A YEAR ON... REMEMBERING THOSE WHO WERE RS. 80.00 PAGES 48 / SECTIONS 5 VOL. 02 – NO. 30 SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 Maintain Distance, Stay Safe www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk TAKEN www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk TOURISM SECTOR ELECTION HEAT A MAKE 21 APRIL 2019 MORATORIUM LIKELY RETURNS; PENDULUM OR BREAK TO BE EXTENDED SWAYS TOWARDS EC STAGE »SEE BUSINESS PAGE 1 »SEE PAGE 8 »SEE PAGE 9 Colombo to reopen Wednesday z Schools, universities, tuition, and cinemas remain closed z No joy for Bamba, Maradana, Mount, Dehiwala

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA schools, universities, tuition classes, When The Sunday Morning Gampaha District; the Puttalam, FOLLOW-UP CHECKS and other educational institutes as contacted Minister Mahinda Marawila, and Wennappuwa police Despite health authorities continuing to discover Covid-19 well as cinemas will remain closed Amaraweera, a key Cabinet areas in the Puttalam District; and the Police checks on patients on a daily basis, the Government will relax curfew until further notice. Minister, for comment, he said the Bandaragama, Payagala, Beruwala, restrictions in Colombo from Wednesday (22) onwards, However, all state institutions in the Government had taken the decision and Aluthgama police divisions in 39,000 persons bringing an end to the month-long period of inactivity in Sri Colombo District have been ordered to relax curfew restrictions the Kalutara District. Police Media Spokesperson SP Jaliya Lanka’s commercial capital. to limit the number of employees to considering the economic situation Meanwhile, in all districts Senaratne said that a follow-up check on one-third of the total staff while all of the country. except that of Colombo, Kalutara, 39,000 persons who have completed their The President’s Office announced Keselwatta, Maradana, Gothatuwa, private companies have been advised In addition to the Colombo Gampaha, Puttalam, Kandy, Kegalle, quarantine period would be initiated. yesterday (18) that curfew will Mulleriyawa, Wellampitiya, Mt. to open at 10 a.m. in the morning. District, curfew will be lifted from and Ampara, curfew will be lifted Police had made this decision be lifted in the Colombo District Lavinia, Dehiwala, and Kohuwala. All heads of state institutions and the 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. from 22 April in from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. from tomorrow after several reports of persons who from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. from 22 All departments, corporations, owners of private companies have the districts of Gampaha, Kalutara, (20) onwards, and be back in underwent quarantine had later contracted April onwards, except for the banks, and other state institutions also been advised to provide the and Puttalam, with the exemption force from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. until Covid-19 and was tested positive. police divisions of Kotahena, have been directed to operate as necessary facilities while adhering of the Ja-Ela, Kochchikade, and further notice. Contd. on page 2 Grandpass, Bambalapitiya, usual when curfew is relaxed, while to government health regulations. Seeduwa police divisions in the Contd. on page 2

DECISION ON 2020 GENERAL ELECTION ONSET OF MONSOON AFFECTS THOUSANDS Clean up EC to decide tomorrow Over 9,000 z Meeting with health and z Report to be sought security authorities from health authorities persons affected BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA “We will meet with the health z Heavy rain and strong wind damages 1,222 houses authorities, security forces, and the Amidst a fierce debate on whether a date relevant officials on Monday (20) to BY SARAH HANNAN 9,831 persons being affected, with for the impending parliamentary elections get an update on the spread of the virus 1,222 houses and 130 small or CLEAN UP should be scheduled now or whether the to determine if the environment is right to As the intermonsoon season brings medium-sized business premises election should be postponed further, the hold an election,” EC Chairman Mahinda strong winds spreading thunderstorms partially damaged, along with damage Election Commission (EC) said it will take Deshapriya told The Sunday Morning and heavy rains between the period of to 16 critical infrastructures due to into account the views of health authorities yesterday (18). 8-18 April, the Disaster Management strong wind and heavy rain. before making its final decision. Contd. on page 2 Centre (DMC) recorded a total of Contd. on page 2

