'Lankan Tamils now more free to move in northern area of SL'

Theni (TN) Jan 24: Withdrawal of the Governor from the northern areas of Sri Lanka and decision to reduce Army presence meant that Tamils in that area in the island nation are now more free and could move around for their livelihood, Sri Lankan MP Seenithambi Yogeswaran said here today.

"With the withdrawal of the Governor from north province and decision to reduce the Army presence, Tamils in the northern area are feeling free and are involved in their day to day activities," he told reporters here.

On alleged malpractices by former President Mahinda Rajapaksha and his relatives, he said an enquiry has been ordered and action would be initiated after receipt of the report. The MP, who made a courtesy call on Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan, also said the fisheremen's issue involving Sri Lanka and India could be resolved through talks in which fishermen from both the countries, officials and Ministers would participate.

The problems faced by the two countries due to handing over of Katchativu islet by India to Sri lanka by an agreement would also be discussed at the highest level and sorted out. Asked about reports of Chinese warships visiting Sri Lanka, he said they used to do so, but government has decided to review the need to allow them in their territory. Pon Radhakrishnan, who was here in connection with the opening of a private school building, said the Bodi-Madurai Broad Gauge conversion project would be completed before 2018.

PTI