DR.JJ: EXPOSE HR VIOLATIONS OF SINHALA DEFENCE SECRETARY!!!

HRC issues summons on Def. Secretary
Friday, 26 December 2008 10:30

The Human Rights Commission today (Dec. 26th) took up a petition filed by Dr. Jayalath Jayawardena against the Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

The petition alleges that by hindering pilgrims from worshipping the holy Madhu Church in Mannar during Christmas, security forces have violated the freedom to observe one's religion.

The HRC allowed lawyers of the petitioner to name Army Commander Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka and the security forces commander of Madhu area at the time of the incident Lalitha Daulagala as respondents.

While on a pilgrimage to the church last August, Dr. Jayawardena was evicted by security forces personnel from the area during the night on orders by the Defence Secretary.

Taking this incident, the petitioner cites that the move violated the right to observe one's religion mentioned in Clauses 10, 12 and 14 of the constitution.

'I have filed this case to guarantee the right to follow a religion for the public of Sri Lanka. Also, I hope to make this an opportunity to find a solution to the continuous human rights violations. It would also be an opportunity to expose human rights violations committed by the defence secretary under the pretense of war,' the UNP MP said.

President's Counsel Desmond Fernando, senior attorney Chandrapala Kumarage and attorneys S.M.S.M. Samsudeen, Suranga Bandara and Lasitha Pelimuhandiram appeared on behalf of the petitioner.

Attorney Indunil Bandara of the Defence Ministry appeared before the Defence Secreatary, Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

Issuing summons, the HRC directed the respondents to appear before the Commission on Jan. 23rd.

LANKADISSENT.COM