Vibhasha 2012 January - February 1

January / February 2012 | A publication of the Centre for Policy Alternatives | Volume II | Issue III Violation of the Official Languages Policy: The Official Languages Commission receives Eastern Police Heads’ observations

According to the Chairman According to observations to the Official Languages and conducting of the Official Languages presented by the Assistant Commission are as below. investigations in Tamil is Commission Nimal Ranawake, Superintendent of the already underway »» 70 Tamil and 15 Muslim his organization has already Batticaloa Police Division, Police Officers with Tamil »» A Police Officer proficient taken the necessary first steps 12 Police Stations fall under language skills have been in Tamil has been made in relation to the complaints the Batticaloa Division, and employed to serve at all available at the location received by the Centre for Tamil and Muslim Police stations within the Mannar where complaints are Policy Alternatives regarding Officers have been appointed several incidents of language Police Division recorded for the ease of to these stations in order to policy violations, and he Tamil speaking citizens record statements made by »» There are only two Woman was at present in receipt the Tamil speaking citizenry, Police Constables with »» Complaints and statements of observations from the as well as to assist with traffic Tamil language skills – are recorded in the Batticaloa and Mannar Senior there is a shortage of WPCs information book in both Superintendent of Police duty. Additional Sinhala Divisions regarding the Officers who have received within Mannar Division Sinhala and Tamil by way Tamil language training of Police Officers who have same. »» Officers In Charge of Police have also been appointed to skills in both languages Stations within the Division The above was stated in a these Stations according to have been informed to »» A Tamil language letter sent by the Chairman of the Senior Superintendent the Commission, informing the record statements and training program is being of Police Batticaloa Division. Centre for Policy Alternatives conduct investigations conducted in order to The observations sent by of the action taken in relation utilizing Officers with improve the Officers’ level the Senior Superintendent to its complaints. Tamil language skills – the of proficiency of Police Mannar Division recording of statements To page 12 The Public Consultation on Language Rights in Sri Lanka commences

Minister of National Languages and Social Integration M.A. Sumanthiran, Attorney at Law and A group of participants Vasudeva Nanayakkara Member of Parliament

The Civil Society Collective The participants at the Women’s Organization, the Trincomalee Sarvodaya for the Promotion of Language Public Consultation, which was Movement for the Defense of Shramadana Movement, act as Rights recently conducted held on the 12th of December at Democratic Rights, National members of this collective. a Public Consultation on the Mahaweli Centre, were from Fisheries Solidarity Movement, A few ideas that were Promoting Language Rights in countrywide and represented People Help Foundation – expressed at this Public Sri Lanka in commemoration of a range of Community Based Mannar, Rural Development Consultation are presented in the International Human Rights Organizations. Foundation – Vavuniya, this issue of Vibhasha via the Day which fell on the 10th of The Centre for Policy Foundation of Rural Economic inside pages. December. Alternatives, Eastern United Development – Panama and 2 Vibhasha 2012 January - February The Colombo Municipality also violates language rights A complaint to the Human Rights Commission

The Centre for Policy Alternatives has submitted a complaint to the Human Rights Commission regarding the building permit applications issued by the Colombo Municipal Council not being made available in the Tamil language. The complaint, made on the 1st of February 2012 bearing the number HRC 636/2012 alleges that the Colombo Municipal Council is in violation of the Fundamental Rights set out via Article 12(1) of the Constitution with regards to Colombo Municipal Council the Tamil speaking citizenry, and requests that an order to states that according to residents are Tamil speakers. building permit application this effect be made and due the Department of Census The complaint also forms in Tamil in order to redress provided. and Statistics, over 50% of requests that an order be prevent this continued The complaint also the Colombo Municipality’s issued to make available the violation of rights. Sinhala-Tamil Writers’ Association Hindi is a Foreign to build a National Writers’ Centre Language, an Indian Court decides. The Sinhala-Tamil encompassing several Association, the Writers’ Association areas related to program covers several An Indian Court recently made a ruling that established in 2009 national languages activities including amply illustrates the priority given to languages with the intention of and social betterment, the establishment of rights in the Indian Constitution. building amity and was taken during a a translation unit to A news item published in the Divayina mutual understanding recent discussion identify and translate newspaper of Monday the 2nd of January stated amongst writers from held between selected works of thus. the different ethnic representatives of literature published “The Gujarat State High Court decides that communities in Sri the Sinhala-Tamil in the Sinhala and Hindi is a foreign language.” Lanka, has decided to Writers’ Association Tamil languages, and The above was stated during the decision build a National Writers’ and the Minister of a ceremony to honour on a case filed by a citizen of Gujarat against the Centre. It is reported National Languages Sinhala, Tamil and National Highways Authority of India. that this decision and Social Integration Muslim writers who While the National Highways Authority of India to build a National Vasudeva Nanayakkara. have made significant had sent a letter in Hindi to the citizens of Gujarat, Writers’ Centre, along According to a contributions to the Judge in providing the decision on the case with the decision to spokesperson of the languages and had stated that this is a foreign language that is not understood by the citizens of Gujarat. implement a program Sinhala-Tamil Writers’ literature. m%;sikaOdk fldñIka iNd jd¾;dj

Vibhasha 2012 January - February 3

Wishes for a Happy New Year in which language rights are protected 2012 dawns showing signs of a new enthusiasm regarding Public Consultation on language diversity and language rights within the country. Several items that made the headlines along with the dawn of Promoting Language Rights the New Year, illustrates this fervor. * The declaration of 2012 as the Year for a Trilingual Sri Lanka A few ideas expressed at the Public * The launch of a 10 year plan (2012 – 2022) towards a Consultation on Promoting Language Rights trilingual Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka, conducted by the In addition, while the report of the Commission of Inquiry on Lessons Learned and Reconciliation, published at the end Civil Society Collective for the of last year, presented several discourse generating factors via Promotion of Language Rights on the its observations and recommendations, several suggestions towards ensuring language rights were also presented even 12th of December 2011 in commemoration of the earlier via the proposals of the All Party Representatives International Human Rights Day which fell on the 10th Committee which preceded it. Meanwhile, the Ministry of of December, are presented below. National Languages and Social Integration, was also showing new fervour in its activities, via providing leadership to a new program aimed at creating a network of Language Committees, through which to carry out language teaching activities and seek solutions to language related problems, which is currently underway. While the above took place, several Non Governmental Organizations and Community Based Organizations including the Centre for Policy Alternatives also launched a number of programs aimed at the establishment of language rights within this country. The raising of awareness regarding language rights amongst the citizenry, and thereby prompting them into action towards obtaining these rights, have been ongoing continuously. While appreciating the keenness evidenced by the combination of all of these activities, on the other hand, it is also important to pay attention to the question of how to take this enthusiasm towards an ending in which results are obtained. It is important here to identify the fact that there are two avenues related to the present zeal. One of them is an avenue of education, based on the belief that the problem can be solved via teaching Tamil to the Onwards and upwards Sinhalese, and Sinhala to the Tamils. Presently, with the addition of English, it has now become a trilingual project. Lionel Guruge Language education is intrinsically fruitful. There is no Coordinator, Outreach Unit debate as to its ability to solve many a problem. Centre for Policy Alternatives However, in examining the origins of the language rights issue within the history of Sri Lanka, it is also not difficult This Public Consultation on Promoting Language Rights in Sri Lanka was to understand that it is not a problem related to language organized over a period of several months following a study that examined education alone. language rights issues via several avenues. It is a fundamental necessity to also understand it politically We chose to conduct this Consultation on this day as language rights is as a human right. This is the fundamental truth that should be an important topic that should be discussed on Human Rights Day. We have understood, particularly when looking back from within a post three objectives. They are; war society. »» Coordinating Civil Society Organizations and ensuring their language It becomes a fundamental necessity here to accept it rights as a human right, deeply understand the social aspirations articulated therein, and provide due respect and acceptance. »» Taking a coordinated stand regarding language rights It is through the right combination of these two avenues, »» Legally ensuring the right to work in Sinhala and Tamil that the full benefits of this new interest in languages seen During this journey, we have noted that persons on both sides bear with the dawning of the New Year can be reaped. It is the narrow views regarding language rights. It is apparent that there has not responsibility of all citizens of this country who are sensitive yet been a systematic discourse on what language rights are. However, we to language rights, to prepare the newly dawned year for this should keep moving onwards and upwards. task. To page 6 4 Vibhasha 2012 January - February A few language lessons to be learned Based on the Report of the Commission of Inquiry on Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation

