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Sri Lanka: Timeline (Terrorist Activities) -2013
Jan
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Date
Incidents
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June - 2 
Hundreds of Buddhist monks in Colombo on June 2 commemorated the massacre of 33 Buddhist monks in Aranthalawa area of Ampara District of Eastern Province by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on June 2, 1987, reports Colombo Page. LTTE bruta
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Hundreds of Buddhist monks in Colombo on June 2 commemorated the massacre of 33 Buddhist monks in Aranthalawa area of Ampara District of Eastern Province by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on June 2, 1987, reports Colombo Page. LTTE brutally hacked to death and shot 33 Buddhist monks, most of them novice monks as young as 8 years old when they were in a bus heading to Kandy city of Central Province.
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June - 2 
Meanwhile, President Mahinda Rajapaksa in Badulla District of Uva Province on June 2 said that recalling atrocities perpetrated by LTTE terrorists in the past was not intended to sow seeds of hatred in society, but to ensure that such a gruesome peri
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Meanwhile, President Mahinda Rajapaksa in Badulla District of Uva Province on June 2 said that recalling atrocities perpetrated by LTTE terrorists in the past was not intended to sow seeds of hatred in society, but to ensure that such a gruesome period will not be repeated in the future, reports Daily News. He said “We should tell the younger generation that the country faced such a gruesome period in the past in order to avert such situations in the future through forging closer and amicable ties between communities.”
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June - 3 
Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Dr. Chris Nonis, in an interview with BBCs Mishal Husain in London said that the country has made tremendous progress towards reconciliation since the end of conflict in 2009, Colombo Page rep
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Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Dr. Chris Nonis, in an interview with BBCs Mishal Husain in London said that the country has made tremendous progress towards reconciliation since the end of conflict in 2009, Colombo Page reported on May 4. “Compared to other countries which have resolved long running conflicts such as South Africa and Northern Ireland, Sri Lanka has made tremendous progress towards reconciliation in four short years since the end of the 28-year long conflict in 2009,” Nonis said. The High Commissioner said 297,000 people have been rehabilitated and there is a billion dollar programme going into the North and East of the country for the rebuilding.
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June - 4 
Colombo High Court on June 4 sentenced three Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres suspected of blowing up a train 17 years ago killing 66 people, reports Colombo Page. Colombo High Court Judge Kumudini Wickremasinghe sentenced two of the su
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Colombo High Court on June 4 sentenced three Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres suspected of blowing up a train 17 years ago killing 66 people, reports Colombo Page. Colombo High Court Judge Kumudini Wickremasinghe sentenced two of the suspects - Saverimuttu Loganathan and Robert Maxillan to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment while the female suspect, Siththirasenam Thirumagal alias Ramani to five years of rigorous imprisonment. The suspects were accused of placing two bombs in two carriages of a highly crowded train and detonating it while stopped at the Dehiwala station in Colombo on July 24, 1996. The attack killed 66 people and injured over 400 people.
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June - 4 
Further, Minister of Water Supply and Drainage and Chief Government Whip of Sri Lanka Dinesh Gunawardena announced on June 4 that an urgent bill will be tabled in Parliament for approval on June 5 (today) regarding the Northern Provincial Council (NP
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Further, Minister of Water Supply and Drainage and Chief Government Whip of Sri Lanka Dinesh Gunawardena announced on June 4 that an urgent bill will be tabled in Parliament for approval on June 5 (today) regarding the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) election, reports Colombo Page. He said the opposition has also been made aware of the bill and the time is allocated for the bill. The Minister said the bill is related to the registration of voters and the time will be allocated for the debate. The bill is to amend the election law to allow displaced people from the Northern Province now temporarily residing in other parts of Sri Lanka to register as voters on submission of satisfactory proof.
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June - 4 
Meanwhile, addressing the Foreign Correspondents’ Association, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R. Sampanthan on June 4 said that in regard to the people of the north and east, affected by the war, the Alliance had endeavoured to avoid an att
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Meanwhile, addressing the Foreign Correspondents’ Association, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R. Sampanthan on June 4 said that in regard to the people of the north and east, affected by the war, the Alliance had endeavoured to avoid an attitude of confrontation with the government and had offered to cooperate, The Hindu reported. He added that the TNA would work with the government, to provide them [the people] with proper housing and livelihood, and to give them an opportunity to recommence life. M.A. Sumanthiran, TNA Member of Parliament, said that the TNA has offered to work with the government. “We have clearly told the President that if he works with the TNA, being the democratically elected representative of the Tamil people, more funds will be available for rehabilitation and resettlement work in the north,” he stated. The TNA’s participation would give the entire process an increased measure of credibility and the Diaspora would also be prepared to be involved in a big way, he added. Sating that that the issue really was the extent of executive power the Governor will be willing to share with the board of ministers, he said, “Under the Constitution, the entirety of the executive powers of the province is vested with the Governor. So there will have to be certain negotiation in accordance with the people’s democratic wish and expectations.”
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June - 4 
Meanwhile, the Government decided on June 4 to appoint the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) proposed some time ago to work out political proposals for the resolution of the national question, reports Daily Mirror. The decision was taken at a mee
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Meanwhile, the Government decided on June 4 to appoint the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) proposed some time ago to work out political proposals for the resolution of the national question, reports Daily Mirror. The decision was taken at a meeting with the leaders of the ruling party’s allies. The PSC proposed some time back could not be appointed because the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) declined to participate in it. However, it was decided at the meeting chaired by President Mahinda Rajapaksa that it would be appointed whether or not all parties agreed to participate in it. Accordingly, the Government will consult Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa to take the necessary steps in this respect.