SRILANKAN SAYS Commercial flight, not chartered The SriLankan Airlines flight that transported Australians from Bangladesh back home was a commercial flight and not a chartered flight, SriLankan Airlines Chairman Ashok Pathirage asserted. Contd. on page 2

A police officer being disinfected during a Covid-19 prevention programme held in Gunasinghepura, Colombo on Friday (17) CEB EXPENSES REDUCE PHOTO LALITH PERERA Tariffs to remain SHORTAGE OF PHARMACEUTICALS unchanged Electricity tariffs will remain Govt. turns to India unchanged despite the reduction z Shortage of over 500 z Authorities accused of total expenditure of the Ceylon drugs, says GMOA of failing to act Electricity Board (CEB) over a month, as the country went under As local medical experts Co-Cabinet Spokesman Dr. total lockdown to control the raised concerns over a drug Bandula Gunawardana told The spread of Covid-19, and a drastic shortage prevailing in the Sunday Morning that the drug decline in global oil prices. country, the Government notes shortage in the country was Contd. on page 2 that measures have been taken not a new phenomenon as it to import essential drugs that prevailed even during the time are in short supply from India of the previous Government. immediately. Contd. on page 2 Farmers’ woes continue Farmers across the country IMPROVING FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN continue to suffer due to the curfews imposed to prevent Uni deans to the fore the spread of Covid-19, with The current global health consequences of it in the coming some farmers having to sell a emergency presented by the weeks, Minister of Industrial kilogramme of brinjals for just Rs. spread of Covid-19 will display Export and Investment Promotion 5 while some are unable to resume the downside of globalisation and Government Spokesperson their cultivation due to the failure for many countries. Sri Lanka stated. to raise the required monies. too will be experiencing the Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning NEWS Sunday, April 19, 2020 Discrepancies in dry ration distribution BY SARAH HANNAN are facing grave difficulties. instructed, the Rs. 5,000 allowance is being “We purchased the dry rations following distributed to anyone who qualifies. Four weeks into the curfew being a special meeting that was called at the “Apart from that, for any areas that enforced across the country, the Pradeshiya Sabha and the purchase was the delivery trucks do not go, we have Government as well as private made using the tax earnings of the Sabha instructed the district secretaries to look donors are taking measures after all members approved the move. into the matter. The district secretary to provide the necessary dry We had made arrangements to distribute is then required to co-ordinate with the rations to low-income families at the dry rations to these people, but Sathosa manager of their area regarding the concessionary rates as well as free of were informed by the Central Province delivery of goods. charge in some cases. Governor’s office that dry rations should “Anyone who is willing to donate dry not be distributed free and should be sold.” rations to be distributed is to contact the However, some areas are not receiving these Yogarajan said that knowing the area police and the local government dry rations as promised. difficulties of the people, he could not authorities of the area and is required On 12 April, one such incident was bring himself to sell the dry rations to them to co-ordinate that effort. These donors reported in which people had received news as they were affected financially by the sometimes also reach out to the priests of of dry rations being distributed, following pandemic. Therefore, he and his team are the village temple.” which they flocked to their village temple, unable to distribute the dry rations for free, Gunsainghe reiterated that, so far, the Midigama Sri Sudarshanaramaya, in which has caused them to rot as it is not Government is only providing the Rs. hopes of receiving a bag of essentials. The being stored properly. 