the two communities. Teaching sought representations from the work in progress for Tamil to Sinhala children and persons engaged in a variety of recruiting Tamil-speaking Sinhala to Tamil children will It is language that fields. Police officers, the Commission unifies and binds a notes with regret that result in greater understanding Along with Chairman recommendations on urgent of each other’s cultures. nation. Therefore, it is C.R. de Silva, Attorney at Law measures made by the 9.244 The proper Manohari Ramanathan, former Commission in its interim essential that policies implementation of the language Secretary to the Treasury C. communication to the President relating to language policy and ensuring trilingual Chanmugam, former Secretary on these matters have yet to be (Sinhala, Tamil and English) are formulated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs implemented. fluency of future generations H.M.G.S Palihakkara, former towards this end. becomes vitally important. A Legal Advisor to the Ministry 9.241 The official bodies tri-lingual education will allow It is imperative of Foreign Affairs Dr. Rohan for executing the language children from very young days that the official Perera, International Terrorism policies and monitoring to get to understand each other. Observer and expert in Criminal performance should have languages policy adequate representation of Law Professor Hangawatte, 9.245 The Commission the Tamil speaking people is implemented former High Court Judge welcomes the government and Tamil speaking regions. in an effective Maxwell Paranagama, former initiative for a trilingual nation The full implementation of Ambassador S.B. Atugoda, and by the year 2020. To this end the manner to promote the language policy should senior Attorney at Law M.T.M. necessary budgetary provisions include action plans broken understanding, Bafiq served as members of this must be made available on a down to the community level, diversity and Commission. priority basis for teacher training and appropriately covering the and staffing. national integration. A summary of observations Divisions and Local Bodies with and recommendations from targets that can be monitored 9.246 No district or province the Commission report was with citizen participation. should be categorized in terms The report of the submitted to Parliament on the of language. Officers in 9.242 The people of the Commission of Inquiry 16th of December 2011. North and East are separated Government service should on Lessons Learnt and A summary of from the people of the South possess language skills to serve Reconciliation was handed over key observations and due to communication in any part of the country. to President Mahinda Rajapakse recommendations included barriers. Every attempt must 9.247 It should be made by former Attorney General therein related to the language be made to create a sense compulsory that all Government C.R. de Silva on the 20th of policy of this country are of belonging among all the offices have Tamil-speaking November 2011. presented below. citizens irrespective of race, officers at all times. In the case The Commission conducted 9.238 The Commission religion or social status. It is of Police Stations they should inquiries into events that heard from many Tamil language that unifies and have bi-lingual officers on a unfolded in both the North persons and noted the sense binds a nation. Therefore, it is 24-hour basis. A complainant and East as well as the South of marginalization expressed essential that policies relating should have the right to have of the country from the 22nd by them due to the language to language are formulated his/her statement taken down in of February 2002, when the policy and the deficiencies in towards this end. It is imperative the language of their choice. Ceasefire Agreement signed by its implementation followed by that the official languages 9.248 The Official Languages the then United National Party successive Governments. policy is implemented in an Prime Minister and the LTTE effective manner to promote Commission is centralized and took effect, up to the cessation 9.239 The Commission understanding, diversity and based in Colombo and not easily of the conflict on the 19th of during its visits to the affected national integration. accessible to rural citizenry. The May 2009 with the assassination areas witnessed firsthand, that Language Commission should 9.243 The learning of each of Velupillai Prabhakaran and even today many persons of the be an authority with effective others’ languages should be several high ranking members. minority communities are made powers of implementation, and to transact business not in the made a compulsory part of the also with branches in every The Commission language of their choice. school curriculum. This would province. commenced its investigations be a primary tool to ensure on the 11th of August 2010, and 9.240 Whilst acknowledging attitudinal changes amongst To the next issue Vibhasha 2012 January - February 5

Published below are a few news items related to bilingualism carried in the Sinhala and Tamil language newspapers. This segment looks at how language rights issues are depicted in the local media. The segment also examines local mainstream media’s effectiveness in identifying the true issues related to language rights.

Tamil and Sinhala language teacher reserve for training government officials

Shriyani Wijesinghe Lakbima, 04.08.2011, page 19

The National Institute of Language Education and Training has taken steps to create a reserve of teachers with the objective of teaching Sinhala and Tamil to government officials. According to Mr. Prasath Herath, Director General of National Institute of Language Education and Training, a teacher training program has also been launched as the current approximate 600 It is our responsibility to teacher total is inadequate to meet the need. protect languages As such, preparations have been made to conduct a 10 day residential training, commencing on the 8th of August, at the National Institute of Language Education and Training in N.M. Kumaravelan other languages. In such a setting, Agalawatte. The program will be conducted in two phases, with Vavuniya correspondent Tamil should be given its due each phase training approximately 80 persons, thereby training place within the compilation and 160 persons per year. Weerakesari, 17th August 2011 have its longevity assured. The program intends to use scientific and enjoyable methods by While the securing of an exist- Via a special program to which to teach the officials. ing language happens on several protect languages, the Indian Those who are A/Level qualified and able to teach Tamil, as well as levels, steps should be taken to government has set aside provi- those who have received a Credit pass for Tamil in their O/Levels ensure the independence and sions to computerize and compile are qualified to apply. a codified volume of languages identity of Tamil within a multi lingual setting. In addition, steps have also been taken to conduct a 10 day including Sanskrit and 22 other residential training program to increase the Sinhala proficiency This compilation will include scheduled languages. Though level of Tamil language teachers within the Jaffna District. Tamil has been allotted 128 char- Tamil along with several other acter slots in this system, Tamil languages. It will also include The training program will be held at the Kopai Teacher Training linguistics experts point out that the over 70 different symbol School in Jaffna from 20th to the 30th of August. 80 teachers have Tamil needs 350 character slots in characters that belong to these been chosen for this. order to place it appropriately. languages. This is a language In addition, Iramanu Sharma project that has its creation A program to provide bilingual of the Kanjipuram Sangarach- based in history. While it should chariyar Ashram has suggested be adequately controlled and its skills free in concurrence with the that 27 of the 68 letters of the benefits reaped, steps should also President’s 2nd term Sanskrit alphabet (the remaining be taken to protect its historicity. 41 letters are already shared by The effort should move forward Gayathri Geeganaarachchi Sanskrit and Tamil), should be with an adequate understanding Lakbima, 13.12.2011, page 17 amalgamated with Tamil letters. of this historic responsibility. However critics point out that this Further, in your paper dated A program to provide bilingual skills to Sri Lankans for free, in is an effort to destroy the Tamil 17.07.2011, in the article titled language. concurrence with the President’s 2nd term in office, has been “The world quaking enigma”, the launched by the Ministry of National Languages and Social The long term damage caused French word “theyava” is given an Integration. The program is conducted with the aim of providing to the Tamil language as a result amazing Tamil description by you. bilingual skills to all government officials, students, and the general of intermittent amalgamations Such matters should also public by 2016. with Sanskrit, has been immense. be considered part of the effort It has also been a reason behind While this program will be conducted at the District level, its taken to destroy Tamil via the the destruction of the Tamil Monaragala District workshop commenced recently in the infusion of Sanskrit. It is the language in many ways. Such Thanamalwila Hambegamuwa service area. Tamil Level III classes amalgamations lead to the loss of identity and antiquity of Tamil were launched herein for officials of government and private independence of a language. A that is harmed by such acts. As institutions, and students. Those who complete this continuous situation of disuse and eventual such I would like to state that the course will then be eligible to follow the Tamil Level II course. More extinction of a multitude of world responsibility of protecting it falls information about this course can be obtained via contacting languages has also arisen as a on the speakers of the language the National Integration Promotion Assistant of the Monaragala result of such amalgamations with and on the media. District. 6 Vibhasha 2012 January - February