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June - 4 
The Government will submit a proposal to the cabinet of ministers on June 6 (today) seeking approval to re-amend the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The proposed amendment reportedly aims to remove the provisions provided fo
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The Government will submit a proposal to the cabinet of ministers on June 6 (today) seeking approval to re-amend the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The proposed amendment reportedly aims to remove the provisions provided for a merger of the adjoining provincial councils which allows bills and acts to get passed by all provincial councils before they are passed in Parliament. The draft bill in this regard has been approved by the party leaders of the ruling United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) on June 4.
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June - 5 
Further, TNA spokesman Suresh Premachandran told on June 5, “The Government will introduce legislation which stipulates that the consent of a majority of the PCs was enough instead of the consent by all PCs for parliament to pass a law. This will be
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Further, TNA spokesman Suresh Premachandran told on June 5, “The Government will introduce legislation which stipulates that the consent of a majority of the PCs was enough instead of the consent by all PCs for parliament to pass a law. This will be done prior to the election. No sooner the elections are held they will use this ruse to ensure that Land and Police Powers are removed from the purview of the Provincial,” reports Daily Mirror. He further said the ‘majoritarian principle’ would augur well for the government and the Sinhalese majority since the other provinces except the Eastern province is governed by the Sinhalese.
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June - 5 
In another context, on whether the Alliance was open to a broader Tamil coalition, he stated, "We will be willing to work with anybody who wants to work with us. We function in a democratic way. We have some little problems among ourselves, but those
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In another context, on whether the Alliance was open to a broader Tamil coalition, he stated, "We will be willing to work with anybody who wants to work with us. We function in a democratic way. We have some little problems among ourselves, but those will be resolved. We are prepared to form a broader coalition. The only thing is they have to genuine, credible and willing to work within a given policy framework." The TNA is an umbrella organisation for Tamil parties such as the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK), All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC), a wing of the Eelam People’s Revolutionary Liberation Front (EPRLF) and Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization (TELO), Peoples’ Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE), and Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF).
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June - 6 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on June 6 has opposed the Government's move to amend the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. TNA parliamentarian Suresh Premachandran said the 13th Amendment which was aimed at solving the national
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on June 6 has opposed the Government's move to amend the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. TNA parliamentarian Suresh Premachandran said the 13th Amendment which was aimed at solving the national issue and the Government must consult the TNA as a representative of the Tamil people prior to any move to amend the 13th Amendment since it would affect the people of the North and East. However, Premachandran noted that the Government has not yet made any official comment on its stance on the 13th Amendment. According to Premachandran, the TNA would have to decide whether to contest the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) polls in the event the Government decides to dilute or amend the 13th Amendment as it stands. The 13th Amendment introduced under influence from India in 1987 paved way for power devolution to the Provinces despite displeasure of the majority Sinhala community. There is a growing momentum within the ruling party and the country to abolish the 13th Amendment. The opponents of the 13th Amendment believe holding the elections in the Northern Province without amending it will be a serious threat to the national security and territorial integrity.
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June - 7 
Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya on June 7 said that the Elections Department had begun preparations to hold the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) elections in September although it was yet to receive an official confirmation regarding the h
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Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya on June 7 said that the Elections Department had begun preparations to hold the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) elections in September although it was yet to receive an official confirmation regarding the holding of the election, reports Daily Mirror. Mahinda said “It will be held in September. That is confirmed and now we are awaiting an official confirmation. We have now called for data on Government officers to take up official duties for the election.” He further said as of now the status quo regarding the registered voters would remain unless there is legislation to effect change to include a new voter list.
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June - 9 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on June 9 said that it would be useless to hold elections to the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) after amending the 13th Amendment and reducing powers vested with the provinces, reports Colombo Page. TNA parliamentaria
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on June 9 said that it would be useless to hold elections to the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) after amending the 13th Amendment and reducing powers vested with the provinces, reports Colombo Page. TNA parliamentarian Suresh Premachandran said, "The current President and the Government are going against this (implementing the 13th Amendment and going beyond)." He further said, "We want to go beyond the 13th Amendment. Provincial Councils need more powers on land, police and taxation. There are also issues in relation to the Governor. It is important to go beyond the current system. Only then can people in each province look after themselves. We are not satisfied with the current system and we must go beyond."
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June - 10 
Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Group of Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) unanimously resolved on June 10 to express opposition to any moves to make changes to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The SLMC parliamentary group me
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Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Group of Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) unanimously resolved on June 10 to express opposition to any moves to make changes to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The SLMC parliamentary group met at the Colombo residence of party leader and Justice Minister Rauf Hakeem and all eight Member of Parliaments (MPs) of the party came to the decision unanimously to oppose any moves that curtail the powers allocated to the Provincial councils.
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June - 10 
Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga said on June 10 that the then Government was so much under pressure that it accepted the 13th Amendment to the Constitution without calling for a referendum in the face of a threat of invasion, reports Dai
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Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga said on June 10 that the then Government was so much under pressure that it accepted the 13th Amendment to the Constitution without calling for a referendum in the face of a threat of invasion, reports Daily News. He said many countries including the United Kingdom, United States, France, and neighboring India exerted pressure to stop the humanitarian operation launched by the Government to free the country from terrorism. He added that public discussion is brewing on the 13th Amendment and many secrets with regard to the introduction of the Provincial Council System (PCS) are coming to light. The country’s administrative process was completely changed with the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which was implemented without the people’s consent, the Secretary said. The Secretary said it is left to the people to evaluate the benefits received from the Provincial Councils which were established in 1989.
