Wednesday, August 20, 2008

'Peace & Goodwill' continues to remain in Jaffna

A review of all security measures in force, steps taken to prevent robberies and thefts, ongoing humanitarian and welfare projects in the Jaffna peninsula was made during the forum, "People's Council for Peace and Goodwill," assembled at the transit hall in Kankesenthurai Forward Maintenance Area last Sunday (17th August).

The meeting, led by Major General G.A Chandrasiri, Commander Security Forces Jaffna was attended by Chief Hindu Priest in Jaffna Rev Sri Somasundar Paramacharya Swamy, Jaffna Bishop Rt Rev Dr Thomas Soundaranayagam, Jaffna High Court Judge R.T Vignarajah, District Secretary for Jaffna K Ganesh, 51 Divisional Commander Major General L.B.R Mark, Northern Division Deputy Inspector General of Police W.F.U Fernando and a host of other senior Army and Navy officers.

Major General G.A Chandrasiri, giving an updated account of ongoing projects such as Chunnakam power project, Achchuveli industrial zone, Re-opening of Kankesanthurai cement factory, conduct of medical clinics, distribution of dry rations among low income groups, conduct of religious ceremonies and advanced level and grade five scholarship examinations, organizing of an educational exhibition, inter-school sports meet, computer training programme for school drop-outs and coordinated security network, run by combined Police and Army personnel in the peninsula, etc. highlighted that uninterrupted 24-hour power supply to the Jaffna people, has largely helped Security Forces to combat swelling criminal activities, the meeting was told. Establishment of a new rehabilitation centre for children and women, close to the existing Thelippalai one, is also in progress, it was disclosed, as numbers seeking protection from the Security Forces after abandoning LTTE terrorism are on the increase.

It was also pointed out that people over 60 years of age need not seek security clearance for their exit from the Jaffna peninsula. 51, 52 & 55 Divisions, effective from 1st September would issue security clearance for respective areas directly from the Division offices.

Possibilities to relocate Pannai Police station and Jaffna Police Headquarters were also taken up for discussion during this meeting.

Major General Chandrasiri announced that some 700 connections to CDMA telephones are to be restored and given to their owners on the recommendations of the security authorities, the gathering was told.

Matters concerning distribution of foods, arrangements made in connection with Nallur Kovil festival and smooth conduct of affairs in the peninsula, were also discussed during this friendly gathering.

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