Road to ated at Green Road. TTE leader Mr.Vewere put up at the 2 town, to mark the he Trincomalee disif the LTTE was dehead of the TriMonitoring Mission otherforeign moniom was also present. etna Thera, VihardhistVihare particiseremony of the disGunawardene repca Army. athered to accord a n-member political ion Tigers who enin on 8 April. The Mr. Visu, Batticalloatical Secretary, enrmy held town throoridge. Mr.Wimalarintendent of Police orce (STF) was pres
Several leading members of the Tamil National Alliance, businessmen, students and public received the LTTE members. The LTTE's Batticaloa district political office is located at Thamaraikerni in Batticaloa town.
The Government Agent, Mr.N.Shanmuganthan on 15 April declared open the Jaffna District Political Secretariat of the Liberation Tigers at Potpathi Road in Kokuvil. Hundreds of people participated in the opening ceremony. Religious leaders of all faiths including His Holiness Swami Somasunthara Swamigal of Nalai Atheenam attended the opening ceremony. The LTTE opened a district political office in Kokkuvil for the first time since it vacated the peninsula ahead of an Army offensive in December 1995.
Thousands of people in Jaffna today flocked to a pro-LTTE rally after the opening of the group's first political of fice in the northern peninsula since 1995. Eyewitnesses said the main Jaffna town was shut down and deserted as people streamed towards the university grounds in the suburb of Tinneveli where the Pongu Tamil or Tamil Rising celebration was held in support of the LTTE.
Several parliamentarians of the proLTTE Tamil National Alliance (TNA), and a leader of the central Sri Lankan estate Tamils, were among those present at the rally.
O MEETING WITH TNA
The LTTE completed a well publicised round of important meetings with political parties representing the minority Tamils and Muslims. The meetings with the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), which had already accepted the Tigers as the "sole representative of the Tamilpeople, the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) and the Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC), representing the plantation population, were all called by the LTTE designed to consolidate its supremacy in the north-east of the island. This "charm offensive' upon the SLMC and the CWC is seen as part of a new LTTE strategy to come to an understanding with these parties as early as possible, before it sits down for talks with the government in Thailand, a Colombo commentator said. Before the TNA MPs met the LTTE leader on 12 April, it was announced that he had summoned them to his office in the Vanni "for a disciplinary session and give them guidance on how to function in Parliament.”
Signed by the political wing leader of the LTTE, S.P. Thamilselvan, the invitation asked the TNA MPs to treat the meeting as a priority matter. The fax said matters such as the agenda for the LTTEGovernment talks and the interim administration would be discussed at the meeting. Tamil daily Dinakkural carried

Page 7
SAPR 2002
the text of his speech made on 4 April by LTTE spokesman and political advisor Anton Balasingham in which expressed dissatisfaction over the functioning of Tamil legislators who had won their seats on a pro-LTTE campaign plank.
Balasingham who once described the Tamil parliamentarians as mercenaries said, "Those who are sitting in Parliament after exploiting LTTE's name and declaring that the Tigers are the sole representatives of Tamils are now roaming behind the Prime Minister and other Ministers,' "They can't hear us, if we address them from here. That's why our leader has asked them to come to the Vanni," he said in what seemed a warning to the Tamil Nationalist Alliance, "We need to bring all Tamil-speaking people under one national leadership. Those in Parliament should be told of our aims and what to say and how to function in Parliament. It is the responsibility of the leadership to give them guidance," Balasingham said. However, the statement that was issued in Colombo by the TNA parliamentary group leader Mr R Sampathan did not suggest that any such ominous messages were given. The statement describing meeting at Kilinochchi on 12 April between the LTTE leadership comprising Mr. V. Pirapaharan Messrs Anton Balasingham, (Political Advisor), S.P..Thamilchelvan (Political Head), Pottu Amman (Intelligence head), Karuna (Amparai-Batticaloa military commander), Pathuman (Trincomalee area commander), Karikalan (Political Head of the Amparai-Batticaloa district) and Ruban (Trincomalee political head), and representatives of the TNA delegation consisting of parliamentarians Messrs. Sampanthan, V.Anandasangaree, Joseph Pararajasingham, Mavai Senathirajah, Appathurai Vinayagamoorthy, Raja Kuhaneswaran, K.Thangavadivel, G. Krishnapilai, Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam, N. Raviraj, Sivasakthi Anandan, A Chandra Nehru, M.K.Sivajilingam and the Secretary General of the EPRLF Mr. Suresh Premachandran said,
"The cease-fire agreement entered into, the implementation of the said ceasefire agreement, the proposed interim administration and the political solution that could be eventually evolved came up for intensive discussion. The leader of the LTTE Mr.Pirapaharan and Political Advisor Mr.Anton Balasingham explained the position of the LTTE. The need of the LTTE and the TNA to work united was accepted by all participants. The need to take along the Muslim in the pursuit of a peaceful political solution was accepted by all participants. The exchange of views took place in a cordial atmosphere. In conclusion the LTTE leader Mr.Pirapaharan hosted all participants to dinner.TNA leader and the National List
parliamentarian M did not go to Ki health.'
O MUSLIMSA The widely re Muslims by the Tig east of the countil Members of Parlia political parties to spective of party the issue. They me Islamic countries Libya, Pakistan, S UAE among other the situation faced East. As the pressu Minister too broug tion made by Mr. Sri Lanka Ceasefir (SLMM) headed b At the LTTE li ence on 10 April, Mr Anton Balasing vious apology mac on behalf the LTT pulsion in 1990 of families from then cribing the expuls Jaffna by the Tige der” that could n Balasingham is re "Let us forget and made in the past. T homeland of the N to live in harmony peace and prosperi Holding out a Muslims, who have ingly besieged by t in the east, Mr. Ba the community ha identity", the Tami a common languag bly intertwined” ec torially, and would exist "as brothers' At the April 1 Balasingham said 1 time the LTTE le make a statement Muslims to return, for the first time th Muslims would hav with those of the problems of the M along with the prob Tamils,” he said, ac to engage the Musl logue, and indicat Muslim Congress meeting with the L purpose. The LTT to have taken the al and harassment of N at the same confer announced that th LTTE in the east, and Karuna had be

TAMILTIMES 7
r.M.Sivasithambaram linochchi due to ill
ND THE LITTE ported harassment of ers, particularly in the y, prompted Muslim ment belonging to all formajointfront irreffiliations to address t the Ambassadors of such as Iran, Iraq, audi Arabia and the and apprised them of by the Muslims in the re mounted the Prime ht some of the allegaRauff Hakeem to the e Monitoring Mission y the Norwegians. eader's media conferin reply to questions, ham repeated his prele at a public meeting E for the forcible exthousand of Muslim brth of the island. Desion of Muslims from 's as a "political blunlot be justified, Mr. ported to have said: forgive the mistakes amil Eelam is also the Muslims and we have and amity to promote ty in the region." n olive branch to the : been feeling increashe LTTE, particularly lasingham said while d a "unique cultural ls and Muslims shared :e and were inextrica'onomically and territherefore have to coin the north-east. 0 media conference, hat at the appropriate ader himself would asking the displaced He also acknowledged at the problems of the 'e to be resolved along famils. “We want the fuslims to be solved lems of the rest of the ding that they wanted Im leadership in a dia2d that leaders of the nad been invited to a TE leadership for this E leadership appears legations of extortion Muslims seriously, and ince Mr. Balasingham e top leaders of the including Karikalan en summoned by the
LTTE leader for discussions on the matter.
The leader of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) and Cabinet Minister, Rauff Hakeem, flew in a Sri Lanka Air Force helicopter to northern Sri Lanka with five party colleagues for the meeting on 13 April.
Mr. Pirapaharan was assisted by Mr. Anton Balasingham, Mr. S. P. Thamilchelvan, Col. Karuna and Col. Path
a.
The SLMC delegation comprised Ministers Noordeen Mashoor, A.L.M.- Athaullah, Deputy Ministers Basheer Segu Dawood and Mohamed Abdul Cader and senior members Mashoor Mowlana and Uduman Lebbe.
After the 3-hour meeting at Killinochchi with LTTE leader, Rauff Hakeem said that the LTTE had given him an undertaking that the harassment of Muslims would stop and invited the forcibly displaced Muslims to return.
Implicit in the agreement is the acceptance by the Muslims of the de facto authority of the LTTE in the north-east, soon expected to be legitimised by the Sri Lankan Government through an interim administration. Describing Mr. Prabakaran as "genuine and sincere', Mr. Hakeem said the preliminary confidencebuilding measures on "practical day-today matters” would enable the two side to discuss the more "contentious" issues of power sharing in the proposed interim administration in the north-east later.
"I am sure from the mood and friendliness he was displaying that he meant business. The sincerity was very apparent in his attitude which was relaxed and reassuring,” he told journalists after returning from the meeting.
Mr. Prabakaran and Mr. Hakeem signed a joint agreement under which the two sides agreed on the SLMC's participation in the talks on the interim administration that are to be held in Thailand later this year. "Our role in the interim administration will be discussed in Thailand and we will be a party to the negotiations,” Mr. Hakeem said.
Under the agreement, the LTTE has undertaken to stop extortions from Muslims in the east with immediate effect and promised to return paddy fields it forcibly took away from Muslims. Mr. Hakeem said the two sides had agreed to appoint a joint committee to facilitate the return of 1,00,000 displaced Muslims who were expelled from Jaffna and the northern mainland by the LTTE 12 years ago. They are at present living in refugee camps in Puttalam. Refugees from 35 displaced villages in the east are also to return.
For Mr. Hakeem, the main victory is that the LTTE has endorsed his party as the representative of Muslims in the

Page 8
8 ALTES
agreement, which should immensely help him politically.
Under the LTTE-SLMC Agreement, according Mr Hakeem, a joint committee comprising representatives of LTTE and SLMC would be appointed to co-ordinate affairs related to the return of displaced Jaffna Muslims to their own homes.
"Mr Pirapaharan has agreed to invite all displaced Muslims to return to their own places in the northeast," Likewise, it was decided that a suitable environment should be created for people displaced from villages in the east to resettle in their homes, the SLMC leader said.
"Mr. Pirapaharan and myself have signed a joint statement regarding the return of the displaced Muslims. It has been agreed to appoint a joint committee consisting LTTE and SLMC representatives to facilitate the process of resettling the displaced Muslims," Mr. Hakeem said.
It was also decided at the discussion that any negotiations that have a bearing on Muslims would have the participation of the SLMC, he said.
The SLMC-LTTE agreement states that cultivation by Muslims in untended Muslim lands in the North and East would be enabled. The practice of collecting funds from Muslims in the East would cease, SLMC sources said. A representative from SLMC will be appointed to enhance Tamil-Muslim relations in the districts of North and East and to liaise with LTTE senior commanders with respect to difficulties faced by Muslim people resident there. Top-level meetings between the SLMC and the LTTE will continue in the future to approach the basic political problems of the Muslims in the North and East and to maintain their unique political and cultural identity.
On being asked about possible opposition within Muslim quarters, in reference to the National Unity Alliance of Mrs. Feiral Ashraff, Mr. Hakeem said "we have not conceded or omitted anything to warrant any opposition. LTTE have given favourable answers to questions and concerns raised by us.”
O LTTE-CWC MEETING
Politicians and parties of the Tamil dominated north-east have traditionally kept aloof from the politics of the plantation Tamils in which the Ceylon Workers Congress(CWC) has always played a dominant representative role. CWC's current leader's grandfather, Saumiamoorthy Thondaman, who played the role of an 'unchallenged king of the plantation sector for over 50 years, never permitted the vagaries of the north-eastern politics to divert his abiding commitment to the interests of his own people.
At the meeting ( Kilinochchi, the CW ised of its current Thondaman, Muthu Minister, R.Yogaraja llasamy, Deputy Le Anton Balasingham lvan, and V.Balakur ger leader Pirapahara that ensued between
"The Liberatio) Eelam (LTTE) and t Congress (CWC) hav standing to work tog tion of the Tamil nati Mr.Arumugam Thon ernment minister Sl man, CWC leader r Katunayake Internati Sunday afternoon ( LTTE held town of Vanni region.
Discribing them paharan as a historic one, Mr Thondamal cussions with the LT wide-ranging and p with the prospects a by the peace process provide whatever a: take forward the pri which is brokered by ernment between th and the LTTE,' hes
Mr.Thondaman and LTTE have agre for the right of sel Tamils. The CWCW taken by the LTTE i regard.”
O CALL FORE April- 16 - Tam Tuesday, 16 April, ernment sponsored tion demanding the to take steps to extra Pirapakaran from S face trial in the Raj tion case, in which cused. The resolutic Centre to send Indi with the consent o Colombo to arrest Lankan government re him and opposec ing given for LTTE The resolution protest from the P. (PMK) and the neut main Opposition Chief Minister of Karunanidhi.
PMK legislator to protest against a tion, shouted sloga CPI-M And CPI leg out specifically on

15 APRIL 2002
h 14 April held in delegation comprader, Arumugam ivalingam, Deputy , MP, and M.S.Seder of the CWC. S. P. Thamilchelar assisted the Tin in the discussions he two parties.
Tigers of Tamil le Ceylon Workers e come toan underther for the resoluonal question”, said daman, a UNF govnday. Mr.Thondahet reporters at the onal Airport lounge in his return from Killinochchi in the
eeting with Mr.Piraand a constructive l, said that the disTE leadership were rimarily concerned nd problems posed "The CWC would ssistance needed to 2sent peace process the Norwegian gove UNF government aid.
further said, "CWC ‘ed to work together f-determination of ould support all steps n its struggle in this
XTRADITION l Nadu assembly on adopted a state-gov7-paragraph resoluCentral government dite LTTE leader, V ri Lanka to India to v Gandhi assassinahe was the prime acn also demanded the n army to Sri Lanka the government in irapaharan if the Sri was unable to captuany permission bemen to enter India. was adopted amidst tali Makkal Kadchi alstand taken by the MK led by former he state, Muthuvelu
wearing blackshirts option of the resolus in the house, while slators staged a walk he issue of the pro
posal for sending Indian army to Sri Lanka.
The Chief Minister Jayalaltha Jayaram said that the move against the Tamil Tiger leader should be deemed a part of the global war against terrorism, and in an effort to protect the integrity and sovereignty of the country. She claimed that India couldn't keep its eyes closed and remain a mute spectator when the leader of the most "dreaded terrorist organization” appeared before international reporters. She said that Pirapaharan had not change his mind and would never drop his demand for a separate. She said she would not allow any of the members belonging to the LTTE to set foot in Tamil Nadu even on humanitarian grounds.
India's main opposition Congress Party which also demanded Pirapaharan's extradition supported the resolution.
The DMK president, M. Karunanidhi, said that when there were many problems in TamilNadu which require urgent attention, the introduction of the resolution by the AIADMK Government was a diversionary tactic and an attempt to cloak all other issues.
The MDMK general secretary, Vaiko, described the day as a "sad day" and demanded that the Centre reject the resolution. At a time when peace prospects were bright, a resolution of this nature would only impede it. Armed struggle was "forced' on the Sri Lankan Tamils because of the 'repressive measures adopted by successive Governments in that country.
The Congress Jananayaka Peravai (CJP) welcomed the resolution and said it would not impede the peace process. The CJP, which was formed by the former Union Finance Minister, P. Chidambaram, protesting the decision of the Tamil Maanila Congress to ally with the AIADMK, said that any move to extradite the killers of the former Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi, would be welcomed by it.
Though extradition might not be "practical", attempts needed to be made nevertheless, Mr. Chidambaram told press persons here. The DMK's stand of neutrality was "no stand", he said. The request for medical treatment for the LTTE ideologue, Anton Balasingham, did not hold water since better facilities were available in Singapore, Thailand and London.
The Pondicherry Assembly on 15 April also adopted a resolution urging the Centre to initiate steps to have the LTTE leader, V. Pirapaharan, arrested and extradited to India by the Sri Lankan Government. The resolution was supported by the ruling Congress and its ally, Tamil Maanila Congress, the AIADMK and the BJP. The DMK, main opposition, how
-ever, renained neutral-O

Page 9
15 APR 2002
LTTE LEADER'S MEDACONFE
Pirapaharan Fa World Media
The leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), Mr Velupilai Pirapaharan, identified the recognition of a Tamil homeland comprising the northern and eastern provinces of Sri Lanka, acceptance of the Tamils of the island as distinct nationality and the right to self determination as the core fundamentals for a negotiated solution to the conflict in the island. He also said that lifting of the ban imposed on the LTTE by Sri Lanka was a precondition for face to face talks with the govern
ment.
Described as the largest media event ever held in the island, the significance of the event was marked by the scale of the international and local media interest that drew almost 400 hundred reporters, photographers and cameramen including over 30 TV crews from across the world to the war devastated town of Kilinochchi in northern Sri Lanka.
It was a media conference organised by the Tamil Tigers on 10 April at which their leader Velupillai Mr Velupillai Pirapaharan (Mr VP) was to make his rare appearance in public and for which journalists were not just carrying notepads, pens and laptops. Asked to turn up at least 24 hours earlier, after registering themselves at the newly opened LTTE office at Vavuniya town, about 50 km south of Killinochchi, they were also armed with generators, flashlights, mosquito repellents and drinking Water.
Such was the rush of foreign journalists that the government's Information Department in Colombo worked through the normally shut weekend to issue accreditation cards that the LTTE would want to see when reporters and photographers enter the Tiger-controlled territory. “I did not issue so many accreditations even during the SAARC summit in 1998,” Information Department director Ariya Rubasinghe said referring to a meeting of heads of states of seven countries in this region.
Contrary to the handful of local Tamil reporters who attended his last press conference on April 1, 1990, in Jaffna town, this time hundreds of international journalists spent more than 24 hours in the LTTE guest houses and camps in the town and in surrounding areas on April 10 and went through a 10-hoursecurity drill well before the conference began.
Security blanket
A knowledgeables commented that, to sa tight would be a gross u precision planning and the LTTE leader is wel evidence at his first m 12 years. Such was the that nothing which cou to the outside world frc conference was permit remonstration by the jo about deadlines could
3&
otherwise. The securit LTTE cadre would hav of the best intelligen world, journalists com
The journalists whc groups were taken awa Tigers to their assignec and spendnight beforet They were woken up a
 