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June - 10 
Separately, the Catholic Bishops of Sri Lanka in a statement at Catholic Bishops' Conference in Colombo on June 10 requested the Government not to proceed with amending the 13th Amendment or totally repeal it but to discuss with all relevant parties
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Separately, the Catholic Bishops of Sri Lanka in a statement at Catholic Bishops' Conference in Colombo on June 10 requested the Government not to proceed with amending the 13th Amendment or totally repeal it but to discuss with all relevant parties on drawing up a totally new Constitution which is fair by all communities. "The 13th Amendment of the National Constitution is a system that by large allows the greater participation of the people in the matter of governance," the statement signed by the Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith on behalf of the organization said. It said that although the 13th Amendment may not be perfect, pondering on this constitutional provision may lead to over centralization of authority and to international meddling in the internal affairs of this country at a time when Sri Lanka is striving to make permanent the hard won peace. The bishops advised the Government to discuss the 13th Amendment through a PSC and consider a totally new Constitution which would guarantee "justice, peace and prosperity for all citizens of the country regardless of their ethnic, religious or social differences."
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June - 11 
Deputy Minister of Investment Promotion Faiszer Musthapha and Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Batticaloa District organiser Arun Thamabimutthu on June 11 said that the Provincial Council system was a ‘white elephant’ and called for the repealing of th
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Deputy Minister of Investment Promotion Faiszer Musthapha and Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Batticaloa District organiser Arun Thamabimutthu on June 11 said that the Provincial Council system was a ‘white elephant’ and called for the repealing of the land and police powers enshrined in the Constitution if the Government were to proceed with the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) elections, reports Daily Mirror. “The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) is still espousing a separatist line and therefore it is dangerous to go ahead with the elections with land and police powers enshrined in the 13th amendment intact. The Provincial Councils do not need land and police powers” they said.
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June - 12 
Faizer Mustapha, the Deputy Minister of Investment Promotion, on June 12 said that it is dangerous to hold election to the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) with land and Police powers since the major Tamil party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA), still
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Faizer Mustapha, the Deputy Minister of Investment Promotion, on June 12 said that it is dangerous to hold election to the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) with land and Police powers since the major Tamil party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA), still harbors a separatist line, reports Colombo Page. The Deputy Minister joined by Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Batticaloa organizer, Arun Thambimuttu, told the media that the provinces did not need land and Police powers. Mustapha and Thambimuttu said the provincial council system was a white elephant and land and Police powers allocated to the provinces under the 13th Amendment should be repealed before the NPC election. According to Mustapha, if Police powers were granted to the provincial councils it would interfere with the independence of the Police.
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June - 12 
Meanwhile, leader of Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) and Senior Cabinet Minister Tissa Vitarana on June 12 said that 13th Amendment to the Constitution needs to be changed, reports Daily News. The Minister said the shortcomings in the Amendment should
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Meanwhile, leader of Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) and Senior Cabinet Minister Tissa Vitarana on June 12 said that 13th Amendment to the Constitution needs to be changed, reports Daily News. The Minister said the shortcomings in the Amendment should not be a reason to postpone the NPC election to be held in September. He maintained, although the 13th Amendment needs change, any modification to it is not a prerequisite to hold elections in the North. He said, “Shortcomings in the 13th Amendment to the Constitution can be addressed through consensus arrived at by political representatives of all the political parties represented in Parliament. President Mahinda Rajapaksa promised to do it through a proposed Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) process.”
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June - 13 
Further, the Central Committee of Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), the main coalition party of ruling alliance on June 13 decided to hold the elections in September for three provincial councils. The Government will schedule elections in September for
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Further, the Central Committee of Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), the main coalition party of ruling alliance on June 13 decided to hold the elections in September for three provincial councils. The Government will schedule elections in September for the Northern Provincial Council, Northwestern Provincial Council and the Central Provincial Council. SLFP Central Committee that met under the auspices of party leader President Mahinda Rajapaksa appointed three committees to handle the party organizational work in the three provincial councils. The committee for the Northern Provincial Council is headed by the secretary of the ruling United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Minister Susil Prema Jayantha while UPFA Vice Secretary Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva will head the committee for the Central Provincial Council. The committee for the Northwestern Provincial Council is headed by General Secretary of SLFP Minister Maithripala Sirisena.
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June - 13 
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Opposition Leader and leader of the United National party (UNP) Ranil Wickremasinghe on June 13 requested the Government to take measures to ensure a free and fair of the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) scheduled to be held i
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Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Opposition Leader and leader of the United National party (UNP) Ranil Wickremasinghe on June 13 requested the Government to take measures to ensure a free and fair of the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) scheduled to be held in September this year. In a letter addressed to President Mahinda Rajapaksa on June 12, the Opposition Leader asked the Government to immediately implement several measures prior to announcing the elections to the NPC. Among the measures suggested were the immediate restoration of 17th Amendment that was replaced by the 18th Amendment in 2010, immediate replacement of the Governor of the Northern Province by a civilian and an invitation to a team from Commonwealth to monitor the NPC election. Further, the Opposition leader requested the President to schedule a meeting for a delegation headed by him to discuss the measures he suggested.
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June - 13 
Separately, an organization called the National Group plans to campaign for the abolition of the provincial council system established under the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. The organization on June 13 announced that it would campaign for the
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Separately, an organization called the National Group plans to campaign for the abolition of the provincial council system established under the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. The organization on June 13 announced that it would campaign for the abolition of the Provincial Council system and has called on the Government to remove Police and land powers vested on the Provinces by the 13th Amendment. The organization has released a petition that has been signed by at least 29 Buddhist monks and professionals. The petition states that Police and land powers should be removed from the 13th Amendment before the NPC elections.