5,000 allowance and bags of essentials that dry rations had been handed over to the Yogarajan pointed out that dry rations could be purchased at an affordable rate Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha by a private have already been distributed to low- through Sathosa outlets. company to be distributed among the people income families in the Anuradhapura of the area. all the dry rations that were donated by Nuwara Eliya Pradeshiya Sabha at a cost and Mihintale Pradeshiya Sabhas and he Facilitation only The Chief Incumbent of the temple, the private company, which was to be of Rs. 2.4 million has started to perish, requested that the Governor of the Central “The Government did not commit however, said that people gathered without distributed free of charge. according to people of Nuwara Eliya. Provincial Council grant them permission to distribute free dry rations and it is any prior notice being issued. “The temple Weligama Pradheshiya Sabha member Dry rations including coconuts, big to distribute these stocked dry rations free at present, only accommodating and bell was rung and people had gathered at the Pushpakumara Beddage, in response to the onions, and garlic are said to have started of charge among the selected low-income facilitating the process to supply the public temple. The Police then came in to inquire villagers’ accusations, said: “The Pradeshiya to perish due to the delay in distribution families. with their essentials. We are arranging as to what was going on. I informed the Sabha received 3,000 kg of rice and since by the local government authorities. government and private vendors to go Police that we had not organised anything there was a shortage of rice in the area, a With the sporadic curfew in place, the Donated goods distribution to households and sell their products,” and that the people had gathered here. Later, portion of the stock was released to be sold. community that has lost all methods of The Sunday Morning contacted Spokesperson for the Presidential Task the Police dispersed the crowd.” But the majority of the stock was included income now urges the relevant authorities Presidential Secretariat Public Force appointed to Co-ordinate and Meanwhile, residents of the Midigama in the dry ration packs which were given to expedite the dry ration distribution. Co-ordination Division Director Kapila Monitor the Delivery of Services for the area claimed that a local politician had free to the public. We only used a small If these dry rations remain stocked Gunasinghe to inquire about the situation Sustenance of Overall Community Life Dr. intervened and sold the dry rations for amount which was to be released to the without any proper safety measures, it and what measures the Government has Charitha Herath confirmed. profit. “Instead of being distributed for shops as they could not purchase rice stocks would soon become infested with bugs taken to ensure that essentials received Adding that with over 25 days passed free, these dry rations have been sold to the due to the price fluctuation.” and will become unconsumable. The dry through donations are properly distributed in the Colombo, Kandy, and Puttalam villagers. Most of the families in the area The dry ration pack had included nine rations that are in storage are said to have among the people. Districts, the Task Force had not received are very poor and at a time like this, they are other items apart from rice and the packs been purchased 26 days ago. “The Government has not promised many complaints from these areas that forced to buy dry rations that are supposed had been distributed to the people from the Nuwara Eliya Pradeshiya Sabha to provide dry rations for free to people. have been placed under an extended to be given for free.” Midigama area. Chairman Velu Yogarajan, meanwhile, Our 24-hour grievance hotline too period of curfew. This is owing to the Another villager added that they had said that there is a large number of estate received many calls inquiring of such an arrangements the Government has made gotten to know that the Chairman of the Goods rotting at N'Eliya PS worker families under his Pradeshiya arrangement as people do not have money with the vendors to supply the necessary Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha had sold off A stock of dry rations purchased by the Sabha and due to the ongoing crisis, they in hand. As the Presidential Task Force has items to households.