 

TAMILTIMES 9
ERENCE
CGS
outh Indian reporter y that security was inderstatement. The secrecy for which l known was in full edia conference in security for Mr VP ld send out signals )m the venue of the ted. No amount of urnalists and editors convince the LTTE
y screening by the put to shame some :e agencies in the mented.
were separated into y in vans driven by buildings to be fed he news conference. t 5:30 in the morn
ing, given an hour to change and taken to a LTTE building in Killinochchi for an intensive security check that lasted more than 8 hours. Only the most essential items were permitted in and even these were virtually dissected into parts and scrutinised. LTTE operatives confiscated all satellite phones so that the Tiger leader's whereabouts remained a mystery to the outside world. All were meticulously searched, including ears, mouths, shoes and socks and feet.
Every journalist was photographed and each set of equipment taken apart to be screened. Cameras were weighed, and no chances were taken. But even after all these checks, no one could carry their belongings to the venue. Everything, including pens and notebooks, were taken by the LTTE and put in plastic bags to be handed back to the journalists only when they reached the venue. The journalists were then transported from their overnight stop, in vehicles with tinted panes to prevent the location being identified. Live broadcasts of what was billed as a historic event was prohibited and the use of satellite phones and other communication devices were also disallowed.
LTTE cadres told journalists that the strict security measures had been adopted for the protection of their leader. “We are afraid of a repeat of what happened to Ahamed Shah Masood,” they explained, in reference to the Afghan Northern Alliance leader killed last September by suicide bombers posing as a television crew. New image
Mr. Velupillai Prabakaran (Mr VP) arrived at the conference venue, flanked by a posse of bodyguards, some of them in civvies, sporting dark Sun glasses and others in combat fatigues holding guns on the ready, minus his trademark battle fatigues and Browning pistol on his hip and minus his moustache; if a cyanide capsule still hung round his neck it was out of sight. To journalists who have always seen him in combat military uniform and gear, here was Mr VP, leader of one of most militarily powerful guerrilla groups in the world which had confronted both the Sri Lankan and Indian armies and kept them at bay, cleanshaven and attired in a trendy grey safari suit reinventing himself presenting an of image of an emerging political leader of the Tamils of Sri Lanka committed, to let the world know that he was committed to the Norwegian facilitated peace process in Sri Lanka.
At the start, journalists were warned not to move in such a way so as to create a “situation of panic” during the press conference as all the cadres were fully armed.
Flanked by the LTTE's chief negotiator and political advisor, Mr Anton Balasingham (Mr AB), the head of the

Page 10
10 TAMILTIMES
LTTE's political section Mr. Thamil Chelvan, by two of his top military commanders, Col. Karuna and Col. Pathuman, Mr VP assisted by Mr AB fielded questions for over two and a half, sometimes chaotic, hours. Mr AB translated into English all questions and all of Mr VP's responses for the benefit of the international press. Mr AB also fielded questions or expanded on Mr VP’s responses. Several times, Mr AB took it upon himself to reply, prompting a journalist to ask if he was speaking for himself or for Mr VP. One journalist commented that the Tiger leader's lengthy consultations with Mr AB, before replying to most of the questions, was completely at odds with the image that he had of Mr VP as a self-confident leader in his own right Peace Process
On the ongoing Norwegian facilitated peace process, the LTTE leader said that he was very, very pleased with the development of the peace process and wanted to compliment Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe for the bold action he had taken to promote it and the goodwill measures he had taken in the north east. "We are sincerely and seriously committed to peace and we hope that the peace process will succeed,” he said.
Dismissing accusations directed in the form of questions from journalists that the LTTE was insincere about peace and that the Tigers were under pressure due to the international war on terrorism since September 11, Mr VP pointed out that his organisation had, among other moves, unilaterally observed a ceasefire for four months early last year which was not reciprocated by the then government. Apart from this, “The LTTE has undertaken peace initiatives before the September 11. I met with the Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim and gave him an assurance that the LTTE wanted peace and a negotiated political settlement,” he said.
The LTTE leader made the intentions of his organisation clear when he said that only after de-proscription would LTTE take partin face to face peace talks with the government. He stressed that the LTTE would not accept a temporary suspension of the ban. Mr AB added. “We want to be described properly..... We want to be accepted as the authentic representatives of our people, so we can participate in talks with equal status.”
And after the ban was lifted by the government, he said, the Tigers would mount an international campaign to be de-listed as a terrorist group by the United States, Britain and other Western nations. Mr VP said, "It is true that several countries have imposed a ban on the LTTE. These bans were imposed on our organisation because of the malicious campaign launched by the
Sir Lankan governm sation. This is why government to de-pr tion. Once the ban is will campaign in the on our organization.'
To a question, LTTE's past recordo hostilities following ance he could give ar the world should bel sion the ceasefire wo VP replied, “This is party, that is the No has involved itselfin process. It has never other than Indian m cilitation of Norway, will succeed.”
Mr VP said that current ceasefire coul tlementasthe proces by a third party, Nory ter Ranil Wickremes steps to strike a deal, more circumspect. H goal was an interim establishment of an i in the north and east Eelam and Core I Asked about wł prepared to drop its g state of Tamil Eelam as of now the LTTE up its struggle for a homeland. Mir VP s! mand for Eelamisco not made any decisi give up the demand tive," adding, "The not arisen for the policy of indepen. struggle for politica demand of the Tamil when the Tamils fou issue,” he said.
The LTTE lead ernment should lift LTTE before any tal core demands to w remained committe ognised by the govg a Tamil homeland the island, accepti tion; and the right termination.
"Once these ar recognising these ward and are acce: ple, then we will c for a separate state In response to same issue, Mr. A key demands wer and autonomy for 1 also said that it wa

15 APRIL 2002
, against our organihave requested the cribe our organisated in Sri Lanka we World to lift the ban
aking reference to esumption ofarmed alks, as what assuras to why the rest of ve that on this occald lead to peace, Mr he first time a third wegian government, acilitating the peace happened in the past diation. With the faI believe this process
Inlike in the past, the lead to a durable setwas being facilitated ay, and Prime Minisnghe was taking bold Mr AB was however e said the immediate ettlement through the nterim administration
)emands
lether the LTTE was oal ofan independent , Mr VP indicated that is not prepared to give un independent Tamil aid. "So far as the dencerned, the LTTE has bn So far as whether to or accept an alternaright conditions have LTTE to abandon its ent statehood. “The l independence is the people ever since 1977 ght the elections on the
asserting that the govhe ban imposed on the s began, spelt out three ich he said the Tigers which should be recnment, and they were:
the north and east of g the Tamils as a na'the Tamils to self-de
accepted or a solution bre issues are put forable to the Tamil peosider ending the fight he said. rther questions on the said that the LTTE's for self-determination : Tamil community. He or the Sri Lankan Gov
ernment to provide an alternative to the Eelam demand of the LTTE.
Asked as to what the LTTE meant by self determination, Mr AB explained, “We mean the right of people to decide their own political destiny - it can also apply to autonomy and self governance. If autonomy and self governance is given to our people we can say that internal self-determination is to some extent met. But if the Sri Lanka government rejects our demand for autonomy and self-governance and continues with repression, then as a last resort we will opt for secession - that also comes under self-determination. Therefore we say if the Sri Lankagovernmentoffers the Tamilpeoplea form of selfgovernment and autonomy in recognition of our homeland, nationality and the right to self-determination, then we will consider that offer. But if the government refuses to give proper autonomy then we have no other option but to fight for autonomy and self determination." Faith in the PM
Mr VP doubted the capacity of the present government led by Prime Minister Wickremesinghe to offer the LTTE political package that would lead to a permanent solution to the conflict. "We do not think that Ranil Wickremesinghe is capable of addressing the core issues and offer us a permanent solution at this stage; because the executive powers of governance are vested with the President and his powers are limited to parliament. We wish to insist that the Ranil's government is not politically stable or authoritative or powerful enough to take up the core demands of the Tamils and offer us a permanent solution. It is because of that we are suggesting the formulation of an interim administration set up in which the LTTE can participate in the north-east. In the meantime Ranil Wickremesinghe will have enough space to build up southern Sri Lanka economically. So it will be advantageous for the Tamils as well as for the Sinhalese to work out an interim set up for the time being. Once this is set up then we are prepared to discuss the core issues and negotiate for a permanent settlement to the ethnic issue.”
"As far as we are concerned we have faith in the present government and we will continue to work with it until a solution is reached,” Mr AB said.
To a question whether he would accept the hegemony of Sri Lanka and accept a federal structure of states like in India, Mr VP said the LTTE had not taken any decision on this so far. "It is a matter which has to be decided yet. The question whether we accept hegemony of Sri Lankan state does not arise because we have not started the peace process yet.'
"Do you accept that Wickremesinghe is your Prime Minister?" a reporter asked

Page 11
15 APRIL 2002
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Mr VP, but Mr AB quickly butted in, making it clear that the LTTE did not recognise the authority of the Sri Lankan state, to say, “Wickremesinghe is the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. Pirapaharan is the Prime Minister and President of Tamil Eelam”.
Asked whether he expected President Kumaratunga to scuttle the peace process, Mr VP said he did not think President Chandrika Kumaratunga could derail the peace process. “Even if she tries to scuttle the peace process it is up to Ranil Wickremesinghe to ensure that such difficulties do not arise and ensure the peace process succeeds.'
Replying a question on what the LTTE would do in the event the peace talks collapsed this time Mr AB said, "As far as we are concerned we have faith in the present government and we are prepared to work with this present government until we are convinced the talks have failed.”
The LTTE leader added that if a solution is worked within the democratic politicalframework, "our organisation willseriously participate in that process and our cadre also will be absolved into the political mainstream.” Peace Talks
As if the LTTE has already decided on the agenda for the proposed talks to take place in Thailand, Mr VP said that the
LTTE's negotiators l ing to Thailand with cussing the formation istration." Asked to posed interim admini functions and duties ( ment, the distributior that we have to discu ment on the structure terim administration Asked whetherh the forthcoming peace VP, who had never pt during previous nego President Premadasa dent Kumaratunga, there in person but se negotiations for a pel place, “we will consi To a question wh any position of resp. posed interim admin “That question does dialogue for an interi not yet arisen. Only \ think whether to acc or not.'
When asked if t up the armed struggl nent solution, Mr V ously consider renour gle if a solution acce
 
 
 

TAMLTIMES 11
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2d by Mr AB “are gothe objective of disof an interim adminelaborate on the prostration, he said, "The of the interim governof power, are issues S. So we cannot comand nature of the innow.'
2 would participate in ;talks in Thailand, Mr rsonally participated )tiations with former or the current Presiaid he would not be nd Mr AB. But when manent solution take ler my participation.” :ther he would accept onsibility in the prostration Mr VP said, not arise now as the m administration has when that arises I will pt that responsibility
he LTTE would give e following a permasaid: “We will sericing our armed strugtable to the people is
worked out.'
Responding to a question, the Tiger leader said that his instructions to his cadre to kill him if he compromised on the goal of an independent state remained. On terrorism
Mr VP rejected the accusation that the LTTE deserved its reputation as one of the world's most ruthless terrorist groups."We are nota terrorist organisation but a liberation movement. We are fighting for the liberation of our people. You have to distinguish between what constitutes terrorism and a liberation struggle," adding, "Those who are waging war against terrorism should come out with a clear definition of who is a terrorist and who is a freedom fighter.”
"Eventhough we have been fighting an armed struggle our objective is political emancipation of our people. The LTTE is a politico-military organization and therefore we constantly develop our political structure. The overwhelming masses of Tamil people support the LTTE which is clearly indicated in the Pongu Thamil movements and when LTTE cadre have now entered military controlled areas under the present ceasefire agreement, the massive welcome they have received is a clear indication. We are a national liberation organization,” he said.

Page 12
12 TAMITMES
When asked whether, after engaging in armed struggle for a separate of Tamil Eelam all these years, the "Tiger was changing its stripes” by now adopting a different political path, Mr VP responded, “Our political struggle for the Tamil people began in the form of non-violence, through peaceful methods. ... It is because this peaceful non-violent agitation was crushed by military repression, that we were forced to take up arms to defend ourselves. But whenever there were opportunities for peace in the past, we have opted for negotiations to resolve these problems," he said.
Questioned further about their reputation as terrorists for using suicide bombers, Mr AB said, "Since we are now committed to peace, we don't want to make any comment about suicide attacks at this stage.” Answering further questions on the same issue, Mr VP said, "The times are changing. We are adopting new strategies,” adding, “When a permanent solution is reached we will not only bring an end to all forms of violence but also consider seriously removing the cyanide capsules from our cadres."
The LTTE leader added that if a solution is worked within the democratic politicalframework, "ourorganisation willseriously participate in that process and our cadre also will be absolved into the political mainstream.”
Asked about the display of "Hail Hitler” Nazi salute at “Pongu Tamil” rallies which indicated that the LTTE was a fascist organisation, Mr VP responded, "The Pongu Thamil celebrations were not organised by he LTTE. It is a mass movement that supports the peace process and we have no idea what you are talking about a Hitler type salute. This is merely a demonstration for peace. Please don't misunderstand and misinterpret this form of expression.” On India and Rajiv murder
It was on the issue of the assassination of the former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and the LTTE's call for its ban in India to be lifted the LTTE leader was confronted with a barrage of quite uncomfortable questions. Mr AB appeared visibly irritated when Indian journalists mainly from Tamil Nadu closely questioned Mr VP on the assassination and related issues. At one stage directly addressing these journalists Mr AB said, “You want to dominate the press conference. You have come all the way to ask these questions. We are now involved in a peace process and you want to rake up the past.”
The LTTE leader made it plain that he wanted to mend fences with India and his organisation was engaged in an exercise of rapprochement with India which proscribed it following the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi.
“We want the government of India to lift the ban on our organisation. At the appropriate time we will raise the issue with the government of India. We want to renew
our friendship and fr India,” the LTTE leac Mr AB added, “Ir crucial for the peace want to alienate or is regional superpower. support and sympath government of India, conflict) will not finc ment. India’s active peace process is cruci ple. We have suffere contradictions betwee We want to establish constructive relations of India.”
Mr AB added, “V said we want to estab ship with the governi openly requested Indi so that I could land i reasons and medical dia to provide me a pa Nadu. They have to sake of our people an ethnic conflict. At th active participation ir crucial. We don't wa late India in the peact "Since India was interest in the proces Sri Lanka as well as the Norwegian gov facilitatory role. At t tention is not to alie: We want India to pla, have requested the go to make an official request and the gover told us they have mac government of India sue. They have not c but it is still on the a “We want to engt India. Our people lo ple of India. We are cally linked to the In dia is our fatherland,
Side stepping a you denying any inv( sination?”, Mr VP sa tive issue. It is a tra pened 10years ago.”
Responding to on the issue, the LTT are four people who to death. We are see. the government of Ir particular juncture v any comments.”
When some Indi on the subject, Mr , questions would be ject saying, "You al has happened ten y incident and therefo tion to make any cor is a tragic incident, c past.”
Asked if the LTT

15 APRIL 2002
2ndly relations with *r said. dias participation is process. We do not late India. India is a Without the active of the people and this problem (ethic a permanent settleparticipation in the al for the Tamil peoa lot, as a result of India and the LTTE. riendly, positive and with the government
"P and I have openly ish friendly relationment of India. I have a to offer me a venue n India for logistical easons. I wanted Inssage to land in Tamil consider this for the the resolution of the Le same time India’s the peace process is nt to alienate or iso
process.” not taking any active s, the government of the LTTE requested fernment to play a he same time our innate or isolate India. y and active role. We vernment of Norway epresentation of our nment of Norway has le this request and the is considering this isome back to us yet - genda,” Mr AB said. ge the government of ve India and the peoculturally and ethnilian subcontinent. In'Mr VP Said. irect question, "Are lvement in the assasid, “It is a very sensigic incident that hap
ersistent questioning E leader said, “There have been condemned ing an amnesty from dia. Therefore, at this e don't wish to make
njournalists persisted AB said that no more ntertained on the sub2 raising an issue that ars ago. It is a tragic e we are not in a posiments at this stage. It on't try to dig into the
E was prepared to for
get about the war with the Indian Peace Keeping Force, Mr AB said that"at a particular stage in history, the government of India wanted to help the Tamil people by resolving the problem. They mediated; and unfortunately the proposals envisaged by the government of India did not satisfy the aspirations of Tamil people. We had discussions, and expressed our disapproval and finally the contradictions between India and the LTTE led to an armed conflict, and the IPKF committed quite a lot of atrocities amongst our people. But yet, with all that, our people love and respect India. India and the people of India are different from the power structures or the armed apparatus of India. We are culturally and ethnically linked to the Indian subcontinent. As Tamils we have our roots in India.” Rights of Muslims
Asked about the forcible expulsion in 1990 by the LTTE of tens of thousands of Muslims families from Tamil dominated areas in the north of the island and the massacre of Muslims inside mosques in the east of the country, Mr AB said, “It is I who made an apology to the Muslim people for what has happened in the past and that we are willing to talk to them and resolve these issues. We know these are the manifestations of violence due to ethnic war. Our people have also suffered. We have lost 60,0000 civilians and 17,000 fighters in this war. There has been several incidents of violence in the South. We don't want such incidents to continue that is why we have decided to observe a ceasefire and this peace process. So far, as far as the plantation Tamils and Muslims are concerned we have invited Arumugam Thondaman (leader of Ceylon Workers Congress) and Rauf Hakeem (leader of the Muslim Congress) for discussions and they are coming to the Vanni to meet us and we will engage them in constructive discussions to see how we can help to resolve their problem and bring about a final resolution.”
Responding to the question on whether he has taken any concrete steps to allow the displaced Muslim people living in refugee camps for the last 12 years to comeback to Jaffna, Mr VP said that “proper objective conditions should be created for these people to comeback. After these conditions are in place, I will make an appeal for the Muslims to come back to Jaffna.”
Questioned about harassment of Muslims in the eastern province and the statement that the LTTE’s Eastern commander, Karikalan, had reported to have made that Muslims had no land rights in the eastern province, Mr AB replied, “Whether such statements are endorsed by the leadership or not is the question. We want to tell you that we have called the senior commanders of the eastern province to discuss the alleged harassment of Muslim people. Furthermore following a call from us, Karikalan arrived the day before yesterday and we are talking to him to find out what