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June - 13 
Sri Lanka's Cabinet on June 13 approved the revisions to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution and asked the Parliament Speaker to appoint a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to study the issues regarding the legislation, reports Colombo Page. Ac
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Sri Lanka's Cabinet on June 13 approved the revisions to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution and asked the Parliament Speaker to appoint a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to study the issues regarding the legislation, reports Colombo Page. Accordingly the Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa will appoint a PSC on June 18 to discuss the proposed changes to the 13th Amendment and submit a report within a stipulated time period. Cabinet spokesman Minister Keheliya Rambukwella told media that the Cabinet has approved the deletion of the provision in the 13th Amendment that gives power to the President to merge two provinces as it was done in July 1987 with the Northern and Eastern Provinces which remained merged until the Supreme Court de-merged them in October 2006. He added that the amendment that repeals the clause that empowers the President to merge two provinces will be brought as an urgent bill in Parliament soon. However, the Cabinet has decided that other issues such as land and Police powers need to be resolved through the proposed PSC as certain Cabinet Ministers were opposed to diluting the powers vested in the 13th Amendment. Coalition partners of the Government, the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), the Eelam Peoples' Democratic Party (EPDP) and the Leftist Lanka Sama Samaj Party (LSSP) were opposed to any changes in the 13th Amendment while another coalition partner Jathika Hela Urumaya wants to abolish the Amendment. Rambukwella said the government will try its best to reach solutions through the PSC before the proposed Northern Provincial Council poll, confirmed to be held in September.
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June - 14 
External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris, during his bilateral discussions in Berlin with Dr. Guido Westerwelle, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany on June 14 urged Germany to keep a close watch on the several Liberatio
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External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris, during his bilateral discussions in Berlin with Dr. Guido Westerwelle, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany on June 14 urged Germany to keep a close watch on the several Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) front organisations in Germany, breaching the European Union proscription, reports Daily Mirror. The Minister said according to information available to Sri Lankan authorities, there were a substantial number of schools operating in Germany by these groups for propaganda and fund raising purposes.
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June - 14 
Meanwhile, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Rajitha Senaratne addressing a press briefing held in Colombo on June 14 said that he was ready to sacrifice his cabinet portfolio to stop further reducing the powers devolved to the provinces th
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Meanwhile, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Rajitha Senaratne addressing a press briefing held in Colombo on June 14 said that he was ready to sacrifice his cabinet portfolio to stop further reducing the powers devolved to the provinces through the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The Minister said that he would not change his position on the 13th Amendment. He further said that the Government would be defeated before the international forces unless it fails to stop the moves to further curtail the powers of the provincial councils. The Minister also rejected the proposals for a referendum on the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.
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June - 16 
Meanwhile, Marxist party Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) on June 16 announced that it would bring a political package to replace the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The party led a bloody campaign against the 13th amendment
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Meanwhile, Marxist party Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) on June 16 announced that it would bring a political package to replace the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. The party led a bloody campaign against the 13th amendment and the Provincial Councils in 1987-90 period and many people died as a result. Politburo member of the JVP, Parliamentarian Anura Kumara Dissanayaka said that solutions for the problems of the Tamil people are needed to be provided concurrently with the abolition of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. JVP proposes solutions to the problems of the Tamil people in their package while proposing to abolish the 13th Amendment completely, Dissanayaka says. JVP package is based on constitutional recognition of state as a multinational state and acceptance of freedom of all nationalities. The package will be launched within two weeks, the JVP MP said.
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June - 16 
Separetely, SLMC on June 16 said the party will take legal action if the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) that will be appointed to revise the 13th Amendment to the Constitution approves the proposals to curtail the powers devolved to the Provinc
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Separetely, SLMC on June 16 said the party will take legal action if the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) that will be appointed to revise the 13th Amendment to the Constitution approves the proposals to curtail the powers devolved to the Provincial Councils. National organizer of the SLMC, Rafeek Rajabdeen said the party was against the amendments brought to take away police and land powers from Provincial Councils. The Parliamentary Group of SLMC unanimously resolved on June 11 to express opposition to any moves to make changes to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.
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June - 16 
United National Party (UNP) Assistant Leader Joseph Michael Perera on June 16 said that the confrontation over the scrapping of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution in particular would ultimately create a situation where the separatists would achie
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United National Party (UNP) Assistant Leader Joseph Michael Perera on June 16 said that the confrontation over the scrapping of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution in particular would ultimately create a situation where the separatists would achieve their objective overnight, reports Daily Mirror. “This will help pro separatists to gain what Prabahakaran could not achieve in the 30 year old war,” he said. He said parties which oppose the scrapping of the 13th Amendment including the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) should leave the Government. He said they cannot remain in the Government when they oppose anything because of the collective responsibility. At the same time he said the Government should make a firm decision on the 13th Amendment and inform the people of its official stand.
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June - 17 
Prime Minister and Religious Affairs Minister D.M. Jayaratne at a meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office in Colombo on June 17 said giving Police and Land powers to Provincial Councils will create needless issues in a small country like Sri Lanka, re
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Prime Minister and Religious Affairs Minister D.M. Jayaratne at a meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office in Colombo on June 17 said giving Police and Land powers to Provincial Councils will create needless issues in a small country like Sri Lanka, reports Daily News. He said the 13th Amendment to the Constitution has opened up a dialogue in the media and the public space. It is a characteristic of democracy. Some say the 13th Amendment is needed; some say it is not required. However, Police powers and Land powers referenced in the Amendment are not required at this juncture. He further said “Equity is the main feature of a society. When creating an equal society, the differences among nationalities, races, castes and religions should be eliminated.”
