FM explains Governments humanitarian efforts in North

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama said that reports of a scarcity of food and essential items in the Wanni are far from true.

On the contrary, despite prevailing adverse weather conditions and obstacles placed by the LTTE, the Government has ensured that there is an uninterrupted supply of food and basic necessities to the civilians in the un-cleared areas of the Wanni, who are caught up in the current conflict.

The Minister made these observations during a meeting with the Parliamentary Secretary for International Development Assistance of Australia and the Alternate Head of the Australian delegation Bob McMullan on the fringes of the Bali Democracy Forum in Bali, Indonesia last Thursday.

Responding to a query from the Australian Minister, the Foreign Minister said that the Government has a well organised distribution network administered by the Government Agents of Kilinochchi and Mullaithivu to ensure that the food and humanitarian aid that the Government sends to the North actually reaches the displaced civilians.

He charged that the LTTE is holding civilians as a human shield and preventing them from coming to Vavuniya, where the Government has made elaborate arrangements to receive them and provide food, shelter and other facilities. He emphasized the importance of the international community to exert its pressure on the LTTE to allow the civilians to leave conflict zone to safer areas under Government control.

He further stated that the Security Forces are on course to neutralise the military threat of the LTTE in the North and that the Government is keen to restore civil administration and democracy to these areas, so that the people who had been deprived of basic freedoms, due to the reign of terror imposed by the LTTE, can once again enjoy the fruits of democracy.

The Minister expressed his appreciation to Minister McMullan for the development assistance that Australia has provided to Sri Lanka over the years and in particular, the recent enhancement of the quantum of aid which has greatly helped the Government's efforts for the uplift of the socially and economically disadvantaged sections of the people of Sri Lanka.

The Australian Minister thanked Minister Bogollagama for the comprehensive briefing on the situation in Sri Lanka and stated that Australia looks forward to a closer engagement with Sri Lanka in a number of areas of cooperation, including the expansion of bilateral trade and investment, as well as development cooperation.

He also said that Australia is keen to develop links with SAARC, in her capacity as an Observer. Minister Bogollagama welcoming this idea, informed Minister McMullan that SAARC under Sri Lankas Chair is presently working out modalities for SAARC Observers to play a more active and meaningful role within SAARC, especially for the economic and social advancement of the peoples of the region.

The Minister held bilateral talks with the Foreign Minister of Singapore, George Yeo, Head of the Japanese delegation and Special Envoy of the Prime Minister and former Foreign Minister of Japan, Masahiko Koumura and the Head of the Chinese delegation and President of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs Yang Wenchang, during which he discussed a range of issues of bilateral, regional and international interest with the respective delegations.

Minister Bogollagama also held informal discussions with the Malaysian Foreign Minister Dr. Dato Seri Utama Dr Rais Yatim and Secretary of Foreign Affairs (Foreign Minister) of the Philippines Alberto Romulo during the Bali Democracy Forum.

No force can reverse our military victories - President

President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday reiterated that no force can reverse the unparalleled victories achieved by the Security Forces against LTTE terrorism as they are fighting a war setting an example to the entire world without facing a single drawback since the Mavilaru battle to the Wanni liberation operation. He made these observations while participating at the annual War Heroes Commemoration ceremony of the Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment yesterday at the Sinha Regiment Headquarters in Ambepussa.

President Rajapaksa participated at the event along with Presidential Secretary Lalith Weeratunga, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and the Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka who is also from the Sinha Regiment.

"I don't think there is a single battle in the world parallel to the battle fought by our Security Forces at present in which they secure victory after victory without facing a single drawback", the President added.

He also observed that the country has been fortunate enough to get a General in the calibre of Lt. General Sarath Fonseka.

He said the forward march of the valiant troops could not be stopped by the chemical weapons, air raids, earth bunds and monsoon rains. The common masses of the country show their affection and love towards these War Heroes in whatever possible way they can, but some media personnel are publishing articles discouraging and de-motivating Security Forces personnel. He further said that the common masses of the country have realized the genuine objectives of the Government in launching this war against terrorism. "Our objective is to bring prosperity to the North in the same manner we did in the East ", the President remarked.

Two successive air raids targeting LTTE strong points

Sri Lanka Air Force MI-24 helicopters have carried out two air raids targeting LTTE strong points located in Kilinochchi and Mullaittivu areas this afternoon, 14 December.

Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, speaking to defence.lk said that MI-24 helicopter gun ships raided LTTE-built earth bund located 1Km northeast of Puthukkudiyirippukulam in Kilinochchi district around 3.45pm today. Air attack was launched in support of ground troops of 57 Division heading towards Kilinochchi.

Meanwhile, another air raid was launched targeting LTTE gathering point observed in general area Mulliyawalai in Mullaittivu district around 6.00 pm yesterday. The air attack was launched in support of troops of 59 Division advancing towards Mullaittivu.

Another group of Tamil civilians reaches seeking security forces protection - Welioya

While the troops on multi-pronged offensive advance towards remaining LTTE hideouts, another group of Tamil civilians who were able to escape LTTE's grip reached to security forces controlled area seeking protection this afternoon, 14 December.

Eighteen more Tamil civilians from Mullaittivu un-cleared areas have reached at army troops at Palampai in Welioya area sought protection with security forces.

The group of Tamil escapees consisting of 12 males and 6 females has later been directed to the welfare centers established after providing them with foods medical treatment and other necessities.