Contd. from page 1

to provide relief to the people affected by the flew to Bangladesh. as to whether the CEB would calculate the to power. Colombo to... damage. He went on to note that the flight did not return total units consumed by households during the India, from which Sri Lanka has taken Curfew will be further continued in the It was also reported that strong wind damaged to Sri Lanka after picking up the Australian lockdown months – March and April – which measures to import essential drugs, is the Alawathugoda, Akurana, Warakapola, and 125 small and medium-sized business places passengers. may result in skyrocketing electricity bills. largest drug supplier of Sri Lanka. Akkaraipattu police divisions of the Kandy, and important infrastructure in these areas was “It went directly to Australia. It did not come Responding to these concerns, Amaraweera – Maheesha Mudugamuwa Kegalle, and Ampara Districts; with the also damaged. back to Sri Lanka from Bangladesh,” he said. told The Sunday Morning that the CEB would exception of the above respective police The National Disaster Services Centre released Bangladeshi media on Thursday (16) reported apply a system to make sure the consumers divisions, the curfew in other areas of these about Rs. 5.2 million to provide relief to the that a SriLankan Airlines chartered flight had would pay only for what they have consumed. Police checks... three districts will be lifted from 5 a.m. to 8 people affected by this situation, while the returned with some Bangladeshis who were in He noted that the CEB’s income has reduced Meanwhile, Public Health Inspectors’ Union p.m. from Monday (20). National Insurance Trust Fund (NITF) will Sri Lanka and thereafter, transported a number during the curfew period as major factories, (PHIU) Secretary Mahendra Balasooriya said All state institutions outside the Colombo provide the relevant assistance to the people of Australians from Dhaka to Australia. shopping complexes, and office complexes that another 5,200 persons are placed in home District have been ordered to limit employee of the disaster. Some 30 Bangladeshis had returned home remained closed for more than a month. quarantine and are closely observed by the PHIs. attendance to half the total number of Meanwhile, former Minister Duminda from Sri Lanka while 290 Australians were However, when asked about the reduction Balasuriya also noted that all essentials are employees. Dissanayake, on his official Facebook page, taken back home from Bangladesh on the of the overtime payments of employees and provided to these persons in home quarantine Meanwhile, issuing a media statement, the had stated that he had visited the two houses SriLankan Airlines flight. whether the CEB had saved a huge sum due to as they cannot get out of their houses. Director General of Health Services (DGHS) in Thalawa and had instructed the Disaster – Skandha Gunasekara that, a senior ministry official noted that overtime – Sarah Hannan Dr. Anil Jasinghe stated that the coronavirus Management Officer of the area to immediately fees had not been paid as the employees did not threat in the country has not been completely pay the monies to repair their homes. work but their salaries have been paid, while eradicated but with the measures taken by the Adverse weather conditions were reported Farmers’ woes... the CEB had lost a considerable income. Uni deans... relevant authorities, the country had prevented from the Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Gampaha, All Island Farmers Federation (AIFF) “The electricity demand had been reduced Speaking to The Sunday Morning, social transmission of the virus and it was only Puttalam, Kurunegala, Matara, Hambantota, National Organiser Namal Karunaratne told by around 30% and the major consumers Rambukwella ascertained that: “Food security limited to clusters at present. Galle, Mannar, and Anuradhapura Districts. The Sunday Morning that farmers are throwing were households to which the CEB supplies is something that will be absolutely important Since the threat is still prevalent, Dr. Jasinghe entire harvests away. electricity for a subsidised price,” the official for any nation. Sri Lanka’s soil is blessed with had insisted on the necessity of continuing the “They have no way of selling their produce. I said. Explaining the impact of world fuel prices, richness and we have not made use of it. The measures taken by the Government to control EC to... have seen some farmers throwing away tonnes the official claimed that over 30% of the total recommendations presented by the deans of the spread of the virus, even though the country These meetings will be held in advance of a of vegetables because they are old and rotting,” electricity requirement had been provided by the agriculture faculties are spot on, and we is being re-opened for operations. crucial meeting scheduled for later tomorrow he said. thermal oil, as hydropower generation was at must take all steps to improve efficiency in the “We can say we have controlled the Covid- (20) at which the EC will arrive at its decision. He said that this was the plight of the farmers about 20%, and the CEB had maintained power agricultural industry.” 