www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk TOTAL CASES For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit THE WORLD 10,317,504 Health Suwasariya PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 2,039 Promotion 0112 695 112 CASES DEATHS Ambulance DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 2,651,446 128,538 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 505,769 BRAZIL 1,352,708 57,774 RUSSIA 641,156 9,166 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD INDIA 562,457 16,797 11 1,678 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 5,591,980 UK 311,965 43,575 THE ABOVE STATISTICS350 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 10.05 P.M. ON 29 JUNE 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU FISHERMEN POACHING ISSUE -India discussions to resume BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA and Aquatic Resources Development between Sri Lanka and India while having decade but the fishermen and politicians relaunching of discussions has been Douglas Devananda told The Morning. discussions with officials and fishermen. have failed to find a permanent solution. delayed due to the Covid-19 situation. Sri Lanka and India are to relaunch The Minister has already held a discussion The discussions are to begin via video Ongoing discussions have also failed to As he said, the poaching issue has discussions on the long-prevailing yet with the Indian High Commissioner in conferencing between the government come to a conclusion on the matter which severely affected the country’s fishing unsorted fishermen poaching issue between this regard and the Indian Government officials of the two countries, he said. has prevailed since 2009. resources. Minister the two countries soon, Minister of Fisheries had sought two years to end the issue Discussions have been held during the last According to the Minister, the Contd. on page 2 Douglas Devananda Different rules? INDO-LANKA DISCUSSION ON DEBT RELIEF Cabinet to decide date tomorrow BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA yet. “The matter is expected to be dialogue to finalise the debt relief discussed at the upcoming Cabinet loan from India. The decision on when the Indo-Lanka virtual meeting, meeting and I expect a decision The Indian Government to finalise the debt relief loan, will be taken at the next will be taken with regard to the is reportedly waiting on the Cabinet meeting tomorrow (1 July). meeting,” the Minister said. green light from the Sri Lankan Representatives of the Sri Government to go ahead with the Co-cabinet Spokesman Dr. decision had been taken on holding Lankan Government and its Indian virtual meeting to discuss and Bandula Gunawardana said that no a virtual discussion on the matter counterpart are to have a virtual finalise the debt relief.

PUBLISHING HEALTH GUIDELINES GAZETTE STAYING ARRESTS OF RK, OTHERS Despite the public being told by the Police on numerous occasions that face masks are to be worn correctly, spotted here are two policemen wearing their face masks around the neck Decision on 7 July PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM Health Ministry The Court of Appeal announced that the decision on issuing 2020 GENERAL ELECTION an interim order preventing Kalutara UC the execution of the arrest warrants issued by the Fort Chairman arrested EC opts for still undecided Magistrate, against former The Chairman of the Kalutara z Health officials to be further consulted Finance Minister Ravi Urban Council (UC) has been Karunanayake and others arrested for forcibly entering a cardboard The Health Ministry Since the work from health service authorities over the Central Bank playground, unlawful assembly, is yet undecided on home period ended on facing difficulty in bond scam, will and violating quarantine on 23 June. publishing the gazette 11 May and lockdown following protocol on be delivered on ballot boxes on health guidelines regulations were fully when to advise and 7 July. The Elections to overcome Covid-19, relaxed on 11 June, the when to arrest people for Contd. on US SECY. OF STATE PHONES FM Secretariat will be despite demands from public has fully embraced non-adherence to health page 2 utilising cardboard health sector stakeholders the freedom of movement, guidelines. US reconfirms ballot boxes for the to issue the gazette. with law enforcement and Contd. on page 2 upcoming general HANDING PROJECTS TO FOREIGNERS SL partnership election due to its cost-effectiveness over DISTRIBUTION OF BALLOT PAPERS US Secretary of State Michael wooden boxes. TUs threaten R. Pompeo spoke yesterday (29) Elections Secretariat Chief with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Accountant G.R.A.K. Gamlath Dinesh Gunawardena to reaffirm told The Morning that cardboard ballot boxes Central Mail Exchange action the partnership between the two were used for the 2019 presidential election, Railway unions are up in arms against countries. and could hold more votes. the Government’s attempt to hand over The two also discussed the US’ Contd. on page 2 staff call off strike several projects to foreign companies. Covid-19 assistance to Sri Lanka. Workers at the Central Mail Exchange Mail Exchange, ballot papers are usually Locomotive Operating Engineers’ Union (LOEU) yesterday (29) called off the strike action that distributed islandwide through the Central President Indika Dodangoda told The Morning MCC COMMITTEE REPORT was launched since midnight Sunday (28) due Mail Exchange. However, this time around, that attempts are being made to hand over the INTERDICTED HC JUDGE to an issue over the distribution of ballot papers the authorities have assigned the task to the railway ticketing project to China while the for the 2020 general election through the post. Havelock Town Post Office. communications project is to be handed over AG won’t appear UNP denies According to the workers at the Central Contd. on page 2 to another private company. for Acting IGP allegations Contd. on page 2 The Attorney General (AG) has MORAGAHAKANDA-KALUGANGA MAHAWELI F ZONE informed the Acting Inspector The United National Party (UNP) has 12,000 MIGRANT WORKERS REPATRIATED General of Police (IGP) that he refuted allegations levelled against the former Sustainable development cannot appear on his behalf in the Yahapalanaya Government by the Millennium writ application filed by High Court Challenge Corporation (MCC) review committee area declared 40,000 to be Judge Gihan Pilapitiya. headed by Prof. Lalithasiri Gunaruwan. “According to media reports, Gunaruwan’s The Moragahakanda- Agriculture, Irrigation, report alleged that $ 10 million was provided Kaluganga Mahaweli “F” Zone and Rural Development by the MCC to the then Government following has been declared a sustainable Minister Chamal Rajapaksa repatriated Museum to the signing of two agreements with the MCC development area, made by issuing an extraordinary in 2017 and 2018. through organic agricultural gazette. reopen tomorrow Contd. on page 2 products, by Mahaweli, Contd. on page 2 z Entrance limited to within 14 days 15 