Earlier, during the morning hours toady, another group of Tamil civilians reached to the same place seeking security forces protection.

Two LTTE bodies found with military items - Batticaloa

Troops intercepted a group of LTTE terrorists detected in general area Kanchikudiaru in Batticaloa this morning, 14 December.

According to the available sources the incident took place around 7.15 am.

In a subsequent search operation conducted in the area troops have found two bodies of LTTE terrorists along with military items including 381 anti-personnel mines, T-56 weapons and 16mm mortar weapons.

Following are the items found during the search operation.


Items description

Quantity
GPS 01
Pouch 01
T56 Weapons 02
Magazines 03
16 mm Mortar Weapons 02
16mm Mortar Ammunition 24
Anti Personnel Mines 381
Fuses 106
Grenade Pistols 02
Detonator Boxes 05
Safety Fuse 01
Ammunitions Boxes 14
RPG Ammunition 02

More Tamil civilians seek security forces protection- Welioya

Eighteen Tamil civilians who had been trapped in LTTE controlled areas by the terrorists as human shield sought protection with security forces this morning, 14 December.

According to the available sources, the escapees including 12 males, five females and a 4 year-old child are residents of Mullaittivu.

The Tamil civilians who were able to escape LTTE's grip arrived at the security forces controlled Palampasi area in Welioya around 9.00 am, have been directed to the welfare centers established after providing them with food and other necessities, sources said.

Sanasa Development Bank at work in the East

There are many development projects running in the Eastern Province but none as unique as the work done by the SANASA Development Bank Ltd. (SDBL). It is a bank of cooperative microfinance. Its unique approach to development and high success rate made us investigate further into the Bank's activities so that other organisations too could get some tips on implementing development work.

SDBL Bank in Kalmunai

The SANASA Movement was developed out of a hundred year old cooperative movement in Sri Lanka and the SANASA Group now has seven companies plus their network. It is neither a private nor a public entity nor an NGO. It is a corporate bank promoting cooperative enterprise as opposed to public or private enterprise. The bank is owned by 3,700 cooperative grassroot societies. For the last 30 years, SDBL has been working in a consolidated business manner as a network. The network has 8,400 legally registered autonomous grassroot credit cooperatives that operate voluntarily under one vision.

The majority clientele of SDBL comes from underserved income and social categories of our community. The Bank's aim is to empower such communities by way of assisting them for self development aiming at poverty eradication. Through micro financing, the bank gives the underprivileged the opportunity to earn their living by developing their own businesses. The bank provides a very low interest rate of 8% - 12% for micro financing with a borrowing limit of Rs. 5,000- Rs. 50,000 depending on each borrower's capacity. The bank finds its target group of low income and medium income groups from all over the island including the Eastern and Northern Provinces.

Recently, SANASA Development Bank has dramatically expanded its outreach in the Eastern province through its 4 branches in Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Pothuvil and Kalmunai and through 26 microfinance delivery centres affiliated to those branches. SDBL has been able to serve a war torn community at their doorstep.

Clients in the Eastern Province

In Kalawanchikudi alone, SANASA Development Bank was able to reach 1,118 clients in less than 3 months, which is a huge success compared to regular banks. It is evident that there is a clear need for banking facilities or microfinancing facilities among the community in the East. The bank encourages the people in the Province to deposit in whatever capacity they can and provides loans to develop or start their own businesses.

'Eastern people are ready to take that step to rebuild their lives after decades of war. The microfinancing facility we provide is an immense help to them. We do not need to give them grants, which is a short-term solution. We should help people to stand on their own feet and think long-term. Now people are catching up fast as proven by our large clientele in the East. It is a huge achievement for us. We are even in a position to challenge some of the development thinking,' said Samadanie Kiriwandeniya, Assistant General Manager (International Relations).

Ms. Kiriwandeniya further stated that the microfinancing recovery rate was very high, almost 100% in some areas such as Kalmunai, even though the bank provides for the low income and medium income groups. As a bank, SANASA has a very good recovery rate and Ms. Kiriwandeniya states that the secret to this success is due to the close relationship it maintains with its clients.

'SANASA is entirely relationship based. Even though a project is over we continue to maintain our connections with that community through our network. For over three decades, our network has remained intact,' she said.

SANASA Development Bank has a network spreading across the country. It was because of this network that SDBL was easily able to enter the tsunami affected areas and make a dramatic impact in a very short period. According to studies done by the bank before military operations took place, there are functioning grassroot credit societies even in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu. The bank hopes to set up branches in both these places as soon as war is over. Already there is a branch in Vavuniya and next year they hope to establish a branch in Mannar as well. Currently the bank is training human resources in the Eastern Province so that they have enough capacity to go into the Northern Province once the war is over. Thus they hope to adopt the same process as they implemented in the East.

SDBL is not solely working in the microfinancing area. During the tsunami, they were involved in providing many types of livelihood assistance to people. They opted to reach as much people as possible through projects such as sanitation projects. In places like Muthur where people were ravaged by war as well as tsunami, SDBL opted to go into housing. They selected deprived communities such as women who lost their husbands and were left with children and gave them livelihood assistance.

SDB housing projects in the tsunami affected areas of the Eastern Province

SDBL has not simply treated the 768 sanitation units and 262 housing units as simple relief projects or CSR. Instead, SDBL has presented a total solution (livelihoods training/microcredit/ deposit facility and microinsurance facility) to all the recipients. Their development work functioned smoothly mainly because of their networks, the strong relationship they maintain with SANASA primary societies, and their time-tested development strategies.