obstacles, inconveniences and embarrassments were faced by people in their day to day lives due to the failure to implement the Official Language Policy of the country. This could be due to a lack of prioritization by the Legislature as well as the Executive of the issue of language rights. The fact that we still hear of the obstacles and humiliations faced by citizens, coming from this failure, shows Public Consultation on the lack of commitment, and sincerity on the part of the Promoting Language Rights powers that be in this regard. In this post war situation, Disrespecting language rights is an our main challenge now is to implemented.” insult to a people move to a post conflict situation, Dr. Saravanamuttu stated where the sources of the conflict the below in closing. Dr. P. Saravanamuttu are not sustained and not “Language is the means of Executive Director, Centre for Policy Alternatives reproduced. Those sources arise communication of people. If from the simple fact that our people cannot communicate architectures, institutions and they will live in isolation without Dr. Saravanamuttu language rights could have a processes of governance do not understanding or sympathy. It welcomed participants to the certain political potential, which convince all the people of this also underscores the identity, consultation, and went on to can be exploited. island that they belong here, culture, and aspirations of a that they are part of this, that say that language rights could He went on to say that people. If it is not respected be considered a human right they are stakeholders and not and given a place in society, better attention to language hapless bystanders. that affects the largest number rights could make an important this is an insult and a rejection of people in the country, in difference to the people of this If we are to move into being of the people who speak practice, as well as being country. Outlining the history a trilingual society we need, that language, and will not perhaps arguably the least of language rights in Sri Lanka, as civil society and as ordinary contribute to reconciliation and interesting in terms of state he pointed out that the Official citizens to put as much pressure to the robust national unity or political actors. He pointed Languages Commission was in on such moribund institutions needed for this country to move out that one can even say that place from 1990. to make sure that language forwards towards a post conflict this apathy or lack of regard to rights are respected and fully situation.” “Yet many challenges,

actually greater than before. make a statement in Jaffna at For example as recent as 2010, the Thellippalai Police Station after the war ended and after in Sinhala, and I told the officers a Minister was appointed for that this was a violation of my National Language and Social rights - soldiers in full uniform Integration, the currency notes had stormed a meeting and issue came up. The Indian dispersed it. In any case rupee has thirteen languages whatever language I had put written on it. Our currency note it in, there would not have previously had the ‘promise to been any redress. Language is pay’ section in Tamil. not really the important issue I disagree with people who here. There has to be a shift in say we must all get together the thinking of the governors. and implement the Language People should be ready for it. Policy. No. The Language There are enough circulars; What is needed is a change of attitudes Policy has to be implemented there must be a fundamental by the government. Just change of attitudes. People M.A. Sumanthiran preparing a policy, adjusting have to understand that it is a Attorney at Law, Member of Parliament the Constitution and making plural society, and the majority Tamil a National Language has to be able to live with that means nothing. You can say comfortably. Until then no “Often it was said that only the visible source. After trilingualism is a state policy – amount of complaints, circulars language was the root of the Tamil was made an Official that means nothing. or policy changes will do. conflict, but maybe that was Language, some problems were Six months ago I had to To page 14 Vibhasha 2012 January - February 7

Usage is necessary for learning a language

D.L.F Shamila Lecturer, University of Colombo

Language is a more emotional thing than a mere tool used to express ideas. As such, a Public Consultation on language is considered both a fundamental right in a country as well as a human right. Next Promoting Language Rights to religion, it is the language he speaks that a human focuses on the most. Various problems All parents should teach their children that if they learn will arise as a result of attempting to force a two languages they become not one person but two language other than his or her mother tongue people. Similarly if you know many languages you can on a person. become many people. Language is a subject that is different to We can be happy if all Sri Lankans receive the others. To learn it well, it must be used. opportunity to work in all three languages.

Language has no high and low status The role of Civil Society Organizations

Sanoji Perera in the promotion of language rights Assistant Commissioner, Official Languages Department B. Skandakumar human rights. Who is to blame for Circulars 3/2007 and of translators. A newspaper Senior Researcher, these rights being denied, are they 7/2008 have mandated that all advertisement was placed Law and Society Trust just prejudiced insensitive officials, government officials should calling for applications from or institutions which lack capacity, acquire proficiency in both persons with Sinhala and Mr Skandakumar began his speech equipment etc, or is it a systemic, Sinhala and Tamil in the near Tamil skills. We received 300 by sharing some of his more recent structural, or social problem? Af- future. As such, the Official applications and we expect experiences related to work in this ter you find out what the cause is Languages Department to add them to our reserve. If area. He pointed out that their where do you go to seek redress? is conducting classes to bilingualism develops within anticipated role is to raise under- We are fortunate that we do have a mechanism where those who have develop government officials’ the government service, we standing and awareness amongst suffered a violation, can go, and bilingualism as well as English would be able to provide a good the citizenry of their rights, with a submit a complaint. This brings us focus on affected persons with the skills. Further, as per circular service to those who come to to the next important issue, which aim of prompting them to claim 7/2008, all government officials us. Learning a language enables is, why then is it that Tamil speak- their rights. An extract from his should also obtain language us to utilize the contribution ers, even though they recognize speech is presented below. proficiency certification. of those peoples. There are that they have these rights, choose Finding translators can approximately 4000 languages “Beginning with the idea of recog- not to enforce them; why do they be difficult. As such, as a in use around the world. nizing that we have rights, how do not demand this justice? That is a solution to this problem, we Linguistically speaking one we understand that what we have much bigger issue which cannot have taken steps to form a language cannot be considered experienced is discrimination? be addressed by looking at lan- collective of translators that higher or lower than another. Then it is important to recognize guage rights itself in a vacuum. are spread out island wide and What we need to do is to for example that you have a right It is important for civil society to make them available through design a better government to transact with public servants in a be watchdogs, and to be alert and our department. As at now service via the development of language of your choice. Linguistic give voice on behalf of those who we have a 150 strong reserve trilingualism. rights are fundamental rights and have no voice.”