at a time REOPENING SCHOOLS Over 40,000 migrant workers are to The museums functioning under be brought down within a span of two the National Museum Department weeks, The Morning learnt. are to reopen tomorrow (1 July) Airport and Aviation Services (Sri under the health guidelines issued Temperature readings Lanka) Ltd. (AASL) Chairman Major by the Director General of Health General (Rtd.) G.A. Chandrasiri told Services (DGHS). The Morning that 12,000 migrant workers had already been repatriated. are not required? “There are 40,000-odd migrant workers currently registered with our z Purchasing thermometers put on hold embassies abroad wanting to return. The whole repatriation process BY SARAH HANNAN fend for themselves with commence for the second academic should take around three the Ministry of Education term on 6 July, the Ceylon Teachers’ weeks. SEE FULL STORIES Administrations of state- failing to issue clear and concise Union revealed. Contd. on page 2 ON PAGE 2 owned schools have been left to guidelines for when schools Contd. on page 2 2 the morning FOCUS/NEWS Tuesday, June 30, 2020

GARBAGE DUMPING ALONG THE HINGURUWANA FOREST RESERVE PERIMETER Recurring act of inconsiderate humans

BY SARAH HANNAN IN ALADENIYA Recent social media reports drew attention to an ongoing garbage dumping incident along the perimeter of the Hinguruwana Forest Reserve located in Aladeniya. This is not the first time the Hinguruwana Forest Reserve has been in the media’s spotlight, as Action needs to be taken by the last October, the residents of the respective pradeshiya sabha Wooden light posts, which were replaced by concrete light posts, left behind by the CEB Garbage dump along the perimeter of the Hinguruwana Forest Reserve area had thwarted a move made by to at least make garbage bins a businessman to dump a stock of available in areas where people garbage regularly, Dhammikatissa have tossed garbage right under the (RDA) had left behind which have When we contacted the RDA rotting dried fish there. frequently dump garbage. believes people will stop littering. signage which raises the question been sitting at the perimeter of the office in Kandy, Kandy Division The area residents said that most Alternatively, as the Forest He stated that if the area is free of on whether they truly care for their Hinguruwana Forest Reserve for the Executive Engineer T.M.Y.K. of the garbage dumping takes place Department, we are looking at garbage and kept clean, people will surroundings. past three years. Recently, someone Tennakoon had a different narrative. at the hands of outsiders, as they setting up perimeter fences, so be reluctant to litter. Moreover, we were told by the had dumped a used mattress on “They were concrete posts that the toss bags of non-perishables such the dumped garbage will not be When asked whether the Range District Forest Office that when an these pillars, and taking a cue from Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) as polythene bags, bottles, cans, pushed into the reserve Forest Office could send in a forest incident such as garbage dumping that act, people are now habitually office in Aladeniya had unloaded and PET bottles. “Most of the time, Kandy District Forest Office ranger to monitor the activities in the by an outsider takes place in broad dumping garbage at the said site. to replace the wooden posts that it happens in the night, which makes Divisional Forest Officer area, he said that manpower is seen daylight, the residents do fire a call to “It is a behavioural and attitude were previously installed to pull it difficult to catch anyone in the act L.A.L. Dhammikatissa as a luxury within the department. the respective range office. Yet, these change that needs to be instilled the electricity across the area. of dumping garbage. The garbage “Each range office has only two complaints are not often backed in these people. The moment they We received several complaints that is tossed along the perimeters of range officers and they are assigned with testimonies or photographic see some construction material or regarding these posts and about the reserve is then dragged into the pradeshiya sabha to at least make to oversee forest areas in at least evidence to take action against the rubble left behind, they are quick to the people dumping garbage in the reserve by monkeys and other wild garbage bins available in areas three divisional secretariats. In the persons who have performed the presume that the site is considered vicinity as well,” he said. animals, which eventually falls into where people frequently dump case of the Kandy District, we have act. The range offices are given a garbage dump. We did request the According to Tennakoon, the the stream running across the forest, garbage. Alternatively, as the Forest four such range offices; namely, incident reporting forms to record RDA to move these concrete lamp CEB has run out of storage space to polluting its waters,” D. Kodikara, a Department, we are looking at setting Nawalapitiya, Kandy, Teldeniya, and any incident which is considered to posts when they had left them on the keep their obsolete inventory and is resident of Aladeniya, noted. up perimeter fences, so the dumped Hunnasgiriya. On the other hand, the be damage caused to the forest and roadside, but for all these years, no leaving these posts on the perimeters According to the District Forest garbage will not be pushed into the urban/municipal councils can easily its biodiversity. However, when there one from the RDA has done anything of the reserve. Office in Kandy, they are unable to reserve. However, we are not in a allocate at least a garbage collection is no written testimony, even the about it,” Kandy Range Forest “The RDA along with the monitor the situation or take action position to prevent the wild animals team, which is handling the garbage Forest Department is unable to take Officer Mahendran Nandasena Harispattuwa Pradeshiya Sabha against such persons as the garbage is from dragging the garbage to the in the respective areas, to collect the due action. weighed in. Chairman visited the site for dumped at the edge of the forest. forest.” roadside garbage,” Dhammikatissa During our visit to the site, there inspection. We then summoned the Speaking to The Sunday Morning, reiterated. RDA and CEB old were wooden posts instead of CEB area engineer and requested Kandy District Forest Office Local Government partly Despite several notices and instigators? concrete posts which were laid on them to move those posts, but they Divisional Forest Officer L.A.L. responsible hoardings that stand as empty We were also told that there are either side of the road, and were now informed us that they have run out of Dhammikatissa said: “Action If the Urban Council could at least reminders on the roadside, people some concrete lamp posts that attracting stray animals and illegal space to keep these wooden posts,” needs to be taken by the respective send in a truck to gather the roadside seem to take no notice of them and the Road Development Authority garbage dumpers alike. he noted.

