SINHALA AND HINDU NEW YEAR CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS Commencement of work, conducting money Dawning of Punyakalaya Preparing Anointing oil Anointing of oil Leaving APRIL the new year Engage in religious of meals transactions and partaking of the New Year 9.17 a.m. begins on for work meal 10.43 p.m. 8.23 p.m observances refraining from 10.05 p.m. Wednesday the 7.56 a.m. day to day work after It is best to 17th of April at 17 taking the last meal Dressed in white partake of the 9.17 am, while before 1.59 am colour, looking meals after dressed in green It is suitable to leave on the 13rd of April towards the East transacting and facing East, home for work (Monday). prepare milk rice with facing while placing having dressed in APRIL with Jaggery APRIL the East APRIL kohomba leaves light blue on Friday New Year will accompanied by direction on your head after partaking of dawn at 8.23 p.m. Begins 1.59 pm (Apr 13) aggala and dressed in and colon leaves milk rice looking in on Monday Ends 2.47 am (Apr 14) kavum. white colour. on your feet. an East direction 13rd of April. 13 13 15 .

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COVID-19 + STOCK OF 20, 000 MIDNIGHT DRAMA OVER Situation Report | As at Apr. 10, 2020 190129 00 224 54 07 COVID-19 TEST KITS RANJAN’S VEGETABLE LORRY | 07:00 p.m. Total confirmed Active New Total number of Recovered Deaths THE LORRY WAS ALLOWED cases cases cases individuals in hospitals and discharged ARRIVED FROM CHINA TWO MORE BY SANDUN A JAYASEKERA THE CONSIGNMENT IS INSIDE WHEN I EXPLAINED Two more fully-recovered WORTH USD 130, 000 AND THINGS TO THE CONFIRMED FULLY- patients were discharged TO BE DONATED from the National Institute SECRETARY GENERAL RECOVERED of Infectious Diseases TO THE HEALTH MINISTRY IN (NIID) while the number of SRI LANKA BY YOHAN PERERA PERSONS COVID-19 CASES confirmed cases of Covid- A tense situation erupted at the Madiwela MPs quarters DISCHARGED 19 infection stood at 190 BY SHEAIN FERNANDOPULLE late yesterday night when police prevented a lorry laden with yesterday with 7 deaths. Some 20, 064 COVID-19 vegetables and other essential food items brought for former MP FROM NIID test kits (PCR-Fluorescence Ranjan Ramanayake from entering the premises. SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 REMAIN AT 190 SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 Probing) donated by the Alibaba Foundation in collaboration with the Jack Ma Foundation arrived in Sri Health DG instructs Public Health Staff Lanka on a special flight last night from Shanghai, the Chinese Embassy said. ‘Consult Epidemiology SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 unit before locking British visitors in SL TO EXPAND down areas’ SL advised to return BY SUNIL JAYASIRI In an urgent message to British Health Services Director General Dr. Anil nationals and British tourists Jasinghe yesterday instructed the country’s currently in Sri Lanka, British public health staff of the country that High Commissioner Sarah Hulton locking down of areas should be done in said they should immediately DIAGNOSTIC consultation with the Epidemiology Unit return to their country when after careful risk analysis of the situation. flights are still available and while borders are still open. TESTING PROCESS SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 Till death do us FORSELF QUARANTINED/COVID COVID-19 irector General of Health Services Dr. Anil Jasinghe in a circular EXPOSED HEALTHCARE STAFF to all provincial and regional part health authorities has instructed Two senior citizens bound SARI PATIENTS ADMITTED TO Dto expand the testing process for the for a pharmacy to fetch detection and diagnosis of Covid-19 some medicines were seen crossing the now deserted HOSPITALS virus infection in the country. roads of Slave Island due to the prevailing curfew SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 in Colombo yesterday. PATIENTS PRESENTED TO PIC BY PRADEEP OPD FROM ISOLATION/ PNEUMONIA PATHIRANA TREATMENT HOSPITALS SUSPECTED DEATHS COMMUNITY SAMPLES PATIENTS AS DECIDED BY IN HIGH RISK AREAS TREATING CLINICIAN Disregarding strict Govt. regulations on sale of liquor during pandemic period

Jaffna Curfew lifted at 6.00 am on Tuesday (April 14) and Curfew in six will be re-imposed at Suffering is the 4.00 pm on the same day Curfew would TOP HOTEL ON DE SERAM RD, MT. LAVINIA districts to continue until path to happiness: further notice. Cardinal continue until OPERATING BAR RAIDED BY EXCISE BY YOHAN PERERA CHINESE SOFTWARE COMPANY BY KURULU KOOJANA KARIYAKARAWANA The spread of COVID-19 could further notice A leading tourist hotel in Mt. Lavinia, which have been caused by an accident in 19 DISTRICTS RUNS THE HOTEL ON LEASE had been occupied by a group of over hundred a laboratory by someone who Chinese nationals who had enjoyed the services was making an effort to make WILL GET 10- SINCE JANUARY of its bar to date disregarding the government’s lifestyles easier, Colombo’s HOUR BREAK Puttalam strict curfew regulations, was raided by the Excise Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal FROM 6 AM TO 4 Kandy CHINESE NATIONAL NABBED WITH Department officials last evening. Ranjith said yesterday. PM ON APRIL 14 Gampaha 9, 000 STICKS OF IMPORTED FAGS SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA Colombo

The curfew which is in force in Kalutara the districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Mangala’s request to reconvene Kalutara, Puttalam, Jaffna and Kandy House to increase govt. credit limit Govt. says doing will continue until further notice. Let’s be together its best to alleviate SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 in spirit: Australian PM President has no power people’s sufferings Traders want turmeric In a Sinhala and Tamil BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA New Year message, to do so, says Bandula The government has done its Australian Prime best to alleviate the sufferings of import restrictions relaxed Minister Scott Morrison PRESIDENT HAS AUTHORITY TO OBTAIN the people brought about by the said, “though we cannot MONEY FROM CONSOLIDATED FUND, Covid-19 endemic by distributing IMPORTERS BY KELUM BANDARA gather together in our SUBJECT TO APPROVAL BY NEW PARLIAMENT essential food commodities and The Essential Food Commodities homes or congregate BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA money among the poorest of the SAY LOCAL Importers and Traders Association in public celebration for poor at a cost of over Rs.7 billion, PRODUCTION NOT yesterday requested the government the New Year, we can be Cabinet spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardane Cabinet Spokesman and Minister SUFFICIENT TO to relax restrictions on the import together in spirit.” responding to a request made by former Finance Minister Ramesh Pathirana of turmeric which is a vital cooking Mangala Samaraweera to re convene Parliament to increase the said yesterday. MEET COUNTRY’S ingredient. government’s credit limit, said the President did not have the SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 DEMAND SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 power to do so. SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 A2 SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2020 www.facebook.com/Dailymirroronline Follow us on @dailymirror_SL Follow us on@dailymirrorlk

PS PS E STE 19

D- Wash your hands often Avoid closer contact Cover your nose and Clean and Avoid touching Clean and disinfect Don’t eat Limit food sharing Keep Stay

NTIVE with soap and water for at with sick people. Use mouth with a tissue disinfect your eyes, frequently touched raw food, and ensure windows at home least 20 seconds. If soap other noncontact when you cough or frequently nose and objects (laptops, thoroughly cafeteria staff and open when when

EVE and water are not available, methods of greeting sneeze, then throw touched surfaces mouth with computers, cook meat their close possible to you are use an alcohol-based instead of the tissue in the such as toys and unwashed telephones, etc. and contacts practice increase sick PR COVI