19 spread, but that is not a guarantee that the Deshapriya said that he is unable to comment across the country due to a lack of proper supply even without emergency power. Rambukwella also noted that the economic threat is not there,” he added. on the matter before this meeting. transportation system. Nevertheless, the authorities have not made drawback faced by the country can be tackled However, the Government Medical Officers’ “Till we have met and come to a decision, Referring to a situation where farmers in the any clear statement on whether the benefits of partially and quite effectively by having a strong Association (GMOA) reiterated that the I cannot comment on the future of the Mullaitivu District had resorted to selling their the global decline in oil prices would be passed agricultural base. The recommendations will Government should complete at least the testing parliamentary elections,” he said. crops for any price, he said that farmers are on to the consumers. be set in motion in three stages – immediate, of first contacts that are traced through Covid- He further noted that other matters such as being compelled to sell the stocks at extremely The Government early last month considered midterm, and long-term. 19-positive patient evaluation before taking reconvening Parliament did not fall under the low prices. “It is a crime what is happening to the possibility of reducing electricity tariffs as Moreover, the Government also needs to any decision with regard to the resumption purview of the EC or the Election Secretariat. these poor people. The Government must take a measure of providing relief to consumers consider safeguarding the producers and the of economic activities. “The President can summon Parliament if he action,” Karunaratne observed. in the wake of the declining global oil prices. consumer and cutting off the middleman, and The total number of coronavirus cases in wishes. That is his prerogative. The Election Meanwhile, Secretary to the Ministry – Maheesha Mudugamuwa a system needs to be in place for that to happen. the country had increased to 254 as at the Commission is only tasked with conducting of Agriculture Neil Bandara Hapuhinna In addition to that, sustainable insurance time of publishing last night. Among them, as elections,” he said. acknowledged that there hadn’t been a proper schemes should be designed for the agriculture at yesterday morning, 160 active cases were In the meantime, many have called for the state distribution network for agricultural Govt. turns... industry so that farmers are encouraged to under medical care. Late last evening, nine indefinite postponement of the elections until produce. However, with the record of shortages of engage in agriculture despite the losses they more recoveries were reported, bringing the the Covid-19 situation is fully contained in “The private sector had distribution channels, several drugs in hospitals, the Government, would incur due to adverse weather. In the event total number of recovered patients to 86. Sri the country. but due to the lockdown, all those became through discussions held with Indian a crop is destroyed due to natural causes, as they Lanka has confirmed seven fatalities due to Former Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) inactive. Now, some of those are operating. authorities, had taken measures to import will be covered by the insurance schemes, the Covid-19 so far. Parliamentarian Dr. said We realised then that the state machinery to necessary drugs in the near future, Dr. farmer can confidently start cultivating during that it was the wrong time to hold elections. distribute agri goods was lacking,” he said. Gunawardana said. the next season. “The Government should “The virus is not contained. It has now gone to However, he said the Government was in the It was the Government Medical Officers’ also be in a position to buy the stocks from Over 9,000... the last phase and is spreading at the community process of addressing the problem. Association (GMOA) that raised concerns the farmers at a reasonable price if they are Twenty-six persons from five families were level. It must be contained. Holding elections “The Presidential Task Force handling the over a shortage of around 500 essential drugs unable to sell their crops. I would go a further sheltered at a safe location in the Nuwara Eliya now would be detrimental to this goal,” Dr. Covid-19 response is already taking steps to in the country on Friday (17). step and add that it is compulsory to cultivate District due to their houses sustaining damage Jayatissa said. fix the problem. I believe even now, the armed In a statement issued by the GMOA, its all the barren land in the country. Maybe the caused by strong winds. He pointed out that the number of newly forces are helping with the