Many international organisations have shown interest in partnering with SDBL in development projects, but the bank is careful in choosing its partners. It looks for cooperative and socially oriented roots in its partners and will opt to partner at policy level instead of project level. It is able to collaborate with the government without conflicts since their projects are complimentary to government projects.

It is not without obstacles that SDBL has come this far. There are challenges that still exist when working in the East. The environment in the East is a challenge since there are security problems and people do not like to travel to get service from district branches. It is only the people living in close DS divisions who opt to come to Batticaloa and get the service from the SDBL branch. Others opt to get loans from similar loan schemes at rates as high as 34% rather than travel all the way to receive loans at 8% or 12%. Since the situation is not steady, some do not want to think long term as a community and are waiting for grant funds from INGOs rather than developing on their own. Finding partner organisations that have a long-term vision is also a challenge as most organisations want to see impact very soon.

Despite these challenges, the SANASA Development Bank is operating successfully, especially with regard to the Eastern Province. It is placed 50th out of the 640 microfinance institutions in the world and is being studied by international institutions as a model due to their success rate. They are hopeful that by the time military operations are over and the North is liberated from the clutches of the LTTE, they will be able to go into the Province and extend their help to deprived people to stand on their feet once again.

SDBL participated actively in the Workshop on Confidence Building and Stabilisation Measures that was organised by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights in Sigiriya last week with this objective in mind.

Troops of 59 Div extend their defences and heading towards Mullaittivu

Troops of 59 Division in advance towards one of the few remaining LTTE's key bases, Mullattivu built-up, confronted with terrorists several occasions inflicting maximum damages to the enemy yesterday, 13 December. Meanwhile, troops further extended their defences while consolidating newly captured areas, the military report received from the battlefront said.

In a confrontation took place in Ampapakatam in Mullaittivu around 11.55am, troops confirmed that terrorists suffered heavy damages. Meanwhile, troops had another confrontation with a group of LTTE terrorists observed in general area Mallawarayankaddumurippu in Mullaittivu around 2.10 pm. LTTE suffered maximum damages due to an effective firepower launched. Separately, troops engaged in forward domination operations had confronted with group of LTTE terrorists detected in general area Olumadu in Mullaiitvu around 3.30 pm. Terrorists suffered considerable damages, Electronic Warfare sources confirmed citing LTTE radio communication. Minor damages were also reported to the Army.

Meanwhile intense fighting ensued in general area Kumulamunai as troops launched attack targeting observed LTTE positions around 10.50am. Troops confirmed terrorists suffered heavy damages in the confrontation. Army also received minor damages, the report said.

In the same area, troops on search and clear operation uncovered a LTTE's suicide boat left away by the terrorists who had fled in the face of effective military push-up launched by the security forces.

Troops continue their march towards Mullaittivu.

Aanadasangaree Says : TNA take Indians for a ride By Our Political correspondent

The Tamil United Liberation Front leader Veerasingam Anandasangaree lambasted the Tamil National Alliance as a bunch of bluffs who were trying to hoodwink the LTTE and trying to take the Indians for a ride.

The TULF leader commenting on the issue of deporting the TNA Parliamentarian M.K. Sivajilingam from Tamil Nadu told the Sunday Observer that the TNA members were a bunch of blufts and they were manipulated by the barrel of the gun of the LTTE.

"M. K. Sivajilingam had made his childish comments supporting the LTTE in Tamil Nadu. If he and his other TNA colleagues were genuinely concerned about the three hundred thousand internally displaced people in the Vanni they should urge the LTTE to stop preventing those innocent civilians moving into safer areas.

But instead of voicing for those civilians trapped in the hands of the LTTE the TNA is trying to hoodwink the outfit with false propaganda in Tamil Nadu and abroad. Therefore the decision to deport Sivajilingam by the Indian Government is timely and appropriate," Anandasangaree said.

Commenting further on the very recent reports he received from the Vanni he said that the internally displaced People in the region were suffering terribly due to heavy torrential rains and they could hardly sleep in the nights to keep vigil to protect themselves from serpents and other venomous insects."

This is the time where the snakes in Wanni multiply due to rainy conditions. I have even received reports that the anti venom drugs are the need of the hour in the region where several people have been stung by snakes and of them have died without proper medication," he said.

Commenting on the intended visit of Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukerjee to Colombo this week, Anandasangaree said that the Indian Foreign Minister should come out hard on the LTTE insisting that the outfit must give up its fights and enter into talks.

"The Democratic Tamil National Alliance headed by the TULF has already suggested a solution based on the Indian model.

Therefore the Indian leadership must help in expediting an early political solution to the Lankan crisis in order to ensure the safety of the Tamil people and determine their political rights," Sangaree further added.

Troops continue consolidations in northern battlefront; LTTE military items found

Troops deployed in northern battlefront consolidating their new positions while engaged selected enemy defence positions in general area Muhamalai yesterday, 14 December.

Meanwhile, troops uncovered few military items belongs to LTTE in a search operation conducted in general area Karanthai, Jaffna yesterday. A T-56 assault rifle, two T-56 magazines, 50 T-56 ammunition and an explosive charger were among the items found during the search operation.