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June - 18 
A Bill was presented to Parliament on June 18 by the Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU), an ally of governing United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) to abolish the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Daily News. The Bill was presented by JHU Member
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A Bill was presented to Parliament on June 18 by the Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU), an ally of governing United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) to abolish the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Daily News. The Bill was presented by JHU Member of Parliament (MP) Ven. Aturaliye Ratana and is titled the ‘Twenty First Amendment to the Constitution’. The Bill was seconded by United National party (UNP) Puttalam District MP Palitha Range Bandara. The Bill states that the 13th Amendment seeks to weaken the Government of Sri Lanka whilst strengthening the Provincial Councils and thereby destroying the unitary character of the state, territorial integrity, and the sovereignty of the people. Sri Lanka is a free, sovereign, independent and unitary state and it is the duty of the state to safeguard the independence, sovereignty, unity and the territorial integrity of Sri Lanka and the provisions of the 13th Amendment are a threat to the independence, sovereignty, unity and the territorial integrity of Sri Lanka, the Bill states. The Bill has been introduced based on the premise that the 13th Amendment did not get the unanimous approval of the Supreme Court.
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June - 18 
Meanwhile, leader of Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) and Minister of Technology, Research and Atomic Energy Patali Champika Ranawaka on June 18 (today) warned of a possible outcome detrimental to the country's unity from the Northern Provincial Council (N
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Meanwhile, leader of Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) and Minister of Technology, Research and Atomic Energy Patali Champika Ranawaka on June 18 (today) warned of a possible outcome detrimental to the country's unity from the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) election if the NPC election is held without amending the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. He said that the Tamil separatists might use this election as a referendum for their cause.
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June - 18 
Meanwhile, the Parliament on June 18 passed a bill to ensure the voting rights of the displaced people in the North, reports Colombo Page. The legislature passed with amendment the Registration of Electors (Special Provisions) Bill tabled by the Just
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Meanwhile, the Parliament on June 18 passed a bill to ensure the voting rights of the displaced people in the North, reports Colombo Page. The legislature passed with amendment the Registration of Electors (Special Provisions) Bill tabled by the Justice Minister Rauf Hakeem in Parliament earlier this month. The vote on the Bill was postponed by the House to allow more time to the opposition to discuss its contents with the Commissioner of Elections. The bill, proposed by the Justice Minister, will allow the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) displaced from the North between May 1, 1983 and May 18, 2009 to register to vote if they have not been registered as voters in any other electoral District. The Supreme Court ruled that the special bill is consistent with the Constitution.
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June - 19 
Meanwhile, John Amaratunga, Chief Opposition Whip of United National Party (UNP), told on June 19 that UNP is considering boycotting the proposed PSC to discuss amendment to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. Amaratunga tol
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Meanwhile, John Amaratunga, Chief Opposition Whip of United National Party (UNP), told on June 19 that UNP is considering boycotting the proposed PSC to discuss amendment to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. Amaratunga told that the UNP will take part in the process only if some conditions are met. Among the conditions for the UNP to be part of the PSC process is the full implementation of the recommendations of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC). Amaratunga added that the UNP also wanted the 17th Amendment to be implemented and the media, police and state institutions to be given the freedom to operate independently.
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June - 19 
Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said all political parties should forward their suggestions to the PSC where the suggestions will be considered. Minister Dullas Allahapperuma also said all political parties including the Tamil National Alliance (TNA
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Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said all political parties should forward their suggestions to the PSC where the suggestions will be considered. Minister Dullas Allahapperuma also said all political parties including the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) should participate in the PSC proceedings.
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June - 19 
Separately, while stating that there are continuing activities by Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) front organizations in Australia, the Sri Lankan Government on June 19 pressed for their proscription in Australia under the Australian Criminal
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Separately, while stating that there are continuing activities by Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) front organizations in Australia, the Sri Lankan Government on June 19 pressed for their proscription in Australia under the Australian Criminal Code Act, reports Daily Mirror. Visiting External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris made this request when he held talks with Brendan O’Connor, the Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship in Australia. The Foreign Ministers of Sri Lanka and Australia discussed plans for expanding development cooperation between the two countries.
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June - 19 
Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) on June 19 invited all political parties to forward their suggestions to the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) on the 13th Amendment, and to be parties to the forthcoming Northern Provincial Council election, reports
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Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) on June 19 invited all political parties to forward their suggestions to the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) on the 13th Amendment, and to be parties to the forthcoming Northern Provincial Council election, reports Daily News. SLFP General Secretary Minister Maithripala Sirisena said the Government is committed to conduct a transparent, free and fair election in the three Provinces including the North.
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June - 20 
Meanwhile, Leader of the House, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva on June 20 said that the main opposition United National Party (UNP) and the major Tamil party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) have requested more time to decide on the proposed Parliame
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Meanwhile, Leader of the House, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva on June 20 said that the main opposition United National Party (UNP) and the major Tamil party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) have requested more time to decide on the proposed Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to decide on constitutional amendments. The Government last week proposed the setting up of a PSC to discuss amending the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. According to de Silva, some opposition parties use wasting time as a strategy. The Minister added that the Northern Provincial Council election would not be postponed until conclusion of the PSC proceedings.