distribution,” he Secretary Dr. Haritha Aluthge had stated land can be allocated to agriculture graduates, On Thursday (16), 19 houses had been infected patients was reducing not because added. that the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation so they could apply their academic knowledge partially damaged by strong winds in the the virus was being contained, but due to the – Skandha Gunasekara (SPC), Central Drug Supply Division and help improve the food production of the Anuradhapura District. lack of testing. (CDSD), and National Medicines Regulatory country,” Rambukwella said. District Disaster Management Co-ordination “We are not doing enough testing at all. That Authority (NMRA) had failed to act upon The Minster shared these thoughts when Unit Assistant Director Deshapriya Bandara, is why the numbers of new infections are low, Tariffs to... the instructions given by Minister of Health The Sunday Morning contacted him to inquire speaking to The Sunday Morning, said: not because the spread has been contained. It The expenditure on payments to employees . whether the recommendations presented by the “Seventeen houses in Galnewa and two houses is up to the President to take a decision on this as overtime charges have been reduced during The association has urged the Government deans of the faculties of agriculture representing in Thalawa were damaged by strong winds on matter if he cares about the wellbeing of the the lockdown period while fuel expenditure has to take necessary action to provide essential eight state universities of Sri Lanka last week Thursday. After visiting the areas and assessing people,” he said. also declined due to the continuous reduction drugs to hospitals. However, Dr. Gunawardana to the President, would be considered for the extent of the damage caused by the wind, The (UNP), Samagi of fuel prices in the world market. This has noted that the Government, through the implementation to improve the efficiency of we noticed that they were partially damaged. Jana Balawegaya (SJB), and several others resulted in consumers questioning whether SPC, would take necessary measures to food supply chains. We have paid for the repair of the roofs of the have expressed objection to holding the these benefits would be passed on to electricity manufacture essential drugs within the The recommendations were put forth to the two houses in Thalawa, and arrangements are general elections until the threat of Covid-19 consumers. country. President through a letter in which the deans in place to settle the payments for the houses is eliminated, and have sought discussions However, Minister of Power and Renewable As the first step, Minister Wanniarachchi had highlighted that the disturbances experienced in Galnewa.” with the EC. Energy said the electricity inspected a location for drug manufacturing in the food supply chains over the past weeks Earlier last week, about 1,095 houses were tariffs will not see any changes, but instructions in Ratmalana on yesterday (18). were critical and would have an effect on the damaged due to strong wind and ice rain in Commercial... have been given to the CEB to make sure it does The Co-Cabinet Spokesman also noted post-Covid-19 era, as the basic need for food the Puttalam District. The DMC had informed Speaking to The Sunday Morning, Pathirage not charge exorbitant amounts from consumers. that the present Government had to pay the becomes a major concern for every citizen. the National Disaster Relief Services Centre denied reports that it was a chartered flight that Consumers however have raised concerns drug purchasing bills of 2019 after it came – Sarah Hannan the sunday morning 3 Sunday, April 19, 2020 FOCUS

customs agent were also among the six arrested on Tuesday along with While the Government’s Riyaj Bathiudeen. priority is (handling) the The lawyer in question is Hejaz coronavirus, investigations Hizbullah, a prominent attorney are still ongoing. I cannot say who shot to fame in recent years when it would be concluded; for representing Dr. Mohammed it all depends on the intensity Shafi, the doctor falsely accused of the investigations. That of sterilising Sinhalese women at a will take its own course. The government hospital in Kurunegala. important thing is that they’re The Police Spokesman also still at it. But they are quite revealed that a total of 119 persons confident of tracking the had been arrested by the CID so far culprits down over the Easter Sunday attacks, out Government Spokesman and of which 40 were under detention, State Minister of Investment while the TID had arrested 78 Promotion Keheliya individuals, of whom 52 were under Rambukwella detention. ONE YEAR SINCE EASTER SUNDAY TERROR ATTACKS “It was uncovered that the lawyers had connection(s) to two directly,” Herath said, adding that of the bombers and was an official the term of the Commission was in the NGOs they had set up and extended by six months to 20 even had a hand in the planning of October. the attacks,” the