Contd. from page 1

public under which social situation, with report, and suggests that the President and seems they have dropped the idea of purchasing Sri Lanka-India... TUs threaten... them penalising the public under the the Government are using official resources thermometers, and have now said that the The Indian poaching issue had also He said: “The railways can handle Quarantine Act for not wearing face masks. to slander the UNP during an election period. temperature of students and staff need not been discussed between Sri Lankan ticketing projects together with the support Health authorities and law enforcement “The SLPP (Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna) used be taken upon entering the school premises,” President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Indian of the University of Moratuwa while the authorities will receive legal powers to act these baseless accusations during the presidential Ceylon Teachers’ Union General Secretary President Narendra Modi, during President communications project can be handled by against quarantine law violators only after election and have once again resorted to these Joseph Stalin told The Morning. Rajapaksa’s first foreign visit to India. the experts of the Department of Railways.” issuing the gazette. same shameless tactics to mislead the voters. While the education authorities seem to be During the meeting, the two leaders have According to Dodangoda, handing – Sarah Hannan “During the 2015-2019 Yahapalanaya changing the guidelines to fit their bill, Health also discussed the fishermen issue at length. over such projects to foreign Government, several preparatory Service Director General Dr. Anil Jasinghe Indian fishermen are apprehended by Sri companies is a waste of public money. agreements were signed; these agreements reiterated the importance of adhering to the Lankan authorities on a regular basis for Further, he stressed that foreign involvement Central Mail... were produced before Parliament for stipulated guidelines that were first issued. allegedly breaching the International Maritime in railway communication would put The strike action was launched against this scrutiny and debate,” the UNP added. “We said that children need not wear face Boundary Line (IMBL), the imaginary line the entire railway sector at risk as they decision and the striking workers demanded However, during the Covid-19 outbreak, masks once they enter the school premises, in the waters between India and Sri Lanka. could take control of railway traffic. that the decision be reversed and the task of the Rajapaksa Government has received so they may not feel uncomfortable when The clashes between Tamil Nadu fishermen and The communications project is to be handed distributing ballot papers for the 2020 general financial and medical assistance from several conducting their studies. However, the basic their Sri Lankan counterparts operating in the over to a private company at a cost of $ election be handed back to the Central Mail international organisations and countries requirement to provide hand-washing facilities Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar area have been 7.5 million, while it could be done by the Exchange. The strike was finally called off after including the World Bank, the EU, and the US. and taking a temperature reading when they enter frequently reported since the end of the war, Department of Railways at a cost of around authorities had in writing assured to address the The UNP said that the Government has failed the school premises is a must,” Dr. Jasinghe when restrictions on fishing in the Northern Rs. 75 million, according to Dodangoda. issue of ballot paper distribution. to publicly declare the exact amount they have stated. seas were lifted by Sri Lankan authorities. Furthermore, he predicted that the ticketing received and what these funds and supplies have There have been constant reports of fishermen project, which is to be handed over to China, been used for. from either side being arrested for poaching could be handled by local experts at a cost less Sustainable... “We urge the Government to publicly state Kalutara UC... and jailed for weeks, months, and in some cases than 15 times of what it costs to be done by China. The Minister, as per the powers vested in him whether they will be signing the MCC agreement, Twelve individuals including the Kalutara for over one year, until their release following The unions urged the Government to immediately under Section 3 of the Mahaweli Authority of and if they are not, they must inform the public UC Chairman had broken the locks and forcibly governmental intervention. stop the handing over of projects to foreign Sri Lanka Act (No. 23 of 1979), has declared the of their final decision,” the UNP noted. entered a sports complex on 23 June. companies and to instead get the support of Mahaweli F Zone an ecozone with the objectives The Kalutara Police launched investigations local experts. to promote organic vegetable crops, fruit crops, based on a complaint lodged by the manager Decision on... – Maheesha Mudugamuwa and other field crops in this area as a green 40,000 to... of the stadium, and several arrests were made. The writ petition filed by Karunanayake; organic zone, free from the use of agrochemicals Twelve thousand or so have already been On 26 June, Kalutara Pradeshiya Sabha Perpetual Treasuries Ltd. (PTL) Chairman and pesticides; to ensure sustainable usage of brought down.” Opposition Leader S.A.D. Nilantha and another Geoffrey Aloysius and CEO Kasun Health Ministry... soil through soil conservation methods of setting The Chairman went on to say that around 500 individual were also arrested over the incident. Palisena; and former Central Bank officials The Morning contacted Ministry of Health, stone bunds and biological hedges, etc.; and to Sri Lankans would be flown in daily. “We will Indika Saman Kumara and Sangarapille Nutrition, and Indigenous Medical Services promote water conservation in farming for the be quarantining each individual who returns. Padumanathan, was taken up for consideration Secretary Maj. Gen. Dr. S.H. Munasinghe to preservation of irrigated water and its efficient use. We hope to bring down around 500-600 people US reconfirms... before the judge bench comprising Court inquire whether the Ministry had decided as to It is also expected to manufacture the every day,” he said. He noted that as a result of The below is attributable to US State of Appeal President A.H.M.D Nawaz and when the gazette on health guidelines, which required organic fertiliser within this zone. the repatriation programme, the reopening of Department Spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus: Justices Shiran Gunaratne and Sobitha were set up to prevent Covid-19 from spreading Farmers will be provided with the necessary the airport would have to be delayed. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo Rajakaruna yesterday (29). once the country resumed its socioeconomic fertiliser by the Government to implement “We can’t have tourists coming in at the same spoke yesterday (29) with Sri Lankan Foreign The court stated that the decision on whether functions, will be published. He said: “A decision the programmes under the public and private time as expatriates. Therefore, the airport will Minister Dinesh Gunawardena to reaffirm their notice will be issued for the hearing of the is yet to be made as to when the gazette will partnership in order to supply the direct and have to be reopened later than planned. This will partnership with the people of Sri Lanka and petition will also be declared on the said date. be published and I am unable to comment value-added certified organic products to the also help keep seats available for Sri Lankans to their commitment to supporting the country’s The petitioners have been charged with on it without consulting the other officials.” local and foreign markets from this zone. return before tourists start booking up flights.” development and sovereignty. Secretary Pompeo allegedly misappropriating more than Rs. 52 Furthermore, law enforcement authorities A total of 3,600 hectares is to be converted into – Skandha Gunasekara and Foreign Minister Gunawardena discussed billion in government bonds at two auctions too seem to be of divided views on what an ecozone. their mutual interest in combating the Covid-19 in 2016. guidelines need to be followed by the – Maheesha Mudugamuwa pandemic and shared commitment to economic AG won’t... stability and sustainable growth. The AG has said he cannot appear for the The two leaders also discussed the US’ EC opts... Acting IGP due to his failure to comply with ongoing Covid-19 assistance to Sri Lanka, which “Wooden boxes can only accommodate