hand sanitizer handshaking trash. doorknobs. hands. and surfaces) eggs strict hygiene ventilation DM GraphicDesk Midnight drama over Confirmed Covid-19 cases remain at 190 Stock of 20, 000 COVID-19 zz Two Sri Lankans who had each in Ratnapura and Kurunegala and Shavendra Silva said 1, 347 men and test kits arrived from China been stranded at the Dubai two at Matara, one each at Galle, Kegalle, women were still at the quarantine centres The embassy said the Ranjan’s vegetable lorry International Airport and Batticaloa and Badulla Districts. Among and 3,496 persons had been released from consignment was worth USD Mr. Ramanayake said the relevant allowed inside when I explained another at the Maldivian the 190 receiving hospital treatment, quarantine centres maintained by the tri- 130, 000 and they were to be authorities did not allow him to things to the Secretary General,” he airport were airlifted by the four are foreigners. forces in various locations in the country. donated to the Health Ministry in get the lorry inside. “I then spoke to said. Parliament Secretary General national carrier SriLankan Our Puttalam Correspondent Hiran Admiral Prof. Jayantha Colombage, Sri Lanka. Secretary General Parliament and Dhammika Dasanayake said Mr. Airlines yesterday Priyankara reports that a group of 65 Director General of the National Security It said the kits were produced explained that the stuff was brought Ramanayake was taking a risk by individuals who were in hiding from health Studies of Sri Lanka (NSSSL) said two by the DAAN Gene Co and met for my personal use”. getting the lorry and a driver from The total number of recovered persons and police authorities at Alcassim City and Sri Lankans who had been stranded the requirements and standards He said he was also planning Dambulla inside MP’s quarters. “We was 50 and 224 were under medical Palaviya were rounded up by officials of at the Dubai International Airport and stipulated by the Ministry of to distribute some of it should have subjected the lorry observation. the Puttalam MOH office and the Police on another at the Maldivian airport were Health and Indigenous to needy people in his and the driver to a check up but it There were no deaths reported within Thursday night and sent for a spell of 21 airlifted by the national carrier SriLankan Medicine. electorate. “I got several was not possible as everything the 24 hours that ended at 12 noon day quarantine at the Punani quarantine Airlines yesterday. calls from the people happened at 11 pm on Thursday yesterday, National Institute of Infectious center. They have been in close contact The Cabinet that met on Wednesday in my electorate asking night, “ he said. “However, we had Diseases (NIID) Chief Epidemiologist Dr. with a COVID 19 victim who had been authorised the Foreign Relations Ministry me for essentials. and to allow the lorry inside taking Eranga Narangoda said. residing at the Alcassim housing scheme to make arrangements to provide air I ordered a lorry full of into consideration the District wise, there were 44 patients and had arrived back in mid March after a travel facilities to 33 Sri Lankans who ‘Consult Epidemiology unit stuff from Dambulla,” circumstances at that with viral infections in Colombo yesterday, pilgrimage to Indonesia. had been stranded at airports in various he said. time” he added. 34 in Puttalam, 26 in Kalutara, 16 in Meanwhile, acting Chief of Defence countries since the COVID 19 outbreak, to before locking down areas’ “The lorry was Gampaha, seven in Kandy and Jaffna, three Staff and Army Commander, Lt. General return home. In a letter to regional health authorities, Dr. Jasinghe said that public health staff should do only home quarantining of contacts of confirmed COVID-19 cases. “If they feel that further measures like locking down of areas are necessary, it should be done in Curfew in six districts to consultation with the Epidemiology Unit after careful risk analysis of the situation,” he said. He said continue until further notice the advisory has been sent after Curfew in the other 19 districts, services would be dealt with strictly several incidents where locking will be lifted for ten hours on the day in compliance with legislation, the SL TO EXPAND down of small areas/villages by after National New Year (April 14) at Police said. public health staff using their 6.00 am and re-imposed at 4.00pm. The government has put in own discretion after reporting of Countrywide curfew will be in place a system for the continuous confirmed COVID-19 cases, force after 4.00 pm on April 14 until supply of essential food and other were reported to him further notice. products facilitating the public to DIAGNOSTIC TESTING recently. While vowing that there would buy them while remaining in their be no mercy on those who violate homes. Those engaged in paddy the curfew or those who misuse cultivations, cultivating small-scale curfew permits, DIG Ajith Rohana tea holdings and exporting crops in said all those detained by Police will any district are permitted to carry British visitors in be subjected to mandatory 14-day out their activities. PROCESS FOR COVID-19 quarantine. Their vehicles will also Since the primary aim of these “The COVID-19 Technical contact or travel history. in high risk areas (early active case be detained until they complete the steps at this critical juncture Committee has made a 2. Healthcare staff members detection) SL advised to return quarantine spell. is to ensure the well-being of recommendation to expand the self-quarantined following high 5. Any other patient where “The UK Government is advising all British nationals to Mr. Rohana made an appeal to the citizens of this country, the testing for Diagnosis of Covid-19 or moderate risk exposure (Ref the treating clinician decides for return to the UK whilst borders are still open. We advise the public to celebrate Sinhala and government is asking the public to virus,” the letter said. Screening and management of health exclusion of COVID-19. all visitors in Sri Lanka to leave whilst commercial flights Hindu New Year while adhering adhere strictly to the guidelines in Considering this recommendation, care workers following exposure to 6. All deaths suspected due to are available and airports and borders are open. There is to safety regulations and health a responsible manner. The villages the decision has been taken to a confirmed or suspected case of pneumonia (inward, on admission foreseeable risk in continuing to remain in-country during precautions to keep the viral in the districts of Colombo, Kandy collect sampling and testing from COVID-19 patients (www.epid. or in the field) the global pandemic,” she said. infection at bay. and Kalutara that have been the following categories. The set of gov.lk) The letter also stated that 32 The High Commissioner noted that some British “Please keep a safe distance all declared isolated areas will remain recommendations are as follows, 3. All Severe Acute Respiratory hospitals are identified as sentinel passport holders are in Sri Lanka visiting family. She the time when you meet an outsider, in the same category and no one will 1. At least ten samples per day Infection (SARI) patients admitted sites and laboratories have been reiterated the UK Government’s advice that all British neighbour, friend or visitor to ensure be permitted to enter or leave such from patients presenting to the to any of the hospitals irrespective allocated to respective hospitals nationals who normally live in the UK should return to the that you or any of your family areas until further notice. OPD of the COVID isolation and of the age. to carry out this COVID-19 active UK now. “Serious outbreaks of Coronavirus are placing member will not fall prey to the viral We have no enmity against treatment hospitals with COVID- 4. Community samples as case detection procedures at OPD significant strain on health services globally. In the event infection,” Mr. Rohana stressed. anyone. Unless we apply the law to 19 like symptoms irrespective of decided by the public health staff settings and among inward patients. of a serious outbreak in Sri Lanka, consular services and Travelling to and from all districts the letter and let the public act in flights out of the country could be seriously affected. We has been prohibited completely a responsible manner, we cannot cannot guarantee what flight options might be available if except for the purpose of providing prevent the spread of Covid-19 viral people choose to leave at a later date.” essential services, the PMD said. infection. Therefore, you all must The British High Commission encouraged all British Those who violate regulations realise that we do this for your own visitors to keep up to date by following Travel Advice at: implemented with the primary good and save the country from this www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka/coronavirus objective of ensuring the effective dreaded viral pandemic,” Mr. Rohana TOP HOTEL ON DE SERAM RD, President has no power to and @UKinSriLanka on Twitter for up to date flight and productive operation of public said. MT. LAVINIA OPERATING information. Qatar Airways currently operate flights daily do so, says Bandula from Colombo. BAR RAIDED BY EXCISE “Once Parliament is dissolved, the country faces a major threat zz The hotel’s bar was open the President has the power under of disaster. Mr. Samaraweera said and functioning well despite the Constitution, to obtain funds for the borrowing limit, approved by a Govt. says doing strict regulations by the financial requirements or financial resolution of Parliament on October Let’s be together in government restricting obligations of the state only from 23, 2019 for the period January 1, the Consolidated Fund. Therefore, 2020 to April 30, 2020, was Rs.721 sale of liquor during the the issue of re-convening of billion. Last year, the Treasury issued spirit: Australian PM pandemic period Parliament does not arise,” Minister Rs.194 billion in bills and bonds its best to alleviate Gunawardane said. between April 3, 2019 and April 30, Mr. Morrison said the New Year is usually an Excise Department’s flying squad Colombo Minister Gunawardane admitted 2019. Therefore, it is almost certain occasion for great celebration, hope and renewal. Bureau of Special Operations (Excise BSO “Sadly, this year will be very different as Colombo) on information had raided the well- that funds have been allocated that a breach of the borrowing limit from the Vote on Account only up is imminent. Once the borrowing we face an unprecedented health crisis. known hotel on De Saram Road to find about 140 Coronavirus is once in a century people’s sufferings Chinese nationals were occupying the premises to April 30, but said if there was no limit is reached, there will be no legal event. We are distancing ourselves since January. The sleuths found that the hotel’s Parliamentary approval for funds to authority under which public debt can zz The Task Force set up Rajapaksa has already instructed run the state machinery, the President be issued. As a result, the government from each other during this New Year, under the leadership of officials not to weaken the harvesting bar was open and functioning well despite strict so that next year and beyond, regulations by the government restricting sale has the power to obtain money from may face insurmountable challenges former Minister Basil of paddy, cultivation of paddy, fruits the consolidated fund on condition in raising funds necessary for our families and communities Rajapaksa is monitoring and vegetables and milling of rice of liquor during the pandemic period. A senior can gather again,” he said. Excise official who took part at the raid told the of it being approved by the new managing this crisis. Due to these the distribution of food, by big and small millers. He has also Parliament after the elections. legal complications, there may also drugs, fuel and other instructed to keep Osusalas and Daily Mirror that a number of Chinese nationals both male and female were consuming alcoholic The Minister said the President has be delays in drawing down the USD essential commodities private pharmacies open at least 10 the power to reconvene Parliament 128 million (Rs.24.4 billion) soft-loan in the country hours a day,” Minister Pathirana said. beverages that were being freely issued by the bar. Preliminary inquiries revealed that the local only in the event of an extreme granted by the World Bank for fighting The curfew will not be a hindrance national calamity or if and when COVID-19. Minister Pathirana told the media to the distribution of food, fuel, drugs owners of the hotel had given it on lease to a Chinese software company in January and that Traders want that 416, 764 registered senior citizens and other essentials, he added. and women and another 142, 345 in The government’s policy is that about 140 of the Chinese employees had been the waiting list have already been whether the curfew is in force or not, lodging in the facility since then. Although, the premises ceased to open to the turmeric import paid Rs.5000 each in addition to all the essential services, industries, 84, 071 identified as differently agricultural produces and state public the previous local management was still Suffering is the path abled and 35, 229 in the waiting list. functions must run smoothly without running all the in house operations in the kitchen, housekeeping, cleaning and bar management. restrictions relaxed Under the Farmer Insurance scheme interruption while fighting the Covid- Association President G. Rajendran told the Daily Mirror 160, 675 farmers and 25, 320 with 19 from all fronts. Except for Chefs from China who handled the kitchen operations, the rest of the work had been to happiness: Cardinal that 400,000 kilogrammes of turmeric are needed every acute kidney disease have “Only if and when the month. Earlier, the government placed import restrictions in been paid Rs.5, 000 each government feels that we performed by a local staff. He said suffering was the path to to create some product to make lives The hotel bar consisted of both local and a move to boost local production. and a pack of nutritional have successfully tackled happiness, and the people should easier like the way things are done Mr. Rajendran said the local supply was hardly sufficient foods while Triposha the unprecedented health foreign liquor as well as Chinese specialty brands realise this. During his Good Friday today.” for its current guests. One Chinese national was for the country. “If there is any local produce, we are ready have been delivered to challenge, the government service sermon, the Cardinal said “People including Christians to buy the whole lot. We don’t see locally manufactured the doorstep of expectant could relax the curfew reportedly selling cigarettes and was arrested Covid-19 could be a result have forgotten that suffering is part with 45 cartons of fags of a Chinese brand. turmeric coming up,” he said, requesting the government to mothers. island wide and the of the effort people and parcel of Christian life. This is allow them to import. The Task Force set government cannot do it The hotel bar had been sealed by the Excise put in today to make why science is used extensively to officials and the Chinese management was asked He said some container loads of turmeric previously up under the leadership without the wholehearted lives easier through produce things such as genetically ordered had arrived in the port and the government has of former Minister Basil support and cooperation of to report with relevant documents and license on science. modified food” the cardinal said. a later date. started releasing them, but the current restrictions should Rajapaksa is monitoring all the people,” Minister “Covid-19 “People including some who have be lifted . Turmeric is imported from India. Asked whether the distribution of food, drugs, Pathirana OIC Excise BSO Chief Inspector P. N. Hemantha could have been infected by COVID-19 are acting and the team conducted the raid on the there is any shortage of imported food commodities , he fuel and other essential stressed. been caused in a selfish manner. They don’t follow ruled out such an issue commodities in instructions of Excise Commissioner General by someone advice given to them and go about Ariyadasa Bodaragama. However , he said the distribution process had been the country. Mr. who tried freely,” he added. hampered due to the lack of workers. SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2020 A3 NEWS SLIC launches While encouraging creative thinking ‘Viru Abhiman’ among schoolchildren for COVID-19 Education Ministry eyes frontline workers Guinness record with BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA 10,000 publications Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation (SLIC) yesterday launched a product to insure BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA the staff of the Health Ministry engaged In a bid to motivate over in the fight against COVID-19 for Rs.1.5 4.5 million schoolchildren to million each, Health Minister Pavithradevi hone their skills, the Education Wanniarachchi said. Ministry invites students to write a novel, short story, narrative, Rs.1.5 million will be paid as fiction, poems, illustrated compensation to the family book or picture storybook, of the health worker if he translation, play or any other or she dies and Rs.1 million if he scientific, technological or or she does not have children. The aesthetic creation. uniqueness of this insurance policy The talent programme is that SLIC will not charge any launched by the ministry in premium from policyholder association with the National Library and Documentation “The free Life Insurance Policy (LIP) Services Board (NLDSB) ‘Viru Abhiman’ issued exclusively for expects a minimum of 10,000 of 10,000 creations from students doctors, PHIs, nurses, paramedics, RICE MILL OPERATIONS DECLARED creations from students in but the work of each student will attendants, ambulance and other vehicle government and private schools be accepted, appreciated and drivers, members of the minor staff, as well as Pirivenas. recognised,” he said. provincial and district health officials who Speaking to the media last He said the project could set are fighting the viral infection putting their Thursday, Education Minister a Guinness record as there was lives at risk are entitled to this insurance Dulles Alahapperuma said the no record of producing 10,000 policy. Under this free LIP, Rs.1.5 million main objective of the programme books at a time. AN ESSENTIALA harvest of around SERVICE will be paid as compensation to the family ervices of all rice mills have equivalent to 2/3 of that amount. titled ‘A book with the value of “The ministry has already of the health worker if he or she dies and been declared an essential 3 million metric Accordingly, all the relevant a country’ was to create fresh spoken to the editorial board of Rs.1 million if he or she does not have service under the COVID- tonnes of paddy has parties have been told that increasing thinking among schoolchildren Guinness World Records. Think children. The uniqueness of this insurance 19 quarantine process since been reaped by now and the rice prices or hampering the supply and to encourage them to face like Anne Frank who became policy is that SLIC will not charge any the provision of essential quantity of rice that can be of rice poses a major impediment challenges in life. a heroine after recording premium from policyholder. They also foods and rice production storage and produced is equivalent to 2/3 to the effective implementation of the horrors of the war while S of that amount Students are free need not register with SLIC to be entitled distribution is imperative to ensure quarantine activities. hiding to save her life from for the insurance benefit,” she said. food security, the President’s Media Accordingly, the Secretary to make their marauding German troops. She Meanwhile, SLIC Division said. of the Consumer Affairs Authority instructs relevant parties to pay creations on any in her diary wrote that she had Chairman Dr. Jagath It said rice mill owners of the to take measures enabling more attention and give the highest topic, subject or title. It an opportunity to sharpen her Wellawatta said the free country must produce rice in their small scale rice mill owners to possible priority to maintain food could be a book of just five creative talents when she lived LIP was introduced respective areas using paddy stocks distribute rice stocks within their security during this period when pages or even hundreds. in fear and discomfort. If our for health workers on in their possession. respective Divisional Secretariat the people have been subjected to The Education Ministry students think COVID-19 is the request of Minister “Under the instructions of the Divisions, medium scale owners some form of quarantine and the will issue a certificate for a challenge, they too can do Wanniarachchi. President, the Secretary to the to distribute within the district and food and other essential items are all creations and the best similar things. Every rich and The insurance President P. B. Jayasundara in large scale owners to distribute in being delivered to the door-step of 100 books will be printed powerful nation has achieved scheme was a letter has informed the Acting the entire country. the people. by the ministry that position after overcoming launched Inspector General of Police, A harvest of around 3 million The Osu Sala, pharmacies and numerous challenges and yesterday at the Director-General of Health metric tonnes of paddy has been banking services remain in the “Schoolchildren are enjoying setbacks. Similarly, Sri the Health Services, the Commissioner- reaped by now and the quantity category of essential services,” a long holiday these days. I am Lanka can set a new vision Ministry. General of Food and the Chairman of rice that can be produced is the PMD said. mindful of the difficulty faced after successfully facing the not only by children but also by threats posed by the pandemic. adults and parents who have to Producing 10,000 books will be Akkaraipattu COVID- kill time at home. This holiday an opening to such a mission,” season is a good time for kids he said. 19 patient to test their skills and creativity Meanwhile, NLDSB which is why we have launched Chairman Sonala Gunawardana Eight family this programme. Students are said students attending 10,183 free to make their creations government schools, private members under on any topic, subject or title. and international schools and It could be a book of just five Pirivenas were eligible to quarantine pages or even hundreds. The participate in this programme. Education Ministry will issue The best 100 books chosen by BY WASANHA CHANDRAPALA - AMPARA a certificate for all creations a panel of eminent persons Eight family members of the and the best 100 books will be would receive national honours coronavirus patient from the Akkaraipattu printed by the ministry. News at a ceremony to be held in Grama Niladhari area, along with the creations will be categorised at Colombo, she said. driver of the van that transported the school, zonal, district, provincial Each book will be made an patient from Colombo, have been referred and national levels. The ministry e-book and a separate website to the Damminna quarantine centre in and NLDSB expect a minimum will be launched for the project. Polonnaruwa last Thursday. Some 320 people in the area had been placed under self-quarantine since Wednesday. The Akkaraipattu town is ITI geared up to on lockdown and access roads to the Labourers transport essential goods area closed. Ampara Division SP Jayantha tackle COVID-19 amid curfew Ratnayake said the Akkaraipattu- Ampara, Akkaraipattu-Kalmunai Two labourers who depend on daily wages are seen transporting a stock of essential goods yesterday at the Manning Market in Colombo with herbal products when curfew was effective to restrict day-to-day life amid the COVID-19 outbreak. and Akkaraipattu-Pottuvil roads PIC BY PRADEEP PATHIRANA were open only for those providing BY KELUM BANDARA antibacterial and therefore can be essential services. The Industrial Technology used for gargling when infected Institute (ITI) has manufactured with the virus,” he said. several herbal products that The minister said he would can be used in the fight seek Cabinet approval next against coronavirus, Cabinet week enabling ITI to market COVID-19 patient’s father Spokesman and Minister Dr. these products. Bandula Gunawardane told “Currently, ITI has no authority Daily Mirror yesterday. to market what it manufactures. cremated conforming “ITI has developed a hand It gets the private sector to do it. sanitizer using turmeric and I asked ITI to market its products WHO guidelines veniwel. Another liquid product hereafter. We will evolve a piece has been manufactured to be of legislation to make provision BY D. G. SUGATHAPALA virus. He was later transferred to used for throat infections. It is for this,” he said. AND SUMATHIPALA DIYAGAHAGE IDH in Mulleriyawa. The body of a coronavirus Postmortem Meanwhile, Professor in patient’s father was cremated examination Forensic Medicine at the Ruhunu at the Dadalla crematorium in University U.C.P. Perera who Galle in compliance with WHO reported that the performed the postmortem regulations on disposal of bodies death was due to examination reported that of COVID-19 victims. brain hemorrhage the death was due to brain The deceased from Kohugoda hemorrhage. Several relatives quarantine at the Kandakadu and neighbours of the deceased in Maliduwa off Akuressa had centre, had attended to him. ‘Saubhagya’ receives been a paralytic under treatment have been placed under self- The young man who fell ill on quarantine and the Kohugoda at the Karapitiya Teaching April 5 while attending to his Hospital in Galle. His son, a village on lockdown. 187,650 kilos of compost father had been admitted to the Meanwhile, the police migrant worker who returned Kamburugamuwa Hospital only from Korea and underwent arrested an individual who from Ratnapura to find that he had contracted the obstructed the cremation.