Indo-Sri Lanka Navies enhance cooperation

The extensive surveillance measures adopted by the Indian Navy and the Coast Guard in the South Indian waters following the recent Mumbai incidents have helped the Lankan Navy in cracking down the LTTE manoeuvres in the South Indian seas, Navy Spokesman, Commander Karunaratne said. Commenting on the current state of the security measures in the seas in the North, Cmdr. Karunaratne told the Sunday Observer that the Indian Navy and the Coast Guard were constantly in touch with Lankan Navy.

"The notable threat for India from the Southern region would be from the LTTE. Therefore, the country is compelled to increase its surveillances in the South Indian waters.

The Lankan Navy has also stepped up its surveillance following the successful ground attacks that have been carried out in Wanni by the Security Forces.

Navy has neutralised the Sea Tigers to a greater extent and with the Indian Navy's stringent measures the 'outfit' would find it difficult to reach the South Indian coastal areas," Cmdr. Karunaratne pointed out.

LTTE suffer heavy damages in Air Strikes - Kilinochchi

The LTTE terrorists have suffered heavy damages in the string of air strikes launched by Sri Lanka Air Force fighter jets at the Kilinochchi LTTE defence line since this morning (Dec 13).

According to Air Force spokesman Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, nine air strikes were launched at the LTTE strongholds in the Kilinochchi and Paranthan area since 6.30 AM to 3 PM.

He said citing operational sources that a senior female LTTE leader was killed in the air strikes.

Army 59 division closing in on LTTE main military bastion - Mullaittivu

Army 59 Division soldiers after successfully clearing away LTTE hold in the Naganchola forest reserve are now entering into the Mullaittivu suburbs, reveal the defence sources.

Daylong offensives were carried out yesterday (Dec 12) by the 3 Brigades of the Division closing in on the LTTE's main military bastion in Mullaittivu, taking three different approaches .

Troops of the 591 Brigade operating on the forward boundary extending from the South Tanniyattu to the North of Almpil had a series of clashes with the terrorists during daytime. Infantrymen of 1 Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment (1 SLSR), 11 Gamunu Watch (11 GW) and 14 Vijayaba Regiment (14 VIR) attacked terrorist groups detected in the West and the East of the Kanukkernikulam tank area and the marshland in the North of Alampil. Troops claimed heavy damages to the terrorists during these confrontations. Also, troops removed 39 AP mines from the East of Kanukkernikulam tank area.

Meanwhile, troops of 592 Brigade marching towards Nadunkerni- Mullaittivu road confronted with the terrorist in the Koddankkailu area, about 6 miles from Nadunkerni LTTE stronghold. Troops claimed heavy damages to the terrorists. Also, troops found a LTTE cemetery located in the western border of the Nagancholai forest reserve.

Troops of 593 Brigade further pushed their forward boundaries towards Mulliyaveli, a key town located on the Mankulam- Mullaittivu (A-34) road during the day. Also, troops had several confrontations in the area and claimed heavy casualties to the terrorists.

Indonesia calls for united action to fight terrorism

Indonesian President, Dr Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has called for a united stand in the fight against terrorism. The Indonesian leader made this remark during a call on him by Foreign Minister, Rohitha Bogollagama, who is leading the Sri Lankan delegation to the Bali Democracy Forum in Nusa Dua, Bali on Thursday(Dec 11), Foreign Ministry said.

A press release issued by the Ministry said: The President said, "We must remain united in the fight against terrorism. We cannot allow terrorism to defeat democracy".

President Yudhoyono welcoming Minister Bogollagama, expressed his personal happiness at Sri Lanka's high level participation at the Bali Democracy Forum, the first inter-governmental forum in Asia on democracy. He said that the Forum would afford an ideal opportunity to foster a dialogue in the Asian region on democracy,as well as related issues of peace and security.

Foreign Minister Bogollagama congratulated President Yudhoyono on his timely initiative to launch the Bali Democracy Forum and conveyed the personal greetings and best wishes of President Mahinda Rajapaksa to him. The Minister thereafter briefed the Indonesian leader on the current situation in Sri Lanka, particularly the military operations being carried out in the North, in order to restore peace and democracy to the region. He said that terrorism posed the single biggest threat to democracy in the country and outlined the successful efforts of the government in the last two years to clear the Eastern Province of the LTTE and the restoration of full democracy, with the election of a former child soldier of the LTTE as the Chief Minister of the province.

Referring to President Rajapaksa's efforts to engage the LTTE in negotiations, the Minister said that the talks failed due to the intransigent attitude of the LTTE and its lack of sincerity.

Nevertheless, the Minister reiterated the consistent stand of President Rajapaksa that the government is determined to formulate a political solution to address the grievances of the minority communities. In this context, he outlined the efforts of the All Party Representatives Committee to achieve a consensus among political parties towards this end. Meanwhile, the government is already taking action to implement the interim recommendations of the Committee under the existing provisions of the Constitution.

President Yudhoyono thanked Minister Bogollagama for his comprehensive briefing on current developments in Sri Lanka, and observed that all too often the media projects an exaggerated and highly distorted picture of the factual position of country situations, and was glad to have had this opportunity to get a first hand account on Sri Lanka from the Minister. The President expressed his keen interest to forge greater bilateral co-operation with Sri Lanka and was pleased to learn that SriLankan Airlines has proposed to resume its flights to Jakarta in early 2009, which will enhance people to people contact between the two countries. The Foreign Minister hoped that Garuda Airlines would be able to reciprocate by commencing its services to Colombo.