around the AG’s advice. totals almost $ 6 million to date, and reviewed Cartoon of the day 500-600 ballot papers while cardboard boxes A writ application filed by the interdicted the longstanding US-Sri Lanka co-operation can hold up to 2,500,” he said. High Court Judge, Pilapitiya, seeking an interim on health and humanitarian issues. He noted that cardboard boxes came in small, injunction order was set to be considered at the Additionally, the Secretary and the Foreign medium, and large sizes. Court of Appeal yesterday (29). Minister talked about their shared democratic “We expect to buy around 13,000 ballot boxes Embilipitiya High Court Judge Pilapitiya was traditions, respect for human rights, and the for the upcoming parliamentary election,” he interdicted on 22 January over the controversial importance of transparency for the long-term said. He noted that cardboard ballot boxes would telephone conversation he had with former stability and prosperity of the people. also cost far less in comparison to its wooden United National Party (UNP) MP Ranjan counterpart. “We expect it will cost around Rs. Ramanayake. A series of audio recordings of 12-13 million to get the cardboard ballot boxes phone conversations between Ramanayake and Museum to... for the general election. Wooden boxes would several high-profile individuals in the country Accordingly, the museums will be open have cost more.” were leaked to the media earlier this year. to the public from 9 a.m. till 4 p.m. daily – Skandha Gunasekara excluding public holidays, the National Museum Temperature... Department said in a statement. In line with the health guidelines followed by UNP denies... While a decision is yet to be made on which the museums, only 15 persons will be permitted However, Gunaruwan goes on to state that set of guidelines schools will have to follow, to enter the premises at any given time and new there is no record of these finances at the the decision of purchasing thermometers for entrants will be permitted every 30 minutes. Finance Ministry,” the UNP said in a statement. schools too seems to have come to a standstill. The National Museum Department has further The US Embassy in Colombo has categorically “Over the past weeks, there was an issue on noted that any individual/group planning to visit denied that the MCC has released any funds to whether thermometers need to be purchased, a museum could make prior appointments for the Sri Lankan Government, the UNP added. and concerns were raised over the value of the their visits by either telephoning the respective “This official denial by the US Government tender as well, which was some Rs. 84 million. museum or logging on to the website www. has called into question the credibility of the “Since the Ministry does not have funds, it museum.gov.lk. the morning 3 Tuesday, June 30, 2020 business Ceylon Chamber asks SEC for more listings at CSE The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has asked the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Sri Lanka to attract more companies to list at the Colombo Stock Exchange (SEC), during a recent meeting between officials from both institutions. During the discussion, the Chamber also pointed out the importance of establishing an apex committee comprising capital market stakeholders including the SEC, CSE, Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), Ministry of Finance, and other key policymakers, including industry bodies, to decide on matters related to capital market Meeting between SEC and CCC policy. “These new rules have introduced that certain regulatory measures presently they could be looked at by the SEC. work that was in progress with regard to the According to a press release issued revenue, market capitalisation, and positive in force are seen as an impediment to new The Chairman also informed them that the digitisation of the stock market and called yesterday (29) on this matter, the SEC operating cash flows as alternative criteria listings and also stated that the SEC at times Commission was at present going through upon broker firms to support and actively has welcomed these proposals from the in the determination of eligibility for listing. had been somewhat rigid in the application the draft SEC Act and the Demutualisation participate in the ongoing initiatives of the Chamber as they understand the importance This will now enable a diverse range of of rules and regulations. Act, and that its recommendations would be SEC-CSE joint committee. of attracting small and medium-sized companies with different business models The Chairman of the SEC, in response submitted to the Ministry of Finance before He also referred to the other joint enterprises (SMEs) to get listed. to have their businesses listed,” the release to this issue, explained the need to have a the end of next month and assured them that committee that had been established to The SEC said it has already taken certain noted. robust regulatory system in order to ensure steps would be taken to ensure their speedy broadbase the market and create awareness steps in that direction and pointed out that it The meeting also included law firms and the integrity of the market, but said that the enactment. amongst the general public, and called upon had approved the amendments in respect of stockbroker firms and was the latest in a SEC will certainly adopt a very pragmatic The law firms were requested to submit stockbroker firms to partner with the SEC listing requirements applicable to the Main series of meetings being conducted between and practical approach in the process of any recommendations they had with regard and CSE in these initiatives and to play a Board as well as the Diri Savi Board, and SEC Chairman Viraj Dayaratne PC and regulation, and called upon the delegates to to the draft laws as well as on any other more aggressive role. that they will come into force in the near members of the SEC since January 2020. point out any particular rules or regulations regulatory matter. future. The delegates attached to law firms stated which they consider to be too rigid so that Dayaratne had also elaborated on the - Madhusha Thavapalakumar FCCISL congratulates Sri Lanka to host UNWTO’s APAC new SAARC CCI Joint Commission Meeting The 32nd Joint Meeting of The meeting will be attended by President the World Tourism Organisation the UNWTO Secretary General The Federation of Chambers (UNWTO) Commission for East and officials, and tourism ministers of Commerce and Industry Asia and Pacific (CAP) and the of the Asia and Pacific region. of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) has UNWTO Commission for South Sri Lanka will be represented by warmly congratulated Iftikhar Asia (CSA), which is UNWTO’s Tourism and Aviation Minister Ali Malik on his appointment principal annual event in the Asia Prasanna Ranatunga and Secretary as the new President of and Pacific region, was scheduled S. Hettiarachchi, and Sri Lanka the SAARC Chamber of to be hosted by Sri Lanka Tourism Minister of Tourism and Aviation Sri Lanka Tourism Chairperson Tourism Chairperson Kimarli Commerce and Industry in Colombo from 29 June to 1 July Prasanna Ranatunga Kimarli Fernando Fernando. (SAARC CCI). 2020. decided not to hold a physical the theme “Impacts of Covid-19 Sri Lanka has also been given the “The FCCISL, being a founder However, in view of the Covid-19 meeting this year as it was initially on the Tourism Sector and the opportunity to host the 33rd Joint member of SAARC CCI pandemic and the global restrictions planned. Therefore, CAP-CSA will Recommendations for the Recovery Meeting of the two commissions since its inception, wishes to on international travel, it was be held virtually today (30) under Process”. next year in Colombo. stress the need to respect and Iftikhar Ali Malik comply with the principles of Industry (2001-2002) and the the SAARC Charter which was London Chamber of Commerce participating in the service; as formally established in 1985 by and Industry (1990). He is a Brandix awarded for Liquidity and a result, IE improved Brandix’s its member countries at the first former Director of the National yield for credit balances. It is well SAARC summit meeting held Bank of Pakistan, Founder suited to both open as well as more in Dhaka, Bangladesh. We wish Chairman of the Pak-US Investment Solution of HSBC restrictive markets with capital Iftikhar Ali Malik, the president Business Council, Honorary movement or FX controls, where elect, good health, courage, Member of the Islamic Brandix was awarded the highest company’s consultative partner as HSBC Sri Lanka and Maldives regulation permits. The solution and success in all his future Chamber of Commerce and accolade under the “Best Liquidity well. Head of Wholesale Banking provides