Page 13
15 APRIL 2002
has gone wrong. He has assured us that he had not made such a statement to the press. We believe that there is no dispute as far as the LTTE leader is concerned on the issue of the Muslim people owning land in the east. When the Muslim Congress leader Mr. Hakeem meets us we will discuss these problems with him."
Answering further related questions, Mr AB said, “We don’t want to go into those details in the East. You will understand now that almost all Tamil parties in the north-east are supporting the LTTE. But there are some armed Tamil groups and they support the Sri Lankan armed forces in its war against the LTTE. So we have requested the Norwegians under this present agreement that these armed groups be disarmed. Now the situation is that all the Tamil parties are backing the LTTE. We will allow all Tamil political parties to carry out their political work.”
To a question on whether the LTTE would allow Muslim participation in the peace process, Mr VP replied, "Certainly we will allow Muslim representation in the process. It is very important that the questions of the Muslim people are resolved along with the Tamil people."
With regard to the issue of prisoners of war being held by the LTTE, VP said, "Only a few prisoners of war are being de
visits them and has e with the prisoners and LTTE have been rele number of prisoners w; releasing the rest at a there is only a few wit said.
Responding to ques oners being held in Col have been constantly c release of LTTE suspec in prison without any have also requested the ties to agitate for their time we are going to re ernment to repeal the P. ism Act which is being people.” Other parties
Asked as to wheth other political parties the north-east, Mr. VP's you that other politica their policies may be, function in the north-e in the democratic elect When asked whyth be accepted, when the L targeted and killed lead other parties, the LTT are going to meet four ties in two days. These
tained by the LTTE and the ICRC regularly upon atime that had ser wi
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TAMLTMES 13
tablished contacts their families. The sing quite a large r. We may consider appropriate time nus right now," he
tions on LTTE prisombo, he said, "We ampaigning for the ts arrested and kept trial. Therefore we Tamil political parelease. At the same uest from the govevention of Terrorused to hold these
er it would permit o freely operate in aid, "We can assure l parties, whatever will be allowed to ast and participate oral process.” at assurance should TTE had previously ers and members of E leader said, “We Famil political parare the parties once ious contradictions thour organisation. w the whole sceio has changed and are inviting them e to talk and disis about various iss. If we are an auritarian organisaIn trying to suppress er political organiions, there is no 2d for us to call m and discuss with m. Similarly we are ling the Muslim .dership and the ntation Tamils” lea'ship also. Theree the times have inged and we are pting new strateS.
One Western jourist asked Mr VP y anyone should e the Tigers serily on their promise lemocracy and fremwhenjournalists been "photogra:d and searched by n who looked like Ins,’ Mr AB butted o take the question said the LTTE had ake extraordinary
precautions because government forces had in recent times infiltrated the area to carry out assassinations of senior LTTE leaders. When asked his opinion on the Janatha Vimukthi Perumana (JVP), Mr VP said, "We do not consider the JVP a progressive political force because of their chauvinistic attitudes towards the Tamil people."
Asked about the Tamil community in the central plantation areas, Mr VP said, "We want build a better relationship with the leadership of the plantation Tamils. We have invited them here. We will discuss their concerns and problems and co-operate with them in their struggle for the political rights of the plantation Tamils."
On the issue of forcible recruitment of child soldiers by the LTTE, rejecting the allegation Mr VP said, "This accusation that we are recruiting children is unacceptable. Recently, following the UN resolution, we have decided to recruit people from the age of 18. In future we want to recruit for the purpose of involving our people in political and administrative purposes. I want to add that the younger people who came to join our organisation have been sent back and we are collecting letters from the parents to say these children have been given back to them. It is impossible for the LTTE to conduct an effective conventional war with child soldiers or babies. You can see from our documentaries that we don't have children in our ranks. We in fact have child welfare centres where the LTTE have been feeding and educating children who have been orphaned as a consequence of this war. In future we want to recruit for the purpose of involving our youth in political and administrative purposes.”
Denying allegations of widespread extortion by the Tigers from the civilian population, Mr VP said that "just as the Sri Lanka government imposes and collects taxes from the people to run the state administration, we also levy taxes in areas under our control to run our administration.”
Asked about the LTTE's economic policy, Mr. Mr VP said that it would be based on "open market economy” and pointed out, “We can only think about a proper economic structure when the ethnic problem is resolved....... What form and what structure this economic system is to be instituted can only be worked when we have a permanent settlement or an independent state."Mr AB said the LTTE was pleased with the overwhelming response from the international media.
“When we made the invitation last week, we expected only the Colombo-based international news agencies to come here for the press conference. We neverexpected such a vast presence of journalists from all over the world. We were rather surprised and pleased. This clearly shows how the global media is concerned and interested in our struggle.” O

Page 14
14 TAM TIMES
eactions to LTTE leader Mr V Pirapaharan’s comments at the media conference on 10 April have been mixed within Sri Lanka, but by and large hostile in India.
However, the United States reacting to the LTTE leader's media conference on 10 April, welcomed his commitment to peace and a negotiated political settlement to the conflict in Sri Lanka.
In a press release issued on 12 April the US Embassy in Sri Lanka, welcoming the LTTE leader's commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict, called upon the LTTE renounce the use of violence unequivocally.
“The United States welcomes Mr. Prabhakaran's commitment to peace and a negotiated political settlement of the 19year long ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. We also welcome his acknowledgement that the questions of Sri Lankan Muslims must be resolved alongside those of the Tamil people. We are encouraged by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam's willingness to work within a political process and to renounce violence. We have long believed that violence cannot achieve the Tigers' stated objectives, and urge Mr. Prabhakaran to abandon its use unequivocally. As we have said earlier, we are pleased by the existing cease fire and the prospect of direct peace negotiations between the Sri Lankan government and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, which could begin in May or June. A political solution to the conflict which maintains Sri Lanka's territorial integrity would be welcomed by the international community, and we urge all partiesto continue to work toward that goal. If Sri Lankans on both sides continue to approach talks constructively and show a willingness to compromise, we believe peace can return. The United States fully supports the Norwegian government's efforts to facilitate a settlement.”
There were varied reactions in the Sri Lankan media to the Tamil Tiger leader's comments at his press conference. The Tamil dailies, "Veerakesari' and "Thinakkural approvingly asserted the LTTE's commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and warned that the war would never end if the demand for recognition of Tamil aspirations as articulated by Mr Pirapaharan were not addressed. But the Sinhala and the
English language dailies were more sceptical and even critical suggesting that the LTTE leader had not shifted from his
Reactions to LTTE
Comments to the
commitment to a Tam papers said Mr Pirapa up the demand for a was an obstacle top daily which normally doubts about the pea LTTE said that if the conference "was to world his sincerity peace, he would hav unswerving faithful, carded his feline strip instead put on a mor suit, probably to sign terrorist to a politici not change his strip LTTE leader's Staten not ripe to give up th rate State.
The state-owned wrote, “Some critics are certain to have se Tiger leader reiterat mands of the LTTE Í an acceptable soluti Tamil homeland an Tamil nationhood an ing “Their demands ears but a solution is they go unrecognizes Prime Minister R saw "a window of Pirapaharan's comm from the fact that for had said that its de Tamils the right to se not be seen as the pen rate Eelam.
Citing the defil Mr Balasingham at til conference on the c determination, Mr that the LTTE had fo what they meant by mentioned about in tion. They furthers: mination should onl the internal self det cessful. Their state self-determination, alternative to a sepal to a political solutic most important aspe ence and it shows t work within the ter Lanka if we can co tion,” the PM said.
To the PM, “Th sis compared with inception. They saic
 
 

15 APRIL 2002
lseparate state. Some haran's refusal to give eparate Tamil nation 2ace. “The Island', a does not disguise its eful intentions of the objective of the news demonstrate to the and commitment to e convinced only his adding, "He had disedjungle fatigues and e conventional safari ify a change from the un,” but “a tiger canes,” commenting on hent that the time was e demand for a sepa
DailyNews, however, of the peace process en red on hearing the ing the principal deor the working out of on: the granting of a d the recognition of d Tamil rights,” addare anathematosome unlikely to emerge if .." anil Wickremasinghe opportunity” in Mr 2nts. He drew comfort he first time the LTTE mand for giving the lf-determination need ultimate step to a sepa
ition given by Anton le LTTE leader's press ncept of right to selfWickremasinghe said r the first time defined
this concept. "They ernal self determinaid external self deterbe considered only if rmination was unsucment about “internal that is an acceptable te state” holds the key 1. I think that was the it of the media conferat they are willing to itorial integrity of Sri ne up with that solu
is a big metamorphole time of the LTTE's North and East is their
homeland. They chased away the Muslims saying the North-East belongs to them. But now, the LTTE leader accepted that the North-East belongs to the Muslims too.”
"We will start negotiations in June. At present, we are implementing the Ceasefire Agreement. Although there are certain violations reported, we are not shooting at each other. We are complaining to the Norwegian monitors. There is a problem regarding passenger transporton A9 road. We are prepared to issue permits evento those operating buses in the Vanni. We are prepared to issue permits to run buses from Colombo to Jaffna and not from Colombo to Oman-thai or Muhamalai. Although A9 road has been opened it will take another four weeks or so to clear the immediate surroundings of the road of land mines. We hope to start the bus services in a month's time. The road ahead is not easy. Though it is difficult, there won't be death and destruction of property. We will travelonthisroad, we willcarry worldopinion with us. That is our strength," the PM said.
On the issue of the lifting of the ban on the LTTE as a precondition for its participation in peace talks with the government, Mr Wickramesinghe said he would not allow the ban to get in the way of the talks and the government would be "looking at its options” adding that "The government would now favourably consider the LTTE's demand for its de-proscription in Sri Lanka."
Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen, who is playing leading role in the peace process said in Oslo, "I think it's a very good sign of establishing a normal process. I think his phrasing of the separate state issue was pretty balanced.”
Analysts say that the LTTE leader's statement: "The right conditions have not arisen for the Tigers to abandon the policy of independent statehood.The struggle for political independence is the demand of Tamil people,” would have dampened the enthusiasm of those government negotiators who had believed that the Mr Pirapa-haran was edging towards relinquishing his demand for full independence in return for some form of autonomy.
Some commentators in the island seem to think that the LTTE leader's statement points to a willingness on his part to give up the demand for a separate state. "It was a very mixed bag, enough to raise hopes and fears at the same time," said Rohan Edirisinghe, a constitutional analyst at the University of Colombo. As for Jehan Perera, media director of the National Peace Council, Mr Pirapaharan's goal of a separate state is now largely a negotiating position to be yielded in return for concessions at talks. "It's a question of when, not if, he gives up Eelam. But how can he do that before talks have begun and when he has nothing in return?'
According to Jehan Perera, in many ways, Mr Pirapaharan's responses to ques

Page 15
15 APR 2002
tions from journalists were a repeat of what the Tamil Tigers have been saying in the past with one exception - the leader himself was saying it. He said that the Tiger leader's comments showed a lot of confidence in the peace process. "He demonstrated a liberal attitude and concretised the proposals for proper autonomy. He also did not renounce the armed struggle or the goal of a separate state of Eelam, saying that it was too early to review the strategy at this stage of the peace process. I think that was the right answer," Perera noted.
"What we cannot assume right-away is that they have renounced secession. What they are saying is that we might renounce it at the point at which we think there is an acceptable solution,” said P. Saravanamuttu of the Centre for Policy Alternatives. But, he said, it was crucial to pick up the gauntlet. “Whether it is bona fide or mala fide, they are willing to consider alternatives at this time, and the challenge is to yoke them into the process,” he said.
However a foreign diplomat based in Colombo said, "They are being very shrewd. They are saying they are willing to consider alternatives but at the same time giving themselves enough space to wriggle out of it.”
At this crucial moment when the LTTE has signed a ceasefire agreement with the Government it is necessary to lift the proscription imposed on them in order to commence early peace talks which are immensely needed to end Northern conflict, NSSP leader Dr. Wickramabahu Karunar ratna told the press. He said: "It is very pleasing to note that the LTTE which once went on the rampage has stopped all forms of guerilla activities against the troops in the Northern areas and ordinary civilians and come to the negotiating table." "This clearly indicates their willingness to pursue peace and bring an everlasting solution to this war. So there is no obstacle preventing the Government from lifting the proscription at this juncture,” Dr. Karunaratna said.
Referring to the LTTE's concept of a separate state of Eelam Dr. Karunaratne said that this problem will not arise and it will be abandoned by the LTTE if the Government is prepared to meet the major demands and fulfil the obligations of the Tamil people in the North.
Asked about the extradition of Prabhakaran to India following the recent request made by India's main Opposition party led by Sonia Gandhi and also the comments made by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalitha, Dr. Karunaratne said that both countries must mutually come to a settlement as it is a matter concerning law and order as well as politics. "As we know the law is completely different from politics", Dr. Karunaratne added.
in India
By and large, the comments at the LTTE keader’s press conference appear to have pro
voked renewed hostile rekindling the issue of ment in the late Prime dhi's assassination t bomber in September The call by the L the ban on his organi prochement with Indi assassination as a “tra pened ten years ago forgotten would appeal the opposite reaction. Mr Pirapaharan and M in an effort at rappr would appear to falle some small parties i known for their suppol with some sympathy.
On 10 April, even took place, India’s mai party came down har and his organisation nated terrorist organi India, while Prabakar, fender responsible foi the former Prime Mi “The objective of the Prabhakaran is an att mise his political st opinion...and to get o being labelled a terror statement to the Pirapaharan's attempt the fact' that the LTT organisation and Mr P tect of its violent poli New Delhi officia the extradition of Velu still stood valid. "It is sation, it is a terrorist not aware of any reco sue” foreign mini Nirupama Rao told r adding that, "The requ made about seven yea) remains and it is still v request would depend tion of the issue'.
Prime Minister promptly ruled out an proposed talks in Tha Lankan governmental that a ban on the Tig main. “We are not gc negotiations or interfel the Sri Lanka govern Vajpayee said in his Pirapaharan's plea th: the peace process. Ho that the government cally” consider the re assistance to the aili Anton Mr Balasingha Asked about Pira Indian participation Vajpayee said, “In frc one proposal and that cal treatment to Mr Ba
try.”

reactions in India and f the LTTE's involve: Minister Rajiv Ganby a woman suicide
1991. TTE leader for lifting sation and for a rapa describing Gandhi's gic incident” that hapthat should better be rto have producedjust Comments made by r Anton Bala-singham Ochement with India n in deaf years. Only n Tamil Nadu, well tofthe LTTE, reacted
before the conference in opposition Congress 'd on the LTTE chief saying, "It's a desigsation and banned in an is a proclaimed of. r the assassination of hister Rajiv Gandhi.” press conference by ampt by him to legitiatus in world public ut of his organisation ist organisation,“ in a press. It said Mr could not "obfuscate E"is a violent terrorist 'irapaharan, the archicies”.
lly said its request for pillai Mr Pirapaharan , a proscribed organiorganisation and I am insideration of that isstry spokeswoman eporters on 12 April, est for extradition was is ago in 1995 and that alid.” She said a fresh on “further examina
Atal Bihari Vajpayee ly role by India in the iland between the Sri nd the LTTE, and said ers in India would reing to be part of any re in any talks between ment and the LTTE,” first reaction to Mr at India play a role in wever, Vajpayee said would "sympathetiquest to give medical ng Tigers spokesman, m, in India. paharan's proposal for in the peace process, ont of us, there is only is for providing medilasingham in the coun
TAM TIMES 15
J N Dixit, who was India’s High Commissioner in Sri Lanka when the Indo-Sri Lanka Agreement was signed in August 1987 and when India became deeply embroiled in Sri Lanka with the deployment of Indian troops in the island, however, insisted that India could not stay out of any solution to the Tamil problem in neighbouring Sri Lanka. "The durability and sustainability of any peace process will depend on India's support,” he said.
Meanwhile, the senior Congress leader, Arjun Singh, spoke against any "soft corner or concession” for the Tamil Tiger leader. In a written statement, Mr. Singh, member of the Congress Working Committee, called Mr Pirapaharan's statement during his press conference about Rajiv Gandhi's assassination 10 years ago as a "tragic incident as "offensive to the sensibilities of all Indians.” Describing Mr Pirapaharan as "the sole architect of this tragic incident", Mr. Singh said "we can never forget this,” and called upon the Government of India "to take all legal steps necessary to bring Mr Pirapaharan to justice in this case," Mr Singh said that "Rajivi lives in the hearts and minds of millions and millions of Indians, who looked forward to his leading a resurgent India in the 21st century... Our dreams and hopes were cut short by the diabolical planning and brutal act of assassination. We cannot tolerate anybody making light of this unfortunate event."
Congress president Sonia Gandhi on 13 April referred to the fact that the LTTE chief , Mr Pirapaharan was the main accused in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case said. "According to the law of the land Prabhakaran stands accused in the plot to assassinate Rajiv Gandhi for which his extradition was sought by the government,” a visibly emotional Gandhi told a press conference in Guwahati. Referring to the LTTE request for lifting the ban on the outfit, the Congress president said her party was for Prabhakaran to face trial in the country as he stood accused in the assassination case. Addressing journalists on 12 April in Madurai, , Congress leader and former Union minister Vazhapadi K Ramamurthi said he said the Government of India should act swiftly and urge Lankan authorities to extradite and hand over Mr Pirapaharan and Pottu Amman, two of the prime accused in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. Vazhapadi criticised the Lankan Government for permitting LTTE, a banned outfit, to convene an international press conference. Ifthe neighbouring country fails us in ensuring the trial of the LTTE leader in India, it may have to face consequences in the international fora. Vazhapadi said CBI chief Sharma had visited Sri Lanka two months ago meet his Lankan counterpart in Colombo and requested the Government to arrest the Tiger leader on whom the Interpol had issued a "red card.
N Varadharajan, State Secretary of the