The Minister, while noting that Sri Lanka and Indonesia have signed a defence co-operation agreement and an agreement to establish a Joint Commission, informed President Yudhoyono that he was looking forward to the visit of Foreign Minister, Dr Hassan Wirajuda to Sri Lanka early next year for the inaugural session of the Joint Commission, which would enable both countries to formulate a structured approach to strengthen bilateral relations. In this regard, the Minister highlighted the opportunities that Sri Lanka offers to potential Indonesian investors to set up industries in the country and use it as a springboard to tap the vast sub-continental market, under the Free Trade Agreements with India and Pakistan, as well as the SAFTA.

Minister Bogollagama extended President Mahinda Rajapaksa's invitation to President Yudhoyono to visit Sri Lanka, which the latter gladly accepted. The President thanked the Minister for the invitation and said that he is keenly looking forward to visiting Sri Lanka at the earliest opportunity.

12 civilians seek protection with security forces- Vavuniya

12 civilians including 7 males and 5 females have sought protection with security forces at Kanagarayankulam in Vavuniya, Friday (Dec 12).

The civilians have fled from LTTE after been held captive for months in the non-liberated Mullaittivu area, Wanni defence sources said. These people have undergone immense hardships at the hands of LTTE, who had also revealed that terrorists were executing civilians at-will for defying their orders. "We were constantly threatened and thrown to work at the LTTE bunkers", a civilian was quoted as saying.

The people were directed to the civilian welfare center at Omanthai, sources said.

LTTE transmission confirms terror damages - Mullaittivu

Advancing troops of the Task Force 3 forged into LTTE positions in general area Karuppaddamurippu, East of Olumadu, scoring over a dozen of LTTE casualties, Friday (Dec 12) at the Western Mullaittivu battle front.

According to military sources, LTTE radio transmissions have confirmed serious damages to terrorists during the confrontation.

Troops are consolidating defences in the area the sources further said.

4 LTTE terrorists sniped west of Kilinochchi

Troops of the Task Force 1 battling remaining LTTE resistance in the areas at Adampan and Nevil has reportedly taken 4 successful enemy targets yesterday (Dec 12).

According to Wanni security sources, 3 terrorists were killed sniped in general area Adampan, while another met with similar fate in general area Nevil.

Meanwhile, troops have engaged intense armour assaults at identified LTTE positions in general area Nevil as military claimed half-a -dozen LTTE fatalities citing intercepted enemy communication. 3 terrorists have also sustained serious injuries in the Army assault, sources said.

Security forces are continuing forward dominations in the area, military sources added.

'No good or bad terrorists' says Indian Premier

Reiterating his Sri Lankan counterpart President Mahinda Rajapaksa's observations on terrorism, Indian Premier Manmohan Singh asserted that "the use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy is no longer acceptable", adding there should be "no double standards in the global fight against terrorism as there are no good or bad terrorists", yesterday (Dec 11) replying to the security debate at the Lok Sabha, in the aftermath of the Mumbai terror attack.

"The infrastructure of terrorism has to be dismantled permanently. The political will of the international community must be translated into concrete and sustained action on the ground. It is time for the international community to squarely confront the challenge of terrorism," the Indian Premier further stressed.

Earlier, President Mahinda Rajapaksa made similar observations during the keynote address delivered at the opening session of the 15th SAARC Summit on 02nd August in Colombo. - "Terrorism anywhere is terrorism and there are no good terrorists or bad terrorists", he emphasized.

"You can't have two different attitudes towards terrorism" President Rajapaksa was also quoted as saying during an official visit made to the United Kingdom, this June. "I don't agree that there are good terrorists and bad terrorists. There is only one kind of terrorist", the President further asserted replying to questions raised by international media on the ground operations against the LTTE terrorists in Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, admitting that the Mumbai tragedy had highlighted gaps in the preparedness to deal with terrorists attacks, Indian Prime Minister Singh urged the necessity to equip more effectively to deal with such unprecedented threats and challenges against India's integrity and unity.

Making the concluding remarks to his address, Prime Minster Singh said, "I wish to say that it is in times of adversity that the true mettle of a nation is tested. We must remain calm and be resolute. We should stand firm as one nation and one people to meet this challenge posed by terrorism.

"We will give a fitting rebuff to our enemies. The idea of India as a functioning democracy and a pluralistic society is at stake. This is a time for national unity and I seek your cooperation. Truth and righteousness are on our side and together we shall prevail".

Tamil Nadu worries of possible LTTE infiltration:

The need for stronger measures to protect the Indian coastline was also highlighted during the debate, as Premier Singh conceded, "strengthening maritime security against asymmetric threats from the sea, as a timely need".

The Indian Navy, coastal guard and Police have put-on special security and protective arrangements in place for all major ports and sensitive installations in the vicinity of India's shoreline, Indian news agencies reported.

Meanwhile, according to same news sources, worries have triggered in Tamil Nadu concerning possible LTTE terrorist infiltration in the Eastern shores. The Indian Navy is concerned over the arrival of empty boats, some with bullet marks, off Rameswaram coast recently, Vice Admiral Nirmal Kumar Varma, Vishakapatinam, In-Charge of the Eastern Naval Command was quoted saying with print and electronic media today (Dec 12).

"This cannot be taken lightly. It is for the state police and the Centre to find out reasons for the arrival of these boats," he had told reporters.

Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu police in a press release yesterday (Thursday) said that "thorough investigations" revealed that the boats had apparently drifted from Sri Lanka due to the recent cyclone.