BY KUSAL CHAMATH Political interference Sabaragamuwa 150,000 kilos Pharmacies except in Province Governor Tikiri provided by hampers relief aid Kobbekaduwa said local Balangoda UC while authorities in the Ratnapura high-risk areas kept open distribution District issued 187,650 Embilipitiya UC kilos of compost fertiliser provided All pharmacies in the BY RANJITH KARUNAWEERA – MAHIYANGANAYA attempted to settle the dispute. to the government’s 30,000 kilos country, except in the districts A tense atmosphere prevailed Pointing out that everyone ‘Saubhagya’ agricultural that have been identified as The previous method of distributing at Dehigolla in Mahiyanganaya needed assistance regardless development programme. Urban Council provided high-risk and areas that have medication will continue where when members of a political of any political affiliation, the He told a recent meeting 30,000 kilos. been completely sealed off party obstructed the distribution villagers accused party officials of the Ratnapura District Chief Secretary M. due to quarantine measures, pharmacies will take orders over the of Rs.5,000 relief aid to low- of calling for a list to pay relief. Anti-Corona Campaign that Malani, Secretary to the will be kept open from 9 a.m. phone and online and the medication income families affected by the They said paying relief aid the stock of fertiliser had Chief Minister’s Secretariat to 2 p.m. a statement said. will be delivered to residences existing crisis. should not be allowed to go by already been distributed Sunetra Gunawardene, The decision has been When party supporters who political favour. among people. Provincial Commissioner taken by the Special obstructed the duties of relevant However, the crowd dispersed He said 150,000 kilos, of Local Government A.J. Presidential Task Force on high-risk in which curfew distributing medication will officials compelled them to when the prelate took up the which was the largest, Godellawatta, ACLG Saman Essential Services. is continuing (except for continue where pharmacies make payments based on a list issue with the Divisional had been provided by the Kumara and several senior Issuing a statement the those areas that have will take orders over the prepared by the party committee, Secretary who promised Balangoda Urban Council police officers attended Prime Minister’s office said been completely sealed phone and online and the Dehigolla Purwarama Viharaya to grant relief without any while the Embilipitiya the meeting. that in all districts that have off as quarantine areas), medication will be delivered Chief Incumbent Ven. Ambale discrimination and with the been identified as being the previous method of to residences. Rathana Thera intervened and support of the police. A4 SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2020 “For I remember it is Easter morn, and life and love and peace are all new born.” EDITORIAL – ALICE FREEMAN PALMER

OUR THOUGHT DMDM PollPoll Should Parliament be reconvened to assist the fight against COVID-19? EASTER: a) Yes b) No c) Don’t know LAST POLL JOURNEY The mechanism to distribute essential items to people confined by curfew TO UNITY has been: Very Not effective AND A JUST effective 7% at all 70% SOCIETY Somewhat effective ll over the world Christians tomorrow mark Easter Sunday-- the greatest 23% event in the Church calendar -- amid an international battle against the See web poll at www. .lk Coronavirus pandemic which at 2 Apm yesterday had afflicted more than 1,600,000 people and claimed the lives of almost 96,000. Perhaps the best definition or explanation of Easter Sunday or the Feast of the Risen Lord, is given by Apostle Paul who had not physically met the Risen LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Lord Jesus but wrote about ten of the 27 books in the New Testament of the Bible and wrote them even before the four gospels were written. From Coronavirus

In one of his letters to the Corinthian to an ‘Economic community, St Paul says, “if Christ has not been FOR MORE CARTOONS LOG ON www.dailymirror.lk/cartoon Virus’ raised from the dead our preaching is in vain and so is your faith”. What St Paul is saying essentially Now after we get over the onslaught is that the Risen Christ is Christianity and of the menacing Coronavirus, which has Christianity is the Risen Christ. had an unprecedented negative impact the worldover, the human race will be Dogmas and laws, services and other prayers faced with another kind of virus – ‘the are necessary for spiritual nourishment but Economic Virus’. What strategies would essentially a Christian is a person who has a PREVENTING DEATHS DUE the economic pundits ‘of the world adopt close and growing relationship with the Risen to address such an issue? Will it be on Lord Jesus, who lives within us. His main the usual supply and demand basis and commandment to the people is to “love one exploit every given situation to make another as I love you”. He also said greater love outrageous profits at any cost! Will the than this no person has, when that person is ready heartless craving for self-grandiose take to lay down his life for others”. TO NON-COVID CONDITIONS precedence over human kindness and understanding? Will those who have Most Catholic theologians say this brings us to continue to take and coerce those who the question as to why Christ died. From the cross do not have to part with even the little His unspoken words were, “Even if you betray, they have? deny or desert me, even if you whip and strip me Finally, will countries learn from and crucify me like a criminal of criminals I will the Coronavirus pandemic as to how still love you because God is love”. – A BRISK NECESSITY vulnerable we are to the dictates of nature and make a genuine effort to put a stop In the life of the Lord Jesus, His main virtue to all nature-unfriendly activities, e.g., was doing the will of God the Father. He said: “My By pollution of air and water, the destruction food is to do the will of the Father. I do only what Dr Himantha of forests, etc.? the Father tells me to do and say only what He tells Atukorale Let us hope those that who have will me to say”. The New Testament says, “God is love learn to value people instead of profit and anyone who is living in love is living in God”. Consultant in Rheumatology and the Human Race will learn to live as one with Mother Nature. In the Sermon on the Mount the Lord Jesus and Rehabilitation Teaching M. JOSEPH A. NIHAL PERERA says, “You have heard that it was said, Love Hospital Anuradhapura your neighbour and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who he number of deaths in Sri persecute you, that you may be children of your Lanka due to coronary artery/ Father in heaven. He causes the sun to rise on the heart disease back in 2017 was Short shelf life evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous 28,554. More than 118,000 and the unrighteous. If you love those who love of our patients died in 2016 of consumer you, what reward will you get? Are not even the Tdue to non-communicable diseases. It unscrupulous tax collectors doing that? And if was 83 per cent out of all documented Sri Lanka’s remarkable stay-at-home campaign. It’s of paramount you greet only your own people, what are you deaths in Sri Lanka. The fact that non- importance that we adhere to these safety products doing more than others? Do not even sinners do communicable diseases are the leading healthcare services campaigns to curb the virus once and for What prompted me to write this letter that? Therefore you shall be perfect just as your cause of mortality worldwide is no secret. did not flourish all. But do we have to ultimately pay the is the question posed by my wife last Heavenly Father is perfect”. COVID-19 has completely disrupted the overnight price through the second wave of non- night. She asked me what would happen excellent “Health seeking behaviour” we COVID related deaths is a question that to the ice-cream in the supermarkets. Last year we marked Easter Sunday on April had a few weeks ago. The number of deaths remains unanswered worldwide. What triggered her to ask me about ice- 21 and it was more of a bloody Sunday with due to non-accessibility of essential health Our public health The ministry of health has launched cream, I think, is her inability these days suicide bombers attacking three churches, three requirements or drugs is hardly discussed midwives travel long a reliable drug delivery system through to enjoy either her favorite fruit and nut five-star hotels and other institutions. Hundreds in media these days. Home-bound deaths the department of posts. Assisting in the ice-cream or mango-flavoured ice cream were killed, their families and friends are still will become a norm unless we launch a distances to deliver continuation of essential life-saving drugs which she shares with our grandson and suffering the consequences and we hope Easter large-scale initiative to medicate patients, health advise to is the main aim of this programme. I granddaughter Hazim Shiraz and Shaima Sunday tomorrow will give them new strength. who are drug dependent. expectant mothers propose that we swiftly move forward Shiraz respectively. from this initiative to counteract the second With supermarkets being closed Last year’s Easter Sunday attack apparently and parents wave of deaths. It is very important to indefinitely because of the prevailing carried out by an ISIS-related group created re-establish the trust our patients had on Covid 19 crisis, I was concerned about religious and racial divisions in society. We hope It has been described in It is very important to the health system. Encouraging them the colossal waste and tremendous loss the new war against the unseen enemy of the certain research papers that re-establish the trust to seek medical attention, as before is these outlets have to bear because a Covid-19 pandemic will bring about unity and a “Second wave of deaths crucial. The hospital setup which was substantial quantity of products with a a new world order where key issues like poverty due to resource restriction our patients had on deemed taboo because of infection risk short shelf life in leading supermarkets alleviation, the battle against climate change, the health system. should be modified to welcome non- is going to go waste. How can the loss nuclear disarmament and the process of peaceful in non-COVID conditions” COVID-19 patients. Patient cooperation be eliminated or minimized is a million- conflict resolution will get the highest priority. will be of a larger magnitude Encouraging them to and honesty are also salient factors in this rupee question? And the ripple effect is the than the virus itself. The seek medical attention, scheme of treatment. Utilising our public ingredients (with short shelf life) that go Let us hope for a new world or a just and “Third wave of morbidities transportation system to safely escort into the production of these short shelf-life fair society after this unprecedented battle as before is crucial non-COVID patients for a nominal fee goods nearing the expiry dates will also against the pandemic. due to disrupted care in long will also work wonders. going to go waste. Hope this letter will term conditions” will follow open the eyes of both the Government this second wave systems in Asia, an outstanding rural and the stakeholders in the marketing of hospital network and dedicated health these products. As for me; food going It has been described in certain care staff at grassroots level. Our public The Ministry of Health waste is a heinous crime when we are research papers that a “Second wave health midwives travel long distances to has launched a reliable really struggling these days to get our of deaths due to resource restriction in deliver health advise to expectant mothers provisions and to make ends meet. non-COVID conditions” will be of a and parents. The free health care system drug delivery system MOHAMED ZAHRAN larger magnitude than the virus itself. delivers to patients of all social classes through the department COLOMBO 14 The “Third wave of morbidities due to while medical consultants who come back of posts. Assisting in the disrupted care in long term conditions” after foreign training with a wealth of continuation of essential will follow this second wave. Only a experience pass on the benefit of modern life-saving drugs is the main few countries have launched proper medicinal practices to these rural patients aim of this programme mechanisms to counteract these deaths. and our neonatal death rate, maternal death PS member, I practice rheumatology and rate at birth of a child or our immunisation rehabilitation in a rural setting. Although schedule is of world class standard. Repeating the same medication for 4 others arthritis does not cause mortality, it creates Sri Lanka’s remarkable healthcare months does not align with correct devastating disability. A large proportion services did not flourish overnight. This medical practices. The drug doses need remanded over of our patients have various other illnesses system from its slow start since the launch constant adjustments. With adequate like diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma of the Malaria eradication campaign back protective gear the doctor should meet alleged rape and heart disease. Even though my patients in 1911, became stabilised over a course the patient as before. I sincerely hope are rural folk, we had an excellent health- of a few decades. Patients’ perspective and that the right course of action is taken seeking behaviour. There were many faith in western medicine also proved to immediately to prevent the “Second wave WEB COMMENTS reasons for this. be a significant supportive factor. of deaths” which will otherwise cause an KARU - If found guilty WARREN - Don’t Sri Lanka boasts of a good road network, The preventive campaigns of COVID- immense economic and grief response please treat them like the worry. Eventually, the one of the cheapest public transport 19 rely heavily on social distancing and a like never before. Hyderabad police. Get rid culprits will be released of the scums without any charges. It may not come as a PISSA - MR and Gota surprise if the innocent ‘YOUR THOUGHT’ is a space, a right of the readers to support or contradict and discuss the No 8. Hunupitiya Cross Road, Colombo 2. P.O. Box 1136, Colombo. get a good gifts from their victim becomes the issues highlighted in the editorial and other articles in the editorial and op-ed pages. Designed as the Editorial: Tel: 011 2 436 998, 011 2 479 479 (ext.327,356). Fax: 011 2 304 545 friends. accused! reader’s editorial; our readers can send in their writings, with a word count not exceeding 200, to AGM Marketing & Corporate - (Dir.)2 479 561 MM - If they are proved RUSTY – In Sri Lanka ‘Your Thought’, Daily Mirror Political Features Desk, No 8, Hunupitiya Cross Road, Head of Circulation - (Dir.) 0112 479 672, 077 3 219 775 guilty hang them in anything is possible Colombo 2 or email to Subscription Manager-(Dir.)2 479 626, 2 479 628, 077 3 502 183 public! [email protected]. E-mail: [email protected] See more web comments at www. .lk SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2020 A5 “The Spirit that prevails among Men of all degrees, all ages and sexes is the Spirit of Liberty.” -ABIGAIL ADAMS OPINION A LOOMING CONSTITUTIONAL CRISIS, COURTESY COVID-19