total transparency from endeavours towards South Industry, Special Life-Time and Investment Solution” category Brandix Head of Global Treasury Stuart Rogers commented on the a pricing and taxation perspective Asian economic integration,” Member of the Confederation at The Asset Triple A Awards 2020 Priyanke Perera commented on recognition, noting: “Our warmest and ensures operating risk and said FCCISL President Shirley of Asia Pacific Chambers for its global Interest Enhancement the achievement, stating: “We are congratulations to Brandix on cost are properly managed in Jayawardena. of Commerce and Industry (IE) solution facilitated by HSBC. honoured to be recognised at The winning the highest accolade the process without affecting the Prior to assuming this position, (CACCI), and Life Member of The IE solution, effective across Asset Triple A Awards 2020 for awarded by The Asset Triple underlying banking structure and Malik served in the capacity of the Pakistan Automobile Spare Australia, India, Hong Kong, our efforts towards excellence A Award 2020 under the Best working capital requirements. Senior Vice President (2018- Parts Importers and Dealers Mauritius, Singapore, Sri Lanka, in operational efficiency and Liquidity and Investment Solution The Asset Triple A Treasury, 2019) and Vice President of the Association (1985-86). the US, and the UK, provides optimisation of cash through the category. We are very proud of Trade, SSC (Sustainable Supply Pakistan Chapter of SAARC Iftikhar Ali Malik has extensive Brandix with an innovative and IE solution. HSBC has been our this global recognition and the role Chain), and Risk Management CCI for over a decade. Iftikhar exposure in the regional best-in-class solution to optimise trusted advisor for over 20 years HSBC played in setting up their Awards are industry excellence Ali Malik belongs to a well- chamber movement in the Asia its cash and interest yields globally now and has a good understanding treasury, collection, and trading recognitions awarded annually known and well-respected Pacific region and has taken within complex regulatory settings. of our financial infrastructure and hub based in Singapore; especially to companies and financial family of Lahore. He is the part in many international It also enables Brandix to increase requirements. When exploring the the IE solution for global liquidity institutions that have launched or Chief Executive at Guard trade forums representing visibility and control globally option for a flexible and scalable requirements. This is a landmark helped implement initiatives in Group of Industries and is the Federation of Pakistan via a single banking platform solution to meet our unique achievement in our decades-long corporate treasury management, one of the few highly reputed Chambers of Commerce and for all payments and collections, business model, HSBC provided partnership with Brandix. We look trade finance, supply chain, and/ personalities in the business Industry. He takes over the including standardised processes us with a solution leveraging their forward to working together for or risk management. They are community of Pakistan. reins at a time when the South for effective management. global network, capabilities, and many years more, supporting them awarded to corporates (Triple He is currently the Chairman Asian private sector really This transformation took place technology to best suit our needs. with the strength of our expertise A Client Awards) and financial of the United Business Group needs strategic direction and following the centralisation and As a result, we are better able to and the backing of our global service providers (Triple A Service and served as the President a collective thrust towards setting up of Brandix’s treasury, centralise liquidity globally across network.” Provider Awards), on in-country/ of the Federation of Pakistan development and social collection, and trading hub in Asia Pacific, the US, and the UK IE has benefited Brandix by territory as well as regional levels Chambers of Commerce and advancement. Singapore, during which HSBC with automated payments and allowing 100% utilisation of in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, played an integral role as the reconciliation.” HSBC’s operating balances Europe, and North America. LB Finance-Indra Traders offer leasing packages Leading financial services brand LB already available in the local market, to up to our loyal customers with an easy and simple will only come into effect under special of Companies Managing Director Finance recently tied up with Indra Traders six years, exclusively through the partnership procedure of obtaining a valuable leasing circumstances under this special leasing Rushanka Silva. (Pvt.) Ltd., one of Sri Lanka’s pioneering with Indra Traders. The company also said it package with a host of customer-centric package offered by LB Finance and Indra In addition, not only are customers automobile traders, to offer special leasing offers the maximum possible lease amount options. We are proud to be able to facilitate Traders. of the special leasing package entitled packages with multiple benefits and value for the selected vehicle. our customers with what is effectively the “This partnership and the benefits to Indra Traders’ highly sought-after additions to the customers of both LB Customers of the special lease package best leasing for high-quality vehicles,” said that come with it towards our valued warranty, but they can also make use Finance and Indra Traders. will also be entitled to other benefits such LB Finance Managing Director Sumith customers stand as a testament to our of Indra Traders’ 24-hour roadside Customers can now avail themselves with as free RMV (Department of Motor Traffic) Adhihetty. continuous strive to engage in fair assistance, as well as the 24-hour hotline exclusive leasing packages provided by registration, two labour-free services, and LB Finance announced that the special business and facilitate our Sri Lankan in case of an emergency. LB Finance, whereby the customers will installation of a free entertainment system leasing package could be obtained within customer base with the best. LB Finance The fact that this special leasing be able to receive special interest rates with among other free accessories. a day, with approval being granted is a highly reputed financial institution package could be obtained from any of tailor-made payment plans that could be “We have reached a major milestone with within just two hours. Requirements of well known for providing quality LB Finance’s islandwide network of customised based on the customer’s income, our partnership with one of Sri Lanka’s documentation are also drastically reduced solutions to its customers. Together, we offices and with personalised doorstep making ownership of a vehicle that much premier automobile solutions providers, Indra for obtaining the lease, which is also an believe that this new partnership will assistance, makes this package all the easier and simpler. Group of Companies, and it is no doubt that added convenience, with hardly any red further solidify our leading positions in more accessible to a wider segment of Customers can benefit by furthering their this partnership will not only benefit both our tape for customers. Also, another notable our respective industries as customer- customers who are keen to own a vehicle lease period from the regular five-year period organisations, but also immensely benefit feature is that the need for guarantors centric organisations,” said Indra Group with the least hassle. 