Pro LTTE Sri Lankan MP asked to quit India with in 72 hours

Following the controversial political conduct of the Tamil National Alliance Parliamentarian MK Sivajilingam in India, the Indian central government has issued orders that the Sri Lankan must "Quit India" voluntarily within 72 hours or face deportation, Indian news sources said.

According to reports from India, what has irked Indian officialdom is Sivajilingam's open advocacy of a separate state -Tamil Eelam - being set up with Indian support in Sri Lanka.

Sivajilingam has also openly expressed support for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and its leader Prabakharan, a web based news agency reported.

The LTTE is proscribed as a terrorist movement under Indian law and anyone suspected of supporting such a proscribed terrorist entity is regarded as an "offender".

Moreover Indian security officials have been perturbed over Sivajilingam moving closely with Tamil Nadu politicians sympathising with the LTTE.

He is suspected of aiding, abetting and instigating many political demonstrations and meetings in India that demand a removal of the LTTE ban and extending support for the establishment of Tamil Eelam.

Sivajilingam has openly participated in Indian political meetings and spoken in support of Tamil Eelam and the LTTE.

This is seen as both "interference" in the domestic politics of India as well as using "Indian soil" to undermine a friendly country like Sri Lanka.

Since Sivajilingam is an elected Mp the Indian authorities have given him "Time" to depart voluntarily instead of forcibly deporting him, sources said.

Some years ago a Sri Lankan Tamil political activist MK Eelavendhan was deported to Sri Lanka for indulging in political activity supporting the LTTE.

n what could be regarded as blatant defiance of the Indian "order" Sivajilingam who was staying at the Jawarhalal Nehru University hostel in new Delhi has immediately gone to the Tamil Nadu capital Chennai instead of complying with the official instructions and leaving India, sources further added.

Sivajilingam had the "chutzpah" to participate brazenly in an MDMK sponsored protest near the Sri Lankan deputy - high commission in Chennai.

MDMK leader Vaiko (V. Gopalswamy) revealed while speaking at the meeting that Sivajilingam had been asked to leave India for engaging in political propaganda on Indian soil.

Courtesy: Government Information Department

Terrorists take heavy beating: scores killed, many injured - Kilinochchi

Military advances continued at the Wanni battlefront yesterday (Dec 11) amidst stiff LTTE resistance as military confirmed killing at least 27 LTTE terrorists alone at Terumurikandy, 4km south of Iranamadu on Thursday(Dec 11).

Despite, suffering heavy loses at the pitched fighting ensued at Terumurikandy, Puthumurrippukulam and south of Admapan, terrorists have declared baffled casualty reports, through its media proxies as to sustain the diminishing morale and support of the disapora community, defence observers' state.

Confined into the deeper fringes at Kilinochchi, unable to take on the intense multi-pronged military assaults the terrorists have resorted to issuing battle scorecards just-to-satisfy its racist psychopaths who dwell in the continuous suffering of the Sri Lankans, he further asserted.

Meanwhile, a terrorist was reported sniped in general area Puthunurrippukulam at Kilinochchi at around 4p.m., according to military reports. Separately, troops of the 57 Division operating in general areas at South of Adampan, Puthumurrippukulam and west of Iranamadu have mounted continuous gunfire assaults at LTTE causing serious damages, Wanni security sources said. The fighting between troops and LTTE continued till late evening as military kept on engaging LTTE targets, thinning out its remaining defence lines, a successful tactical move at the battle terrain, sources further said.

Also, troops of the Task Force-1 operating North of Adampan have engaged heavy artillery at identified LTTE strong points as troops confirmed neutralizing LTTE resistance in the area.

At the Mullaittivu battlefront, TF -2 troops continued consolidating liberated territory east of the A-9 trunk road.

Separately, troops of the TF-3 have reportedly met with intermittent LTTE resistance while advancing in general area east of Olumadu, security sources added.

Troops destroy LTTE bunker, 2 terrorists sniped in Jaffna

Troops have reportedly destroyed an LTTE bunker following an intense rocket propelled grenade attack at an LTTE bunker defence line yesterday (Dec 11) in general area Kilaly, Jaffna at around 2.30a.m.

Meanwhile, 2 terrorists were sniped by troops in separate locations ahead of LTTE defences at Kilaly and Nagarkovil, military source said. According to intercepted LTTE radio communication, 2 more terrorists were killed following an army heavy gun attack at Muhamalai LTTE defences, at around 6p.m.

Claymore mine, hand grenade and ammunitions recovered on civilian information- Vavuniya

Troops acting on civilian information received have recovered a few warlike items in general area Santhasolai, Vavuniya, Thursday (Dec 11), at around 5.30p.m.

A claymore mine, 01x hand grenade, a detonator and 250x T-56 weapon ammunitions were found during the search operation, security sources said.

Secretary Defence commends commitment of soldiers in Wanni war fronts

Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabhaya Rajapaksa accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Air Chief Marshal Donald Perera Thursday (11) morning conveyed his best wishes to Wanni ground Commanders who lead brave soldiers in the war fronts and Senior Police Officers serving in Wanni areas during his visit to Security Forces Headquarters Wanni (SFHQ-W).

Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka who had reached Vavuniya early morning Thursday (11) to instruct on future operation plans to Wanni ground Commanders received the Secretary Defence and the CDS on their arrival.

Major General Jagath Jayasuriya Commander SFHQ-W later on guided them to the SFHQ auditorium where he briefed the visiting Security Chiefs on present security situation and progress of the humanitarian operations in Kilinochchi and Welioya fronts.