Section 24 of the Parliamentary Elections Act. deviate from the constitutional provisions. It is the dissolved Parliament using the powers By The Elections Commission did not publish This emergency has an accepted principle and settled law that the vested in him by the Constitution as opposed Ameer Faaiz (LL.M, such a ‘notice of poll’. On the contrary, it doctrine of necessity could be invoked when to ignoring such Constitutional responsibility AAL) and Nizam published what it called a ‘notice of no poll’. thrown open many a there is no alternative course of action available or to resorting to extra-legal measures. In the case of any emergency or unforeseen as provided by the law. In the current context The majority of the populace is seemingly Kariapper (LL.M, PC) circumstances, Section 24(3) of the challenge. All of which there are express constitutional provisions content with the President and government’s Parliamentary Elections Act empowers the available to be used to act within the constitution. handling of the pandemic thus far. That is Elections Commission to postpone the election were unforeseen Therefore, the applicability and/or use of the no reason for the President or the caretaker to another day. However, the Act does not doctrine of necessity do not arise. Any advise government to overlook and or violate the Sri Lanka is fighting hard, empower the Elections Commission to postpone contrary would be misconceived in law. constitutional requirements to uphold the to the best of all its citizens’ the election without fixing another date. At this time of crisis, it Constitution of our democratic republic, the abilities, to deal with the The Elections Commission, however, has SECTION 113 OF THE oldest in Asia. One can’t be complacent and current global pandemic stated in the Gazette Extraordinary No. 2167/19 is imperative that the PARLIAMENT ELECTIONS ACT be an onlooker when autocratic trends set in – 2020 and dated 21-03-2020 that the said poll because it is the legislature, to which the people caused by the coronavirus. To cannot be held on the April 25, 2020 due to government takes all A few politicians are said to have interpreted of this country have entrusted the power to make its credit, Sri Lanka seems to the Covid-19 outbreak in Sri Lanka. It also Section 113 of the Parliamentary Elections Act laws and to be the guardians of their finances. be comparatively doing well. stated that it would appoint a day that falls necessary action. But as vesting powers with the President to hold The Constitution has provided exactly for after fourteen days from April 30, 2020 as the the election at a suitable future date overriding, such exigencies. It is to deal with such extreme Let us hope that we in Sri day for the said poll. that action must be inter alia, Article 70(5) of the Constitution. This situations that provisions have been incorporated Lanka could ensure a speedy In other words, according to the Elections on the basis of the interpretation is unconstitutional. It would be a in the Constitution for it to be brought back to end to the threat posed by Commission, this future Parliament, cannot meet dangerous attempt to twist and distort the law life while entrusting the keys to do so with the on May 14, 2020 as notified by the President rule-of-law to flagrantly violate the express provisions of President. The President should exercise this the said Covid-19. However, in his proclamation dissolving the Parliament. the Constitution to suit one’s partisan political power in the interest of justice and equity. The there is a growing acceptance The Elections Commission has requested the agenda. Section 113 of the Parliament Elections situation demands that he does this forthwith. that Sri Lanka was tragically President to seek the opinion of the Supreme There is no gainsaying Act only deals with a situation where elections Thus, it leaves the President with no option still late in focusing its full Court as to the course of action he should take are held but incomplete due to non-holding of but to reconvene the dissolved Parliament. in this situation. Unless Parliament reconvenes, that Parliament ought the election in a specific district. It is imperative that he does so. He could attention on the prevention the Elections Commission has a constitutional It is elementary to understand the difference lawfully dissolve such a Parliament once the and management of this duty to complete polls by June 2. That is its sole not to have been between holding of an election per say, albeit crisis is over. The government and President pandemic. It is apparent mandate. Unless the President acts now, social with some defects, and not having the ‘notice need not unduly worry about their numbers in distancing measures will have to be suspended dissolved on March of poll’ at all. Parliament. Almost every single political party that priorities were divided for campaigning and the conduct of the poll. The that is represented in Parliament has publicly within the government vis- President has a significantly more expansive 2, 2020. The outbreak RECONVENING PARLIAMENT committed to support the government in these à-vis ensuring democratic mandate. Public health, economic succour or of the Coronavirus – IS IMPERATIVE difficult times. On the other hand, getting governance and dealing other considerations are for the President to Parliament to sanction public finance as well be concerned with and take necessary action. Covid-19 in China was There is no gainsaying that Parliament ought as other needed legislations to deal with the with the health situation of not to have been dissolved on March 2, 2020. current crisis more efficiently would not only the country caused by the WHAT CAN THE reported prior to that The outbreak of the Coronavirus – Covid-19 credit the government as having up held the pandemic. The President PRESIDENT DO? in China was reported prior to that. It was rule of law and enhance its legitimacy, despite declared a pandemic by the WHO on March 11, being a minority government. appears to have made The President may or may not seek an opinion the President. If this is done it would restore 2020 preceded by its announcement in January Any other course of action would be a decisions on the basis of of the Supreme Court, as it comes within his the Parliament which was originally elected that it is a serious public health emergency of serious violation of the Constitution. Article political advise rather than discretion. We feel that he should not exercise by the People till September 1, 2020. international concern. SAARC leaders including 70 of the Constitution has been interpreted in his discretion in seeking the Supreme Court’s There is nothing in law prohibiting the our President in their virtual deliberations, held detail by a full bench of the Supreme Court public health advise. Despite opinion. Rather he should avoid any doubt, President from exercising the above option. prior to March 19, 2020, acknowledged the in the Fundamental Right cases that were introducing a wide range uncertainty and uphold constitutional democracy An option the President alone could use without seriousness of the pandemic. Thus the President filed successfully challenging the dissolution of severe social distancing and the rule-of-law by rescinding Gazette recourse to anything or anyone else. If that has demonstrated and acknowledged the of Parliament by the then President in measures, he did not take Extraordinary 2165/8-2020. option is resorted to and the Parliament is emergency and the existence of this unforeseen October 2018. As the President dissolved Parliament with re-summoned, it would be a lawful and fully- emergency subsequent to his dissolution of In any event, if, by April 30, the Elections measures to prevent public effect from March 2, in terms of Article 70(5) fledged Parliament. Such a Parliament could Parliament on March 2, 2020. Commission fails to publish a new date for the servants from organising (a) that requires “… shall summon the new do its business as usual till September 1, 2020. The Elections Commission, the moment poll falling between May 14, and June 1, then the election campaign or Parliament to meet on a date not later than three By which time, one could realistically hope that it could assume power legally, upon the the proclamation of the President dissolving months after the date of such Proclamation”, the the pandemic would have abated both locally conclusion of the nominations on March 19, Parliament will become void. nominations on March latest possible day on which the new Parliament and globally, or the world would have geared 2020 declared that the Parliamentary Election 19,2020 for parliamentary must meet is June 2, 2020. This date is absolute. itself to deal with it or counter it medically cannot be held on April 25, 2020 as envisaged CONCLUSION elections. But no free and fair election can practically be and peoples’ lives could have been restored in the Presidential proclamation. Thereafter, held in time for the new Parliament to meet. to some degree of normalcy. the President has caused several measures Against this backdrop, if Sri Lanka is to This leads up the current imbroglio. This would also mean that the next election amounting to a shut-down of sorts of the remain a democratic country that upholds the INTRODUCTION The Constitution, in terms of Article 33(1)(a) could be held any time prior to December country including widespread ‘curfews’ and rule of law the summoning of the Parliament At this time of crisis, it is imperative that and (d), cast a prime duty upon the President 1, 2020. This later date gives hope that Sri requests to work from home. All this is in is a sine qua non. The sooner it is done the the government takes all necessary action. But to uphold the Constitution and on the advise of Lanka would be out of the pandemic and in clear and unambiguous acknowledgement of better. The President can choose in what way that action must be on the basis of the rule- the Elections Commission, ensure the creation an environment more conducive to hold a prevalent pandemic causing health hazards of he wants to reconvene the said Parliament. of-law. Otherwise, inadvertently, the public of proper conditions for the conduct of free and free and fair election. It would undoubtedly unprecedented proportions. However, it is our view that the best course health response and economic relief may be fair elections and referendum. be constitutionally proper. This emergency has thrown open many a of action is invoking Article 70(7) of the delayed or affected. Second, as Asia’s oldest In our opinion the President has the challenge. All of which were unforeseen. It Constitution. This requires the minimum action, democracy, we have proved that we can meet following options within the existing OPTION IV: DECLARE A has long before metamorphosed into a global sans any complication, requires no complex or any challenge – from natural disasters like the constitutional framework. STATE OF EMERGENCY challenge where governments and entire strenuous legal arguments and is well within tsunami, insurgencies or terrorism – within UNDER ARTICLE 155 OF THE countries are reeling. Thousands are perishing the constitutional powers of the President. It the framework of a constitutional democracy. OPTION I: ISSUE A NEW CONSTITUTION on a daily basis. It would be foolhardy and is also the only option that is, constitutionally When this unprecedented health and economic PROCLAMATION or preposterous to assume that in the given speaking his express and positive duty. crisis is upon us, we must ensure that all arms The President can also declare a State of the context the postponed elections could be Once reconvened, the 15th Parliament could of the government are fully operational to meet Wait till the 3rd week of April, then, in Emergency under Section 2 of Public Security held prior to the end of May 2020 or the new run its due course provided the President does any eventuality. This is certainly no time for consultation with the Elections Commission, Ordinance (deemed an Act of Parliament under Parliament could be summoned before June not wish it to be so. The Parliament, as the sole a constitutional crisis. There should not be issue a proclamation fixing a new date for article 155). Such a Proclamation requires 2, 2020. authority and guardian of Public Finance, could any backsliding of democracy. Unfortunately, the summoning of the new Parliament on the summoning of Parliament to continue The Elections Commission too had indicated regulate and provide legitimate authority to the unless the President takes immediate corrective or before June 2, 2020. This permits the its operation, generating an unquestioned given the status of the pandemic it is impractical government to manage the public finances. It action, a constitutional crisis – the second in Elections Commission to publish a new date constitutional duty to summon Parliament. It to hold elections anytime soon. Sri Lanka, at can correct and rectify any unconstitutional two years - will be added to these extremely for the poll. would also give the President the powers to the time of writing, has not even gotten to the fiscal handling like what the Secretary to the grave health and economic crises. This option is wrought with the practical ensure a legal basis for some of the preventative state where the ‘flattening of the curve’ has Treasury purports to do, wrongfully, by his letter challenges of ensuring a free and fair election as health measures that are currently being used. commenced. Let us hope that happens soon. In dated March 10, 2020, what could lawfully be BACKGROUND required by the Constitution. In the unlikelihood the meantime, any attempt to conduct the said done in terms of Article 150(3) only ‘from the of the realistic end of the challenges posed by ANALYSIS OF THE OPTIONS poll or to entertain thoughts of it would be in date on which the new Parliament is summoned The term of the 15th Parliament should have the Covid-19 pandemic by the end of April total disregard to the public good and would be to meet’. It could pass necessary legislation to ended on September 1, 2020 but the President, and allowing Elections Commission personnel The President may not have been fully to endanger the citizens’ health and wellbeing. cater to the exigencies that arise due to adverse exercising his constitutionally permitted to prepare for the poll and create a conducive apprised of the gravity of the pandemic when Hence the measures that are needed to be and unforeseen impacts of the pandemic and discretionary powers, dissolved Parliament environment for the candidates and parties to he issued his Proclamation declaring early taken to successfully deal with the pandemic to fill in the lacuna if any in other spheres by Proclamation six months early, with effect campaign and hold a free and fair election, in elections. However, as the unprecedented and exigencies created thereby should be done including in relation to holding of elections. from March 2, 2020 by Gazette Extraordinary reality, this option is no option at all. nature of the emergency is now clear to all, it collectively and in terms of the law. Due to Further it would provide with the definite period No. 2165/8-2020. In that Proclamation the is his constitutional duty to invoke the relevant the prolonged space of time envisaged - more of time until almost the end of 2020 to hold a President also fixed April 25, 2020 as the date OPTION II: INVOKE ARTICLE provisions in the Constitution relating to the than three months - to hold the Parliamentary free and fair election, constitutionally. It would for the General Election and May 14, 2020 as 70(7) TO REVIVE THE 15TH Emergency and prevent a constitutional crisis at elections makes this all the more imperative. also provide a robust and effective system of the date on which the newly elected Parliament PARLIAMENT this time. Therefore, Option II, invoking 70(7) The President, being the head of the Executive, deliberation and checks-and-balances to ensure shall meet as required by article 70 (5)(a) of to revive the 15th Parliament may be the most cannot perform the functions of the legislature. that the interests of all sections of society are the Constitution. Under Article 70(7) of the Constitution, if constitutionally proper and practically prudent As it stands, the elections have to be represented in decision-making. the President is satisfied that an emergency has course of action. postponed well beyond June 1, 2020. As it Reconvening Parliament by the President ELECTIONS COMMISSION arisen of such a nature that an earlier meeting We will run out of time if the President doesn’t is, the government has no legal sanction to forthwith would ensure that, more importantly, of Parliament is necessary, he is empowered to exercise this discretion without delay. It will be expend public finance beyond April 30, 2020. we would still be governed in terms of the Further to the above Proclamation issued summon Parliament any time after its dissolution a missed opportunity to show the world, how There are voices claiming that available funds law and upholding the rule of law, which is a by the President, the Elections Commission, to deal with such an emergency. Parliament as a nation, we have handled the constitutional are not sufficient to deal with the issue at prerequisite for a democracy. On the contrary as required by law, fixed March 19, as the last so summoned can go on till the conclusion of crisis, even during the global crisis, within hand even prior to April 30, 2020. In fact, citizens being compelled to have recourse to date for nominations. Despite social distancing such emergency. the framework of the Constitution. Invoking all evidence suggests that a breach of the the Supreme Court either to have the Gazette measures being in force, nominations for the Section 70(7) enables this. borrowing limit set by Parliament will occur dissolving the Parliament on March 2, 2020 Parliamentary Election were duly received by OPTION III: RESCIND THE imminently – well before April 30. That means, invalidated or to force the hands of the President the respective returning officers. ELECTION GAZETTE the government will have no means of raising to summon Parliament in terms of Article 70(7) At the conclusion of receiving nominations INAPPLICABILITY OF THE funds necessary for fighting the pandemic and would mean that, sadly, we have not learnt our and declaring the number of nominations The President has the power to rescind his ‘DOCTRINE OF NECESSITY’ providing economic relief. constitutional lessons. received by returning officers, the Elections Proclamation dissolving Parliament dated New legislation may be needed to deal with The writers are Director- International Commission is required to publish a ‘notice of March 2, 2020. This can be done by another An opinion is floated to use the principle of the pandemic and its aftermath more effectively. Affairs and Secretary General respectively poll’ through a gazette notification in terms of Gazette notification issued under the hand of the ‘Doctrine of Necessity’ as a justification to All this behooves the President to reconvene of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress. A6 SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2020 FEATURES