4 the morning brunch Tuesday, June 30, 2020 LEAN ON ME with voice clips was surprisingly PodHub’s involvement in this challenging; for a regular project as a predominantly production, you would have the auditory medium. He shared artiste in at the studio to record that they’ve chosen to release a A COLLABORATION OF and if you were unhappy with the music video instead of a studio output, you can simply have them reordered audio track, stating rerecord that part. However, here, that while it is true that podcasts he was faced with the additional primarily consist of audio only, challenge of creating something video podcasts are not unheard of from existing content, all of and especially with the Covid-19 which came from individuals pandemic, many platforms are with their own unique styles. somewhat required to tweak their He shared that while it was spaces to accommodate a variety Imran Saibo a challenge and it was a new of audiences. Shaq said that thing they were trying to do, while the audio-only podcasts performance in all three languages things were made relatively easy have their own audience, there – Sinhala, Tamil, and English – due to the pre-existing working is a large consumer base for the featuring multiple genres, adding relationship they had with many visual medium. variety to the production. of the artistes. “We had worked He stated that many platforms He also added that everyone with almost all of these artists were changing, a sign of the who participated in the project before,” he said, and so it was times if you will; food EPIC was doing it out of passion. They rather smooth sailing. applications were adapting to put their heart and soul into it and provide groceries, which was PROPORTIONS they did not get paid. There are no something they did not do prior sponsors involved in the project. to the pandemic. Not unlike today at 9.30 p.m. “We did not want the complexities these other platforms, PodHub that come with involving too was looking to expand on sponsors,” he said, adding that their content, he said, and so they while money was being spent on have been gradually including BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE miscellaneous expenses, these videos and visual content on their were all borne by the parties website as well. “Lean on me” is a collaboration of epic proportions involved; it is purely a passion Some of the artistes set to be courtesy of PodHub and Funtime, that have come project to pay tribute, he said. featured at the event include a together to present this virtual music video today at 9.30 Speaking about the process number of veteran acts like Sunil p.m. on https://podhub.lk/. itself, Shaq shared that one of Perera of The Gypsies, Nalin the most unique details about Perera of the Marians, and Corrine needn’t be so. the project was the fact that the Almeida. They also called in He stated that they thought up artistes were able to record the He stated that while they would some contemporary artists like the idea and proposed it to a few entirety of their parts in their have preferred to have as many Ashanthi, Dushyanth Weeraman artistes to test the waters, and home studios and only those who people as possible on board, as at and Stephanie Siriwardhana, were pleasantly surprised when were unable to do so remotely one point they already had a hefty Ashane (Infinity), Romaine Willis, almost everybody immediately were invited into the studio once number of participants, they chose to Shiraz, and a number of others. Also came onboard and wanted to be the curfew was lifted. Therefore, work with the ones they had already contributing to the 80 individual a part of it. Following this, the despite having an incredibly brought together at the time. As for voices featured will also be multiple project began to pick up pace. diverse number of artistes taking the dedication of each artiste, he said group acts like the wonderful ladies The sheer number of part, not one of them came into they gave it their all, adding that as of Soundarie David Rodrigo's Soul entertainers who came together is contact with each other during the they only had to record certain parts Sounds, Voice Print, and even the quite extraordinary. “It was this entire process. of the song, it was made somewhat “First Ladies”. crazy idea and now we are sort of easier in that the artistes only needed The virtual music video is set stuck with it,” said Shaq. to focus on perfecting a chosen part to feature 80 unique artistes, both We also spoke to Imran, can chew. However, he said that of the overall project. However, they young and old, who have come who said that he was initially the timing was right – everyone were all highly dedicated and did together to pay tribute to those in reluctant, as it is a monumental has felt the effects of Covid and their best. the essential services who have task they were trying to we are all stuck and in one place; About the video aspect of the worked tirelessly to contain the accomplish; that while it sounded if there ever was a time to do it, it project, Shaq said that they did virus. like a great idea, as things went was now. not in any way want to create PodHub Chief Executive on, they may come to realise that He said that the song in itself something that looked like it was Officer and Co-founder Shaq they’ve bitten off more than they is very current and relevant to heavily or overly produced. They shared with The Morning Brunch the present situation we live in. wanted to keep it in its raw form that the idea came about during Put together entirely by PodHub and use the video clips recorded a casual conversation that he and Co-founder Azlan Sheriffdeen, on the artistes’ mobile phones as Funtime Managing Director (MD) who is a music producer, both the is. He said that the primary idea Imran Saibo, who is currently audio and video will be edited Shaq shared that this unique behind this was to showcase the It was a whirlwind of a project, residing in Australia, had with together. element of the process was also fact that there need not be stages, said Imran, jokingly sharing that regards to how the entertainment Imran stated that the project one of the most challenging arenas, or public gatherings to if Shaq were to present to him industry has come to a virtual posed complexities at many aspects, as it posed an immense enjoy music; that it can thrive, something like this ever again, it standstill during these times. levels, especially the fact that they challenge for Azlan, who was even at a time like this. Therefore, would receive a resounding “no” Shaq said that it was almost at a will be bringing together artistes editing everything together, as they wanted to hold on to that from him. point where even the entertainers of multiple genres – western, he was dealing with nearly 75% authentic, raw feel of the video They have managed to who have been around forever eastern, and those who cross the of prerecorded content. Having and to put it together in a way that accomplish something they are were now “out of sight, out of divide. While it posed a challenge, to render a cohesive product communicated this essence. proud of and are hopeful that it mind” and shared that it simply it also allowed them to create a whilst dealing almost entirely We also asked Shaq about will be received well.

ASK Building a Sri Lanka worth fighting for a doctor Asanka de Mel from LOVI Ceylon on his new campaign ‘Worth Fighting For’ What are all the The apparel industry is also greatly hit across manifestations of energy for its clients and network, eventually the supply chain and is set to suffer in the long Q BY NAVEED ROZAIS leading the Worth Fighting For campaign. term, especially in terms of overall profitability. Covid-19? Once the virus invades Worth Fighting For These industries are not going to recover LOVI Ceylon is one of those unique fashion in a matter of months; yes, there will be A the respiratory system, brands that tell a very important story through Worth Fighting For highlights the fact that progress, but recovery will be slow, and it can cause sore throat, their product. Established in 2015, LOVI hundreds of thousands of people work in the these industries being impacted will also in fever, cough, breathing difficulty, made a splash with the unveiling of its core Sri Lankan craft, handloom, and garment turn impact other things like foreign direct shortness of breath, headache, (patent-pending) product, luxury activewear manufacturing industries. Many of these are investments and land values. fatigue, chills (sometimes sarongs with built-in pockets and belt loops. small businesses and individuals. The Worth De Mel feels the next two years will be with shaking), mild to severe These unique sarongs launched LOVI firmly Fighting For campaign tells the story of these crucial, and that collaboration will be key body aches, loss of smell into the hearts of its customers, with LOVI small businesses through personal stories of to surviving. This will also be a time for or taste, nausea, vomiting, now selling through three of its own retail people LOVI works with directly. businesses with passion, commitment, and diarrhea, dizziness, confusion, stores in Sri Lanka, located at Lakpahana, One This is not the first time LOVI has sought dedication to shine. Times will be tough, and conjunctivitis (pink eye), rashes, Galle Face, and Kandy City Centre, as well as to inspire its network. In 2019, in the wake for those businesses that are not passionate liver, kidney, and heart problems, with a variety of retail partners. of the Easter attacks, LOVI was one of the and committed, the risk will soon outweigh and blood clots that may cause LOVI’s products and stores all reflect the companies to be part of the Positive Sri Lanka the reward, as businesses without drive and stroke and even block the vessels bold, active, and authentic spirit of its clients, initiative to support the country in its time of capital will find it very hard to