After reviewing the briefings, Secretary Defence issued further instructions to Senior Ground Commanders and Police Officers who attended the meeting on future security measures.

Subsequently, Secretary Defence addressed the troops gathered at the auditorium and appreciated their dedication and commitment.

Troops capture Terumurikandy junction - Kilinochchi

Troops of 57 Division on multi-pronged offensive towards LTTE's main administrative base, Kilinochchi built-up, have reached to a significant milestone gaining control over the strategically vital Terumurikandy junction last evening, 10 December.

According to the defence sources in battlefront, military formations attached to 57 Division advanced from north of Kokavil and east of Akkarayankulam gained total control over the Terumurikandy junction located 4 Km south of Iranamadu.

LTTE terrorists who have given stiff resistance on advancing troops, unable to hold the strategically important Terumurikandy junction as security forces launched combined ground and air assaults targeting enemy defences. Scores of LTTE cadres were killed and many others reportedly sustained injuries during the intense fighting reported in the area for last two days, defence sources said.

Troops continue their march towards Kilinochchi.

Decan chronicle warns India not to trust Prabhakaran with bloody hands who breaks agreements at his convenience

Reminding that the LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran has blood on his hand the influential South Indian newspaper Decan Chronicle in an editorial said India will be extremely shortsighted once again if it committed the mistake of dealing with Prabhakaran who would enter into agreements and breach them at his convenience.

The editorial by Nitish Sengupta categorically said,"Whatever be the pressure that Tamil politicians are facing, no trust should be placed on Prabhakaran or the LTTE, one of the most notorious killing squads in the world which has no scruples about entering into an agreement and then repudiating it at their convenience. No negotiations should be started with the LTTE unless they replace Prabhakaran with a moderate leader".

The editorial reminded New Delhi the present situation had a parallel with the conditions of 1987 when India intervened under the pressure of karunanidhi and even at that time the Sri Lankan security forces were close to overrunning Jaffna peninsula, like the LTTE is on the verge of defeat at Kilinochchi.

Though the agreement between President Junius Jayewardene and Rajiv Gandhi gave many achievements to the minority like Tamil a status of parity with the Sinhala language in the country Prabhakaran breached the agreement, to which he had agreed earlier, refused to surrender arms under it, and attacked the Indian Peace Keeping Forces, "in a brazenly ungrateful manner," the editorial charged.

The following is the full text of the editorial:

"Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's decision to send external affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee to Sri Lanka to press for a ceasefire between forces and the LTTE has an unmistakable parallel with the situation that prevailed in 1987.

"At that time too the Sri Lankan Army was close to overrunning the Jaffna peninsula, which forced the LTTE to approach M. Karunanidhi and the DMK to request the Government of India to intervene. This resulted in actual intervention by India , leading to the Thimpu Accord and the Jayawardhane-Rajiv Gandhi Agreement, endorsed by LTTE supremo Prabhakaran.

"As a result of the accord, Tamil was given the same status as the Sinhala language, discrimination against Tamils in job opportunities was withdrawn, and the need for a provincial government headed by a Tamilian for the Tamil homeland in the Northeast of Sri Lanka was also accepted. Thus, addressing many grievances of the Sri Lankan Tamils.

"As part of the accord, the LTTE agreed to surrender arms. And to supervise this, an Indian Peace-Keeping Force went to Sri Lanka. Unfortunately, Prabhakaran violated the agreement and avoided surrendering arms. And when he realised that India would not, under any circumstances, be instrumental in ensuring recognition of an independent Tamil Elam in Sri Lanka, he started doing everything to make it difficult for the IPKF to operate, thereby repaying his debt to India in a brazenly ungrateful manner.

"It was unfortunate that the IPKF got involved, against its wishes, in armed clashes with the LTTE. Although many Tamil leaders in Sri Lanka supported the agreement and were willing to give the Sri Lanka government time to implement provisions of the agreement, the LTTE repudiated it in a clear breach of faith. Not only did they not hesitate to eliminate Tamil leaders of Sri Lanka, but eventually committed the most reprehensible act - the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, directly under Prabhakaran's order. This was, indeed, the height of Prabhakaran's misdeeds.

"Thereafter, he openly allied with Sri Lanka Prime Minister Premdasa in demanding the withdrawal of the IPKF and, after withdrawal of the IPKF, had Premdasa assassinated.

"This part of history needs to be retold as once again Prabhakaran is seeking withdrawal of the ban on the LTTE in India. Sri Lanka's Army has once again shown remarkable success in its operation against the LTTE. It has captured nearly all the approaches to the Jaffna peninsula and is close to the doors of Prabhakaran's den. And India is facing general elections soon. It is in this situation that Prabhakaran has started his old game of putting pressure on DMK in Tamil Nadu, to help persuade the Sri Lankan Army to call off their offensive and to ease the pressure on Jaffna.

"India will be extremely short-sighted once again if it commits the mistake of dealing with Prabhakaran. We must not forget how Prabhakaran eliminated all his "rival" Tamil politicians in Sri Lanka. Whatever be the pressure that Tamil politicians are facing, no trust should be placed on Prabhakaran or the LTTE, one of the most notorious killing squads in the world which has no scruples about entering into an agreement and then repudiating it at their convenience. No negotiations should be started with the LTTE unless they replace Prabhakaran with a moderate leader.