Page 16
16 TAMILTIMES
Communist Party of India (Marxist), said India should not become a shelter to the LTTE. Addressing journalists on 12 April, Varadharajan said armed struggle would in no way solve the ethnic issue of Sri Lankan Tamils and added that a lasting and peaceful solution to the issue could be evolved only through peaceful dialogue. More powers for autonomy should be given to the areas where the Tamils live in large numbers. If any endeavour is made to find a solution through dialogue we would welcome the same, he said. However, neither India nor Tamil Nadu should be allowed to become a haven for harbouring of LTTE cadres given the bitter experiences in the past, he said.
"The Hindu” in its editorial on 12 April said, "The manner in which Mr. Prabakaran fielded questions on his complicity in the assassination of India's former Prime Minister and political leader, Rajiv Gandhi, testifies to the LTTE leader's total lack of remorse for the ghastly act. His unrepentant attitude is compounded by a com-plete absence of any denial of the LTTE's involvement in what he dismissively characterises as a "tragic' incident. It is high time that New Delhi took steps to seek Mr. Pra-bakaran's extradition.”
The chiefminister of Tamil Nadu, Jayaraman Jayalalitha, has refused permission to Mr Balasingham to use TamilNadu as a base for peace talks. "We will not allow any member of the LTTE to set foot in Tamil Nadu
for whatever reason,”, welcoming the Prime Vajpayee's statement not get involved in th the Sri Lankan Gover the Chief Ministerex to the Centre "sympat the LTTE request Balasingham in Indi posed to this.” At thi she was hopeful that do anything to pressu issue now that the S expressed its objectic State's objection, th Balasingham into lndi ernment would not let she said.
Jayalalitha said t firm that Mr Pirapah dited to India for Ganc that the Sri Lankan g low India's armed for rest. Saying that Prab a proclaimed offendel which conducted the Tamil Nadu Legislat pass a resolution on 1 tradition of Mr Pirapa ing trial in the Rajiv case in which the LT the prime accused.
Reacting to LTT haran’s request, the
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15 APRIL 2002
ayalalitha said. While Minister, Atal Behari hat the Centre would ; peace talks between nment and the LTTE, ressed her opposition etically considering” or treatment of Mr . “We are firmly opsame time, she said the Centre would not e Tamil Nadu on this ate Government had n. But, if despite the ; Centre allowed Mr a, the AIADMK Govhim enter Tamil Nadu,
at the AIADMK was aran should be extrahi's assassination, and overnment should alces to carry outhis arhakaran was declared by a designated court trial, she said that the ive Assembly would April demanding exharan to India for facGandhi assassination TE leader was cited as
E leader Mr PirapaMDMK leader Vaiko
Gopalaswamy, well known as a staunch supporter of the Tamil Tigers, urged the central government to revoke the ban on the LTTE, adding that India, which had ethnic and cultural links also, had a strategic interest in Sri Lanka and therefore should play its role in the peace talks.On the request by Anton Mr Balasingham that he be given a transit through India to enable him to shuttle between Thailand and Sri Lanka during the peace talks, Vaiko said transit and medical help should be granted on humanitarian grounds as Mr Balasingham had recently undergone a kidney transplant.
Leader of the Tamils National Movement and another ardent supporter of LTTE, PNedumaran, asked the Centre to accept the 'hand of friendship' extended by the LTTE and help in finding a smooth solution to the ethnic strife in Sri Lanka. "We all should forget the bitter past and as a first step allow Anton Mr Balasingham to take medical treatment in our country,” he told reporters in Chennai.
“When the entire world has welcomed the Norwegian-brokered peace process, why should a section of the Indians oppose it”he asked. Condemning the Congress for its views on the LTTE, he alleged that Congress did not want peace to return to Sri Lanka and described its demand to extradite Mr Pirapaharan as "impracticable and unworkable'. O
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Page 17
15 APRIL 2002
TE Media COffe
- An ASSIeSS men
Jehan Perera
TTE leader Velupillai Pirapaka-ran's
media conference was an unprec
edented event with nearly 300 local and foreign journalists making the tortuous journey to his heavily guarded headquarters in the Wanni. For Sri Lanka this was an unprecedented media event, indicating the impact of the LTTE on the country, and the mystery surrounding its leader, which enticed even the world media. The media conference received mixed reviews from its viewers, which would have included virtually the entirety of the Sri Lankan population with access to television. But one thing is certain. The demon-like and superhuman images of the once elusive Tiger leader disappeared in the glare of the television lights. Mr. Pirapakaran came across as extremely human and perhaps even ordinary. Especially at the initial stages of the media conference he appeared uneasy and perhaps even trapped as he faced a hostile and critical barrage of questions from foreign and mostly Indian journalists. The human side of Mr. Pirapakaran may be reassuring to those who believed him capable of superhuman feats and therefore felt threatened to the point of irrationality by him.
LTTE and JVP
The battle for hearts and minds through the television screen is entirely different from the battle for military victory, which Mr. Pirapakaran has specialized in and in which he has an undoubted genius. The art of persuasion in which politicians excel is entirely different from that of imposing by force, which is what the LTTE has excelled in up to now. Perhaps Mr. Pirapakaran will learn to perform more sophisticatedly at future media conferences as a politician might have done. But for this time it suffices that he came across as speaking without bluffor bluster, addressing the point of the question for the most part and saying why he would not elaborate on other questions. The LTTE leader's lack of political sophistication was evident in some of his answers. For instance when asked to comment on the JVP, he gave it short shrift, dismissing it as a chauvinistic party with
little public support. the JVP has little put its chauvinism is an own. Both the JVP ethnic pluralism witl tities that they cons The main difference ing Sinhalese-based, island to be the a whereas the LTTE, t considers the northpriate entity. When ric, both these partie nic majority should tity they consider to
Those who expe ference to herald a st to peace were disap leader neither withdi tion for an indepen Eelam nor did he gua would be spiked foi hand, there was al Pirapakaran did nots posture that could ha ongoing peace proce: his old positions, he communicate a deter the peace process as count for his repeate had faith and confid of Prime Minister Ral
Thimpu Principle The LTTE leade portant concession \ solution based on the could be an alternati indicating that the Th short of separation.T. thened when the iss determination was LTTE speakers at the there was nothing c Pirapakaran assertin remained Thamil Ee that he believed in Prime Minister to fi tion that would bear tive. At the peace 1985, all Thamil par ing the LTTE, took Thamil people wer entitled to the righto
 

It is not correct that lic support. Further, irror of the LTTE's and LTTE dismiss in the territorial ender as being theirs. is this: the JVP, beconsiders the entire ppropriate entity; eing Thamil-based, :ast to be the approhorn of their rhetos claim that the ethrule within the enbe their homeland. cted the media conrtling breakthrough pointed. The LTTE 'ew from his aspiralent state of Tamil rantee that his guns ever. On the other so relief that Mr. trike an intransigent ave undermined the ss. While sticking to seemed to wish to mination to stick to well. This may acd assertions that he ince in the sincerity hil Wickremesinghe.
r also made an imwhen he said that a Thimpu principles ve to Thamil Eelam impu principles fell is point was strengue of internal selfbrought up by the conference. Indeed, ontradictory in Mr. that his goal still am and also saying he sincerity of the ld a political soluacceptable alternaalks in Thimpu in ies present, includhe position that the a nationality and 'self-determination
TAMITMES 17
within their traditional homeland.
One question that has troubled the government is whether the right of self. determination includes the option to secede. In the media conference Mr. Pirapakaran speaking through his theoretician Dr Anton Balasingham clarified for the first time that internal self-determination could be acceptable, thereby pointing out that the right of self-determination could be exercised by the Thamil people internally in Sri Lanka and without having to secede. It is clear therefore that the Thimpu principles hold the key to the longer-term political solution that will have to be worked out by the government and LTTE.
There is a need to de-mystify the contentious terms of nationality, self-determination and homelands. Other countries have dealt with these issues in a satisfactory manner that has led to a large amount of social peace within them. South Af. rica is an example of a country that had to deal with the issue of self-determination in its constitution. Spain is an example of a country that had to deal with the term nationality in its constitution. Canada is a country that has been dealing with the issue of a distinct society within the larger Canadian society and the land claims of its indigenous population.
Civil society organizations may need to take the lead in discussing the issues pertaining to the Thimpu principles and creating a greater awareness of them in society. At present there is strong support and near unanimity among the general population for ending the war. However, there will not be that same unanimity about the type of political solution that can bring about a permanent solution to the ethnic conflict. Much educational work has to be done in that area for which civil society organizations are better equipped than the government, which has political considerations to bear in mind of not running too far ahead of the people.
International image
Whatever may be the LTTE's motivation for calling the media conference at this time, it clearly did not result in a decisive outcome one way or the other. As in all political encounters, it was but one step in an ongoing process that needs to be encouraged. Perhaps one motivation for the holding of the media conference was the LTTE's desire to use the euphoria of the present peace process to create a better image of itself internationally.
In recent years the LTTE has seen its

Page 18
18 TAMILTIMES
international image hit rock bottom in a manner that cannot befit any organization that seeks to represent an entire people. The beginning of the LTTE's international decline was undoubtedly its assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi under the most treacherous circumstances when he was garlanded by a woman suicide bomber during an election rally.
Elections are the most sacred arena of a democracy's life and those who violate that sanctity can never be respected in the modern world. Having rejected electoral politics, the LTTE cannot understand that the electoral process cannot be trifled with, if international respect is sought after. The beginning stage of the Norwegian-mediated peace process might have seemed to be the ideal opportunity for the LTTE to present itself in a new light. Better now than later might have been the LTTE's calculation, considering the uncertainties of the peace process as time goes on. However, after the media conference the LTTE would have a more realistic assessment of this prospect. Indian hostility
Without public repentance, a new leadership or vindication by standing for elections, the LTTE has an uphill task to convince a skeptical international community about its bona fides. At the media confer
ence it was evident th ing component of the was the large conting ists. Theassassination Minister loomed very and hostile questioning ing the LTTE leader o his response was the c ble at this time - to pu look to the future, whi reversible tragedy of Many who oppo stands for would have the hostility of the Inc man whom they belic son of their land, a P was the son and gra Ministers. His was a oftens of thousandso lost due to the ethnic transigent Indian at Pirapakaran will pos to the peace process almost all Sri Lankau able exceptions year be loath to join the n militarised Sri Lanka that their leader will a result.
For peace in Sri anywhere else in the
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15 APRIL 2002
t the most unforgivinternational media nt of Indian journal)f their former Prime large in their sharp . They kept on pressthis matter to which nly one that is possithe past behind and le recognising the irhe past. Se what the LTTE taken satisfaction in ian journalists to the ve murdered a great time Mminister who ldson of two Prime orecious life in a sea flives that have been conflict. But an intitude towards Mr. 2 a major roadblock in Sri Lanka, which ls with a few miserfor. The LTTE will hainstream of a nonn society if they feel pe nabbed by India as
Lanka, and perhaps world, the past has to
be buried and the future must be looked to
wards. Sri Lankans, Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims, have to bury the past regarding each other's atrocities against each other. Sri Lankans also have to bury the past with regard to their great neighbour India, which once trained and armed Tamil militants including the LTTE to attack the Sri Lankan government. As a good neighbour, which it is to Sri Lanka at this time, and for the sake of peace in Sri Lanka, India needs to find a way to let go of the past that it once
aided and abetted in an underhand way to
Create.
The announcement by Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee shortly after the LTTE leader's media conference that India will consider permitting Dr Anton Balasingham to make use of Indian territory for his health needs is positive in this context. It is a humanitarian gesture that may includee a desire to assist in the success of the Sri Lankan peace process. On the other hand, some of the Indian opposition parties, including the Congress Party that Rajiv Gandhi once led, have called for Mr. Pirapakaran's extradition to face murder charges. These sentiments are understandable, but they will not help Sri Lanka's peace process and therefore should not be rejoiced in. O
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Page 19
5 APRIL 2002
O Too Committed to Give Up?
If any one knows the mind of the LTTE leader, V Pirapaharan, it has to be Anita Pratap, the internationally reputed journalist and author of“The Island of Bloodoreleased last year, who is credited with interviewing the LTTE leader more than twelve times.
LTTE leader Pirapaharan is a man who has the ability to convert adversities into opportunities. Can he be trusted to keep walking without laying traps for his opponents? He is always a guerrilla mastermind who makes tactical moves all the time, writes Anita Pratap. In her latest column Pratap says that Prabhakaran is too committed to Eelam to give it up permanently. She says, "You trust him at your peril. So, if I were Sinhalese, I would trust Prabhakaran simply because I must. It is a historic necessity and an opportunity. But, I would never let my guard down.” She says that she would not automatically assume that he has given up Eelam or that he has even renounced his war effort and as long as there is breath in him he would be prepared to face any eventuality, the only eventuality, resumption of war. Pratap adds that if that happens Pirapaharan would be in a stronger position to resume war and that he would be better, not worse off for it. In her article she describe Prabhakran as a person who never let his guard down. 0 A Constitutional Coup?
The governing United National Front under Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe appears to moving fast in the direction of introducing a constitutional amendment in Parliament in May this year to allow members of parliament to cross-over from the opposition to the government side or vice versa and to vote in contravention of the decision of the parties to which they belonged without having to face the prospect of losing their parliamentary seats.
Under the current constitution members of parliament are liable to automatically lose their seats if they acted contrary to the decision of their party or joined another party.
The government's legislative move comes in the context of reports that as many as 20 parliamentarians belonging to the opposition Peoples Alliance, whose leader is President Chandrika Kumaratunga, might cross over to the governing party. Not only this move is aimed at bolstering up the narrow majority the governing party has in parliament, but also it is aimed at clipping the powers of the President which she constitutionally enjoys. The government is likely pursue this course of action if a sufficient number of parliamentarians from the opposition cross over resulting in the governing party able to command a two-thirds majority in parliament needed to enact the necessary constitutional amendments. O Renewing an Oil Interest
Fifteen years after the signing of the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord, India seems to be projecting an interestin one of the more controversial provisions of the treaty that gives it first preference in the running of an oil storage facility in the eastern district of
Trincomalee.
The Indian Hig Gopalkrishna Gandh (Commerical Affairs), oil farm on 1 April acci dian defence adviser, M. the first ever by an In sioner to Trincomalee a the signing of the 1987 a the backdrop of a cease Lankan Government amid moves to privatise leum sector.
A report dateline Hindu' said that the Inc resurfaced soon after celebration by the LTT strategic town integral mands for a Tamil hom as the capital of the nor Its future status and it, even in the interim being contemplated for be of immense signifi process.
Over the last thre Government has been s highest level to India malee as it fast-tracks well as the privatisatio troleum Corporation.
Under the terms of work of restoring and de would be undertaken between India and Sri also recognises India's Trincomalee harbour.
India has never sh yet in developing the ( alive its strategic inter periodically asserted it recently in 1996 when ernment approached a restoration. O Objection to Pa The Ceasefire Ag freedom of movement ever, residents of the they still have to obt LTTE to enter or exit th trol although the gover the system.
Residents say the to be used by the LTT to pay a sum of Rs. They complain they ha hardship as a result, b plain to the relevant
 

TAMITMES 19
Commissioner, , and Counsellor . Ashok, visited the impanied by the InGopinath. The visit, lian High Commisld the oil farm since ccord, comes against fire between the Sri ind the LTTE, and the country's petro
d 3 April in “The ian interest has also a recent nationalist E in Trincomalee, a to the group's deeland and regarded theast. | who gets to control administration now the northeast, would cance to the peace
e months, the new ending feelers at the to step into Trincohe peace process as n of the Ceylon Pe
the 1987 accord, the veloping the oil farm as a "joint venture" Lanka. The accord strategic interests in
)wn a serious intent il farm, but to keep st in the region, has s right over it, most the Sri Lankan GovSingapore firm for its
s System
eement provides for or all civilians. HowVanni complain that in permits from the e areas under its conment has abandoned
system is continuing E and that they have 00 for each permit. ve to undergo a lot of ut are afraid to comuthorities to stop in
and take action. They hoped that the Norwegian headed Monitoring Mission would look into the matter with a view to getting the Pass System removed. O JVP's Anger Against Norway
Denouncing the Norway of being “colonialists”, the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) has accused the Norwegian government of interfering in the internal affairs of Sri Lanka and seeking des-tabilise south Asia.
In a letter dated sent to the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Colombo, the JVP states: “The so-called Oslo “Peace” accord your government heralded as the path to justice for the Palestinians and peace to the Middle East has collapsed within very short period with disastrous consequences. The Israel armed forces have resumed the massacre of Palestinians. We of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna do not believe that there is anybody on the face of earth who is not aware of the murderous military campaign of killing and destruction conducted by the Israeli Armed forces, specially during these last few days.
“While the people of Palestine are facing this cruel onslaught of Israel, it is surprising to observe the silence of the Government of Norway who was the main outside player in creating the Oslo 'Peace' accord. Norway, who is proven failure in Palestine, who maintains a peculiar silence in the face of these killings and does not capable of bringing peace to any other country. We stress that Norway has no moral right to interfere in such activities elsewhere.
"While the facts remain so, the government of Norway has interfered in an internal problem of Sri Lanka. From a position of facilitator of the peace process', Norway has now become a direct mediator in it. We believe that due to this unwelcome interference, people of Sri Lanka of all ethnicities will one day have to face the same fate that has befallen the Palestinians.
"We stress that the government of Norway is intentionally carrying out a process of destabilizing the South Asian region, strengthening separatism and specially dragging our nation and all her inhabitants towards a disaster.
"The aim of our protest today is to urge the Government of Norway who has disgracefully failed in the Middle East, to stop interfering in internal problems of Sri Lanka and also, to urge you to condemn the Sharon government who is directing the slaughter of the Palestine population and the destruction of Palestine. Colonialists, Get Out of Sri Lanka!” 0 UN Convention
on Financing Terrorism A new and potentially more powerful anti-terrorism measure, the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism, came me into force on 10 April after being ratified by more than the required 22 countries.
The convention is aimed at impeding the flow of cash to terrorists by coordinated global action. Countries have to bring their national laws into agreement with the Conven

Page 20
20 TAMITMES
tion's provisions and are expected to develop and implement mechanisms to meet the standards it sets out.
For example, they must take measures that would allow “legal entities” to be held liable for actions taken by a person responsible for the management or control of that entity. They must also ensure that criminal acts covered by the Convention will not be considered justifiable for any political, philosophical, ideological, racial, ethnic or religious considerations.
The Convention obliges State Parties to prosecute offenders or extradite them to parties that suffered from their illegal acts and assist other states in investigations and preventive efforts.
The Convention was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in New York on December 9, 1999, and was opened for signature on January 10, 2000. As many as 132 countries have signed the Convention and 26 have completed the ratification process which makes them parties to it. O VHP Casts shadow on Sri Lanka
What is India's extremist rightwing ultra Hindu Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) with its global arm, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) up to in Sri Lanka, is the question that many are asking.
Reports from Colombo quoted the India Abroad News Service as talking to a senior VHP preacher in Colombo who said he was working among the island Hindu Tamils, including areas under the control of the Tamil Tigers. He said there are already dozens of VHP-linked units working across the country.
It is said that the VHP is to mobilise Hindus Tamils against the country's powerful Christian church.
"Hindus in Sri Lanka are disintegrated. We are trying to bring them together,"VHP
official Swami Vigyan telling the press after a took him for the first north controlled by the
Vigyananand, 38, saffron robes like a v tended the April 10 LTTE leader Velupilla accredited representati tion. Although he has times since 1999, this went to LTTE-held are island.
Vigyananand has Batticalloa, Trincomale country's east and mar what he believed were was quoted as saying. WHP had started a teaches religion and th
The VHP, he said, Indian plantation Tan employed in the tea ( Lanka. The group was a ing Hindus to retain ( Hindu shrine at Katara Lanka, which he saidh under Sinhalese-Budd But otherwise Vigy only Hindi and Englis objection to Buddhism phasise that Buddhis threats from the clergy monks to go to village gion and to counter Chl done in India,” he sai body is suppressing Hi But with the exodus of fluence growing, Hin lems," he says.
He also accused th playing a major role i conflict in Sri Lanka a
A VOICE FROM THE EAST
Losing their ability to decide, No longer do they chose to act They act out of fear......
That too in muted tones Lest Someone hears.
I fear Being left alone, isolated, The wave so powerful
I have no influence, no power In this overwhelming wave I am trying hard to be me
ls linevitable..... I cry out for Support Struggling alone, To come to terms with my feelings
Trying not to bow to what most say
Here in the East there is a feeling of fear all around me People bowing to things because of fear; People doing things saying things because of fear
Voicing protest in the safety of their homes
Their fear transforming to be my fear?
Those who were with me falling in line
That I can't seem to stop any from joining in.