keep going. supplying the organs. while highlighting Sri Lankan heritage and need and help jumpstart the economy in the In terms of helping the economy and For most, the illness can be style through the use of craft and handloom. wake of the bombings. industries bounce back faster, de Mel shared mild, but they can experience any The Morning Brunch reached out to LOVI By sharing the true stories of small that a very powerful way to help things move of the above symptoms. Hence Ceylon (https://www.lovisarongs.com/) businesses within the apparel sector, LOVI faster would be customers making careful it's important to be vigilant at Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Asanka de acknowledges the existence, struggles, and choices to shop and invest locally, spending all times. Some can experience Mel to find out more about how LOVI has triumphs of Sri Lankan craftspeople with the money on local businesses and products, severe and even critical infection responded to the pandemic as well as the new Asanka de Mel hope of inspiring Sri Lanka’s small businesses in a similar way that they did following the usually manifesting as pneumonia campaign “Worth Fighting For”, which LOVI was not struggling during the pandemic but to reopen and the client community at large to 2019 Easter attacks. De Mel also stressed that or acute respiratory distress is spearheading. was very aware that others were, particularly come and support their sisters and brothers. the buying local mentality should in no way syndrome (ARDS), which begins people who work directly or indirectly extend to becoming protectionist and insular. a few days later; the patient Dealing with the pandemic with LOVI, whose products are almost Looking to the future Sri Lanka is very much a part of the global requires help breathing from a Like all apparel-related businesses, LOVI exclusively Sri Lankan in terms of materials Speaking on the future and what to expect, economy, and focusing on buying locally machine called a ventilator in very found itself hit hard by the pandemic. The and manufacture. The entire supply chain de Mel explained that while he is a huge should not mean that we look to cut ourselves severe cases. Children can have lockdown in Sri Lanka resulted in LOVI in the apparel industry has been affected by advocate for positivity and positive thinking, off from international markets. different manifestations altogether ceasing operations almost entirely for the Covid-19, from the grassroots level up to big remaining realistic is also important and and can mimic a multisystem duration of the islandwide curfew. Since manufacturers. the fact is that three of Sri Lanka’s biggest LOVI’S 2020 vision inflammatory syndrome similar to mid-May, LOVI slowly began starting up With this in mind, de Mel began reaching revenue-generating industries have been Recapping on LOVI’s plans for the a condition called Kawasaki. again, not simply for the purpose of making out to his network of clients and contacts, heavily impacted by Covid-19. future, de Mel shared that LOVI is thrilled ANSWERED BY sales, but also to provide work and sustain not from a point of view of making a sale for The revenue generated by migrant to be able to connect with its clients and the livelihoods of the craftspeople and LOVI, but from the point of seeing how he workers has been decimated with many network to build beneficial partnerships and Dr. Dineshani Hettiarachchi MBBS, MSc Regenerative manufacturers they work with. could support, whether it was by connecting such migrant workers having been sent back will be looking at investing in their network Medicine, MCGP, SEDA (UK). Now that the curfew has been lifted, LOVI people within his network for jobs, or simply home and in dire straits with no income. The more in the near future as well as their Dr. Hettiarachchi is a family has resumed retail operations in its own seeing how to build collaborative partnerships hospitality, tourism, and leisure industries stores, and is looking forward to using this physician and a lecturer at the Department of Anatomy stores, although some of their other retail and connect businesses together to make have been crippled with the shutting down time to grow and help others grow. They and Human Genetics Unit, partners still remain closed. things work better in this troubled time. of international borders and the restricted have lots of new ideas for future collections Faculty of Medicine at the University of Colombo. Email Dr. Hettiarachchi on Speaking on responding mid-pandemic, De Mel was also keen for LOVI to keep a movement of local travellers, not to mention too and are eager to bring more to the [email protected] if you have any de Mel explained that on a personal level, he positive outlook and be a source of positive the economic impact on disposable income. marketplace. more questions you’d like answered here. the morning sports Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Half of swimmers dope, says Big Tuna Father Root skips first Test ICC approves “BLM” England Joe Root is set West Indies will wear a Black Lives Matter (BLM) emblem on the Olympic swimming champion Kyle Chalmers, 22, nicknamed to miss the first Test against West Indies collars of their shirts during July’s Test series against England. “Big Tuna” has claimed that he cannot trust half of his opponents next week to attend the birth of his Captain Jason Holder has said: “We believe we have a duty to as “a lot of doping” occurs in the sport. The Rio 2016 gold second child, said BBC. The Test begins on show solidarity and also to help raise awareness.” The logo medallist said: “There’s a lot of doping that goes on everywhere 8 July and limits player movements, for used will be that worn on the shirts of all 20 Premier League in swimming.” Australia’s youngest swimmer to win an Olympic the biosecure matches mean Root will football clubs since the sport’s restart earlier this month. The gold also added: “You know it’s going on, and I know that I can be unable to leave and immediately rejoin the squad. Ben Stokes is International Cricket Council (ICC) gave permission for probably not trust half the guys I’m competing against.” set to captain England for the first time in Root’s absence. the emblem to be worn on the teams’ collars.

Secretary Mohan de Silva said. “These days when we have virtual meetings (due to the prevailing travel restrictions) and they must be trying to introduce virtual sports events also,” he quipped. “If anyone gets into negotiations, they will be paid also. We wrote to the Uva Association. They have totally denied any involvement in this,” he further added.

BCCI President Shashank Manohar Match reports on a website “The opening day of the Sri Lankan UVA T20 Premier League played host to two contrasting ICC elections games of cricket, with the Wellawaya Vipers and the Unilions Mahiyangayana picking up wins to get their campaigns off to a bright to be fixed start. While the opening game between the Monaragala Hornets and Vipers saw the latter for July end chase down a 204-run target in just 18.3 overs to pick up a commanding win, the Mahiyangayana The much-hyped elections for the post of unit bowled out the Badulla Sea Eagles for just the next Chairman of the International Cricket 76, before scaling the target in just 6.1 overs,” Council (ICC) will be conducted in the last week reported Sportskeeda yesterday. of July, Indian media reported yesterday (29). “Hornets Captain Kasun Senanayaka won the “The global body will also finalise the toss and opted to bat first under conditions that nomination process for the elections by the were certain to favour the batting side. Despite end of this week and the same will be announced Cricket enters losing the openers cheaply, a composed effort by next week... ICC is going through a tough from Sriyaan Wileratne (48, 33b, 5x4, 3x6) phase. It is critical that the election process gets took the Hornets to 102/3 from 14 overs with completed soon. By the end of this week or the slog overs to come,” it added, reporting starting next week, all nomination and electoral the opening day’s action of the “tournament”. processes should be finalised and elections will be by the end of July,” reported Insidesport.co, Sri Lankan superstars playing! quoting a source privy to ICC’s developments. “The UVA Premier League T20 will be virtual fixing? the harbinger of cricket in Sri Lanka as it is Voting rights for all 104 countries supposed to precede the annual Sri Lanka It is also reliably learnt that ICC is currently z Nonexistent UVA Premier League (SLPL). It is a breath of fresh deliberating a proposal put forth by some of air for cricket fans as the sport returns to the the associate member nations. According to Premier League played island nation from 