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June - 20 
Minister of Mass Media and Information Keheliya Rambukwella on June 20 explained the reasons behind the Government's initiative to revise the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. Addressing a media conference following the cabine
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Minister of Mass Media and Information Keheliya Rambukwella on June 20 explained the reasons behind the Government's initiative to revise the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. Addressing a media conference following the cabinet meeting, Minister Rambukwella said the 13th Amendment to the Constitution and the Indo-Lanka Agreement were imposed on the country without the consent of the people. "However, the sovereignty of the people is supreme. Therefore, the Government has focused the attention on bringing in certain amendments to the 13th Amendment as it suits to the country in the present situation," he said. The 13th amendment, which has become controversial lately, was introduced by India in 1987 as a way for power devolution to address the ethnic issue creating the provincial council system in Sri Lanka. The Minister said that a country has the right to change agreements with foreign countries in conformity with the aspirations and mandate of the people of the country as the sovereignty of the people is supreme.
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June - 21 
Meanwhile, President Mahinda Rajapaksa, addressing the heads and chief editors of media institutions on June 21, said that the Provincial Council system in Sri Lanka is not a total failure and had provided many benefits, and therefore the future exis
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Meanwhile, President Mahinda Rajapaksa, addressing the heads and chief editors of media institutions on June 21, said that the Provincial Council system in Sri Lanka is not a total failure and had provided many benefits, and therefore the future existence of the system should be decided by the people, reports Colombo Page. The President said although the Provincial Council system has been branded as a white elephant by many factions, it should be utilized to provide useful service to the public. However the system has been established in the country for many years and cannot be changed by sudden decisions, he added. Expressing his views on 13th Amendment to the Constitution, President Rajapaksa said the Government has appointed a PSC for the political parties to discuss the issue and take a decision not because of the upcoming Northern Provincial Council (NPC) election. "These amendments are not solely for the North and East. It is the rest of the Provincial Councils in the country that has to be changed and it is the view of the general public," the President said.
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June - 21 
Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) on constitutional changes for the 13th Amendment was appointed on June 21, reports Daily Mirror. It comprises 19 members and is headed by Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva as its Chairman. The other members are Ex
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Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) on constitutional changes for the 13th Amendment was appointed on June 21, reports Daily Mirror. It comprises 19 members and is headed by Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva as its Chairman. The other members are External Affairs Minister G.L. Peiris, Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena, Petroleum Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Chief Government Whip Dinesh Gunawardane, Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Minister Douglas Devananda, Environment Minister Susil Premajayantha, Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister A.L.M. Athaullah, Industry and Commerce Minister Rishad Bathiudeen, Senor Minister D.E.W. Gunasekara, Science and Technlogy Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka, Housing Minister Wimal Weerawansa, Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa, Sugar Industries Development Minister Lakshman Seneviratne, National Languages and Social Integration Minister Vasudeva Nanayakkara, Deputy Minister Muttu Sivalingam, Government MP Mrs. Sudarshani Fernandopulle and Government MP Janaka Bandara.
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June - 21 
Separately, Chief Opposition Whip of United National Party (UNP) Member of Parliament (MP) John Amaratunga said in Parliament on June 21 that the party will nominate its members to the proposed Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to study the revisi
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Separately, Chief Opposition Whip of United National Party (UNP) Member of Parliament (MP) John Amaratunga said in Parliament on June 21 that the party will nominate its members to the proposed Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to study the revisions to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution only if the Government agrees to conditions set by the party on June 19, reports Colombo Page.
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June - 22 
Former spokesman of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Velayutham Dayanithi alias Daya Master on June 22 received the membership of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), the main coalition party of ruling UPFA alliance, reports Colombo Page. Daya
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Former spokesman of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Velayutham Dayanithi alias Daya Master on June 22 received the membership of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), the main coalition party of ruling UPFA alliance, reports Colombo Page. Daya Master received the SLFP membership following an extensive interview with a ministerial panel consisting of Ministers Susil Premajayantha, Mahindananda Aluthgamage and C.B. Ratnayake at the SLFP Headquarters in Colombo. Daya Master expressed interest in contesting the upcoming Northern Provincial Council (NPC) polls in September.
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June - 22 
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Professor G. L. Peiris during a long interview in Sydney on June 22 claimed that remnants of the defeated LTTE are involved in the people-smuggling business of bringing Sri Lankan boat people to Australia, reports Daily Mi
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Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Professor G. L. Peiris during a long interview in Sydney on June 22 claimed that remnants of the defeated LTTE are involved in the people-smuggling business of bringing Sri Lankan boat people to Australia, reports Daily Mirror. He stated, although the war between the Sri Lankan Government and the LTTE is over, Tamil Tiger networks still intimidate Tamil families in the diasporas and extort money from them, while also engaging in a range of other criminal activities. He also requested Australia to proscribe the LTTE as a terrorist organisation, making any support to the terrorist organisation from Australia illegal.
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June - 23 
Further, national organizer of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) Rafeek Rajabdeen on June 23 said that the party will nominate its representative for the PSC on June 29. He said there will be a special meeting of the party on that day and at that
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Further, national organizer of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) Rafeek Rajabdeen on June 23 said that the party will nominate its representative for the PSC on June 29. He said there will be a special meeting of the party on that day and at that meeting the Executive Council will discuss the SLMC proposals regarding the constitutional issue and make decision on the party representative to the PSC. Earlier the Parliamentary Group of SLMC unanimously resolved on June 11 to express opposition to any moves to make changes to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.
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June - 24 
Election Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya on June 24 said that the elections for the three provincial councils will be held in late September, reports Colombo Page. The Election Commissioner told "Most likely it will be either on September 21 or 28."