15 APRIL 2002
ana-nd was quoted as month-long tour that time to areas in the
LTTE.
dressed in giveaway vandering monk, atpress conference of i Prabhakaran as an ve of a VHP publicabeen to Sri Lanka 10 was the first time he as in the north of the
been a few times to e and Amparai in the aged to interact with ; LTTE members, he In Trincomalee, the Sunday school that e Hindu way of life. was also active among nils who are mostly 'states of central Sri lso interested in help:ontrol of an ancient gama in southern Sri ad come "90 percent" hist influence. 'ananand, who knows h, seemed to have no m and sought to emsm was also facing "I advised Buddhist s to spread their reliistianity like we have d. "As a religion nonduism in Sri Lanka. Tamils, Christian indus here face prob
le Christian clergy of n fuelling the ethnic hd blamed it for caus
inga military showdown between the Tigers and India in 1987-90. “The more the conflict rages, the more will be the hardship and poverty among Tamils. And the Christian clergy will try to convert Hindu Tamils."
Vigyananand was greatly impressed by the de facto Tamil state the LTTE runs in the north. "They have put up a parallel administration with their own penal code, judiciary, banks, police and orphanages,” he said. “It is a full-fledged state. We have a lot to learn from them.” O Global peace award
The San Francisco-based Global Security Institute is presenting its inaugural Alan Cranston Peace Award to UNUnder-Secretary-General Jayantha Dhanapala, who heads the world body's disarmament Affairs department. The award honours "visionary leaders who share the late Senator Alan Cranston's conviction that nuclear weapons are unworthy of civilisation”.The award is also meant for those who, through their ef. forts, demonstrate exemplary service in eliminating weapons of terror. The institute says that Mr. Dhanapala, who for 30 years has been steadfast in his dedication to global peace and security, "has made countless contributions in strengthening the international arms control, nonproliferation and disarmament regime". The award was presented at a ceremony on April 16 at the United Nations O Change of Name
Reports quote abroadcast from the Voice of Tigers radio say that the Tamil Tigers changed the name of their organisation to the Liberation Tigers of Tamileelam from the current name, Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. It is learnt that the change has been made to conform with the grammatical use of the Tamil language.
Acquiescing, adjusting justifying, Now this is our reality, so do the best in it. Travel along this road and soon............. Their thoughts will be my thoughts No independent thought Living to survive the day. Pongu Thamil an uprisingl Seeing all those people Can I ask each of them "what brought you here?" Being part of such a massive crowd Does it make you feel the futility of struggling Against the tide you have stepped into?
Think again;
I know it is easier to merge with them. They speak my language, they are part of my culture Not an alien Culture hostile to me And so I am ready to celebrate, I am One of them. I even forget what I need to stand up for. I looked around for at least one face, one person That may cry "foul"l
Nobody did, nobody dared. A mass of humanity without a heart Poetry without the poet
Story without its author.
- By Anonymous

Page 21
15 APRIL 2002
Pongu Thamizh Cultural and Political Antece
Rajan Philips
The phrase Pongu Thamizh, while not a new addition to the Tamil political lexicon, has been receiving considerable prominence in the current debate over the ceasefire agreement. Translated as “Tamil upsurge' or "Tamil awakening, the recurring Pongu Thamizh rallies in the Northern and Eastern Provinces have been described as a new mode of political mobilization of the Sri Lankan Tamils. Commentaries and interpretations have varied from fascination to condemnation, depending, of course, on the eye of the beholder. Seymour Martin Lipset, the political sociologist, once commented that a high degree of involvement and participation in elections is a sign of political instability, a sign of disagreement over current and/or fundamental political issues. One might extend this to include political mobilization, protests, and rallies. “Official and organized political rallies have long been obsessive rituals in South Asian and Sri Lankan politics. Rallies have a life of their own, and political organizations invest a great deal of resources in ensuring their success. In years past, the lengths of May Day processions in Colombo were used as indicators of the strengths of political parties. Even in Jaffna town, in the 1980s, when there were more militant groups than working class organizations, May Day processions and rallies were staged by the different militant groups with the competitive edge of an inter-school sports meet. But the fun disappeared when guns got in the way.
The Pongu Thamizh (PT) rallies, on the other hand, are emerging when the guns are purportedly on the way out. Opinions differ, however, as to whether these rallies are in keeping with the spirit of the current Ceasefire Agreement, or a violation of it. Nonetheless, despite a handful of contrarians and relatively minor hiccups so far, the ceasefire is holding steady. As well, 'surging political rallies are a small
price to pay to keep the deep hole that t rael has fallen into, by the moronic mi Prime Minister, Ari That said, event port the peace proc cerned about the pot that the PT rallies ir inces might caus Sinhalese in the Sou sequences for the The worriers were minded of the co Bandaranaike-Chi Pact of 1957, which cipitated by the th Minister's unilater send to Jaffna b Sinhala Sri license the Tamil protest buses in the North lash in the South. A Bandaranaike decl. pact stands abrogat next few years, the peared without a trac age was done. Forty the Sinhalese appear political maturity i calls for counter rall to pongu Thamizh ir East and even in Nu question has been the Tamils are show of immaturity and i A favourable v rallies is that they al tions against the Sil casions for the Tar Provinces to releas frustrations and en years of political years since the las elections were held inces. The rallies a transformative step; as it adjusts to the ments ofan openpo the old imperative cloister. For those v
 
 

TAMILTMES 21
Sri Lanka from he state of Isdragged down litarism of its el Sharon. hose who sup
eSS Wee COential backlash the NE Prove among the th and the con
peace process. naturally rellapse of the elvanayakam was partly prehen Transport al decision to uses bearing plate numbers, against these and the backA beleaguered ared that "the ed' Over the Sri issue disap:e, but the damfive years later to have gained n ignoring the ies in the South the North, the wara Eliya. The raised whether ving new signs ntolerance. iew of the PT e not provocanhalese but ocnils of the NE e their pent up ergies after 25 dormancy, 25 st time decent in the NE Provre also seen as S for the LTTE new requirelitical life from s of a military who oppose the
peace process and demonise the LTTE as being democratically irredeemable, the pongu Thamizh rallies represent separatist triumphalism and LTTE's fascism, even comparable to Hitler's Nazism.
Without being overly judgemental, it is possible to see the PT rallies and slogans about self-determination and Eelam as statements about everything traumatic that the people in the NE Provinces have gone through in the last twenty years and about the huge uncertainties that still hang in front of them. The Tamil people are not an army of fascists in brown or black uniform, backed up by an industrial-military complex at home and colonial markets abroad, and mobilized to conquer the world in the name of a superior race. That was Hitler's Germany, the centre of the Axis, flanked by Italy and Japan. The comparison to Hitler and Nazism is unfair and insensitive, even as it is anachronistic, betraying deliberate or real ignorance. If sociological comparisons are needed, one might turn to cultural and political antecedents across the Palk-Straits and not across the oceans. Comparisons closer home will also show how a 'separatist' movement that surfaced among the Tamils in South India was successfully internalized within the still surviving Indian federation.
Symbolic and Poetic Roots
What does pongu Thamizh culturally and politically signify? Pongu' in Tamil has several meanings - to rise or surge like rice or milk while cooking, like floods, rivers and the rough seas, or like fermenting toddy. Thai pongal is an auspicious harvest festival. Pal ponguthal, or the rising of milk while boiling, is auspicious, while the rising of fermenting toddy is inauspicious. 'Poorana kudathu neer nara vil pongumal" (the water in the auspicious fulsome pot will rise like toddy to warn of impending danger) is a line from Kampan, the early medieval Tamil poet and considered to be the king of Tamil poetry, where the term pongumal is used to describe the auspicious pot (nirai kudam) turning into an inauspicious omen.
The best known and politically evocative use of the term pongu appears in the mid-twentieth century South Indian Tamil poet Bharati Dasan's roaring poem, written in the heyday of Tamil cultural nationalism in Tamil Nadu. It is a poem of four powerful stanzas and the late V.R. Nedunchezhian, DMK’s (Dravida Munnetra Kazhaham) and ADMK's (Anna DMK)

Page 22
22 AMILTIMES
long time General Secretary, Finance Minister and the greatest literary orator ever in Tamil politics, was known to conclude his speeches with a stirring rendition of the entire poem to leave a long effect on his audiences.
The term pongu is in the third stanza of the poem, as pongu Thamizhar, which can be translated as 'surging” or “aroused” Tamils. Interestingly, the poem refers to Sri Lankan Tamils as the brave "southern kin' in the land of the Sinhalese. In an earlier and better known poem celebrating South Asian Regionalism, poet Bharati, the first Tamil poet of note in the modern period and Bharati Dasan's mentor and predecessor, had alluded to a cultural bridge from South India to the 'Sinhalese isle”. Classicists will recall Millton's description of Ceylon (then Taprobane) as "India's utmost isle'.
The pongu poem is full of sound and fury, with images of battlefields and enemies borrowed from the “heroic genre' of Tamil classical poetry. The poem mirrors the cultural and political context in which it was written, especially the mid-20th century euphoria created by the print-popularization of ancient Tamil classical texts (the so called sangam literature) that had been "rediscovered during the seventy five years between 1850 and 1925. In particular, the few sangam poems of the pre and early Christian period that depicted "war" and violence (mostly involving tribal fights among kindred Tamil groups over cattle raids and grain robbery) became convenient motifs for populist political rhetoric among 20 century Tamils infected by modernnaionalism. The pongu poem is a good or bad example of this genre. The pot’s purpose was to employ images of war, heroism and enemies to rally sup
port for Tamil cul The enemies were 1 siders, but South I mins, the Tamil up tested DMK's popu gress Party whom th majority of the Tam But neither the poe intended or commit anybody. There ha violent clashes bet political party supp( else in South Asia, to do with alcohol the DMK’s cultura ric.
Allegorical Asse I have taken th justifiably, of using an allegory to descri Indian Tamil natio ticipated by the foi tice Party in 1916 1944 with the tra Justice Party int Dravida Kazhaham Zation), and beca strand when a pow Dravida Kazhahamr to form the Dr Kazhaham (DMK, sive Organization thereon it was an ul DMK, as the only challenge anywher. India Congress Pal political power in 1 non-Congress gov State (now Tamil was achieved und leadership of C.N. most Tamil politica of the 20th century, writings virtually Tamil intelligentsi.
Tani
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15 APRIL 2002
ltural nationalism. not external or out
ndian Tamil Brah
per classes who delism, and the Conle Brahmins and the nils then supported. t mor the DMK ever ted violence against ve been, of course, ween South Indian orters as everywhere but they have more and thuggery than Il nationalist rheto
SS ment
e liberty, I believe pongu Thamizh as be a strand of South nalism that was anrmation of the Jus, asserted itself in nsformation of the the mass based (Dravidian Organime the dominant erful section of the (DK) broke away "avida Munnetra Dravidian Progres) in 1949. From pward climb for the significant regional e in India to the All ity, and it achieved 967 to form the first ernment in Madras Nadu). All of this ter the remarkable Annadurai, the foreland cultural leader whose speeches and revolutionised the a and culturally en
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ergised every Tamil anywhere in the world who spoke and read Tamil. I would suggest that the pongu Thamizh ascent stopped with Annadurai's death in 1969. His successors in the DMK and its splinter ADMK have barely stayed the course on the plateau to which their great Anna had brought them. But the two parties have managed to alternate as governing parties in Tamil Nadu, despite their notorieties for corruption, banal excesses, family bandyism and obsessive feuds. Annadurai's alliterative motto for the movement: kadamai, kanniyam, kattupadu (duty, honesty and discipline), its rhetorical effervescence, literary lustre, agenda of far reaching social reforms and emancipatory populism that marked the pongu Thamizh era under Annadurai are long gone.
A few commonplaces are necessary to summarize the meaning and achievements of the DMK's pongu Thamizh era. The nationalist infection of the Indian subcontinent manifested itselfin multiple ways. The dominant nationalist currents were the pan-Indian secular nationalism spearheaded by the Congress Party and the anti-Hindu Muslim nationalism of the Muslim League. Regionally isolated Hindu nationalist forces, although contained at the Centre by the Congress until the 1980s, always lurked beneath the surface with not infrequent outbursts in the form of anti-Muslim riots and the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. Beneath these dominant themes emerged both secular and religious regional variations, overarchingly based on language (or religion, as in the case of the Sikhs in Punjab) and territory but internally driven by caste and overlapping class contradictions. There are several aspects to the nationalist infection of the South Indian Tamils in the Madras Presidency. The first nationalist expression in Madras, though it came later than in Calcutta or Bombay, was the Home Rule movement, dominated by the Brahmins, that soon merged with the independence movement of the Congress Party. The formation of the Justice Party and its subsequent transformation first into the Dravida Kazhaham (DK) and later the Dravida Munnetra Kazhaham (DMK), provided a counter expression of nationalism among the Tamils.