Suba Seth Gedara PIC BY MICHAEL MEYLER THE LIGHT AND JOY OF

By EASTERRev. Fr. Leopold Ratnasekera

OMI (Ph.D.,Th.D.) National Seminary, Ampitiya

The imposing Paschal Candle, the cynosure of Holy Saturday night’s Liturgy, and worship in all Christian churches, lit from the newly blessed fire and marked with the mysterious signs of the Greek alphabet, Alpha (α) and Omega (Ω) makes its solemn entrance into Easter the sanctuary with three acclamations announcing the Risen Christ as the Light of the World. Once reaching the portals of the sanctuary, the congregation is treated to the solemn chanting of the “Exultet” by the priest with the devotees responding at the end Reflections on of the proclamation with the Easter choral word “Alleluia” which in Hebrew means “Praise the Lord”; Father Michael Rodrigo a rhyme that had gone silent for five long weeks of Lent now rings out again! It is the Paschal Light that deluge of ‘solutions’ dictated from a fills the Church as devotees light their own candles By lofty perch, but a participatory process with the exultant congregation bursting forth with the Kanya of communal awakening. Father Mike song of jubilation “Alleluia”. Such is the solemnity D’Almeida had the same unshakeable belief in the of the Holy Saturday Night enacted in all Christian people as he had in the Almighty— sanctuaries across the world marking the opening of he believed they possessed the the Easter festival. “Beginnings are always arduous; consciousness, creativity and capacity venturing into the unknown needs to chart their own path towards a JESUS CHRIST’S enormous courage.” decent life. He was, as one of his From ‘Reflections on the Diaries companions said to me, the living HISTORICAL of Father Michael Rodrigo’ liturgy. His work did not occur in a vacuum. IMPACT Never again will Sri Lankans observe In addition to being a liturgical Easter, therefore, is a celebration of Light and Joy. Resurrection of Jesus Easter Sunday without a twinge in our scholar, Father Mike was highly It is the Light of the Risen Lord who had vanquished hearts. Last year, when the attacks attuned to the global context in which the darkness of the tomb and risen triumphant over while they were in reality blind leaders like the on churches shook us to our core, local struggles unfolded. With his the powers of sin and death. Thus, the story of the whitened sepulchers. This was the miracle worker we could not have imagined that an Marxian outlook he stitched together crucified and the Risen One, Jesus Christ is at the core who would feed thousands in the wilderness of the even greater horror was waiting in the a portrait of rural Sri Lanka that of the Christian faith. It is greater and decisively central desert and beaches where chores of people thronged wings. This year, as we enter our third Father Michael Rodrigo reflected international geopolitics— than Christmas which celebrates only the mystery of to gaze on his face and listen to him preach. He was a week of lockdown—a first even for a the exploitation of the peasantry the Incarnation, the birth of the Messiah. The Gospel living icon and sign that God’s kingdom had arrived population accustomed to curfews— missionary. He had no intention of and labourers by multinational story relates how the disciples were brimming with open to all without distinction or discrimination of there will be no egg hunts, no services, converting the rural Sinhala masses corporations, the environmental joy when they beheld the luminous sight of the Risen race, creed, ethnicity or language. He shared the no singing. Only a sombre reflection to Christianity. Though he already had impacts of neoliberalism, and the Lord. Their teacher and master, the healer and miracle joys of human events and cried at the pain of his of the state of a world brought to its two PhDs, he was a student at heart. urgency of returning to an indigenous worker, Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of Man has come friends who lost their loved ones and made himself knees by a microscopic pathogen that Thus, he began his work in Buttala in way of life, in harmony with nature, to stay: alive in their lives and faith. Hereafter, they to those gripped by sorrow and anxiety, a source of has claimed more than 50,000 lives a spirit of learning, listening closely using traditional knowledge systems will even lay down their precious lives for him and consolation and solace. in just three months. to the local community who at the and ancient cultural practices. scan the whole of the middle Eastern provinces The Covid-19 pandemic has covered time were caught in the crosshairs of It was a prophetic vision that traversing as far west as imperial Rome to announce the earth in a terrible silence, and we the green revolution, the rise of the has tremendous significance for this good news and challenging people to conversion find ourselves staring into a black hole plantation economy, and the slow the current moment. While he from idolatry and social immorality. The Easter festival challenges the of uncertainty. But even as we shut our poisoning of their land and waters by may not have foreseen a viral The Easter festival challenges the world of today world of today to enter the path doors, we cannot fail to notice the open the agrochemical industry. pandemic, Father Mike certainly to enter the path of personal and collective, ethical, of personal and collective, ethical, window: an unprecedented opportunity Father Mike’s first step was to predicted a crisis of capitalism that moral and social discipline. Easter, the event of the to frankly and honestly assess the survey the poorest households in would require a shift away from the Risen Lord, marks the beginning of the Christian moral and social discipline. Easter, human condition, and determine how the area to identify their most basic import-export model of economics faith and validates the preaching of the Church as the event of the Risen Lord, marks we will move forward. Will we return needs and aspirations. Through towards a strong, sustainable and well. Christianity stands or falls with this mysterious the beginning of the Christian faith to the rat race or will there—could lengthy discussions with the villagers local system of production and event as attested to by the experience of the earliest and validates the preaching of the there—be a kind of rising? A rebirth? he learned that issues of health and exchange. He knew such a change disciples of Christ. Saul, the die-hard Pharisee was Church as well. Christianity stands The latter would require a lot—nothing education were foremost on their would not come easily—and that the overwhelmed by the experience of the Risen Lord on short of abandoning our old way of life. minds. From these encounters, a hardest task would not be pressuring his way to Damascus from Jerusalem on a mission or falls with this mysterious event as Just over 30 years ago, a small publication called ‘Avabodaya’ was governments or picketing companies to persecute the first Christians and finally ended attested to by the experience of the group of people made the decision born. Meaning ‘awareness’, this simple but summoning the internal conviction up in an incredible manner as the ground-breaking earliest disciples of Christ to do just that. Turning their backs village circular served as a kind of to adopt a new way of being. missionary apostle to the non-Jewish gentile nations. on the comforts of their homes, the knowledge hub for the community He stormed all the cosmopolitan centers of his time The Easter greeting on the lips of the Risen Jesus embrace of their families, even the where ordinary people could voice such as Corinth, Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, Colossae was: “Fear not, it is I, peace be with you”. He gave possibility of wealth and professional their concerns or share solutions to and Thessalonica preaching and building up the a missionary mandate too to his followers to go and advancement; they set out for the collective problems. His work did not occur in first-ever Christian communities of his time. The share with all nations the Good News of his mystery poorest village in the poorest district It became clear that the villagers a vacuum. In addition to message had to be taken to the heart of all these urban and to inform them that wherever two or three are of the poorest province of Sri Lanka. urgently required access to and metropolitan centers. He dared to challenge the gathered in His name, he would be present in their The village was called Alukalawita, inexpensive remedies for a range of being a liturgical scholar, intellectuals in the infamous Aёropagus of Athens to midst. Furthermore, his merciful presence can be located in the district of Moneragala, sicknesses caused by the proliferation Father Mike was highly believe in the Resurrection. He was quick to denounce perceived among the poor, the naked, the hungry, the close to the town of Buttala in the Uva of pesticides and chemical fertilizers attuned to the global the idolatry, immorality and oppressive violence of thirsty and those chained in prisons. Caring for them Province. Led by a Catholic priest from the nearby sugarcane plantations. context in which local the Roman Empire under Caesar, exhorting them would mean caring for Him. This is the ‘dhamma’ named Father Michael Rodrigo, With the closest hospital being struggles unfolded to a life of wholesome personal integrity, ethical that has inspired the Church and many of her saints this cohort of sisters and lay people many miles away, one Avabodaya conduct and social justice. Christian life was nothing in launching epic projects of charity, mercy and acquired a small plot of land with contributor floated the idea of a Father Mike was assassinated on but nailing all our sins to the cross of Christ, bearing compassion and even on a mega scale, in favour a simple, thatched-roof hut which herbarium filled with medicinal November 10, 1987. Minutes before in one’s life the marks of the crucifixion and living of those who are orphaned, disabled, destitute, the became the nucleus of a unique and plants. The residents at Suba Seth his murder, as he performed mass for according to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit in elderly, homeless and the sick. Mother Teresa of radical poverty-alleviation campaign. Gedara quickly convened a group the residents of Suba Seth Gedara, purity of mind and in honourable living. Calcutta is well-known for such Christian prodigality Their dwelling place was known to undertake a careful scientific he echoed the words of the slain of mercy and charity. The Gospel of Jesus is very as ‘Suba Seth Gedera’ and all who study of indigenous plants and Salvadorian priest Oscar Romero: “I TRANSFORMATION relevant today in the context of the exploitation and passed through it abided by one simple herbs. They travelled to neighboring have often been threatened with death. victimization of children whom he took on his lap gospel: To live as one with the poor. estates and met superintendents to I have to say, as a Christian, that I don’t OF SOCIETY in warm embrace, blessing them and their mothers. This meant that their dress, their meals, gain access to plantation libraries, believe in death without resurrection: The Easter event completely validated the life-style He had stern words to those who make themselves their entire way of life was to be no which were crammed full of often if they kill me, I will rise again in the and the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth. Till then, causes of evil to the innocent and saw in it a crime different from the average subsistence unused reference material. Armed […] people. I tell you this without any doubt and uncertainty shrouded his authority since against humanity that makes the guilty renegades farming family in the area. For those with knowledge of scores of native boasting, with the greatest humility. in the public eye he was just a Jew whose family be meted out with the severest social rejection and who opted to join the project, this plants, the team then visited ‘Veda I am obliged, by divine command, to circle was well known. Credibility and dependability the most stringent of penalties. He exhorted those represented a near complete break from Mahaththayas’ and ‘Veda Nonas’— give my life for those I love.” He had dawned with the Resurrection appearances in the entrusted with stewardship to be honest and faithful worldly goods or material possessions. Ayurveda doctors—to learn about barely finished speaking when the fatal houses where his bewildered disciples were gathered to duty, not to exploit the weak and warned those Before they set out for Alukalawita, the medicinal properties of plants. shot rang out. in fear, on the highways and by-ways when on their in high seats of authority, like Herod and Pilate of Father Mike asked his companions All of their findings were published Of course, he did not rise again, journeys, on the familiar beaches of Galilee where his day, not to give into or abuse their powers in “Are you willing to bear the cross?” in Avabodaya. Eventually the and none were held accountable for they toiled as simple fishermen and at their meals. To oppressive and dominating ways. It was not a grandiose statement, as community secured the funds to the killing. convince them of his Risen Life, he would partake they soon found, but a reflection of the establish their herbarium. But perhaps it is fair to say that he and of their meals and show them the wounds of his CONCLUSION hardships endured by the majority of It was a small victory, but one that his brigade of barefoot revolutionaries crucifixion challenging their lack of faith and slowness The Light of Easter dispels the darkness of sin our population. reflected Father Mike’s vision for experienced a resurrection of a different to believe him, once their master and teacher. He it and evil in all their forms poisoning our world and Father Mike was no ordinary rural development; not charity or a kind through their work in Buttala. By was who proclaimed the much-adulated Sermon on its joy brings hope of victory over these multiple letting go of the past and plunging the Mount, who reached out to the lepers cleansing evils and death, the final enemy of man. He, who into the unknown, they chartered a them, threatened and exorcised demons oppressing nails his selfishness and Ego through self-denial course that is now more relevant than the sick, opened the blind to sight and the deaf to and detachment to the cross of Christ and takes on ever before. From wilderness and hearing, even resurrecting his friend Lazarus of the spiritual ascent pursuing ideals that are sublime destitution, they fashioned a thriving, Bethany after being in the tomb for four days. He and most noble, treading a path of truth, goodness inter-religious community and sowed had revealed the hidden life of many inviting them and beauty, which are the fruits of the Spirit, will the seeds of wellness, justice and to face their wicked past and enter into a better future surely find himself or herself in the light and joy of literacy that continues to bear fruit. of virtue and goodness. This was a prophet of a new a springtime of life. Easter’s call is to embrace a life While the world scrambles to kind who taught with authority denouncing bravely worth living which adds grandeur, spice and lustre reconceive itself, we in Sri Lanka need the Pharisees who were the religious leaders of his to our otherwise humdrum existence of struggle look no further than the little house time for their hypocrisy and showy acts of piety and survival. called Suba Seth Gedara where—once, Suba Seth Gedara briefly—a garden of Eden flourished. APRIL 11, 2020 Find us on facebook/dailymirror Follow us on @MirrorBusiness +94115383355 / [email protected] 07