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Election Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya on June 24 said that the elections for the three provincial councils will be held in late September, reports Colombo Page. The Election Commissioner told "Most likely it will be either on September 21 or 28." He further said that the actual date of election will depend on the number of political parties and groups that will submit the nominations to the North Central, Northern and Central Provincial councils that are up for polls.
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June - 24 
Further, former spokesman of LTTE Velayutham Dayanithi alias Daya Master on June 24 said that he was invited to contest the election for the Northern Provincial Council by higher authorities of the Government. He said that the Tamil people are concer
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Further, former spokesman of LTTE Velayutham Dayanithi alias Daya Master on June 24 said that he was invited to contest the election for the Northern Provincial Council by higher authorities of the Government. He said that the Tamil people are concerned of the efforts to curtail the powers of the Provincial Councils. He also said the "extremely racist campaign" against the Tamil people should be stopped by parties like Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) and National Freedom Front (NFF). He urged the "Sinhala extremist parties" to join hands with the Tamil people.
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June - 24 
Meanwhile, Chief Government Whip and Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on June 24 said the constitutional amendments proposed to amend the powers granted to the Provincial Councils under the 13th Amendment to the Constitution would be sent to the Supreme C
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Meanwhile, Chief Government Whip and Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on June 24 said the constitutional amendments proposed to amend the powers granted to the Provincial Councils under the 13th Amendment to the Constitution would be sent to the Supreme Court for advice. Sri Lanka's cabinet of ministers granted approval for amending the 13th Amendment regarding the power vested in the President to merge provincial councils to form a united Provincial Council. The amendment that repeals the clause that empowers the President to merge two provinces will be brought as an urgent bill in parliament.
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June - 24 
Separately, former leading arms procurer and international wing leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Kumaran Pathmanathan alias KP told on June 24 that he has no ambition to contest for the Northern Provincial Council. Pathmanathan r
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Separately, former leading arms procurer and international wing leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Kumaran Pathmanathan alias KP told on June 24 that he has no ambition to contest for the Northern Provincial Council. Pathmanathan rejected the rumors that he would contest the election as the Chief Minister candidate of the ruling United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA). He also said that he is not sure who would be appointed as the Chief Minister candidate.
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June - 25 
Further, main party in opposition UNP on June 25 said that it opposes the dilution of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution as proposed by the Government. Addressing a media briefing in Colombo, the UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake, said that
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Further, main party in opposition UNP on June 25 said that it opposes the dilution of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution as proposed by the Government. Addressing a media briefing in Colombo, the UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake, said that the 13th Amendment was a result of an accord between two sovereign nations and not a private agreement between Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and the former Sri Lankan President J. R. Jayewardene, as claimed by their critics. Critics of the 13th Amendment say the Indo-Lanka agreement, which led to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution paving the way to create provincial councils, was thrusted upon Sri Lanka by India in 1987 during the height of the war with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as a solution to the ethnic problem. The critics say now that the terrorist war is over the Amendment needs to be revised to suit the peaceful conditions in the country. They argue that the powers granted in the13th Amendment to provincial councils will lead to a separate state in the country. "The theory that devolution would lead to separation was nonsensical and unacceptable," Attanayake said refuting the argument.
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June - 25 
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) on June 25 vowed not to allow the Government to get two-third majority to amend the power devolution mechanism of the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. SLMC national organizer Rafeek Rajabdeen pointed out
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Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) on June 25 vowed not to allow the Government to get two-third majority to amend the power devolution mechanism of the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. SLMC national organizer Rafeek Rajabdeen pointed out that the Government would need the support of the Tamil, Muslim parties and the opposition UNP for amending the Constitution. He further said that the party would not support any moves to take back the powers granted to the Provincial Councils through the 13th Amendment of the Constitution. "We would not support thirteen minus in a context a thirteen plus was demanded," he said.
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June - 25 
Separately, Prisons and Prison reforms Minister Chandrasiri Gajadeera on June 25 said that there are 810 former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres in remand custody and they are not political prisoners but hardcore LTTE cadres who ordered
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Separately, Prisons and Prison reforms Minister Chandrasiri Gajadeera on June 25 said that there are 810 former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres in remand custody and they are not political prisoners but hardcore LTTE cadres who ordered the killings and other heinous terrorist activities. He further said most of the arrested LTTE cadres have been rehabilitated and released to the society but these hardcore LTTE cadres remain detained because there is evidence against them. "Punishing persons who have committed crimes is not a human rights violation," the Minister noted.
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June - 25 
Two Provincial Councils - the Sabaragamuwa and Southern – on June 25 passed resolutions in support of the Government’s initial move to repeal two provisions of the 13th Amendment, enabling Parliament to legislate on subjects allocated to the provinci
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Two Provincial Councils - the Sabaragamuwa and Southern – on June 25 passed resolutions in support of the Government’s initial move to repeal two provisions of the 13th Amendment, enabling Parliament to legislate on subjects allocated to the provincial councils and preventing the scope for merger of two or more provincial councils, reports Daily Mirror. Accordingly, the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council passed the resolution with a majority of 17 votes. The motion was taken up as an urgent matter by Chief Minister Mahipala Herath. The main opposition United National Party (UNP) was opposed the resolution saying the provincial council system should be further strengthened. In the Southern Provincial Council, it was passed by a narrow margin of only one vote. Six ruling party members voted against the resolution along with the opposition. The Government, by repealing these provisions, seeks to enable Parliament to legislate on subjects included in the concurrent list only with the approval from majority of them, instead of approval from all of them as set out in the present constitution.