8 Vibhasha 2012 January - February

Addressing the Public Consultation on Promoting Language Rights in Sri Lanka, Mr. S.G. Punchihewa, Attorney at Law stated that while the problems faced by Sri Lankan citizens, resulting from the violation of their language rights, cannot be solved by Circulars alone, it was a tragedy that efforts that had commenced in at least this manner were not being carried out appropriately. Public Consultation on To support his ideas expressed at the Consultation that Promoting Language Rights was held at the Mahaweli Centre in Colombo in commemoration of the International Human Rights Day, Mr. Punchihewa cited the amendment. The amendment findings of a study regarding Language problems cannot extends the leave available to the implementation of language those traveling abroad from rights in the Ampara, Vavuniya, be solved by Circulars alone 3 months to 6. However as Trincomalee, Batticaloa and there is no Tamil version of the Mannar Districts, conducted by S.G. Punchihewa, Attorney at Law amended Establishment Code the Centre for Policy Alternatives of 1985, Tamil persons receive in 2011. only 3 months of leave based Of these, a few findings that on the 1971 version. arose from the Vavuniya District Colombo being in Sinhala ² Tamil teachers in Ampara ² The 141 form, common were as below. alone. have also been sent Teaching in medical records, is only ² Complaints that are made by available in Sinhala ² Banks operating in English Guides in Sinhala. Translations Tamil citizens are recorded alone (names such as “Sisu are sent late. ² Circulars of Line Ministries are in Sinhala at Police Stations, Udana” and “Isuru Udana” are ² Only a few trained Tamil and in Sinhala. and the complainants are not available in Tamil) Sinhala teachers have been subsequently asked to sign ² Labels of the majority of appointed to these Districts. these statements. ² A roadblock was marked consumer goods are in Tamil. stop in Sinhala, but its Tamil ² The subject matter in Tamil ² Urban Council officials using ² When attempting to obtain counterpart was marked science text books is entirely the Sinhala language when electricity, a Tamil form alone stop with an insulting and different to that in the Sinhala transacting with Tamil citizens. is provided. In some areas it derogatory connotation science texts. However the is a Sinhala form alone that is ² Letters issued from Colombo (“Navathinna” in Sinhala and examination papers set for provided. being sent in Sinhala alone “Navaththapang” in Tamil). both are the same. to Tamil citizens, and letters ² Even in areas such as Vavuniya ² The name “Kalubanda”, ² Publications by the National issued from regional offices and Mannar, the Census and was translated to Tamil as Institute of Education are being sent in Tamil alone to Statistics training has been “Karuppu (black) Banda”. either not sent in adequate Sinhala citizens. provided in Sinhala medium. ² A translator’s assistance is numbers in Tamil or are sent ² Letters issued by zonal In conclusion, Mr. Punchihewa required even when selling late. education offices being sent passed around a few monetary a car. If not there is no ² Certain courses at the in Sinhala alone. ability to provide or receive Colombo University are notes amongst the participants ² Sinhala officials at certain information. conducted in the Sinhala and drew their attention to the zonal education offices phrase “This note issued on behalf ² The same birth certificate language alone. distorting Tamil wording of the Government of Sri Lanka and identity card had to be ² Tamil medium applicants {(Kalvi = education) - (Kalavi = is legally valid for the payment of changed 3 times as a result of have received examination raping of women)}. any sum within Sri Lanka”. language problems. applications in Sinhala. ² Tamil citizens facing This phrase was not printed ² The Traffic Police issuing ² Tamil citizens in the Eastern difficulties as a result of the tickets in Sinhala alone. Province receive summons in in Tamil. majority of doctors and nurses Sinhala. The notes were issued in being Sinhala. ² The majority of doctors use Sinhala alone even when ² Court transactions and case 2010, subsequent to the issue of ² Tamil citizens being providing specialist services hearings are conducted in numerous Circulars and Acts on questioned in Sinhala at check that are charged for. Sinhala or English. language rights. points. ² During a discussion with the ² Amendments to the As such, Mr. Punchihewa ² Government institutions in Government Agent regarding Financial Regulations and closed his remarks by pointing the North sending letters in disaster management, the Establishment Code are issued out that there are still problems Sinhala to Tamil citizens. Provincial Secretary asking in Sinhala alone. in implantation though the ² Street signboards being persons present if they spoke ² While there is a Tamil legal framework exists, and mostly in Tamil alone. English as they did not speak translation of the 1971 emphasizing the fact that what is ² Signboards on busses Sinhala and the Government Establishment Code, necessary is an attitudinal change travelling from Vavuniya to Agent did not speak Tamil. there isn’t one of the 1985 with regards to language rights. Vibhasha 2012 January - February 9

is sent in Sinhala. All Police Stations work in Sinhala. This is the general situation. But this general situation is in the process of changing in certain areas. For example, a Christian religious leader complained approximately two years ago that all transactions at the Mannar Police take place in the Sinhala language alone. But last week he stated that a complaint was made Public Consultation on in Tamil. This is a slow process. But Promoting Language Rights a conversion is taking place. However, going at this tortoise pace is of no use. If both Sinhala and Tamil are not used in Sri Lanka, a gap will exist We work on raising Though slow, everywhere; or an opposition. If awareness, but the we receive specific information a change is taking place regarding problems we can changes are not in take action. At times we face proportion to the Minister Vasudeva Nanayakkara problems of inefficiency and awareness raised. Let opposition. In order to build Based on the views expressed by Minister of National Languages one nation everyone should us begin by prioritizing and Social Integration Vasudeva Nanayakkara, while addressing be of the feeling that we are focus on one aim. Let the Public Consultation on Promoting Language Rights in Sri Lanka, one nation. The issue is not held in commemoration of the previous International Human Rights whether a language is known us join hands to make Day. or not, but whether a language our program one which is accepted and respected or not; if it is given equality or not. is more widespread. I First we faced the problem the right to be able to transact in We should free ourselves of of not having Police Officers who their own language. Steps were invite all organizations attitudinal misconceptions and spoke both languages. As such, taken to create a background of ignorance regarding language that are interested in with new appointments we chose consensus amongst the Sinhala rights. We have opposition and this to join us persons who had proficiency in populace in order to arrive at a opposing attitudes within us. All both languages. We also created solution. these facets should be remedied. a book of phrases necessary for The documentation sent Together we are in the process of the Police. That book contains to areas in which the majority establishing public committees. the phrases that are frequently population was Tamil, not being If the Language Committees needed for Police work in Sinhala, The language problem is a available in Tamil, was a major program becomes popular in Sri Tamil and English. We need more longstanding problem faced by problem. Forms sent from Lanka, an avenue through which officers who speak Tamil in the Sri Lanka. Canada too has been Colombo were not available to increase awareness will be Police. That is a major step. facing this problem for the last in Tamil. That was a common created. Share your findings. We 40 years. In a country that has We faced a war for a long complaint. If these complaints will provide solutions. more than one language, the period of time. During that time are received with certainty we We intend on establishing a learning of a National Language, the focus was on obtaining take action. Surveys regarding “Language Assistance Window” Official Language, State Language what was necessary for the the matter are still in the initial at all major public locations. We and Link Language, occurs. Sri war and not on matters such stages. The capacity we have for intend to establish a common Lanka does not have states. The as the implementation of the this is low. Persons have to be Call Centre particularly in areas in Central Government holds the Official Languages Policy. It did appointed to conduct an island- which many persons are bilingual. responsibility for the majority not receive the government’s wide survey. The final stages There will be problems during of tasks here. Both languages attention. During that time, would be to conduct the survey, implementation. But we plan should be used when the Central there were also no appointments analyze findings and provide to launch this program in the Government is transacting. Then made on the basis of ethnic solutions. A survey is necessary. North and East, the Plantation we will be able to establish a proportions. There were Ministries Various efforts need to be taken. Sector, and in other areas that are level of stability that Canada and Departments. While certain For example, there are no Tamil bilingual. doesn’t have. This is to say that activities did take place, action speaking guides at the National even though we do not have regarding the overall problem Museum. Though it is not under We work on raising awareness, features of States, the Provincial was not taken. The Tamil language my Ministry I am working on it. but the changes are not in Councils should also transact issue took a backseat to the war. The reason for this is because it proportion to the awareness in both languages. This is the As such the steps necessary to is a place of great significance. raised. Let us begin by prioritizing law. However the fact that it face this major challenge were However such action has been focus on one aim. Let us join is not implemented this way not taken. Steps were taken to delayed due to the inefficiency hands to make our program is a problem. As such our some extent to raise awareness of government institutions. Even one which is more widespread. responsibility is in ensuring its amongst the Sinhala community documentation that is sent to the I invite all organizations that are implementation and usage. that the Tamil community has North Eastern Provincial Councils interested in this to join us. 10 Vibhasha 2012 January - February