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Janashakthi Life Sri Lanka Insurance DFCC Bank offers records a double- join hands with convenient and P8 digit growth ... P8 ayubo.life to provide... P8 safe banking

EDB requests all exporters to resume Govt. to re-introduce PAYE tax for employee convenience operations following New Year holidays The government has exceeds Rs. 250,000 per decided to re-introduce the month or Rs. 3,000,000 for „Factories outside red zones emphasis on generating foreign exchange resume their operations with a minimum staff. Pay As You Earn (PAYE) a year of assessment, an permitted to operate from earnings, without which our economy Further, he noted that individual police stations tax as an advance personal Advance Personal Income next week cannot be sustained. It is of utmost would have the final say in allowing the income tax to be deducted Tax could be deducted by the importance, therefore, that all exporters exporters resume operations at their plants as by the employer, after employer,” IRD stated. commence operations after the New Year some areas have been identified as red zones. considering pleas from The IRD plans to publish Sri Lanka’s Export Development Board holidays,” the EDB said in a statement. “We wish to stress that it is mandatory employees, the Department a separate guideline on (EDB) appeals to all exporters to resume The EDB announced that factories outside for all exporters to comply with the health of Inland Revenue (IRD) this shortly. operations following the Sinhala and Tamil of the red zones will be permitted to operate regulations issued by the Health Ministry in announced. Further, it stated that New Year holidays next week in order to following the Sinhala and Tamil New Year this regard and all factories will be inspected “With effect from recent relaxation of income ensure the sustainability of the economy next week, given these factories are in by the PHI of the respective area before they 01.04.2020, on the request tax threshold to Rs. 250,000 as Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is compliance with the health regulations. commence business,” the EDB added. of employees whose gross would remain in effect. deteriorating foreign inflows to the country. EDB Chairperson, Prabhash Subasinghe remuneration for a month Prabhash Subasinghe “It is imperative the government places told Mirror Business that exporters could MORE ON P8

Asian markets rise after Fed stimulus boosts Wall St First Capital optimistic TOKYO (AFP) - Asian The market remains in a markets were mostly higher “tug-of-war between those yesterday after the latest US who are pessimistic (about the of economic rebound coronavirus stimulus measures pandemic) and those who are boosted Wall Street overnight. optimistic... they don’t want to In its latest attempt to ease the miss a rare chance to buy” shares economic pain inflicted by the at low prices, said Mutsumi COVID-19 pandemic, the US Kagawa, chief global strategist at from 3Q despite risks Federal Reserve said it would Rakuten Securities. „Commodity price slump, irst Capital Research expects the “Some countries like Sri Lanka 6 - 8 months shutdown with 2nd and pump US$ 2.3 trillion through Seoul also rose, gaining import controls to bode Sri Lankan economy to rebound and Myanmar have gone beyond a 3rd waves of spread of the contagion new lending programmes. 1.3 percent, and Taipei was positively with current Fstarting from 3Q20 onwards lockdown action in to a complete resulting in business bankruptcies The pandemic has now up 0.4 percent. But Shanghai and hit 2.4 percent growth for the full shutdown by means of curfew with pointed to a much steeper 4.8 percent claimed more than 94,000 lives ended down one percent.Hong account year if it can be re-opened gradually only a few selected essential services contraction in the economy. around the world and hammered Kong, Sydney, Wellington, and from the end of April provided the working at an early stage of the spread. Speaking on similar lines to that economies, sending governments Singapore were closed for a „Budget deficit estimated to government’s strict guidelines on social This has proved to be successful so of First Capital, the Central Bank and central banks scrambling public holiday. The Fed appears expand to 9% to 10% of GDP distancing prove successful with near far. But we are yet to see the end of it”, Governor, Professor W.D. Lakshman to put together unprecedented, to be “on a mission to blow holes zero new COVID-19 cases reported by the research firm stated. last week said he still hopes the massive emergency measures. in every dam that stops the flow „Expects govt. to resort mid April. “Countries such as Europe and USA economy to register 3.0 percent growth The strong close on Wall of credit”, said Stephen Innes, to bilateral funding as According to the research house, which delayed lockdown action have for 2020, down from 4.0 to 4.5 percent Street boosted Tokyo’s chief global markets strategist at international capital markets although the outlook on the Gross seen a massive surge in the spread of levels projected before the crisis. benchmark Nikkei 225, which AxiCorp. Domestic Product (GDP) appears grim the disease and subsequent escalation He also expects the immediate finished 0.8 percent higher. MORE ON P8 run dry than at the beginning of the year, they of deaths”, it added. dangers to dissipate in about two subscribed to the scenario of ending In other two scenarios used in their months allowing the return to gradual „Domestic borrowings to lockdowns and gradually returning to model, one forecasting a 3-4 months normalcy from May. surge from 3Q for deficit normalcy from end April as their base of hunkering down required by steady In any case, Sri Lanka is expected to financing, putting pressure case scenario, with evidence proving increase in the COVID-19 cases record its worst second quarter this year on rates strict lockdowns have been successful pointing to 0.2 percent contraction in after many years. Colombo Rubber Auction held than delayed full lockdowns. the economy and worst case projecting MORE ON P8 successfully under strict health security measures Top oil producers except Mexico agree to output cuts: OPEC „Approval to conduct The Colombo Rubber Traders’ LONDON (AFP) - Major price war between key players weekly rubber Association (CRTA) with the approval oil producers except Mexico Saudi Arabia and Russia. auctions granted of the government and Health and agreed to cut output in May The agreement, which also following discussions Indigenous Medical Services Ministry and June by 10 million barrels reduces production by eight commenced its weekly auctions per day, OPEC said yesterday, million bpd from July to with Presidential beginning with one auction per week after marathon talks to counter a December, depends on Mexico’s Taskforce Chief at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce collapse in prices. consent for it to take effect, the on April 9 at 2.00 p.m. The video conference led oil cartel said after the meeting. „Plantation Industries The last rubber auction took place by the Organisation of the The virtual meeting of OPEC Ministry facilitating on March 13, 2020 and the next Petroleum Exporting Countries countries, dominated by Riyadh, the initiative had auction scheduled for March 17 did has been seen as the best chance and their OPEC+ allies including requested authorities not take place due to the government- of providing support to prices, Russia, as well as other key non- imposed curfew. which have been wallowing members, began just after 1440 to assist rubber Approval to conduct the weekly near two-decade lows due to GMT on Thursday. sector and its supply rubber auctions were granted the coronavirus pandemic and a MORE ON P8 chain subsequent to a discussion the industry representatives had with Presidential „Auctions with two Taskforce Chairman Basil Rajapaksa Supply lines continue uninterrupted sales per week to on April 4 with a view to revive the Essential goods being taken to wholesalers in Pettah during curfew hours yesterday. The resume once industry, and support all stakeholders government announced that the curfew in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Puttalam and Kandy country returns amidst the prevailing situation in the districts will continue to be in effect until further notice. Pic by Pradeep Pathirana US threatens to block China face of COVID -19 pandemic. to normalcy MORE ON P8 Telecom from its market WASHINGTON (AFP) - The unacceptable national security United States has threatened to and law enforcement risks cut off Beijing-controlled China associated with China Telecom’s Telecom from serving the US operations, which render the FCC market because of legal and authorisations inconsistent with PickMe’s Mevan Peiris makes it to Forbes security risks, announced the the public interest,” the Justice Justice Department. Department said in a statement A recommendation by the Thursday. If approved, the move government’s top departments, could mean China Telecom’s ‘30 Under 30’ Asia 2020 list including Defence, State and hundreds of millions of phone and Homeland Security, said the internet customers - it is China’s Sri Lanka’s Mevan Peiris has put the food vendors who cater to over 80,000 Peiris holds a BSc in International Federal Communications second largest mobile phone country under fresh spotlight on the global monthly users of the food delivery startup. Relations and a Diploma in Economics Commission (FCC) should operator could lose connectivity stage by making it to the prestigious Under the leadership of Peiris, PickMe from the University of London and is an “revoke and terminate” all with or through the United States. Forbes ‘30 Under 30’ Asia 2020. Foods was commended by the International Alumni of St. Thomas’ College Mount authorisations for the Chinese The agencies making the Peiris, who is the Head of Operations of Finance Corporation (IFC) for its agility Lavinia. He is a recipient of the prestigious giant’s US subsidiary, China recommendation -- which also PickMe Foods was listed in the Forbes 30 in crisis response and effective, safe and ‘Saravanamuttu Memorial Prize’ awarded Telecom (Americas), to provide included the Justice Department, Under 30 Asia 2020 under the Consumer reliable essential item delivery service annually to a single student demonstrating international telecommunications the Commerce Department, and Technology category. during the COVID-19 crisis. The startup excellence and future potential. services to and from the United the US Trade Representative said The 28-year old has been successful in was one of the first to step forward to deliver Peiris has been a member of the Global States. China Telecom is vulnerable steering the locally founded entity to have essentials to many during this ongoing crisis Shapers Colombo Hub since 2014. “The Executive Branch to “exploitation, influence and onboard its platform 780 restaurants and the island nation is faced with. MORE ON P8 Mevan Peiris agencies identified substantial and control” by Beijing. MORE ON P8 SATURDAY, NEWS 08 APRIL 11, 2020