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June - 26 
Meanwhile, External Affairs Professor G.L. Peiris on June 26 briefed the international diplomatic community in the country on the proposed revisions to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. He met the foreign diplomats at his
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Meanwhile, External Affairs Professor G.L. Peiris on June 26 briefed the international diplomatic community in the country on the proposed revisions to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, reports Colombo Page. He met the foreign diplomats at his Ministry and explained the provincial council system in the country and the 13th Amendment to the Constitution which introduced the provincial council system under the 1987 Indo-Lanka Accord. Addressing the Ambassadors and High Commissioners in Sri Lanka, Minister Peiris emphasized that the best option to address the issues related to the constitutional amendments is the PSC and it will give a broad opportunity to deliberate at length with regard to the 13th Amendment. The Minister noted that a complete study needs to be conducted before the Constitutional Amendment is moved in Parliament.
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June - 26 
President Mahinda Rajapaksa during a meeting with the leaders of the leftist parties on June 26 said the basis of the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) process would be the recommendations of the All Party Representatives Committee (APRC) headed b
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President Mahinda Rajapaksa during a meeting with the leaders of the leftist parties on June 26 said the basis of the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) process would be the recommendations of the All Party Representatives Committee (APRC) headed by Prof. Tissa Vitharana, reports Daily Mirror. The APRC headed by Prof. Tissa Witharana formed on July 11, 2006, was boycotted by the United National Party (UNP) and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). The final report of the committee was presented to the President on August 16, 2009 with none of the proposals being implemented thus far.
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June - 26 
Separately, marxist party JVP on June 26 decided not to participate in the PSC appointed to discuss constitutional amendments. JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva told a press conference that the JVP would not name representatives from the party to th
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Separately, marxist party JVP on June 26 decided not to participate in the PSC appointed to discuss constitutional amendments. JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva told a press conference that the JVP would not name representatives from the party to the PSC. He observed that the party would present a set of proposals to address the national problem rather than participate in the PSC process. He noted that the Government although have won the war has failed to win the hearts of the Tamil people in the country. "It is a pointless exercise to participate in PSCs as long as the issues faced by the people in the North are not addressed," the JVP General Secretary said. According to Silva, the Government has managed to win only Kumaran Pathmanathan (KP) and Daya Master, the former LTTE leaders.
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June - 26 
Sri Lankan authorities on June 26 released the former female political wing leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Subramaniam Sivathai alias Thamalini after undergoing a one-year rehabilitation program, reports Colombo Page. The Commi
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Sri Lankan authorities on June 26 released the former female political wing leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Subramaniam Sivathai alias Thamalini after undergoing a one-year rehabilitation program, reports Colombo Page. The Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Brigadier Dharshana Hettiarachchi said that Thamalini was handed over to her parents at the Poonthottam Rehabilitation Centre in Vavuniya District. Thamalini, a resident of Kilinochchi District joined LTTE in 1991 and became the head of LTTE Women's Wing. She was arrested by Lankan army in May 2009 at an Army welfare center for refugees and taken to Colombo for investigations. She was charged with training LTTE cadres and establishing connections with LTTE members overseas. After being detained at the Welikada prison for many months she consented to be rehabilitated and was transferred to the Vavuniya Rehabilitation center to undergo the rehabilitation programme in order to re-integrate her into the society. According to the rehabilitation officials, Thamalini received vocational training at the camp and had followed a training course in bridal dressing.
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June - 27 
In another incident, National Movement for the Abolition of Provincial Councils (NMAPC), on June 27 said thousands of Buddhist monks in Sri Lanka will hold a rally in Colombo on July 2nd calling for the abolition of the 13th Amendment to the Constitu
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In another incident, National Movement for the Abolition of Provincial Councils (NMAPC), on June 27 said thousands of Buddhist monks in Sri Lanka will hold a rally in Colombo on July 2nd calling for the abolition of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. The NMAPC stated that 3,000-4,000 monks from all over the country would participate in the rally.
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June - 27 
Main opposition United National Party (UNP) on June 27 held discussions with the Government ally Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) on the constitutional reforms that are to be reviewed by a committee of the Sri Lankan Parliament next month, reports Co
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Main opposition United National Party (UNP) on June 27 held discussions with the Government ally Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) on the constitutional reforms that are to be reviewed by a committee of the Sri Lankan Parliament next month, reports Colombo Page. During the meeting, the UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake handed over a copy of its draft for a new constitution to SLMC leader, Justice Minister Rauf Hakeem.
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June - 28 
Meanwhile, UNP parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera on June 28 said that President Mahinda Rajapaksa was an experienced and veteran politician and he would not act against the 13th Amendment, if he was to take a decision on his own, reports Daily Mirr
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Meanwhile, UNP parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera on June 28 said that President Mahinda Rajapaksa was an experienced and veteran politician and he would not act against the 13th Amendment, if he was to take a decision on his own, reports Daily Mirror. He said “I do not think the President would act against the 13th Amendment, if he is to take a decision on his own. He has been taken hostage by extremist groups led by Gotabaya Rajapaksa. What we should do is not to abolish the 13th Amendment but to carry it forward. It should be 13++ not 13-.”
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June - 30 
Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa on June 30 announced that he will leave for India on July 4 to appraise the Indian leaders of proposed revisions to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. He is expected to meet India's External Affairs
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Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa on June 30 announced that he will leave for India on July 4 to appraise the Indian leaders of proposed revisions to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. He is expected to meet India's External Affairs Minister Salman Kurshid and National Security Advisor Shivashankar Menon to brief on the political situation including matters relating to the proposed amendments to the 13th Amendment.
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*Data till , May 01, 2024
Source:Compiled from news reports and are provisional.
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