29 June,” Sportskeeda the proposal, all 104 ICC members should be discreetly on the web further reported. allowed to take part and vote in the ICC elections. “The tournament will be short in terms of As per the current ICC MOA (Memorandum of z Probably to exploit days but promises entertainment from big Sri Association), only the Board of Directors has the Lankan superstars like Tillekaratne Dilshan, power to elect the ICC Chairman. the cricket-starving , , and The Board of Directors comprises the 12 betting market Thilan Thushara to name a few,” it explained. members of the Test-playing nations; three A total of four teams – Monaragala Hornets, associate members (Malaysia, Scotland, BY REVATHA S. SILVA Wellawaya Vipers, Badulla Sea Eagles, and and Singapore); the current ICC Chairman, Unilions Mahiyanganaya, led by each of the Independent Director Indra Nooyi, and CEO It was only 20-30 years ago that aforementioned cricketers respectively will Manu Sawhney. But as per the norms, the ICC fixing began in international checked who the person is. We compete in the tournament. Each of the teams CEO does not have voting rights. cricket in a more excessive manner. have informed the web page that they are will play the other three teams twice before It is hard to believe the proposal put forth by After the The tournament was staged only on the doing an illegal thing,” SLC CEO Ashley the knockout stages,” it stated, describing the associate nations can see the light of day this (IPL), they say, fixing became internet, not on actual grounds. For what and de Silva told The Morning Sports yesterday the tournament format. term, but currently ICC is deliberating the same. more rampant, and part and why, many in the local cricket circle asked when inquired about the event – probably the yesterday. It is most likely to be a farcical first major (actual or virtual) sporting event A ploy masterminded by Potential candidates parcel of the game. Then, as Al fixing event conducted on the web, solely for in Sri Lanka after the Covid-19 pandemic! the bookie? The Board of Control for Cricket in India Jazeera reported recently in an the purpose of fixing, by the fixers. “Our (SLC’s) anti-corruption department The matches have been “played”, probably (BCCI) is yet to come out in the open about investigative documentary, it was Some of the leading players whose names has taken action on it. I think it is not a real with a fraudulent intent, on cyberspace. Sourav Ganguly’s candidature for the ICC stated that there are tournaments have been mentioned in the teams of this tournament. It’s a fantasy tournament, I think. It can be the latest move which has been Chairman post. According to BCCI sources, organised for the sole purpose “tournament” said they were unaware of They are illegal. None of our members (SLC’s masterminded by the highly innovative betting once the nomination process is public, then only of fixing. Here in Sri Lanka, new such an event. affiliated clubs or associations) are involved and match-fixing syndicates, centred mainly in the board can decide the way forward on the ground was broken yesterday (29) in it,” de Silva clarified. India. There is no other reason to conduct this elections. The same applies to former England in this alleged fixing circus. SLC complained about it kind of event this time quite discreetly, other Cricket Board Chairman Colin Graves. Graves “It doesn’t have anything to do with Sri Uva Association denies than for the purpose of exploitation of the is currently considered as the hot favourite for There was a tournament called “UVA T20 Lanka Cricket (SLC). I don’t know who is “We are totally disassociating from that bookie. Have the cricket-based bookmaking the ICC Chairman post but all that can change, Premier League” which started yesterday that doing it. We also have informed the ICC (tournament). No one can play a cricket industry in the region, and its local agents, if BCCI decides to field their own candidate could probably be the very first of its kind (International Cricket Council) and we tournament without our permission. Somebody gone bankrupt due to the lack of cricket in the elections. here in Sri Lanka. have informed the relevant people. We have must be up to some gimmick,” SLC General during these days of the pandemic? Error cuts heroes down, humility can resurrect kind or another. Frailty after all is the constant However, the “transgression” doesn’t have to grace, the mortals feel more divine. “They INTERCEPTION shadow of the human being. be related to the sport either. Any transgression are no different from any of us,” they can This is why epic literature is full of tragic outside “the game” can result in “gods” being then tell themselves. The finger-pointers by Malinda heroes. This is why those who are cheered are taken off pedestals. It’s a price the famous are not saints, but when the moral high Seneviratne later jeered. This is why the adoring multitude have to pay. Simply, they are more visible ground ceases to exist, everyone ends up turn their backs, look for other heroes, and than others and therefore are subject to greater in Ordinary Street – those who used to be also vilify the fallen. scrutiny. Moreover, the public are less likely godlike and those who could never aspire “He who acquired the undisturbed to forgive them – gods that fail to disappoint to such heights. sovereignty of the three worlds by dint Things that dent the spirit because people feel they’ve worshipped in of sacrifice, austere fervour, sacred study, of games vain; that their adoration was misplaced, that Nahusha returned to heaven self-restraint, and valour, was nevertheless Mind you, it’s not on account of performance, indeed they had been taken for a ride. The two key words in the Nahusa story in ruined for want of virtuous humility.” in the case of sports for example. No one stays None of it erases the track record of course. the Manusmruti are virtue and humility. Thus is Nahusa, the king of the Aila at the peak forever. Fans know that even those The names and the achievements will remain Those who have cultivated self-restraint and Dynasty in Hindu Mythology described in who retire when at their peak cannot deliver the in the relevant books. The posters, however, are inclined to reflect on the eternal verities Manusmruti, the ancient legal text among spectacular, over and over again. It is always will come down. are less likely to fall. And those who fall, if the many Dharmaśāstras. on account of some other flaw such as envy, they are humble enough to acknowledge error, The power acquired made him arrogant greed, ill-temperedness, or even resorting to Ending up in Ordinary Street can rise again. They can stand up and walk and abusive. He was duly punished. He fell underhand tactics that bring heroes down. It seems unfair that certain individuals among people, no less and no more taller but It seems unfair that certain individuals are held to from the heavens and when he descended The particular sport can be brought into are held to higher standards than their with respect restored. Among those who err, higher standards than their he was not even a lesser man but a serpent. disrepute in many ways. For instance, fellow creatures, but that’s part of the the arrogant are the least likely to have any fellow creatures, but that’s despicable on-field gamesmanship or off-field story. Adulation, whether desired or not, degree of respect resurrected. part of the story. Not their Those who are cheered are violation of basic discipline. Such things are is showered on “the greats”. It follows It is worthwhile noting, in conclusion, that fault... And so, if and when later jeered they err and the public not necessarily illegal but they nevertheless them wherever they go. Not their fault. according to legend following a discourse turns off the light, they History and legend are full of heroes dent the spirit of the game, especially if the Even the most humble heroes can’t dodge with Prince Yudhishthira on the Dharma in can’t be seen any longer... and the heroic. Few among them have perpetrator has acquired god-like status in the the spotlight. And so, if and when they the Dwapara Yuga, Nahusha finds redemption This is partly because when charmed lives. They rise, much like Nahusa, eyes of peers and fans. err and the public turns off the light, they and returns to heaven. gods fall from grace, the through hard work, sacrifice, determination, can’t be seen any longer. They become not (The writer can be reached at mortals feel more divine and virtuous conduct but success does not The day the posters will lesser deities but lesser mortals as well. [email protected] or www. necessarily guarantee immortality of one come down This is partly because when gods fall from malindawords.blogspot.com)