Page 23
SAPRIL 2002
The Justice Party's origins were the grievances of non-Brahmin Tamil upper castes triggered by the Brahmin dominance of urban South India in the early part of the 20th century. It found a convenient ideological vehicle in the Dravidian-Aryan dichotomy that was first formulated by European Tamil scholars to make a purely linguistic distinction between Tamil (Southern, Dravidian) and Sanskrit (Northern, Aryan), and to emphasize the incongruence between the Vedic (Northern) theory of the four-fold varna caste system and the multiple caste structure of the Tamils (this incongruence is not limited to the Tamils, but is common throughout India). The British administrators (and not European Christian Missionaries) used this dichotomy to instigate the non-Brahmin Tamil upper castes of Madras against the Brahmin Tamils. The Dravidian movement politicised this dichotomy and used the Dravidian ideology and the concomitant demand for a Dravidian state to build a mass movement on an ambitious and eclectic agenda of aggressive social reforms, anti-clerical rationalism, radical socialism, the liberation of women, and the emancipation of the pahittali (the common man) - a rubric for the vast, illliterate mass of Tamil society's subaltern castes and social margins.
The eminent Indian Sociologist, M. N. Srinivas, introduced the concept of Sanskritisation to describe the historical process of inter-caste mobility, a process by which lower castes in improving economic and political circumstances resort to coopting the ortho-practices of the higher castes and the Brahmins. Sanskritisation was coined to explain the assumed osmosis of the so called the Great (Sanskrit) Tradition into India's multiple Little (local) Traditions.
The essence of DMK's achievement in Tamil Nadu was its attempt to turn Sanskritization on its head. The DMK used the power of the spoken and written word and every available form of art and communication to challenge the orthodoxy and the orthopraxis of the Tamil society in every aspect of culture and social structure. - values and beliefs,
customs and rituals women's status, an hierarchy. Democratic Cult Federalism
My argument is izh under Annadurai tively became then gressive agenda of reforms. There we Annadurai's leaders Thamizh ethos. Whe islators and state go as part of Gandhi's tum to the British, t trators in Madras Party to step in and durai, then a membe under Periyar E.V. tested and convince leader that there shi ration with the Bri regardless of the Par the Madras Brahmir position of Periyar remarkable in that o lier both of them h posed Rajaji's (the Minister in the Mac advised move to int teaching of Hindi Both Periyar and Al cialists at that time, low the inexplicabl nist Party line, unde cow, to oppose Gan and support the Br nostalgic footnote history of this perio Sama Samajists, Be Antonypillai, Hectc V. Karalasingham a then in exile in II Annadurai and oth common anti-color dras.
As I have allude Tamil nationalism strand among the na Madras, but it was The euphoria over til Tamil classical text vivalism that ensuec of the Tamil literat the Brahmins. In fa
EMERGENCY TRAVE
 

TANIMLTIMES 23
art and literature, caste-based social
ure and Indian
that pongu Tham's leadership effecLetaphor for a prosocial and cultural
•e other aspects to hip and the pongu n the Congress legvernments resigned Quit India ultimahe British adminisnvited the Justice fill the void. AnnaI of the Justice Party Ramaswamy, pro'd the Party and its puld be no collabotish colonial rulers y's differences with is. The anti-colonial and Anna-durai is nly a short time earad vehemently opn Congress Chief lras Presidency) illroduce compulsory in Madras schools. hna were radical sobut they did not fole (Indian) Commur dictates from Mosdhi's Quit India call itish war effort. A o the South Indian d is that the Lankan rnard Soysa, S.C.C. or Abhayavardhana, nd others, who were ndia, worked with er progressives in ial protests in Ma
d to before, DMK's was the dominant tionalist currents in not the only strand. he rediscovery of the s and the literary retouched all sections , and they included ct, it was the tireless
search of the veteran Brahmin Tamil scholar, Dr. U.V. Swaminatha Iyer, that brought to light the hitherto lost ola manuscripts of the sangam literature. Annadurai and the DMK never tried to suppress the different currents of Tamil nationalism. Instead, they challenged their opponents by invoking the legacy of the rediscovered Tamil classics over the established orthodoxy of the Brahmins and the conservative dominant castes. Annadurai was a genuine democrat who believed in the plurality of the political process. A great polemicist and debater, he encouraged the clash of ideas, and hugely enjoyed debating his opponents especially those belonging to religious traditions and orthodox schools. He is the only one I know who tried to foster a "democratic culture' in Tamil politics through his writings in Tamil.
His profession of a separate Dravidian state had more to do with its attractiveness as a concept and a metaphor than any compelling material circumstances. Redeemingly, DMK's separatist ideology was not narrowly based on Tamil ethnology or blood brotherhood, but encompassed the Telugus, the Malayalees and the Kannadas. But the Dravidian state was a non-starter because the appeal for Dravidian solidarity never found any resonance among other non-Tamil Dravidian people of South India, namely the Malayalees of Kerala, the Telugus of Andhra Pradesh and the Kannadas of Karnataka. In fact, a part of the inspiration for pan-Dravidian separatism might have arisen from the geographical boundaries of the Madras Presidency under colonial rule, that included vast tracts of the present day Andra Pradesh and Kerala. The DMK hardly developed a programme for separation either through constitutional means or armed insurrection.
The truth of the matter is that the DMK never had to develop such a programme thanks to the remarkable working of Indian federalism in southern India despite the northern location of central power. The Indian state is not unknown for brutal oppression but there
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Page 24
24 AMLTMES
has hardly been - with the exception of the mildly offensive but unsuccessful attempts to impose Hindi- any instance of nationalist oppression of the South Indian Tamils by Delhi. On the contrary, every cabinet of the Central government since independence has had prominent Tamils in powerful portfolios, often based on individual merit and not regional cooption. India has had quite a few Tamils and other South Indians as Presidents and Vice-Presidents, starting with the redoubtable C. Rajagopalachchari (Rajaji) as independent India's first Governor General. The Indian Civil Service, Judiciary and the Armed Forces have also had a good record of openness to recruitment and promotion of South Indians, often to the highest positions in these branches of the Central government. The most important aspect of Indian federalism, however, has been its provision of space and authority for regional autonomy. In a sense, Annadurai and the DMK were able to focus almost exclusively on their cultural and social reformist agenda until they formed the State government in 1967, because of the competent economic management by successive Congress State governments in Madras.
The DMK and Annadurai were relieved of their separatist burden in 1963, with the passage of the 16th Amendment to the Indian Constitution to ban secessionist political parties. The Amendment was brought in the wake of India's border dispute with China and in a rising mood of bellicose Indian nationalism.
The DMK officially dropped its separatist demand from the Party programme, but Annadurai's speech opposing the Amendment during the debate in the Rajya Sabha in Delhi, has been described by an American scholar as one of his "most professional performances'. Annadurai based his opposition not on narrow chauvinism, but on the higher principles of liberal constitutionalism, challenging Nehru to leave the constitutional authority with the people - that is, leave it to the people to democratically decide whether his plea for separation was acceptable or not, and not to let a Parliamentary majority deny him his right to advocate separation. After 1963, Annadurai or the DMK did not have any cause to revisit the issue of separatism. When Annadurai became Chief Minister in 1967, he caused the name of the southern Tamilian state to be changed from Madras to Tamil Nadu - a symbolic consummation of pongu Thamizh that overlies the reality of Tamil national autonomy within the Indian federation. O
Introduction
The new United government of Sri L power in Decembel economy that has growth (-1.3%) for post-independencept economy today fac problems; one is institutional weak economy and the ot induced economic w The much-await new government pri March 22nd has fa address both of t problems in the ec Budget 2002 has structural and instit economy, which Secondly, the gover advantage of the cea the LTTE by infusi in infrastructure lik telecommunications that could have b economic growth.
This paper is o Firstly, we critically public expenditure Secondly, we discus dividend and impe of the same. Thirdly fiscal profligacy months of the last g some suggestions rrence of such a pr we evaluate the fisca in the budget. Fifthl the structuraland ins need to be undertak sustainable high grc
Public Expenditur The total public (January 01 to Dece to be almost LKR34 LKR 220 billion is and LKR 126 billic ture (Table 2). Tha public expenditure current expenditur expenditure. Table istries (and combin ceive more than 1“ expenditure in a de Accordingly, th (including Defence tries) is once again
 

15 APRIL 2002
Budget 2002
Little Too
Muttukrishna Sarvananthank
National Front (UNF) anka, which came to 2001, inherited an recorded negative the first-time in the eriod. The Sri Lankan es two fundamental the structural and ness in the macroher is the civil warfoe of the country. ed first budget of the esented belatedly on illed to adequately these fundamental onomy. Firstly, the proposed very little utional reform of the are long overdue. nment has not taken sefire agreement with ng public investment e roads, power, and in the war-torn areas loosted the overall
rganised as follows; look at the proposed
of the government. is the potential "peace iments to realisation ', we look back at the during the closing overnment and make o prevent a reoccuedicament. Fourthly, l measures enunciated y, we outline some of titutional reforms that en in order to attain a with rate.
e expenditure for 2002 mber 3i) is proposed 6billion, out of which recurrent expenditure on is capital expendiut is, out of the total proposed 64% is re2 and 36% is capital 1 catalogues the Mination thereof) that re% of the total public scending order. e Defence expenditure and Interior Minishe single largest pub
lic expenditure consuming almost 20% of the total public expenditure. The Finance Ministry consumes the second largest with 18%. The Ministry of Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government (12%), and the Ministry of Public Administration, Management and Reforms (8%) incur third and fourth largest public expenditures respectively. The Health and Education expenditures, with around 7% of the total public expenditure each, consume fifth and sixth largest public expenditures respectively. The public expenditures on defence, health and education as proportions of total public expenditure in 2002 are greater than in 2001. In sum, 15 Ministries (and combination thereof) as catalogued in Table 1 receive 92% of the total public expenditures earmarked for 2002. These figures indicate that there is no letup in the militarisation of the economy of Sri Lanka despite an indefinite ceasefire in place. The entire ministerial allocations are provided in Table 2.
The Samurdhi poverty alleviation programme receives 4% of the total public expenditure during 2002 (Table 1), which is higher than last year in absolute amount as well as a proportion to the total public expenditure. A Welfare Benefit Law is proposed in the budget that would define eligibility and exit criteria for claimants of Samurdhi benefits and outline statutory management procedures for the Samurdhi programme.
However, it would be very difficult to legally verify a household's income or wealth, especially among marginalised income groups. If, so many people can evade income tax payments then what guarantee is there that the proposed Welfare Benefit Law would weed out ineligible claimants of Samurdhi benefits?There is no convincing proposal in the budget to reform the much-criticised Samurdhi
programme.
The Ministry of Women's Affairs receives a negligible 0.04% (LKR 145 million) of the total public expenditure (Table 2), which is the same as last year. However, in absolute terms there is a drop of LKR 5 million on women's affairs this year compared to last year. This meagre budgetary allocation goes against the government's pledge in its election manifesto to improve the livelihood of women. However, the government spending on women could come out of other ministerial allocations as well.

Page 25
SAPRIL 2002
Table 1: Selected Public Expend
Defence Expenditure (1)
Ministry of Finance
Ministry of Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government
Ministry of Public Administration, Management and Reforms
Ministry of Health, Nutrition and Welfare
Education Expenditure (2)
Ministry of Samurdhi
Ministry of Power and Energy
Ministry of Highways
Ministry of Housing and Plantation infrastructure
Ministry of Transport, Highways and Aviation
Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock
Ministry of Mass Communication
Ministry of irrigation and Water Management
Ministry of Port Development and Shipping
Selected Public Expenditure
Total Public Expenditure
Source: The Appropriation Bill presented to the Parliament on Febr Notes: (i) Defence Expenditure includes the Ministry of Defence anc Ministry of Human Resource Development, Education and Cultural,
Ministry of School Education.
Peace Dividend
The Government of Sri Lanka (GOSL) and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on February 22&20, 2002 respectively, for a mutually agreed ceasefire with the facilitation of the Royal Norwegian Government. This indefinite ceasefire agreement is expected to provide a peace dividend to the economy of Sri Lanka.
The anticipated peace dividend has two components, one is the anticipated reduction in defence expenditure, and the other is the anticipated increase in domestic and foreign investment, foreign aid, tourist arrivals, etc, due to the ceasefire and restoration of normalcy throughout the country. However, disappointingly, the peace dividend expected from a reduction in defence expenditure has not materialised in the Budget 2002. In fact, the defence expenditure as a proportion of the total public expenditure has risen from 18% in 2001 to 20% in 2002 (both these figures are derived from budgeted expenditures and not the actual expenditures). The recurrent expenditure of the defence budget has increased by 10% from LKR 52.54 billion in 2001 to LKR 57.87 billion in 2002, while the capital expenditure of the defence budget has decreased by 12% from LKR 10.85 billion in 2001 to LKR 9.57 billion in 2002 (again these are budgeted expenditures and not the actual expenditures). In the past several years the actual defence expenditure has always been considerably higher than the budgeted expenditure'.
The expected boost to the Sri Lankan economy as a result of the MoU may ac
crue from two source: revival of the econon province as a consequ the economic embarg through the increased in the rest of the cour rise in domestic and foreign aid, tourist arr MoU is expected total rialise. For instance, thi imposed in the aftern attack on the Katunay not been withdrawn in
Further, there is a alise the potential ber economy by the reviv economy due to a vari rily due to infrastruct taxation at both sides vide. The roads in the in a deplorable condit the transport cost ofg opening of the A9 hig to Jaffna the road trans to be abnormally hig wear and tear to vehic Further, the arbitrary sides of the territoria carrying goods are an pushes up the transpo The lack of electri nications are another the economic revival eas in the North and o The lack of electricity eas prohibits manufac limited number of ele is totally inadequate to the producers and cons

TAMLTES 25
iture Proposed for 2002
Recurrent As a % of
Capital Total Public Expenditure Expenditure (LKRMillion)
67,445.4 19.51 62,219.0 18.00 42,752.7 12.37 26,390.0 7.63 24,421.0 7.06 22,952.3 6.63 15,383.0 4.45 10,397.0 3.01 9,651.0 2.79 7,925.0 2.29 7,872.8 2.28 6,166.0 1.78 5,750.0 166 5,225.0 1.51 3,672.4 1,06 318,222.60 92.06 345,675.30 100
Jary 19, 2002.
i Ministry of Interior. (ii) Education Expenditure includes the Affairs, Ministry of Tertiary Education and Training, and
s; one is through the ly in the North-East ence of the lifting of go, and the other is productive activities ntry. The anticipated foreign investment, ivals, etc, due to the Ke sometime to mateWar Risk Surcharge nath of the July 24th yake airport has still
practice. long way to go to renefits to the national 'al of the North-East ety offactors; primaural bottlenecks and of the territoriali diLTTE-held areas are ion, which increases goods. Even after the hway from Vavuniya sport cost is expected h because of heavy les plying that route. tax imposed at both l divide on vehicles other key factor that rt cost even higher. icity and telecommumajor impediment to of the LTTE-held arthe Jaffna peninsula. in the LTTE-held arturing activities. The ctric generators used ) cater to the needs of umers alike. The lim
ited supply of power in the Jaffna peninsula is far short of the requisite. The absence of telecommunication with the rest of the country greatly increases the transaction cost of businesses in the LTTE-held areas. Even the limited telecommunication facilities available in the Jaffna peninsula are totally inadequate to fulfil the demand. بر
The lack of storage facilities is yet another impediment to economic revival in the LTTE-held areas. For example, though the free flow of petroleum products to the LTTE-held areas is ensured under the MoU there is a lack of demand for diesel and petrol in those areas. This is mainly because almost all the vehicles (two, three, and fourwheelers) in the LTTE-held areas have been converted to run on kerosene (paraffin) during several years of economic embargo. Moreover, there are no underground storage facilities for petroleum products in LTTE-held areas, and over-ground fuel tanks are wasteful due to evaporation.
Furthermore, storage facilities for agricultural and fishery produce are also lacking for want of suitable buildings and ice manufacturing plants. Therefore, the export of perishable agricultural and fishery produce of the LTTE-held areas to the rest of the country is undermined. This calls for the revival of the construction industry in those areas. However, due to the dearth of bank finance (loans and overdraft facilities) to fund construction activities the construction industry is still dormant despite the lifting of the embargo on construction materials such as cement, bricks, asbestos, tiles, etc.
The realisation of the full potential of the lifting of the economic embargo is de

Page 26
26 TAM TIMES
layed primarily because of infrastructural bottlenecks such as poor conditions of roads, and lack of electricity and telecommunications. Though there is a surge in the export of consumer goods such as bicycles, bicycle parts and accessories, motorcycles, plastic furniture, office machinery, stationery, radios, televisions, building materials, etc, from the rest of the country to the LTTEheld areas since the lifting of the economic embargo on January 15, 2002, there is a long way to go to exploit the full potential.
Another critical factor inhibiting the realisation of the full potential of the lifting of the economic embargo is the arbitrary taxation of goods en route to the LTTE-held areas by the Tamil paramilitary groups in Vavuniya, and taxation by the LTTE on their side. The taxation by the LTTE, though is justified in order to run a parallel administration in the territory under their jurisdiction, extends to goods meant for personal use as well. This arbitrary taxation at both sides of the territorial divide is debilitating to the entrepreneurial instinct of the masses, especially in the LTTE-held areas.
Due to the abnormally high transportation cost and extra-legal taxation the prices of goods in the LTTE-held areas are still quite high though lower than during the embargo time. The recentnewspaper reports suggest that generally business turnover in the Jaffna peninsula is quite low nowadays, because people are postponing buying non
essential goods in ant prices once the goodsb to Jaffna via the A9 hi is partly a wishful thi think that there woul drop in prices in Jaff opening of the A9 hig normally high transpo trary taxation.
Therefore, in sum the peace dividend is a of hype about it.
Fiscal Profligacy
The previous gove cal profligacy in the la political survival beca government breached to enforce a moratori hiring on several occa 2001. The armed forc airforce) continued to r recruitment of schoolt bated. In October 20 made over 40,000 cas public sector perman goodwill to the masse pending parliamentary ber.
Again as a gestur masses in light of the il tary elections, the emp ice, semi-governmen public corporations a
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15 APRIL 2002
icipation of drop in egin to be transported ghway. Perhaps this nking, as we do not be any significant na as a result of the hway because of abtation cost and arbi
early realisation of mirage despite a lot
rnment exhibited fisst quarter of 2001, as me the priority. The its own undertaking um on public sector sions in later half of es (army, navy, and ecruit personnel. The eachers went on una01, the government ual employees in the ent as a gesture of s in light of the im" elections in Decem
e of goodwill to the mpending parliamenloyees of pubic servtal institutions, and ind statutory boards
were provided a pay hike of LKR. 1,200 per month effective from October 2001. As a corollary, pensioners were also offered a hike of LKR 750 per month. Whilst acknowledging the rapid rise in cost of living during 2001 and the consequent hardships faced by the masses, those pay hikes were premature for an ailing economy.
There were other fiscal sweeteners to the electorate as well; diesel vehicle taxes, save the nation contribution, and import duties on raw materials of the construction industry were abolished. The national security levy was reduced to 6.5% from 7.5%. Import duty on cement was reduced. All commercial bank loans of LKR 20,000 and below to farmers were written off. The prices of gas and wheat flour were subsidised by the government in order to prevent price increases. Duty-free imports of motorcycles were accorded to the employees of the Samurdhi authority, Samurdhi Commissioner General's Department, and research officers of the Department of Agrarian Services.
All these pay hikes, tax concessions, and public sector recruitment were a manifestation of fiscal irresponsibility by a defunct government amidst a deepening economic crisis and political morass. These politically motivated relief measures were fiscal opulence an ailing economy could ill afford.
The shortsighted fiscal profligacy during election times has become a hallmark
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Page 27
1- ANAR 2002
of Sri Lankan democratic polity. This was the case in 1994 and again in 2001. Therefore, it is high time Sri Lanka introduces a system of statutory controls on public expenditure, during normal times as well as during election times. The history has shown that the politicians of Sri Lanka (whichever political party they belong to) cannot be trusted to manage the public finances prudently and efficiently.
It is time to stipulate legally binding targets and ceilings on public expenditure by any government in power. For instance, there should be statutory ceilings on budget deficit and defence expenditure as proportions of the GDP and the total public expenditure respectively. Further, there should be statutory targets for public spending on social sectors such as education and health. That is, a maximum threshold of public spending on defence and a minimum threshold of public spending on selected social sectors as proportions of total public expenditure should be statutorily earmarked. Likewise, a statutory ceiling on the budget deficit as a proportion of the GDP should be stipulated.
The total outstanding public debt (both domestic and external) of Sri Lanka was more than the total GDP of Sri Lanka in 2001. This is not the first time the total public debt has surpassed the GDP in a particular year. During several years in the 1980s this has happened so. Therefore, it is not a new phenomenon and has no political colour. The interest payment on the total public debt during 2001 was LKR 94 billion, which was considerably higher than the total defence expenditure. The statutory public spending controls proposed above may be the only means of arresting fiscal profligacy of the politicians and the total public debt of Sri Lanka. Fiscal Measures
The government's decision to increase the threshold income for personal income taxation, the proposed reduction of the top rate of personal income tax and the corporate tax in the next couple of years, and a series of tax incentives to the private sector are designed to improve compliance and reward entrepreneurship. The proposed amalgamation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the National Security Levy into a Value Added Tax (VAT) is a positive step. However, the VAT rate on essential goods and services will be 10% and on other goods and services will be 20%. It is important to note here that hitherto essential goods were exempted from the GST. Hence, the VAT covers more goods and services than the GST. Therefore, the cost of living may rise as the government revenue is expected to increase by LKR3.5 billion in 2002 as a result of the introduction of the VAT.
The rationalisation of fiscal instruments in the budget indicates a continuing reliance on indirect taxation rather than direct taxation. The indirect taxation is regressive while
direct taxation is prog latter is based on or whereas the former is r becoming a middle-ir high time it relies mo taxes rather than indire broad-basing the direc the public sector emplo to pay income tax. Th ployees in India, for e. tax and contribute to st
Almost one-fifth force in Sri Lanka is in cluding public corp boards/authorities, an institutions). That is, a of the total labour forc the public sector in 200 in Sri Lanka is already was 1 public sector em. citizens in Sri Lanka shrunk to 1 per every The per capita public se Lanka is the highest in The Sri Lankan po very dependent on the of jobs, free healthcare pensions, etc. This depi in gross inefficiency a in the public sector. M survey conducted amo island in the late-1990s that the major aspiratic (both in the South and ing public sector emplo that this dependency cl The most importar ple to seek public sec the exemption from (PAYE) tax and non-c scheme. Therefore, the ing the youth from se employment is to with leges enjoyed by the p ees. In this regard, the new recruits to the pub 8% of their salary to t budget is opportune. H ment should go furthe sector employees into is high time to inculc paying direct income t ity in Sri Lanka.
A debit tax of 0. debit transactions in transactions is a regre is perhaps the only cou has introduced such ar. it is mentioned in the l temporary there is not This tax may encoura, transactions. Structural and Instit It is disheartening tle structural and instit economy is proposed The reform of the b state-dominated finanç labour laws, and the st