2. Notify the head of the public Enforcement of recommendations institution to which the complaint ² Where the public institution How to seek relates of its intention to conduct has not given effect to the an investigation. recommendations of the Commission 3. Afford such individual and within a 90 day period from receipt redress in the event of a institution the opportunity to of its report, the Commissioner of the respond to any comments or Official Languages Department, or criticisms. the complainant, after informing the language rights violation? 4. Summon witnesses and conduct Attorney General in writing, may apply the investigation. to the High Court of the Province the complainant resides in, within 90 days 5. Issue a final report containing of the expiry of the period within recommendations and directives which the recommendations were to Official Languages Commission as the Commission thinks fit be given effect. (Section 25 of the Act) (within 120 days of the making of the complaint). Where any person has made a complaint to the Commission and Through our previous issues, we published two articles examining has not been informed of the results Investigative powers of the of the investigation within 120 days the mechanisms through which to seek redress in the event of the Commission violation of a language right in Sri Lanka. While we discussed of the making of the complaint, or When conducting an where the Commission has informed The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka through our investigation or review under this Act, the complainant of its decision to preceding issue, in this issue we introduce the Official Languages the Commission has the power to - refuse to investigate or to cease Commission. 1. Summon witnesses. investigations, the complainant may apply to the Supreme Court within Citizens’ participation is an essential element in seeking solutions 2. Compel the production of all 30 days of the expiry of the 120 day documents that it may deem against the violation of a citizen’s rights, and citizens’ awareness period, or from the date of receipt of necessary. is a key factor in promoting such participation. the communication regarding the 3. Administer oaths and compel As such, this series of articles aims to create and further such refusal to investigate or cessation of witnesses to give oral or written investigations. awareness. evidence under oath. Special powers of the 4. Accept and consider any other Commission activities. The Official Languages form of information or evidence The Commission may on its own Commission is a statutory body 4. Do all other things necessary to as the Commission sees fit at initiative, conduct investigations in to established by Act No. 18 of 1991. attain the objectives of or exercise its discretion, regardless of its a particular incident. Further, as per The Commissioner of the Official the powers of the Commission. evidentiary value in a court of law. Languages Department shall be the Section 28 of the Act, when a public 5. Conduct such investigations in the official who is required to use an Secretary to the Official Languages When a complaint can be made to premises of any public institution official language in the performance Commission, according to the Act. the Commission as it may deem fit. of his official duties, willfully fails or 1. When the status of an official neglects to do so in such relevant Objectives of the Official Languages language is not being recognized. Utilizing these powers, the Commission should make available language, he can be taken to Commission 2. When the use of language is not its report within sixty days of the summary trial before a Magistrate. 1. To recommend principles of in compliance with the Official making of the complaint. If the Organizations that fall within policy relating to the use of the Language Policy set out in the investigation cannot be concluded the purview of the Commission Official Languages and to monitor Constitution. due to reasons beyond the control and supervise compliance with According to the Act, the 3. When a provision of an Act, of the Commission, and a final report provisions contained in Chapter Commission may only investigate regulation, rule, order, notification, cannot be issued within 60 days, the IV of the Constitution (which lays violations by public institutions. As by-law, directive by a pubic Commission should file an interim down the Official Languages Policy such, public institutions include; institution or administrative report within the 60 day period of the state). practice thereof, implementing outlining the reasons for the delay. »» Any Ministry or department under 2. To promote the appreciation the Official Language Policy, is not Irrespective of any aforementioned such Ministry of the Official Languages and being complied with. delay, the Commission is required to »» Any pubic corporation or statutory institution the acceptance, maintenance, 4. When the objectives and intent of issue a final report within 120 days of »» Any Provincial Council or local and continuance of their status, Chapter IV of the Constitution is the making of the complaint. equality and right of use. authority not being respected or complied If a violation by act or omission »» Any business undertaking, firm, 3. To conduct investigations, both on with. is revealed via the investigation its own initiative and in response company or other institution A complaint may be made to »» The Commission may make to any complaints received, and to vested in the Government or the Commission, by any person or recommendations via a report, take remedial action as provided owned wholly by, or on behalf of groups of person who may be directly along with reasons for the same, for by the Act. the Government affected by an act or omission, or by to the public institution, to alter The address and phone number to be an organization or parties acting bona or discontinue any directive or Powers of the Official Languages contacted in the event of a violation fide to bring to the attention of the practice that leads or is likely to Commission is as below. Commission, an act or omission which lead to a contravention of the 1. Initiate reviews of any regulations, requires investigation. The complaint Official Language Policy. Chairman, directives, or administrative will be treated as a confidential »» The Commission may make Official Languages Commission, practices, which affect, or may communication by the Commission, recommendations via an interim 4th Floor, “Bhasha Mandiraya”, affect, the status or use of Sinhala, and the identity of the individuals report, and direct the head of the 341/7, Kotte Road, Tamil and English. concerned will not be revealed public institution concerned to Rajagiriya. without prior consent. 2. Issue or commission studies or notify the Commission within a Telephone 0112 871378 policy papers on the status or use specified period of time, of the of these languages as it may deem The investigative procedure action the institution proposes to Note necessary. 1. Determine if the complaint should take to effect its recommendations. Jagath Liyana Arachchi 3. Undertake public educational be investigated. Attorney at Law (L.L.B) Vibhasha 2012 January - February 11