"We should also remember that all Tamilians in Sri Lanka are not followers of the LTTE. Many of them want to live happily with their Sinhala friends. Unfortunately, Sri Lanka has an element of jingoism which rises to the surface whenever they are near success. A typical case in point was the unfortunate statement recently made by the Army chief that Sri Lanka means a Sinhala nation, ignoring that the Tamils have been living in Sri Lanka for several generations and that when westerners came to Sri Lanka they took over from the island's Tamilian king. "Thus both, the Sinhalese and the Tamilians, need to show that they are willing and ready to live and let live. Discrimination against Tamil population should stop and the

Tamil-dominated Northeast should be given complete provincial autonomy. In return, Tamil leaders should express their faith in one indivisible Sri Lanka. India can be the biggest guarantee of such a unified, multi-racial Sri Lanka.

"India can't forget LTTE has blood on its hands." (EOM).

Twin air raids targeted LTTE strong points - West of Iranamadu

Sri Lanka Air Force MI-24 Helicopter gun ships carried out two air sorties targeting LTTE strong points observed in west of Iranamadu area last evening (Dec 10) and this morning (Dec 11).

Air Force spokesperson, Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara, speaking to defence.lk said that MI-24 helicopters engaged LTTE strong points around 6.00pm yesterday and 9.00am today.

The air raids launched in support of ground troops of 57 Division advancing towards LTTE's heartland, Kilinochchi. LTTE's resistance on advancing troops has been neutralized following the twin air raids, Air Force spokesperson said citing ground sources.

Heavy clashes in Kilinochchi; troops reach Therumurukandi junction [Updated]

Troops of 57 Division were engaged in pitched battles with the terrorists along the western and southern borders of Kilinochchi built-up yesterday (Dec 10), said the defence sources. According to the latest reports, troops have been able get hold of Therumurukandi junction, located 4 Km south of Iranamadu after beating off the terrorists.

Troops are advancing further northwards along the A-9 main road to capture Iranamadu junction which facilitates to open new escaping route for the Tamil civilians who have been trapped by the terrorists as human shield in Vaddakachchi and Paranthan areas.

According to the defence sources, intense fighting irrupted in the west of Kilinochchi and west of Iranamadu areas causing heavy damages to the terrorists. Army Electronic Warfare sources confirmed that heated arguments have also surfaced between the LTTE's ground leaders over the lack of reinforcement as troops continued their effective thrust on LTTE despite stiff resistance given by the terrorists.

According to the latest information, over 27 LTTE terrorists were killed during the battle army Electronic Warfare sources confirmed intercepting terrorists' communication channels.

Twenty army soldiers have laid their lives for defending the motherland during the pitched battle in last two days and a few bodies among them are yet to be recovered, defence sources in battlefront said.

Troops Change Attitude towards Their 'Enemy' for a Moment; Captured LTTE "Policeman" Tells it All

Troops of the 7 Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment (SLSR), poised to forge ahead towards the eastward after their recent capture of Katkidanku area in the Mullaittiu district are beset not only by terrorist attacks, but also due to torrential rains and ankle-deep waters, as the photos in this story depict.

As late as Tuesday (9) afternoon, troops commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Kithsiri Liyanage had to face an unexpected ordeal while his troops were advancing, as scheduled. A rain of enemy fire took them by surprise, but alert troops responded to the challenge effectively and managed to neutralize the enemy- fire within a few minutes. That was not the end. Troops went further closer to the enemy hideout and were shocked to come across an injured Tiger terrorist, lying by the side of the same LTTE hideout.

Humanity overrode all terrorist concerns. Brave and concerned troops immediately rescued the injured Tiger who had received bullet wounds to his ankle and miserably found immovable due to nature of his wounds. Troops changed their stance on the terrorist swiftly, instead for a moment showed him the wealth of compassion and kind -heatedness that troops themselves, have inherited. They lifted the wounded terrorist and carried him on wooden planking to troops-held areas across gushing waters before medical treatment was given to him. Looking so dejected but inspired by human touch, the captured Tiger afterwards began to narrate his tale.

The 23- year old Gunarasa Narmalan, formally from Thunnely south in Nelliady has later on moved to Ramanandanpuram, Kilinochchi on the orders of the LTTE after he joined the organization as an LTTE 'Police Constable'. He had been suddenly tasked to defend Kilinochchi, Mullaittivu and Akkarayankuam areas.

Surprisingly, LTTE leadership due to terrible dearth of fighting cadres in the outfit had suddenly forced him to work on LTTE defence lines in the company of 42 more fellow-LTTE 'Police Constables' who had been deployed there as replenishment for lost Tiger cadres. Tigers, according to this misguided youth are now desperate.

'LTTE is now in terrible trouble because they are short of fighting men and unable to resist the fire -power of the troops any longer. They are panicking and running in all directions since troops are closing in on LTTE strongholds from different fronts. When I was injured, three others with me ran away leaving me behind. Many more youth like me want to flee but Tigers won't allow,' the Tiger terrorist has further told the troops.

Diana makes a donation for war heroes

Diana (Pvt) Ltd, a Sri Lankan company in Chocolate manufactory, handed over a bulk of chocolate worth of Rs. 1,200,000/= to be distributed among the service personnel who are performing operational duties yesterday, 10 December.

To mark the event, the Managing Director of the Diana company handed over a few parcels of chocolates to the Secretary of Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa at a charm ceremony held at Ministry of Defence premises.

A few officials of the Diana Company were also present at the occasion.