TAMITMES 27
essive, because the e's ability to pay ot. Sri Lanka is fast come country and “e on direct income ct taxes. As a way of : income tax regime yees should be made e public sector emcample, pay income ate pensions. of the total labour the public sector (inorations, statutory d semi-government bout 1.2 million out 2 of 6 million was in 10. The public sector 7 overstaffed. There ployee for every 24 in 1978, which has 16 citizens in 2000. :ctor employee in Sri
Asia. pulation has become State for providence , free education, free endency has resulted nd low productivity fore alarmingly, in a ng the youths of the Prof. Hettige found on of the rural youth the North) is obtainyment. It is high time ulture is discouraged. rt incentives for peotor employment are Pay As You Earn Contributory pension best way of dissuad:eking public sector draw these two priviublic sector employproposal to make the )lic sector contribute heir pensions in this Iowever, the governr and net the public the PAYE scheme. It :ate the principle of ax accordingto abil
1% proposed on all all formal financial ssive step. Sri Lanka ntry in the world that *gressive tax. Though budget that this tax is ime limitmentioned. ge informal financial
utional Reforms
to note that very litutional reform of the in the Budget 2002. loated bureaucracy, cial sector, antiquated ite-ownership of 80%
of the land area of Sri Lanka are some of the critical reforms need to be undertaken. These reforms are long overdue. There are no concrete proposals at all to reform the public sector or the financial sector. But, there is some indication in the budget about the proposed labour and land market reforms.
It is always politically convenient to undertake unpopular but necessary economic reforms in the early years of a new government. With the public endorsemen of the government policies in the recent lo cal government elections it would have beer easier to push through long overdue struc. tural and institutional reforms of the economy. The government's reluctance to bite the bullet, so to speak, is disappointing to say the least.
Conclusion
The government's decision to increase the proportion of public expenditure on defence is self-defeating, because on the one hand the government seems to be quite optimistic about the current peace process but on the other hand has not delivered its own peace dividend to the economy. This dichotomy of government policy in the political and economic spheres provides a confusing signal to the potential investors (both local and foreign) and the foreign donors alike.
Moreover, the government has shrugged off the opportunity to inject public investments in infrastructure such as roads, power, and telecommunications in the war-torn areas that could have been a catalyst to kickstart the ailing economy of Sri Lanka. Only a paltry sum of LKR 300 million is earmarked for public investment in infrastructure in the war-torn areas for 2002. Perhaps the government is expecting donor assistance to undertake these critical investments. The allocation of LKR 2,800 million or just 0.81% of the total public expenditure to the Ministry of Rehabilitation, Resettlement, and Refugees (Table 2) is yet another indication of the government's failure to deliver its own peace dividend to the beleaguered economy. Out of the total allocation of LKR 2,800 million only LKR 466 million is allocated for capital expenditure. Perhaps the government is expecting the international donor community to foot the major part of the bill on rehabilitation and resettlement.
If the government could not demonstrate its faith in the peace process by slashing the huge defence budget how can it expect the private sector, foreign investors, and the foreign donors to have faith in the peace process? Further, if the government does not want to put the money where its mouth is how could it expect the private sector, foreign investors, and the donors to do it? An economy in the red requires a bolder and faster economic reform agenda than what is proposed in the Budget 2002.

Page 28
8 TAMILTIMES
Table 2: Public Expendit
F E) (եւ
President's Office Prime Minister's Office Ministry of Defence
Ministry of Interior
Ministry of Human Resource Development, Education and Cultural Affairs
Ministry of Tertiary Education and Training
Ministry of School Education
Ministry of Samurdhi
Ministry of Health, Nutrition and Welfare
Ministry of Employment and Labour
Ministry of Public Administration, Management and Reforms
Ministry of Policy Development and implementation
Ministry of Power and Energy
Ministry of Transport, Highways and Aviation
Ministry of Highways
Ministry of State Transport
Ministry of Finance
Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock
Ministry of Enterprise Development, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion
Ministry of industries
Ministry of Port Development and Shipping
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Eastern Development, and Muslim Religious Affairs
Ministry of Housing and Plantation infrastructure
Ministry of Housing Development
Ministry of Estate infrastructure
Ministry of Urban and Public Utilities
Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources
Ministry of Women's Affairs
Ministry of Justice, Law Reform and National integration
Ministry of Irrigation and Water Management
Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
Ministry of Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Gov
Ministry of Social Welfare
Ministry of Plantation industries
Ministry of Tourism
Ministry of Southem Region Development
Ministry of Western Region Development
Ministry of Central Region Development
Ministry of Cooperatives
Ministry of Mass Communication
Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Ministry of Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Refugees
Ministry of Land
Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Ministry of Economic Reform, Science and Technology
Total
* Research Fellow, International Centre for Ethnic Studies, Colombo, A International Centre for Ethnic Studies, Colombo, On March 26, 2002. Vi
ICES. Correspondence sarwiG)slt. Ik
This does not include debt repayments.
The actual defence expenditure during 2001 will be known only by en

15 APRIL 2002
re Proposed for 2002
ecurrent Capital Total As a % of Total penditure Expenditure (LKR Million) Public CR Million) (LKRMillion) Expenditure 290 38 328 0.09 55.9 50 105.9 0.03 41,000 9,000 50,000 14.46 16,871.8 573.6 17,445.4 5.05
10,064 5,319 15,383 4.45 5,444 1970 7,414 2.14 18.7 136.6 155.3 0.04 15,222 161 15,383 445 19,331 5,090 24,421 7.06 901 143 1,044 0.30 26,239 151 26,390 7.63 528.8 236 764.8 0.22 483 9,914 10,397 3.01 4,402 3,470.8 7,872.8 2.28 41 9,610 9,651 2.79 1,383 4.2 1,387.2 0.40 19,648 42,571 62,219 18.00 5,227 939 6,166 1.78
585.3 1,290 1,875.3 0.54 25.5 100.7 126.2 0.04 95.4 3,577 3,672.4 106 3,118 134 3,252 0.94 110 281 391 0.11 244 7,681 7,925 2.29 25 89 114 0.03 67 119.6 186.6 0.05 27 95 122 0.04 343 1,522 1,865 0.54 69 76 145 0.04 1197 567 1,764 0.51 1,428 3,797 5,225 151 578.8 1,317 1,895.8 0.55 35,234.9 7,517.8 42,752.7 12.37 88.9 55.9 1448 0.04 368 1,484 1852 0.54 125.6 110 235.6 0.07 60 398 458 0.13 138 1,445 1,583 0.46 30 709 739 0.21 112 54.5 166.5 0.05 3,916 1,834 5,750 166 109 25 134 0.04 498 305 803 0.23 2,334 466 2,800 0.81 940 473 1413 0.41 210 78 288 0.08 427 1,042 1,469 0.42
219,654.6 126,020.7 345,675.3 100
aper presented at the seminar on Budget 2002 organised by the ws expressed in this paper are solely of the author and not of the
of April 2002.

Page 29
15 APRIL 2002
LETTER FROMUAFFNA
Bringing Hope and a Smile
Monday 11 February was a red-letter day in the history of the Jaffna Teaching Hospital and the people of Jaffna. On this day arrived in our midst the plastic surgery team, Interplast UK which spent two weeks in Jaffna. When they left on 25 February, they had succeeded in bringing i Smile to many faces and hope to many at heart.
Interplast is an international charity whose work includes sending teams to various parts of the world to carry outplastic surgery procedures. There had been eighteen such visits to Sri Lanka in the past mainly by Interplast teams from Germany. This was the first ever visit to Jaffna and was by its UK branch.
The Teaching Hospital in Jaffna is providing a service to the community under very difficult circumstances. One of the major problems is the serious shortage of senior and junior medical staff. Out of the cadre of 32 specialists only seven are filled. On the surgical side too there is a serious shortage of general Surgeons. There are no specialists in other surgical specialities except neurosurgery at present, The hospital has never had a plastic surgeon.
Many conditions and problems cannot therefore be dealt with in Jaffna and patients have to be sent to Colombo undergoing all the hardships that entails. Children with conditions such as cleft lip and plate and those who have deformities from birth or that have resulted from burns cannot be successfully treated in Jaffna. So the need for such a visit by a specialist team has been a long felt one.
To Mr Charles Vivekananda, senior plastic surgeon from Middlesborough must go the credit for making this trip a reality. He had been hoping to bring a team to Jaffna for some time. Though this trip was planned several months ago, it came to fruition at a time when circumstances in the country had undergone a dramatic transformation. Following the elections in December not only was there a new government in power but once again a ceasefire was in place and the peace process back on track. The Interplast team that therefore arrived in Jaffna included four Tamil doctors, from the UK and Zimbabve. They were accompanied by an English family comprising an optometrist and optician. In Sri Lanka they were
joined by two Englisl country as well as thi from Ratnapura wh Charles Vive on his
The Interplast tea Charles Vivekamamc UK; Dr Declef Erdm: Germany; Dr K Raj geon, Zimbabve; Mr. Sivagnanam, and I Anaelsthetists, UK Rachel France and Andrea Falkner and but based in Sri Lank: Punchikumarihamy : Ratnapura, Sri Lanka Their trip was co( man Help Foundatior were able to get the of Relief and Reh North(RRAN) to un arrangements for flyi from Colombo. The rated in the Hospi Jayawardene, Minist From day one t their mission with d siasm. The screened clinics and carried ou cluding 2 on a visitt of Nainathivu). Ther tion with medical an the hospital and the la from this experienc surgeons as well as ing in surgery assist ried outplastic surger thetists to benefited f with this team. Dr Velauthapillai and I gave lectures to doct dents during their st accommodated in til quarters they were the local doctors anc of mutual benefit. T hard but still manage a visit to Cashur Nainathivu. Toward. the hospital stafforg entertainment and fe them to dinner. It w such a social functio the day after many of the times
Another very im team's visit was the

TAMITMES 29
nurses based in this ee Sinha-lese nurses o had worked with previous mission. mcomprised of Mr la, Plastic Surgeon, ann, Plastic Surgeon, aratnam, ENT Surs S Rajaratnam, Dr T )r E Velauthapilli, ; David Florence, Frank Smith, UK; Deidre Cusack, UK ;Nanda Welligepola, and Manel de Silva,
. ordinated by the Gerfrom Colombo who help of the Ministry labilitation in the dertake the cost and ng the team to Jaffna camp was inauguital by Dr Jayalth er for RRAN. he team were about edication and enthu600 patients in the it 154 operations (ino the offshore island e was close cooperad nursing staff from tter benefited greatly e. Local consultant other doctors worked, learned and cary procedures. Anaesrom working closely Charles Vive, Dr Dr Sivagnanam also ors and medical stuay. As the team was he hospital doctors' ble to interact with | the experience was le teamworked very d to find the time for ina beach and to the end of their stay anised an evening of licitation and hosted as the first time that in was held so late in year. Another sign
portant aspect of this presence of an op
tometrist and optician. They conducted eye testing clinics at Manipay, Inuvil, Pt Pedro, Moolai and Nallur and gave away free spectacles to those attending. They tested around 600 people and have promised to send more spectacles from England. The doctors had brought large amount of drugs, sutures and dressing for this mission. A significant amount was also donated to the hospital include delicate instruments.
The mission was an exciting one for the hospital and people of Jaffna. It coincided with the relaxation of various restrictions including on medical supplies together with security clearances for travel out of Jaffna. However the basic problem of lack of medical staff at the Hospital remains. The presence four expatriate Tamil doctors in this team was of great encouragement. Equally so was the arrival in the Hospital at the same time of Dr Karuniyan Arulananthan, Paediatrician from the USA to work here for six weeks. It is hoped that this will encourage many more Tamil doctors in various specialities to consider coming to Jaffna, even if for a few weeks, whereby they can in like manner benefit the people and the Hospital here. In fact it is hoped that this may encourage expatriate Tamils in all walks of life, be they teachers, engineers, commuter experts etc. to do likewise.
The Jaffna community is deeply grateful to the Interplast team and all who made their visit a reality. Their visit brought a Smile to the face of Jaffna. There is an old English saying, that "a single swallow does not a summer make”. It is to be hoped though that this visit together with other recent developments might mean that at least the gloom of winter is finally giving way to spring for the people of Jaffna.
DD C Ambalavanar FRCS Ed Dept. of SurgeryTeacching Hospital, Jafna.
NOTE: Any expatriate doctors and other medical or para-medical staff interested in helping by working and teaching in Jaffna, even if for short spells, should contact the Director, Teaching Hospital, Jaffna, or the Dean, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna.

Page 30
30 TAM TIMES
CLASSIFIED ADS
fins 20 wers seo, each w 60p charge för Box No. £3. (Wat 17 1/2% extra). Prepayment essential
The Advertisement Manager amil Times Ltd, PO Box 121 Sutton, Surrey SM13TD Phone: 020 8644 0972 FAX: 0208241. 4557 E-mail: admin Otamilitimes.org
MATRIMONIAL
Jaffna Hindu father in Colombo seeks professional partner from suitable family background for qualified accountant son, 33, 6’1", employed in London. Please send horoscope details. M 1284 C/o Tamil Times.
Jaffna Hindu uncle seeks professional partner for his niece, 27, 5'8", slim, working in Sri Lanka with UK Charity. Please send horoscope, details. M 1285 C/o Tamil Times.
Tamil Hindu parents seek professionally qualified groom for pretty daughter, 29, holding senior position in bank. Has Mars affiction. Please Send horoscope details, M 1286 c/o Tamil TimeS.
Jaffna Hindu parents seek attractive doctor or (medical student or Srilankan qualified) bride less than 27 years for UK qualified doctor son, horoscope/vegetarianism optional. Please send photograph (initially) promptly returnable. M 1287 C/o Tamil Times.
BRTHDAY
The second birthday of Aaron, son of Ravi & Surai and grandson of Mr. Rasiah Rajendra arid Mrs Jeyaranee Rajendra was celebrated at "Bleserene", their residence at Rayners Lane, Harrow, UK with prayers and God's blessings bestowed by a large gathering of friends and relatives from UK and abroad.
WEDDING BELLS
We congratulate the following couples on their recent wedding.
Thanuja daughter of late Dr. Jeganmohan and of Mrs Jeganmohan of 27 Sandford Road, Bromley, Kent BR29AL, UK and Prasanthan Son of Mr. & Mrs Balakrishnan of 4 Merlin Close, Parkhill, Croydon, Surrey CRO 5UO, UK on 24th March 2002 at Tolworth Recreation Centre, Surbiton, Kingston, Surrey.
Ramanan son of Mr. & Mrs Ganeson of 59, Summit Road, Northolt, Middx UB5 5HL, UK and Sharmiha daughter of Mr. & Mrs Gopalan of 10, Jalan Сиераcs 2, Татат Сиерасs, Batu 12, Jalan CherOS, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia On 24th March 2002 at Federal Institute of Technology Hall, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Janani, daughter of Dr. S and Mrs Jegatheeswarie Puvirajasingham of 76 Rating Lane, Barrow-in-Furness, Cambria LA 13 9LD, UK and lshwara Kumar Son of Mr. P & Mrs Indira Pathmanathan of 14 Grafton Close, Worcester Park, Surrey KT47JY, UK on 30th March 2002 at The Decorium, Wood Green, London N22.
Janani, daughter of Dr. & Mrs Navaratnam of 5, Windy Hill, Hutton, Brentwood, Essex CMI3 2HF UK and Sivaganeshan, son of Mr. & Mrs. Sivaloganathan of 16 Ravensbury Avenue, Morden, Surrey, UK on 31st March 2002 at Guildford Civic Hall, Surrey, UK.
OBITUARIES
John Thambu Kandiah of Urumpirai, Retired inspector of Police, J.P and Inquirer into
Sudden Deaths; beloved husband of Ruth Rasamalar, loving father of Sri
Rangkanathan (KSA), Sathianathan (USA), Mahendra
 
