Colombo:Tamil journalist Parameshwari released

Colombo, Mar 22: Tamil journalist Munusami Parameshwari, who was arrested by the Sri Lankan police Terrorism Investigative Division (TID) in November last year on suspicion, was released by the Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court today.

According to legal sources, Ms Parameshwari, who was working for a Sinhala newspaper, was released without any charges after spending four months in police custody.

An independent Free Media Movement (FMM) hailed the release of the journalist as ''a resounding victory for truth and justice'' and said she was released without any charges against her.

''Parameshawari's release is a triumph for truth and justice and also demonstrates the clear danger of the draconian anti-terrorism and emergency regulations which are serious and continuing threat to press freedom in Sri Lanka,'' the FMM said in a statment.

''While the FMM is pleased that all allegations against Parameshwari are relegated to the dustbin of history, we reiterate our concern for the many journalists facing similar threats and harassment and call all those in support of democracy to support our work in securing and strengthening media freedom and fundamental rights in Sri Lanka,'' the statement said.

UNI