In studying the language policy of Sri Lanka, its his- tory is an important factor that should be paid atten- 1815 (2nd March) tion to. The final in a series of articles that examined the history of Sri Lanka’s language policies, from the colonial period onwards, is presented in this issue of Kandyan Convention Vibhasha. greet him. and the inhuman treatment they Among a host of other issues, the suffered at the hands of the King above conditions were put in to and the aristocrats which made practice. It is certain that common people to enjoy the British rule. Then and Now people were happy to accept these Such a pleasing administration was conditions. They were relieved that done by the British in English Lan- Language Policies they are now free from painful cor- guage. Honouring the British con- poral punishments, fines etc. tinued and it was automatic that the language was also honoured. Pay- Thereafter on an order issued by the ing homage to English Language S.G. Punchihewa, Attorney at Law Governor on 21.11.1818, any fees which started then, continues to or payments to Government or its date. There was consent to suppress leaders for any appointments was our own language and the habit This convention was signed British rule was implemented. Areas prohibited. Giving gifts to Governor of suppressing the Tamil language by Governor Robert Brownrig on were administrated by Government or officers was also prohibited. which was in use then, also stated. behalf of the King of Britain and Agents. Judging by the conditions that pre- Adigars, Government Agents and But paying of various taxes to the vailed it was anticipated that a bet- Aristocrats on behalf of Sinhalese Though the honouring of the government prevailed. ter status could be achieved. But the citizens. leaders continued, prostrating, result was that we became slaves worshipping and kneeling before The above issues are highlighted to to foreign dominations. The malefic Accordingly the methods of capital the Governor and the aristocrats show that most citizens were happy practices we acquired regarding the punishment and corporal punish- was abolished. regarding the way they were ruled. language are displayed and proved ments including chopping of hands, However, when a leader travels on During this period there were no in the history thereafter. legs, nose and ears that prevailed at a road, people should get on to a communal feelings. The concession- that time were abolished. side. When a leader arrives, people ary situation was accepted by all as (Extract from the publication should get up from their seats and human beings. It was the cruelty “Language and Humanity”)

understand a word of the Global struggle to traditional language.

“Certain languages protect languages disappeared very quickly, like Muris, which was spoken in an area near 200 languages extinct here until about 15 years ago” Yoseph Wally 2,500 more in the red explained. Cut off almost entirely The majority amongst us still an anthropologist at Cendra- have fewer than 1,000 speakers. from the external world, these view a phrase such as “securing wasih University in Jayapura, communities lead an isolated the language rights of ethnic has revealed several findings in The majority of New Guinea’s life. The most widely-spoken minority communities” with this regard. He points out that people live in rural areas, and language is Enga, with around feelings of suspicion. many languages of New Guinea many tribes, especially in the 200,000 speakers. - the world’s greatest linguistic isolated mountains, have little However, the majority of aca- reservoir - are disappearing in a contact with one another, let Next to Indonesian, this com- demics that study linguistics as tide of indifference. alone with the outside world. munity is mostly influenced by well as international organiza- the English language, resulting tions such as UNESCO are of According to his findings, New According to Yoseph Wally who from its proximity to Australia. the view that the languages Guinea is home to more than focused on their language us- As a result the use of English of ethnic minority communi- 1,000 languages. Of these, ap- age, Indonesian is increasingly is increasing while traditional ties are a valuable heritage proximately 800 were spoken spoken more and more. Only languages are being reserved that should be preserved for in Papua New Guinea and 200 the oldest people still speak for celebrations and festivals. future generations as well. A in Indonesian Papua. However, in the local dialect. He added study of New Guinea languages what is unfortunate is that the that in some villages he visited, conducted by Yoseph Wally, majority of these languages not a single person could To Page 12 12 Vibhasha 2012 January - February

Violation of the Official Languages Policy… From page 1

In addition to the above, the Chairman of the Commission has also informed the Centre for Policy Alternatives of all action taken by the Official Languages Commission regarding the submitted complaints. Action taken by the Official Languages Commission regarding the Centre for Policy Alternatives’ complaints

Complaint Action

Complaints and statements made by Tamil speaking persons being Requested information from the Batticaloa Senior Superintendent of Police recorded in Sinhala at certain Police Stations within the Batticaloa Senior via a letter dated 21.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/C/178 Superintendent of Police Division

Street signboards within the Kalmunai Municipal Council not containing Requested information from the Municipal Commissioner via a letter dated the street name in the Sinhala language 21.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/C/179

The Embarkation Cards issued at the Bandaranaike International Airport by Requested information from the Controller General of Immigration and the Department of Immigration and Migration not being available in Tamil Emigration via a letter dated 22.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/C/180

Complaints and statements made by Tamil speaking persons being Requested information from the Vavuniya Senior Superintendent of Police recorded in Sinhala at certain Police Stations within the Vavuniya Senior via a letter dated 22.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/C/181 Superintendent of Police Division

Street signboards within the Thirappane Pradeshiya Sabha not containing Requested information from the Secretary of the Thirappane Pradeshiya the street name in the Sinhala language Sabha via a letter dated 21.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/ C/182

Complaints and statements made by Tamil speaking persons being Requested information from the Trincomalee Senior Superintendent of recorded in Sinhala at certain Police Stations within the Trincomalee Senior Police via a letter dated 21.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/ Superintendent of Police Division C/183

Complaints and statements made by Tamil speaking persons being Requested information from the Ampara Senior Superintendent of Police recorded in Sinhala at certain Police Stations within the Ampara Senior via a letter dated 21.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/C/185 Superintendent of Police Division

Street signboards within the Thirukkovil Pradeshiya Sabha not containing Requested information from the Secretary of the Thirukkovil Pradeshiya the street name in the Sinhala language Sabha via a letter dated 21.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/ C/186

Complaints and statements made by Tamil speaking persons being Requested information from the Mannar Senior Superintendent of Police recorded in Sinhala at certain Police Stations within the Mannar Senior via a letter dated 21.11.2011 bearing my reference number OLC/C/189 Superintendent of Police Division

generation, a language that However, according to faces extinction at present. UNESCO, more than 200 Global struggle to protect… From page 11 Further, anthropologist Wally languages have become extinct believes that art and culture are around the world over the last three generations. Of a Though the influence mediums which can be utilized becomes a difficult task when total of 6,000 remaining world of English is systematically to conserve – in the truest sense many are exclusively oral. languages, a further 2,500 spreading in Papua New Guinea, of the word - Papuan languages The Oxford University has languages are under threat it has made little headway with that have fallen into disuse launched a special program according to a UNESCO list of some tribes, particularly those and are no longer spoken in through which such languages endangered languages. living in the isolated highlands. everyday life. will be recorded via its speakers. According to Wally, Papuans It is up to those of us The authorities are At present, there are only 3 love to sing and celebrate, and alive today to take on the sometimes accused of inaction, persons, Emma, aged 85, Enos, it is his view that they should responsibility of not letting or even of favoring the official 60, and Anna, also 60, who engage in these activities in these languages merely lay language to better integrate are the three last Papuans to their traditional languages. He fading away in the UNESCO the population, particularly in speak Dusner, a language that believes that by doing so, the endangered list facing eventual Indonesian Papua. presently faces extinction. The younger generations’ interest extinction, but instead to Some researchers have University has begun a race in the language can be sparked preserve them in order to suggested recording the against the clock to record as they would want to discover pass on this heritage to future languages that face extinction Dusner with the assistance of it in order to understand the generations. as a means of preserving this Emma, Enos and Anna, and meanings of the songs et al, valuable heritage for future believes that this effort would thereby intrinsically conserving generations. However this help preserve for a future Based on an AFP news item the language. Vibhasha 2012 January - February 13

Telling the world of a generation’s tragedy In the previous issue of Vibhasha, we discussed the language and cultural – the indigenous people of Rathugala and problems faced by the in- digenous community of Va- Pollebedda karai, located in the Eastern Province. Influenced by the Tamil language and culture, they are commonly known as the Tamil Veddahs. In this issue, we focus our attention on the problems faced by the indigenous community residing in the Rathugala and Pollebedda areas, which is influenced by the Sinhala language and culture and are thereby mingling with a Sinhala identity.