Janashakthi Life records a DFCC Bank offers convenient and safe banking double-digit growth in 2019 DFCC Bank, as a premier commercial bank in Sri Lanka and the Bank for Everyone, is committed n its milestone 25th year of operation, also extended our policy riders to to serving the nation, catering to the leading insurer, Janashakthi Insurance cover all our life customers on claims needs of the bank’s loyal clientele. IPLC recorded an impressive growth arising due to COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. During this time of crisis in the of 30 percent in the first-year premiums Furthermore, due to the prevailing country, the bank reiterates its pledge for the financial year of 2019, with situation and the decline in economic to serve all Sri Lankans by taking gross written premiums (GWP) of activity, we have revisited our the necessary precautions to provide Rs.3.5 billion. business strategies to counter COVID- uninterrupted financial services This commendable growth can be 19’s economic implications. As a through digital services and being attributed to the renewed singular focus purpose-driven insurer, we remain agile according to the government and on life insurance, which the company committed to uplift the lives of our Central Bank directives to ensure the embarked on in a strategic step in 2018. community and to support each other safety of all citizens. The company’s post-tax profits stood to navigate this prevailing emergency DFCC digital banking services at Rs.398 million for the period ended situation of health and economic Through its digital banking December 31, 2019. Janashakthi Life’s challenge posed by the COVID-19 channels, DFCC Bank facilitates not investment income was at Rs.1,643 pandemic,” commented Janashakthi only convenience for customers but million at the end of the period under Insurance PLC Director/Chief dedicates itself to provide superior review, recording a growth of 8 percent Executive Officer Jude Fernando. customer service of its multi-faceted year on year. Janashakthi Life’s net Over quarter of a century, products and services on offer. claims and benefits grew by 18 percent Janashakthi Life Chairman Prakash Schaffter Janashakthi Life CEO Jude Fernando Janashakthi Life continued on a robust DFCC Virtual Wallet and DFCC year-on-year, from Rs.1,510 million to journey of growth, becoming a trusted Online Banking bring you the Rs.1,924. impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The paramount importance, especially with insurance partner and a household convenience of conducting regular “During our 25th milestone year, safety and well-being of our community this unforeseen global crisis of COVID- name in Sri Lanka. A strong ‘life DFCC Bank on Wheels service in financial transactions such as fund operation we truly witnessed the benefits of our is our priority and it is crucial that we 19 impacting us all. We assure you insurance’ network and dedicated call transfers and utility bill payments in the strategic shift of returning to our roots comply with the government regulations that we are committed to empower centres, strengthen Janashakthi Life’s safety of your home. As per the Central and will be available in the Western with a singular focus on life insurance. and take necessary precautionary and support our communities in these formidable presence across the nation. Bank directives, now customers can province in the coming days. Steered mainly by innovation and our measures as advised, to prevent further challenging times. With our enhanced The company continues to uplift open and activate these facilities online customer-driven approach, the company spread of the virus,” commented digital capabilities implemented lives and empower dreams through Branch operations without stepping to a branch to do the As per the Central Bank directive, the embarked on a steady path of growth Janashakthi Insurance PLC Chairman in 2019, we have activated several consistent innovations in line with KYC verifications. within the year 2019. However, 2020 will Prakash Schaffter. online alternatives to ensure safety customer requirements whilst also selected branches of DFCC Bank will Additionally, by using DFCC Pay app, remain open in order to provide counter be an exceptionally challenging year for “Health and safety of our employees, and convenience of our customers in remaining true to the strong principle the customers can conduct payments the economy due to the unprecedented customers and community are of this time of need. Further, we have of integrity. transactions from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 through VISA QR, LANKA QR, Just a.m. in curfew areas. However, DFCC Pay and POS machines, which are Bank has taken the necessary actions to enabled for processing QR payments. implement safety measures to protect This provides the experience of the the customers who visit the branch to contactless transaction to the customer, conduct their financial transactions. which is a most important fact due to Gloves and face masks are being Sri Lanka Insurance Ceylinco Life opens multiple channels to the current situation of the country. used by all staff members, including joins hands with DFCC Bank on Wheels service security officials, while hand sanitizers interact with customers staying home In the operation of controlling and washbasins are fixed inside the ayubo.life to provide the COVID-19 outbreak by the branch and the ATM premises for Ceylinco Life has announced it lapsed policy.” or WhatsApp and Viber accounts Government of Sri Lanka, the public customers to maintain their well-being. online medical care is offering multiple online payment Among the premium payment on 077 5776556. has been instructed to stay indoors. The regular cleaning of mostly and communications options as methods offered by Ceylinco Life The policyholders that need to Understanding the requirement of touched surfaces, elevators, ATM Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation (SLIC) in well as facilitation of settlement are the ‘Easy Pay’ option hosted on make a claim are advised to call the withdrawing cash during this trying machines with disinfectants also is collaboration with ayubo.life provides free access to of claims, to ensure policyholder the company’s website, which can company’s call centre, which would time, DFCC Bank launched ‘Bank on in process in order to maintain good online medical care to SLIC policyholders. requirements are met as they stay be accessed and operated with ease. then set the process in motion by Wheels’ service recently to visit the hygiene practices at the workplace. All SLIC policyholders are eligible to receive COVID- safe in their homes to protect The policy number is all that is arranging for necessary documents customer’s doorstep to provide cash Financial concessions 19 quarantine assistance and medical support services themselves, their families and the required for payment of premiums to be sent via email or WhatsApp withdrawals and check bank balance due to COVID-19 through ayubo.life mobile application. community against the spread with minimum hassle. for claim settlement direct to the services without stepping to a branch Further, DFCC Bank has taken The COVID-19 relief-based benefits consist of of COVID-19. Ceylinco Life also offers a policyholders’ accounts. and encouraging them to stay at home. necessary action to grant financial an initial assessment of each individual by qualified Sri Lanka’s life insurance leader ‘Direct Pay’ option via SMS, where Declared the Peoples Life All DFCC bank customers along with concessions for its valuable clients medical practitioners. Further, comprehensive health said it has activated web-based, a link is sent for customers to enter Insurance Service Provider of other bank customers can access this affected by the COVID-19 pandemic status questionnaires will be updated and daily mobile-phone-based and app-based their policy details and credit/debit the Year for the 14th consecutive service by using their VISA, MasterCard, based on the Central Bank directives symptoms check will be conducted in order to review payment options to ensure policies card credentials securely online. year at the 2020 SLIM-Nielsen AMEX and JCB debit cards issued by local and the relief guidelines issued by the the progress. will not lapse during the period Additionally, the company said Peoples Awards, Ceylinco Life was banks to withdraw up to Rs.150,000. Sri Lankan government. Customers Through these services, the SLIC policyholders of curfew and self-quarantine and it has partnered with most major also adjudged Sri Lanka’s most The Bank on Wheels service were could avail these privileges by now can channel doctors online. 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Contd. from Page 7 as liquidity in international markets could be hotline has been setup to assist the exporters. its share of cuts. Another virtual meeting is scheduled for dry for some time. “We are confident that we will weather Brent Crude was down 4.1 percent, June 10 “to determine further actions, as First Capital... “The current global situation poses a this storm and as we have done in the past, and West Texas Intermediate was 9.3 needed to balance the market”, OPEC said. significant risk to our economy with the Sri Lanka will emerge stronger than ever percent lower. The current agreement also foresees a six Typically the second quarter growth inability to raise funds in the international and continue focusing on our main goal - mbpd cut from January 2021 through April comes muted due to New Year holidays markets amidst the current volatility and the recommencing exports, restoring them to 2022. An extension to the cooperation deal in Sri Lanka. lack of interest in emerging and frontier bond their former level and increasing them,” the will be reviewed in December next year, “The only thing that favours Sri Lanka is markets. Therefore, Sri Lanka may have to EDB stressed. OPEC said. that, Q2 is usually Sri Lanka’s’ worst quarter focus on bilateral loans, similar to the recent Colombo Rubber... in any given year due to the April new year Chinese loan. As the government will have to The brokers, traders and buyers of rubber holidays”, stated First Capital projecting a lean more on the domestic market for deficit were requested by the CRTA to strictly adhere near zero growth in 2Q. financing, Fitch expected rupee borrowing to the guidelines on COVID-19 preparedness Meanwhile contrary to common requirement to significantly increase towards Asian markets... for workplace (rubber auction) specified by US threatens... notion, First Capital said that they believe 3Q and 4Q which will in turn put pressure on “And it sure sounds like they have plenty the Health and Indigenous Medical Services The agencies also made the recommendation Sri Lanka’s current account could be the interest rates from the 2H20. more dynamite if needed.” Ministry during grading of rubber samples and based on “the nature of China Telecom’s US positively impacted given Sri Lanka’s net The European Union also followed the US the auction process. operations,” which they said allow Chinese importer status. with its own rescue package worth 500 billion The Plantation Industries and Export government actors “to engage in malicious “Heavy dip in imports is likely to be led euros (US$ 550 billion) to ease the impact of Agriculture Ministry facilitated this initiative cyber activity enabling economic espionage by the global price dip in oil and the usage COVID-19 in the 27-nation bloc. by requesting the respective authorities to and disruption and misrouting of US dip in Sri Lanka. In addition, significant EDB requests... Millions of jobs have been shed assist the rubber sector and its supply chain communications.” dip in consumer items such as vehicles However, operations of apparel and textile during the pandemic, with data released to allow commencement of work and obtain The recommendation has to be decided upon and imported F&B items are likely to plants are unlikely to recommence anytime Thursday showing 17 million people have curfew passes without disturbances. by the FCC, but will almost certainly involve push imports lower. With a possible dip soon as the export orders are either dried up lost their jobs in the United States alone The quantities on offer at the auction were the White House, where it could be weighed in apparel exports, a significant dip in or had got cancelled. The apparel and textile since mid-March. Latex / Skim / Scrap Crepe – 298,650 Kg and amid ongoing trade negotiations with Beijing. raw material imports may also contribute exports accounts for over 40 percent of the But investors appear to be focused more RSS – 26,971 Kg excluding re-prints from Yesterday, the Chinese foreign ministry said it towards lower imports,” they said. They country’s merchandise export basket. on the impact of the stimulus packages and the last auction held on March 13. was “firmly opposed” to the recommendation. estimate the dip in imports to outweigh The EDB has already cut the original target if they will be able to achieve the stability The highest price paid for Latex Crepe “We urge the US to abide by market the dip in exports and will remain for export of goods and services by 40 percent governments are hoping for. 1X amounted to Rs.350 per Kg. RSS grades principles, stop its wrong practices of using for sometime in tourism, apparel and from the original target of US$ 18.5 billion to The latest emergency measures came as the remained unquoted. national security as a catchphrase and worker remittance. US$ 10.75 billion. International Monetary Fund warned that 170 The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association politicising commercial matters, as well as “We have seen this happening during the Despite the current adverse environment, of its 180 members would see declines in per wishes to continue the auctions with one stop unfairly suppressing Chinese enterprises,” global recessions in 2001 and 2008 as well. Subasinghe noted that food and agricultural capita income this year. sale per week and will resume two sales spokesman Zhao Lijian said. Therefore we expect a similar pattern during exports and certain segments of rubber exports “We anticipate the worst economic fallout per week once the situation in the country this crisis as well which could favour Sri such as rubber gloves remain stable. since the Great Depression,” said IMF chief returns to normalcy. Lanka’s current account,” said Dimantha “The EDB is assured that, given sufficient Kristalina Georgieva, urging governments to Mathews, the author of the report and the time, the world will recover and as for our provide lifelines to businesses and households Head of Research for Investments in Fixed nation, we are survivors. We will come out of alike, and cautioned that “it could get worse”. PickMe’s Mevan... Income and Equity. this crisis with the help of our exporters who All major oil producers except Mexico, He represented Sri Lanka as a Youth However there are risks in areas of debt must now collaboratively start their businesses meanwhile, agreed to cut output and May Top oil producers... Delegate at the Commonwealth Youth Forum re-financing and budget deficit financing, First and help our country in time of need,” the and June by 10 million barrels a day after Talks dragged on into the small hours of 2013. He was also a facilitator at the World Capital said. They estimate a budget deficit of EDB asserted. marathon talks to stabilise crude prices. yesterday. Bloomberg News reported that Conference on Youth 2014. 