 

nathan (UK), Ruby (UK), Jeganathan (Australia), Yoganathan (Canada), Daisy (Canada) and Loganathan (Australia); father-in-law of Sarojana, Lali, Shantha, Michael, Amirthini, Raji, The vapalan and Renuka, grandfather of Sudarshini, Lorinda, Cryshanthy, Nylanthy,
Naomi, Jason, Angelina, Andrew, Priyan, Roshan, Amirtha, Arni, Rebecca,
Hannah, Jessica and James, great grandfather of Joel and Sebastian passed away peacefully on 18th March 2002. The funeral was held On 23rd March in Melbourne, Australia.
The members of the family Wish to thank all friends and relatives who attended the funeral, sent floral tributes and messages of sympathy and assisted them in various ways during the period of bereavement, No. 1, Windmill Close, Epsom, Surrey KT17 3AL.
IN MEMORAM 20th Death Anniversary Remembrance
In loving memory of Mr. Elayathamby Thambipillai who passed away on 1st April 1982.
Sadly missed and fondly remembered by his children Thuraisingham (Colombo), Jegajothie (Jothie) (London), Sundaralingam (Suntha) (Jaffna), Pathmanathan (Path) (London), Rajaledchumy (Raji) (Vavuniya) and Pushpallingam (Lingam) (London), grandchildren Pradeepan, Malanvili, Sivadeepan, Piranila, Kokila Deborah, Uthayan, Thulasei, Selina, Setha, Adda Van, Kavitha, Pirapoo, Jason, Duwaragan and Lathini, great grandchild David. - Mrs Jothie T. V. Lingam (Andrew), 23 Adlington Close, Edmonton, London N18 fXJ
15 APRIL 2002
in loving memory of Mr. Visvalingam Sivasubramaniam, Principal Emeritus, Skanda Varodaya College, Chunnakan on the sixth anniversary of his passing away on 26th April 1996.
Sadly missed and fondly remembered by his beloved wife Sironmani; children Dr. Sivanandarajah, Sivagnanasunderam, Dr. Sivapalan, Sivathasan Sivaratnam, Sivananoharan and Sivaloshanadevi; son-in-law Thavarajah, daughters-in-law Manimehaladevi, Anandhi, Yogeswary, Kamaladevy, Supathiradevi and Devahi, grandchildren Sutharshan, Priyatharshini, Suseenthiran, Suhanthan, Sutharshika, SuloShan, Suthaharan, SulakShan, Arooran, Gajamohan, Gajaharan and Vaishna - 135A Sudbury Avenue, Wembley, Middx HAO 6AMV. Tel 020 8385 0477.
9. Thaiyalnayaki Sivalingam on the third anniversary of her passing away on 18th April
1999.
Greatly missed and fondly remembered by her loving children Jeyakumaran, Kaladevy, Gnanendran, Dr. Jeyagowri, Sureslikumar and SivaSuthan; SOn:S-in-la W Garnesharnoorthy and Dr. Kumaran, daughters-in-law, Yogendradevi, Vallinayaki, Malathy and Balasuhanthini, Sister

Page 31
5 APRIL 2002
Sethunayaki Sivasithamparam; grandchildren Havitha, Sinduja, Kalyan, Neruban, Rathulan, Pratheeban, Aparnah, Geevithan and Abisha - 24 Sixth Cross Road,
Twickenham, Middx TW2 5RB. Tel 020 8977 6277.
pow8
in loving memory of Mr. Vaithilingam Sivagnanasundram (Churchill) on the third anniversary of his passing away on 11.4.99.
Fondly remembered by his veloved wife Nageswary (Lily); loving children Ranjan, Mohan, Thayan and Gowri; daughters-in-law Renuka, Radha and Premini; son-in-law Ajan, grandchildren Mathangi, Sangavi, Ranjitha and Harshini; brothers, Sisters and their families. - 11 Jesmond Crescent, NSW 2119, Australi
in loving memory of N. Vellupilai Kumarasamy on
the third anniversary of his passing away on 20th April 1999. Fondly remembered and sadly missed by his beloved wife Sarojini; loving children Nirmala, Baskeran, Shymala and Dayaharan; sons-in-law Rasalingam and Uthayakumaran; daughters-in-law Gnanamanohari and Sujatha, grandchildren Gayathiri, Gajan. Arjun and Shivani, relatives and friends. - 24 Rowlands Avenue, Hatchend, Middx HAS 4BH/ 37 Mississippi Road, Seven Hills, NSW2147, Australia.
Six month remembrance of Mr. Appapillai Navaratnam, Former General Manager, National Savings Bank and Deputy General Manager, Bank of Ceylon who passed away on the 2nd of October 2001.
Six months have passed, since you left us, Dear Appa, we are missing you a lot Appa, With love, deeply missed and affectionately remembered by your loving wife, children, grandchildren and family members. We Wish to thank all those friends Who sent kind words of appreciation
Daddy Ponnampalam Kanagaratnam
In Loving Me
We speak of you w
Years may pass Memories of you t And shall live in O.
Born: 11.10, 1909 Rest: 02:03.1982
Sadly missed and fondly remembered by sons Sara, Brem & Janarthan, Mehala, Uthistran, Arani and Anuja - 19 Huxley F
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

TAMITMES 31
Remembering a Gentleman
| write this note with a deep sense of appreciation of a gentleman of high esteem, who lived a full life practising the principles and precepts of the religion he followed.
My first acquaintance with Mr. Appapillai Navaratnam was in 1953, when I joined the Bank of Ceylon, when he functioned as officer in charge of clearing at the City Office. As a new recruit, I found every activity, that took place in the Bank new and confusing, especially the terminology used in banking. Mr. Navaratnam was One of those mentors, Who true to his character, explained in detail whenever some work was assigned to a new recruit. This was the most welcome gesture as against some other officers, who gave out instructions, which were seldom understood. As a graduate of the London University and an LLB, he had a good grasp of the procedures and the legal system that went with banking and banking practices. This knowledge and his devotion to work moulded him in later life as a prominent banker of repute.
He served as Manager of many provincial branches and was one of those responsible for the quick development of the TrinCOmalee branch and rural banking in that area. After having served as Regional Manager of the Northern Region, he was transferred as the Chief Manager of the London Office, a coveted position where he contributed
branch. On his return to Colombo, he was promoted Assistant General Manager and in 1981 retired as Deputy General Manager. Soon after retirement, the National Savings Bank was quick to enrol him as General Manager, which position he held till 1984. He also worked as Consultant to banks in the Middle East and advisor to international organisations.
Later in life, I used to meet him and Observed that even at that senior age, he displayed very intelligent and well informed understanding of deep rooted principles of high ethics. He avoided controversy and received the admiration and appreciation of all his peers, colleagues and Subordinates and behaved as one among equals in both branch and office administration. His clarity of thought, analytical mind and judicious decision making process always earned for him, high reputation and respect. I will always remember him as a guiding light. We miss a gentleman par excellence and a banker of repute.
May he attain peace. K. Sivagananathan Banking and Financial Consultant - Central Bank of Sri Lanka
Former Deputy General Manager - Bank of Ceylon.
George's Lodge Two bedroom Luxury Self Contained Apartment with cook available on request, available at Aruthusa Lane, WellaWatte, Colombo 6. £15 per night.
his best talents to develop the Telephone 020539236 or business of the London O7931587168 (UK)
mory of our Mummy
Vemalaranee Kanagaratnam
ith love and pride
nd time may fly Oth Will ne Ver die r hearts for ever.
oozig23 to 303. Dubsy, daughters-in-law Lalitha and Shyamala, grandchildren ace, Palmers Green, London N13 55U. Tel: 020 8886 5966.

Page 32
32 TAMILTIMES
Forthcoming Events
Road, Lewsham, London SEl.
Tel 020 8318 9844/8690
May 1 Feast of St. Joseph
May 2 Shashti; Feast of St. Athanasius
May 5 6.30 p.m. Tamil Performing Arts Society presents two dramas - Kannaady Vaarpukal & Pirathiyeka Kaadchy directed by Mr. K. Balendra in aid of the London Sivan Kovil at London Sivan Centre, 12A Lee High
O401/89428O36. May 7 Eekathasi May 9 Pirathosam
May 11 Arnavasai; South London Welfare Group Drop lin. Tel: 020 8542 3285
May 12 Karthigai May 14 Feast of Matthias May 16 Shathurthi May 17 Shashti
Siva Pillai Honoured
Mr. Kanapathipillai Sivagurunathpillai (Sivapillai) of Bowmead, Mottinsham, London had his schooling at Jaffna Hindu College from 1951 - 61. His fellow students and teachers at that time little realised that he was being given the right foundation for many great things in the years to come. There were no computers in the college at that time.
Mr. Sivapillai has been Computer Officer/Lecturer ICT at Goldsmith College of the University of London for several years and has done Media presentations on the Teaching of Community Languages especially Tamil at several recent conferences and for Web users. These have been well received and greatly appreciated. He has released several CD's such as CARE CD Computer Assisted Religious Education (English-Tamil-FrenchGerman), CALL CD Computer Assisted Language Learning (English-Tamil), “My First e-Tamil Book” which fulfils part of the UK language teaching levels called Key Stages 1-3 and several others. He has also published seven bilingual books. The web-site language learning techniques developed by him are of invaluable help to Tamils and others.
The Jaffna Hindu College Old Boys' Association honoured him recently with a Distinguished Services Award for 2002 in recognition of the credit he had brought to his Alma Mater through his achievements and contributions made to Teaching Community Languages, especially Tamil using Computer Related Techniques and the direct and continuing support provided to the College Computer Centre.
Introducing "Secrets of the Mansion'
I am delighted to introduce a children's book - "Secrets of the Mansion' by Maulia Selvarajah- which is an imaginative and fascinating tale to emerge from the pen of a thirteen year
old Sri Lankan girl young lady seem mastered the fun good story telling a interesting plot, a style, clearly drav and provides a m thoughtful reader,
The Plot: The ba England during the The author has d well. The picture of reaction of the cor war; the actual det the sinking of the A other events are : providing an authe
The story revolves Jenny and her brot other children bein the war following her country; lea behind, while her f their country with
The two children : Beacons where Jer two other young adventures, helpin enemy spy smuggl from their countr Blyton-type school through a child's e.
Narrative Style: use of highfly claustrophobic) ar young reader to cli generally easy flo continuity without dialogues are prac and realistic.
The Theme: It experience for chil a war sharing the pain, cruelty, at without a clear why men and nati
The children arew hope, when all t come to an end; a would be re-joined
This is a univers many children in

15APRI 2002
May20 Feast of St. Bernadine
of Siena May 22 Eckathasi
May 24 Pirathosam May 25 Full Moon; Vaikasi
Visakam
May 26 Feast of St. Philip
Neri
May 27 Feast of St. Augustine
of Canterbury
May 29 Sankadakara Shat
huirthi
May 31 Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
At Bhavan Centre, 4A Castletown Road, London W149HQ. Te: O207381 3086/4608.
May 4 6.30 p.m. Carnatic Vocal by Manorama Prasad. Website: www.bhavav net E-mail: info G2bhavan.net
born in Jaffna. The to have already lamental basics of t this tender age an
smooth narrative in characterisation oral theme for the
kground setting is Second World War. one her homework the countryside; the nmon people to the ails of the war (e.g. thenia); and several accurately recorded nticity to the tale.
around a young girl her Ted; along with g evacuated during bombing attacks on ving her mother ather is fighting for the Army.
are sent to Breacon iny, her brother and 2hildren have their g the police to foil an ing plans and maps y. This is an Enid lays adventure seen 7es.
Although occasional ing words (e.g. the hurdles for a mb, the narration is ving and maintains
interruptions. The tical, down-to-earth
is a traumatic dren to live through experiences of fear, rocity and torture inderstanding as to ns go to war.
aiting with faith and his mayhem would nd for the day they with their families.
all theme - true of hany war-torn lands
including Sri Lanka - where the young ones live in misery and grief, looking forward to a dawn of peace and harmony.
The Verdict: The book is an extremely commendable effort from this young lady Miss. Maulia Selvarajah. I could predict without hesitation that she will turn out to be a top grade writer in the years to come.
Dr. S. Thiagarajah
Copies are available from the author, 48 Hallwick Road, Luton LU29BH Tel: 01582 703786. Price £ 3.50 (including postage)
SANAATAANA
须
Two generations ago portrayals of life in India and Africa came predominantly through the words of novelists such as E.M. Forestar and Graham Greene. Now that novel by writers of Indian and African origin find pride of place in our bookshelves, has our perception of these cultures changed. Yes, they should have and they have.
I have been watching, devouring and absorbiag Indian performances in the Arts and while keeping abreast with reviews and observing the audience reactions at performances. If standing ovations are an indicator there are

Page 33
5APRIL 2002
more and more Westerners and others who stand up and give vent to the impact on their senses. Similarly critics acknowledge positively changes in their perceptions.
Recently I had attended three programmes, each of different character but all stemming from the bedrock of Indian classical dance, sure winner with an audience of mixed nationalities. First my curiosity was aroused by Fusion in Dance. I have witnessed a few Fusion concerts in music - Indian and Western. But Fusion in dance was something new I was keen to experience. The concept of Fusion is currently in vogue. I heard of Shobana Jayasinghe’s Fusion in Bharatnatyam production on' British TV but regretfully missed it.
SANAATAANA
On 14th September, significantly an explosion of Indian and Western classical Music and Dance was staged in a thematic programme called "Sanaataana' by Institute of Fine Arts at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, South Bank London. Sanaataana had an exemplary mix of Indian and Western mix music and dance items.
Opening with the great Master M.S. Gopalakrishnan in violin solo traditional Karnatic music was portrayed and Prasanna Ramaswamy followed with current trend in Karnatic music on Western instruments with deft handling of the electric guitar. However the accent was on dance.
Traditional Bharatanatyam dance choreographed by Krishnaveni of Kalakshetra and Maresa of Association Ballerina Sensei, Italy, a dancer very fluent both in Bharata Natyam and Western Contemporary dance, was performed by dancers from India, Italy and the U.K portraying the primodial conflict between the Devas and Asuras (good and evil, light and darkness), the world premiere of a new work choreographed and danced by Maressa and her contemporary dance troupe.
This dance revisits the primordial conflict between Devas and demons interpreting them in a more abstract way. This was written by Prasanna for Western and Indian musicians. The dance translated the conflict into contemporary, historical, and literary events.
The highlight of the evening was the Fusion' a new synthesis between Bharatnatyam and contemporary dance to represent the healing or reconciliation between good and evil based on the legendary story of King Asoka. The two forms alternatively exchanged the music to which they are
normally accomp; sequences were (vocalisation of rh and dance) and (rhythmic sequent music.
The fascinati Bharatanatyam mudras, abhinay suddenly or impe contemporary Similarly the tig Bharatnatyam is unravelled and m more extended vc contemporary dar the Bharatna contemporary dar be compromised. dance.
The innovative m Prasanna who contemporary comprising flute, electric guitar wit Ms Frances a percussions - miru Subramanium) al Every syllable enhanced the dral
The final union Gopalakrishnan
Frances Lynch
culminated ef Emperor Asoka’s being a warrior ur Prasanna's vers classical, westerr blues was the hall
Better judicious design and execu and other produc have left a stamp innovative Dance West and East m become another
Theatre in the fu much exchange amongst artistes the world is getti
Siva Sivananth
Freelance Tami for medical and
Must have good relevant experie
Translators may West London ar
Please send CV

33 TAMILTIMES
nied. Contemporary
set to sollukatt 7thm in Indian music haratanatya adavus es) are set to western
g elements of such as rhythm, Ls were "stolen" and 'ceptibly appeared in dance sequences. int set movement in lowly or suddenly tamorphised into the cabulary of Western ce. The traditions of yam and the ce did not appear to This was "Fusion' in
usic was composed by used the new Music Ensemble oboe, cello, harp and h the soprano voice of nd with Karnatic dangam (Poongulam hd ghatam (Karthik) of the percussions ma which unfolded.
of voices of Raji (virutham) and (medieval chant) fectively stirring reconciliation from hderscored the fusion. satility in Indian classical, jazz and mark of this' Fusion'.
and imaginative tion of stage lighting :tion elements would on this production as Theatre. Fusion of usic and dance would medium for Dance ture when there is so and interaction globally. Culturally ng more close linked.
8.
Tamil interpreters/Translators
l translators and London-based interpreters urgently required general translation/interpretation project.
command of English and be educated to Degree level or have
Ce.
r be home-based. Interpreting work may involve travel to North ea. Computer skills in Tamil fonts desirable.
and passport-sized photo to:
TE Translations 21 Maitland Court London W2 3PA
THE MESSAGE OF THE GITA
Bhagavad-Gita is a conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna in the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Arjuna, a prince and a warrior of great repute, unable to face the challenge in the battlefield, collapses. Lord Krishna revives him with the refreshing knowledge of Vedanta. Arjuna wakes up from his delusion, fights the battle and more importantly wins it. The story is symbolic. Every individual is eloquent when solving others' problems. But when he is confronted with a challenge, he succumbs. Ignorant of higher values, his mind overpowers his personality, destroys both his peace and productivity. This idea is well portrayed in the famous metaphor of the chariot. The chariot represents the individual; the horses, the senses - eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin; the reins are the mind and the charioteer, the intellect. When the charioteer is strong, he holds the reins firmly and guides the chariot safely. But if he is weak, the horses run helterskelter, destroying the chariot and its occupants. Similarly, with a weak intellect, you destroy your personality
Whereas a strong intellect keeps the mind and senses well under control and leads you to your desired goal. The study of the Bhagavad-Gita strengthens one's intellect. You combine dynamic action with effervescing cheer, emerging successful in your respective field of activity.
Gita Lectures are held at the Saiva Munnetta Sangam Hall every Monday from 8p.m. to 9.30p.m at 4 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB Tel: 020 8514 4732.
Tamil Times For Sale in Canada available from Kalai Mahal Book Depot 566 Parliament Street, Toronto, Ontario M4X P9 Tel: (416) 921 5018

Page 34
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