The ancestors of the Rathugala indigenous community, who are the descendants of Maha Bandara of Danigala, had lived in caves. Subsequent to the commencement of the Galoya project, a portion of them migrated to Pollebedda, while the remainder moved to Rathugala. One hundred and one indigenous families reside in the Rathugala communities, the provision of water “Initially they had requested acres has been requested for the area at present. They had received facilities to indigenous villages for 100 acres for farming. The land you purposes of hunting, gathering 20 houses during the Ranasinghe drinking and agricultural activities, refer to is not 100 acres. It is only honey comb and “Kenniya” comb (a Premadasa era. the commencement of a program 58. The handing over of forestry comb built in the hollow of a tree centered around an agricultural conserved from the time of King trunk by an animal smaller than a While some have received lifestyle in order to raise the Buddhadasa for personal use is Bee), it has not been received so far. Jayabhoomi deeds from the standards of living, the provision against circulars. When a land is The Pollebedda community adds Madulla Provincial Secretariat, of housing, provision of land to being released by the Department that they have lost their traditional others have received licenses the landless, confirmation of their of Forest Conservation for farming livelihood, and that they do not under the Land Development indigenous identity, the provision of purposes, the responsibility of have a land, nor irrigation facilities Ordinance. Though they have access to forest conservation areas cutting down and removing the suitable for farming. been encouraged to engage in in order to worship at their ancestral trees in it falls on the State Timber farming, they have been shifting There are 422 students sacred places of worship, and Corporation.” away from agricultural activities as registered at the Pollebedda the inclusion of a symbol on the a result of the drought that prevails It appears that the indigenous school. Approximately 150 of them National Identity Card by which to throughout the majority of the year, peoples’ requests are stuck in are children of the indigenous be identified as indigenous peoples. the lack of an irrigation system, and circulars. Forestry Officials level community. According to the their disinterest in farming. In keeping, several important allegations that the indigenous Principal of the Pollebedda school, decisions were taken therein, people show no interest in farming though steps have been taken to Several high ranking officials, including the provision of 100 acres and that they have cut down and provide uniforms, books and lunch led by the President, had attended of land from B2 Wewatte plot of the sold off the trees on their land. (up to grade 5), the majority of the discussion held at the Bibila Nilagala area. It comes as no surprise that a students dropout after grade 7 or 8. Presidential Secretariat on the 12th people traditionally engaged in the of April 2008 in order to address “We object to being given livelihood of hunting and gathering According to many, not only the longstanding grievances of land where the trees have been honey comb, show little interest in the school but the entire village indigenous communities. cut down. We cannot maintain our farming. is drastically affected by a lack of lifestyle on an empty land”. water, and the water distributed via Vannila Aththo of Dambana The allegations arising from the Pradeshiya Sabha bowser does had made several key requests on When we addressed the the Pollebedda area, where the not suffice. behalf of indigenous communities above allegation by Sudha rest of Maha Bandara of Danigala’s during this discussion. Twenty Vinniyalaaththo, the leader of the descendants reside, are no different Having to live in one house requests were presented therein, Rathugala indigenous people, to Mr. to those arising from Rathugala. along with several extended which included the formulation R.K. Dayaratne, the Forestry Officer According to Goba (87), the leader families is another problem faced by of laws to preserve the ancestral of Nilgala, Bibila; his response was of the Pollebedda indigenous identity and heritage of indigenous as below. community, though a land of 2,500 To page 14 14 Vibhasha 2012 January - February

Telling the world of a generation’s tragedy... From page 13 both the Pollebedda and Rathugala Monaragala and Mahiyangana indigenous communities. The Districts and the southern housing program carried out both portion of the Polonnaruwa in Pollebedda and Rathugala are rife District, was home to with grave shortcomings. indigenous communities from well before the arrival of the Though 20 houses were Aryans. In “A Grammar of the distributed under the initiative of Sinhalese Language”, Professor Minister Ferial Ashraff, the recipients Wilhelm Geiger states that complain that many houses do not the indigenous communities even have doors as a result of the of Nilgala South and Seethala shoddy construction work. Wanniya showed residual According to Mr. Saman unassimilated traces of the Bandara (32), Cultural Officer original inhabitants of Lakdiva. of the Mahaoya Divisional An 1863 report by John Bailey me given my condition. But I bows and arrows have been Secretariat, “the Divisional contains information on how cannot leave my people”. retired. At present they often Secretary has taken steps to the indigenous community engage in gathering and selling It is with a heart laden with provide 1 ½ acres of land each lived in the forests of Nilgala. Kudumberiya leaves used in the sorrow regarding the loss of when the Rambakan Oya project It is Professor Seligmann that his heritage and the pain of his production of Beedi cigarettes, commences. The distribution subsequently studied the and also in selling Gal Siyambala of land deeds and licenses has indigenous peoples. Ten years people that Goba, the leader of the Pollebedda indigenous (Velvet Tamarind). While the already begun. As such there will after Seligmann’s study, Dr. R.L. indigenous peoples’ bows and Spittel’s journey into Seethala community states the above. be better results in the future”. arrows lay retired within their Vanniya in order to treat Randunu Wanniya, the huts, those dressed in boots and According to Mr. the indigenous community, leader of the Rathugala bearing T-56s hunt in the jungles Sandaruwan Lokuhewa, a ended with his becoming their journalist with significant indigenous community passed of Nilgala, and it is apparent “Dukgannarala” (a confidant and away several years ago from experience regarding the counselor of sorts). that the rules that apply to the Pollebedda indigenous cancer. He, like the majority indigenous communities do not of the community often went community, a long term plan “It was Spittel hura that apply to them. is necessary in order to uplift brought about 6 families here. hungry, and was only able to the standard of living of the After him, no one looked in have a meal at night. Poramal The challenge today is to indigenous peoples. He is of the on us as much as he did” Thala Saka too had died of starvation. find a means by which to protect opinion that providing them Bandaralage Gunawardena says That hunger still burns proud not only the forests that are with vocational training is more with respect. Goba’s body. His clansmen’s rich in biodiversity, but also important than providing land hunger burns his heart. During the ancient livelihoods of the “When Spittel hura met due to their low enthusiasm their cave dwelling days, their indigenous peoples who are the us, three of us had the Parangi towards farming. main food sources were hunted ancestral owners of the land. illness” (believed to be either meat, honey and yams. At “It is a sad fact that some Syphilis or Yaws). While hunger and personal present, that place is taken by hardship should be eradicated, of the younger members are rice, corn thalapa and kurakkan addicted to drugs, are involved There were no hospitals it is inhuman to disrespect the then. Two of them died. Spittel thalapa. Pani malu (honey pride of a generation. in prostitution, and activities and meat) has been entirely such as brokering cows for hura brought us to the village. I removed from their cuisine Based on extracts of an Muslims. Their social isolation was losing my baby teeth when at present. What is sad is that article titled “The unending is one of the causes” Mr. we came here. Poramal Saka they are presently in a situation Sandaruwan Lokuhewa added was my uncle. When he died the hunger” carried in a study of “neither here nor there”. sorrowfully. leadership was passed on to me. report on several marginalized I can no longer see. There were The law obstructs those who communities in Sri Lanka. ‘Vedirata’, an area that people from high places that enter the forests of Nilgala in includes the Ampara, came to take me away and help order to gather honey. Their Note – Thimbiriyagama Bandara

filed a Supreme Court peti- a violation, but said that Kilinochchi, Santapuram tion. Where more than 20% there were no resource. So etc, street names are only are Tamil speaking persons, the Supreme Court merely displayed in Sinhala – I have the voters list was displayed instructed ‘when resources photos. These came up in Public Consultation on only in the Sinhala language. become available please recent years, so the war Promoting Language Rights This resulted in several ensure this’. It seems to have ending and making Tamil an thousand people being un- been addressed, which is a Official Language has not What is needed is a.. able to register, since they significant development. really helped at all. Pushing were not sure if their names Last week, I saw the let- a bilingual policy for social From page 6 were there. The Supreme terhead of the Honourable integration is really not the A few years ago, in a case Court granted leave, the Chief Justice. It is in English answer, there has to be an where I was counsel, a trade Attorney General’s Depart- and Sinhala, not in Tamil. attitude change.” union from the upcountry ment agreed that there was In the west of the A9 in Vibhasha 2012 January - February 15