9 to 10 percent of GDP for 2020, higher than Further, it urged that all stakeholders should Oil has plummeted to near-two-decade lows the main sticking point was the refusal of In 2014 Peiris represented Sri Lanka at the their original estimate of 7 percent. come together and go forth into the world in in recent weeks because of the pandemic’s Mexico to sign up to its share of cuts under World Mock Mediation Championship in As 3Q and 4Q will pose higher risks for Sri search of new markets, new customers whilst impact on the global economy and a bruising the deal, which would have been 400,000 Chicago and won an award for ‘Outstanding Lanka in repaying sovereign bond and budget strengthening existing relationships and price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia. barrels per day. Advocate’.In 2019 Peiris was appointed to deficit financing, First Capital expects the continuing to provide quality exports. But while Riyadh and Moscow have agreed, Mexican Energy Minister Rocio Nahle the Advisory Council of the World Economic government would focus on bilateral loans The EDB reiterated that it is fully OPEC said the deal can only take effect after Garcia tweeted that her country had Forum’s Global Shaper Community for a such as the one similar to the Chinese loan committed to support all exporters and a consent from Mexico - which did not agree to suggested a cut of 100,000 barrels. term ending 2021. (SAA) SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2020 SPORTS Wright WORLD RUGBY CALENDAR appointed Derbyshire WILL GO THROUGH A MAJOR CC President Former New Zealand batsman John Wright has been appointed President of the Derbyshire Cricket CHANGE - RIZLY ILLYAS Club. He replaces Harold Rhodes, who served as BY SHAMZEER JALEEL President over the past year. Wright, who scored more than 9,000 runs across ri Lanka Rugby (SLR) all formats for his country, is widely regarded as one Deputy President Rizly of Derbyshire’s finest ever players. Illyas yesterday said that Between 1977 and 1988, Wright scored a total World Rugby (WR) and of 10,638 First-Class runs and 4,331 List ‘A’ runs, the Asia rugby calendar including 31 centuries and a top score of 190. Swill go through a major change Speaking about the appointment, Chairman Ian following the Coronavirus Morgan said: “John is one of the greatest batsmen pandemic which has locked down to ever play for Derbyshire, scoring more than all sports around the globe. 14,000 runs for the club. “The world will change “Even when his playing days ended, John kept significantly and marketers in a close relationship with the club and enjoyed rugby need to understand and success in his return as a coach. His contribution navigate the new landscape in and commitment to the club over many years has short and long term,” he said. been immense and I am delighted that he has “During this period, the SLR will accepted the role of club president in this our need to research and have insights Rizly Illyas Asanga Rodrigo Nigel Ratwatte 150th year.” of the tournaments of home and Wright, who led New Zealand in 14 Tests and away around Asia and share the 31 ODIs, is also an experienced coach at both knowledge with the unions, clubs, as it is professional now,” at the effected countries, this will Knock-Out Rugby Tournament. international and domestic levels -having served as schools and players.” he elaborated. go on for some time until the world “This is a great setback for the Head Coach of the Indian Team in early 2000s. “The World Rugby and Asia “SLR will plan its strategies finds a solution. Let’s stay safe and the Police SC Team after being Wright said: “I hold Derbyshire very close to rugby calendar will also go through and partway with the Asian enjoy the time with the family.” the runners-up in the league my heart and I am honoured to serve as the club a major change and the SLR Rugby Football Union (ARFU) “Although it will be a huge tournament,” he revealed. President.” (AGENCIES) will have to adapt accordingly,” sponsors in line with regulations burden on the sponsors to “The Inter-Club Seven-A-Side John Wright he added. “Looking at rugby in made by the Sports and continue with their assistance Tournament is also scheduled to Sri Lanka we need to currently Education Ministries keeping in we sincerely hope that they will be held in May but now it seems focus on how life will move line with the spirit of the game,” continue with the sponsorships impossible with the stringent forward in terms of living a he concluded. to keep the game moving,” measures taken to eradicate normal day-to-day life more Meanwhile, the Captain of he emphasised. the pandemic from Sri Lanka.” than getting to a pitch and the League champions, Kandy Police SC Head Coach, “Losing the Sevens Tournament Cummins playing the game.” Sports Club, Nigel Ratwatte Asanga Rodrigo said the this year will be a great loss for “The structure of the game said that all must cooperate with Coronavirus pandemic has the Police SC Team as they played in terms of tournaments will the authorities and follow the upended all sports when well in the event held last year,” preparing for IPL definitely change and we guidelines set by the medical experts they were just getting he added. cannot put away the sport to eradicate this menace. “Looking ready for the Clifford Cup PIX BY SHAMZEER JALEEL in empty stadiums Holding hints Australian pace bowler Pat Cummins is ‘super hopeful’ that the Indian Premier League (IPL) will go ahead this year despite the COVID-19 pandemic, even if it retiring from cricket means matches are initially played in empty stadiums. The start of the Twenty20 tournament, originally scheduled for March 29, has been deferred to April commentary 15 and another postponement looks inevitable as India Fast bowling legend Holding, who played 60 Test locks down to prevent the spread of the virus. Michael Holding has hinted matches for the West Indies, said Cummins has good reason to want the IPL to get that he is unlikely to continue he might need to think extending underway having attracted a bid of US $2.18 million commentating beyond 2021 as his stint by a year if no cricket is from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the age is catching up with him. held this year due to the COVID- competition’s annual auction, a record for a non- One of the most respected 19 pandemic. Indian player. voices in world cricket, the “I told (Sky) that I could not The ICC Test Player-of-the-Year, however, 66-year-old Holding has commit to more than a year at a said getting the league underway would also be been with the Sky Sports for past time,” said Holding, who started an important illustration of the world returning 21 years. doing cricket commentary in 1991 to normal after the pandemic. “I am not too sure how much in the Caribbean. “The first priority is safety but the second one is further than 2020 I will be going “If this year gets totally getting back to normality, finding that balance,” with commentary. I cannot see destroyed, I might have to think the 26-year-old, named one of Wisden’s myself going much further down about 2021 because I can’t five cricketers of the year on Wednesday, the road at my age. I am 66 years just walk away from Sky, a told the BBC. old now, I am not 36, 46 or 56,” the company that has done so “If that unfortunately means no crowds for West Indies pace great told the much good for me,” added a while then that is that, but hopefully people Mason and Guest radio talk show the former fast bowler. can watch at home on TV.” Michael Holding in Barbados. (Agencies) Cummins said playing the IPL behind closed doors would have a “totally different feel about it”. “When people ask about the difference between playing cricket in India the first Playing different formats on thing is the crowd,” he added. “They scream every single ball whether it’s a six or a wicket - it’s the same noise every successive days feasible - Giles ball - so that atmosphere is something that we love about playing in India.” England could field separate Test and separate venues to maximise the broadcasters on what’s best and what Pat Cummins has REUTERS limited-overs teams to play matches on amount of cricket in a truncated they want. That’s another important attracted a bid of successive days as part of a compressed summer. “Technically it’s feasible,” former partnership for us.” US $2.18m home season due to the COVID-19 spinner Giles told British media. “They will be suffering at the pandemic said the England and Wales “You could put two different groups moment and we are very much all in Cricket Board (ECB) Director of Cricket together. We haven’t really looked at this together.” Kapil not in Ashley Giles. that, like that, yet.” Giles hoped at least some cricket England have suspended However, Giles thought it more would be played this summer though professional cricket until at least May likely that matches could take place on he conceded hosting the West Indies for favour of Indo- 28 due to the outbreak and uncertainty consecutive days. a three-Test series in June was looking also looms over their home series “We’ve certainly looked at playing ‘less and less likely.’ Pak match to against the West Indies, Pakistan, two formats around the same time,” “The deadline of May 28 still Australia and Ireland. he added. “You could have a Test match stands but it’s looking less and less raise funds Wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler running and play a T20 or an ODI the likely that we’re going to be out there A fund-raising suggestion has said England could field two day before or the day after a Test match.” in June,” he said. Ashley Giles believes different teams on the same day at “But it’s also working with the REUTERS matches could take to help COVID-19 victims by place on successive days Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar drew a sharp response from former India Captain and all-rounder Kapil Dev, who ridiculed the idea of a match No point of having IPL English cricket between the two countries to raise funds. Kapil Dev behind closed can weather virus Akhtar had expressed his view that India and Pakistan play an in-camera doors - Madan Lal storm – Andrew three-match series and the money collected from the Former India cricketer such a popular sport and Sussex Chief in a conference contests be divided equally between the two nations. Madan Lal feels any is loved by all. Even the Executive Rob call. “Outlandish,” Kapil told Sportstar. “In these decision on the fate of players would like to play Andrew believes “In those sports times you must be out of your mind to even the 13th edition of the in front of crowds and that English cricket the cost bases are Former cricket think of playing any sport, leave aside cricket. Is Indian Premier League can only happen once the is better placed driven by TV money it feasible? It is so far-fetched an idea to expect (IPL) can be taken only situation fully improves,” to cope with the and they are driven commentator cricketers to play even as the world is engaged in once the situation he added. financial impact predominantly in a battle to defeat the deadly Coronavirus.” improves completely “There’s no point in of the coronavirus player wages.” passes away As Kapil pointed out, “These are difficult times. amid the ongoing playing IPL matches in than either his The county Former cricket in P. Sara Trophy Cricket India doesn’t need funds from someone in its fight coronavirus pandemic. Madan Lal front of empty stands. old sport of rugby Rob Andrew championship, commentator R. K. S. Tournaments before against this virus. It is not a matter of money at all. “IPL is a big brand. But It’s not just about the union or football. comprising four- Sureshchandra passed away switching to cricket What counts is that we need to understand the the board can only take a decision once players and the fans, it’s about other “Yes, cricket has some day matches, was due to after a brief illness in Fiji commentaries. gravity of the situation and stay inside the house.” the situation improves and coronavirus people who are also involved in the challenges but you could start on Sunday but English yesterday. He was 73 years He was an old boy of Holy Rated one of the greatest cricketers the game has is gone. At the moment, it’s on upstage. process while travelling, organising, argue it’s got fewer than cricket is shut down until old at the time of his death. Cross College and Thurstan known, Kapil emphasised, “cricket is not on anyone’s So, no one is going to take a risk,” broadcasting, etc,” Lal, who was part of maybe football or rugby at least May 28, with the The late Sureshchandra College. His funeral will mind. In any case, when you play a match, there will “Once coronavirus is gone, cricket the 1983 World Cup-winning team, said. union,” former England fly expectation of further represented the Colombo take place on Sunday (12) be so many people involved. That is not the time for can obviously take place because it’s (Agencies) half Andrew told reporters postponements. AFP University and Bloomfield in Fiji. such an event.” (Agencies)

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