Services of the translation Response reserve available to all

We have thus far received numerous responses from the readers of the According to the Ministry of National Languages previous issue of the Vibhasha Newsletter. and Social Integration, everyone can now have their translation needs met accurately and speedily via the Along with well wishes for its continued journey, were also many ideas and language translator reserve attached to the Official suggestions for its further development. Languages Department. All information regarding A few such selected responses, suggestions and ideas are presented this facility can be obtained via the website www. below. We greatly value all your responses, and anticipate continued feedback languagesdept.gov.lk. with the issues to come. Editor Payment for these translations, are subject to control via government administrative circulars. I Wish you strength to keep up the pressure According to the Ministry, public response to this A new found enthusiasm to learn another language in addition to their facility, provided with the aim of strengthening Sri own can be seen amongst Sri Lankan citizens of late. However, Sinhalese, Lankans’ right to work in their mother tongue, has been Tamils and Muslims all show a greater enthusiasm to study English. very positive. Being an international language, this enthusiasm to learn English is Information regarding this facility can also be understandable. However, Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim citizens showing a obtained via telephone on 011 288894. greater enthusiasm for learning Sinhala and Tamil as a language of friendship is a great social necessity at present. We should understand that a great benefit to society at large as well as English to Sinhala translation the country as a whole is received from such language learning in addition to software in the making any personal benefit received. It will undoubtedly go a long way in bridging the gap that presently exists between the Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim ethnic Mr. Buddhika communities, which is the biggest hurdle to this country’s journey ahead. Hettige, a young As such it is my belief that the government and responsible parties should researcher has take a greater effort in popularizing the learning of Sinhala and Tamil amongst developed a software the general populace. capable of proving In keeping, I wish the Vibhasha Newsletter the strength to keep pressuring grammatically accurate responsible authorities towards action, as well as to popularize this policy translations to help amongst the citizenry. alleviate the language related problems Ananda Wijesiri faced by Sri Lankans. Malabe According to Mr. Hettige, this software, named BEES (Bilingal Expert for English A public platform for intellectual discourse to Sinhala) will be very useful not only to researchers engaged in linguistic studies, but also to translators. There was an era during which much debate and discussion took place Mr. Hettige, presently a lecturer at the Statistics and regarding language rights. There was also an era of death and battle. The Information Technology Department of the University present situation is not so dangerous. Yet there remains much to be done of Sri Jayawardenapura, has presented a study report regarding language rights. related to the software at the 67th annual conference of These objectives cannot be achieved by protests and slogans alone. There the Science Development Committee. may be a time when they too become necessary. However what would be far According to Mr. Hettige, this software, unlike other more productive is an intellectual discourse on what action to take in order translation software, converts entire sentences from to achieve these objectives. In particular, the recent advances in the fields of English to Sinhala as opposed to translating word by information technology and language learning can be greatly utilized towards word. achieving these objectives. While over 400 sentence structures can be translated The Vibhasha Newsletter should therefore become a public platform for a via this software at present, Mr. Hettige added that he new discourse built on knowledge. intends to develop on it in the future using Multiagent M.H. Hassan technology, thereby enabling the translation of even Mawanella more complex sentence structures as well. Write to us Editor, The Sri Lankan language policy is a topic which has been subject to extensive discussion. Through the Vibhasha Newsletter, we aim to further foster this discussion. It is our belief Vibhasha Newsletter, that reader contribution is vital in building up this dialogue. Write to us with your various The Centre for Policy Alternatives, ideas, news and information. The Vibhasha Newsletter is open to all those who are sensitive 24/2, 28th Lane, to language rights of this country. Flower Road, Colombo 07 Regarding language rights Send us your ideas, suggestions, problems and feedback. Telephone : 0112 370801/4 Fax: 0112 370802 ˜

16 Vibhasha 2012 January - February The Central Government is at present in the process of implementing a range of programs towards effecting of the trilingual policy within the country. The Ministry of National Languages and Social Integration is also in the process of implementing "Let's keep our children happy" - The notice which has been translated to Tamil various programs to ensure language Keeping all Sinhala, Tamil, rights within the country Muslim children happy

displayed in Tamil in close located at Rajagiriya in close of the trilingual policy within proximity. proximity to the Castle Street the country. The Ministry of Hospital is still displayed in National Languages and Social Getting the˜ chance to write As such, this valuable Sinhala alone. Integration is also in the process a news item of praise even message, that was previously of implementing various infrequently is cause for joy. accessible only to Sinhala As the bilingual policy is programs to ensure language This is because, often, we only children and their parents, a national policy, it should rights within the country. have the opportunity to write is now equally accessible to be implemented not in one news items of allegation and all Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim or two places, but across the The aim of all such programs complaint alone. persons. whole country in the same should be to help alleviate these This praise is in relation to As we had mentioned in manner. problems faced by the public at the grassroots level. a positive response received, the previous issue, another It is no secret that people regarding an allegation we billboard on maintaining a face language related It is for this reason that we presented via our previous issue. healthy lifestyle, constructed problems not in respect to say that this combined effort It is with great pleasure that a few feet away from the said billboards alone, but also when is needed in order to help find we state here that a positive billboard, is also displayed exchanging ideas with medical solutions to this problem faced response has been received with in both Sinhala and Tamil staff while seeking treatment. by the Ministry of Health. languages. It is also not a problem that regards to our complaint in the It is in order to solve is limited to Colombo alone. previous issue related to the This is an important sign problems faced by citizens on a Various communities based “Let’s keep our children happy” of the fact that the Ministry of day to day basis that bilingual billboard displayed at the Eye outside of Colombo also face Health is concerned not only and trilingual policies are Hospital Junction in a manner these problems. regarding public health within necessitated. When a patient visible to the Lipton Circus. the country but also regarding It is also true that this is seeking treatment cannot Our complaint was that the language rights. not as simple a problem as exchange ideas with a doctor message given by the billboard While thanking the is the case of the billboards. in his or her language, it then was only presented in the Ministry of Health for the Seeking solutions to it is no becomes not merely a problem Sinhala language. The Official above, we also respectfully simple matter. It is also unfair of language but rather a Languages Commission had request that steps be taken to to lay the responsibility of problem of life. also informed the Mental Health replicate this policy island- seeking solutions to this As such we trust that all Unit of the Ministry of Health to wide. problem on the Ministry of responsible authorities will pay rectify this error. Health alone. For example, though the attention not only to language As a result of all of this, the “Let’s keep our children happy” The Central Government rights, but also to the right to “Let’s keep our children happy” billboard displayed at the Eye is at present in the process life, and take the necessary billboard displayed at the Eye Hospital Junction has now of implementing a range of steps to solve this problem at Hospital Junction, is also now been rectified, the billboard programs towards effecting the national level.

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