Police Spokesman said. Furthermore, SP Senaratne BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA Recent arrest High-profile said that the investigations into the With the one-year Fast forward to last Tuesday Easter bombings were now being anniversary of the 21 April (14), when the brother of former conducted by a team of specialists Easter Sunday terror attacks Parliamentarian and Minister of who were under direct purview of coming up on Tuesday, Industry and Commerce Rishad the DIG in charge of the CID. Bathiudeen, Riyaj Bathiudeen was “The Police Special authorities have made arrested by the CID. Investigations Unit (SIU) is several high-profile arrests arrests mark Police Media Spokesman SP conducting an internal inquiry into indicating a possible political Jaliya Senaratne, told The Sunday the officers who were handling link to the suicide bombers. Morning that investigations had the investigations before the new revealed that Riyaj Bathiudeen had DIG of the CID commenced fresh Investigations into the 21 April close relations with the Ibrahim investigations,” he said, adding that terror attacks were commenced brothers – Inshaf and Ilham – an initial report of the SIU findings by authorities immediately after anniversary who blew themselves up at the is to be handed over to the IGP in the bombings under the former Cinnamon Grand Colombo and two weeks. United National Party (UNP)-led Shangri-La Hotel. Former National Intelligence and Government. zLow-key commemoration zCardinal Ranjith seeks SP Senaratne said that Security Director General Merrill Agencies investigating included for first anniversary action against neglect Bathiudeen’s brother had met with Gunaratne, who was also an expert the Police and its many divisions one of the bombers at a hotel. witness who presented evidence such as the Criminal Investigation “Riyaj Bathiudeen has been before one of the commissions, Department (CID), Terrorism Sumanthiran, Dr. Ashu Marasinghe, President Sirisena to investigate the Malcolm Ranjith for an impartial directly in touch with one of the told The Sunday Morning that he Investigation Department (TID), Dr. Jayampathy Wickramaratne, and Easter bombings. probe, former President Sirisena suicide bombers. Information we had provided evidence that initial Special Task Force (STF), State Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa. This Commission comprised on 22 September 2019 appointed have gathered point(s) to Mr. Riyaj investigations appeared to be Intelligence Service (SIS), as well Its final report was tabled in Supreme Court Justice Vijith a second PCoI headed by Court of Bathiudeen meeting the said suicide attempting to hide certain facts. as Military Intelligence. Parliament on 23 October last year. Malalgoda, retired Inspector Appeal Judge Janak de Silva which bomber at a well-known hotel on “I categorically said that a In addition, a Parliamentary The PSC had noted that former General of Police (IGP) N.K. comprised Court of Appeal Judge a date close to the bombings,” lot of things were not supposed Select Committee (PSC) was President Maithripala Sirisena had Illangakoon, and former Secretary Nissanka Bandula Karunaratne, SP Senaratne stated, adding that to have been unearthed by that appointed on 22 May 2019 and failed in his leadership, in addition to the Ministry of Law and Order retired Court of Appeal Judge Nihal Bathiudeen had also been involved investigation. I’m happy that the held 24 sittings till October that to which he actively undermined the Padmasiri Jayamanne. This was Sunil Rajapaksa, retired High Court in planning the plot to carry out the new investigation is going into new year and heard evidence from 55 Government and systems before the later known as the Malalgoda Judge Bandula Kumara Atapattu, bombings. angles,” Gunaratne said. persons including former President attacks. Commission. and retired Ministry Secretary He went on say that Bathiudeen He went on to say that there Maithripala Sirisena, Prime “In addition, the PSC observes Based on the interim report W.M.M. Adikari. had also worked closely with the appeared to be a strong force Minister , that the President failed on of this Commission, Attorney While two interim reports were suicide bomber to establish several that was attempting to safeguard State Minister of Defence Ruwan numerous occasions to give General (AG) Dappula de Livera released by the second PCoI, these non-governmental organisations persons. Wijewardene, Secretary of Defence leadership and also actively had instructed the CID to carry have been made available only to (NGOs). “It’s difficult to say. But there is Hemasiri Fernando, and Inspector undermined government and out criminal investigations against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, “He had set up several an area that has not be identified by General of Police (IGP) Pujith systems including having ad hoc former Defence Secretary Fernando Secretary to the Commission organisations and even held office the previous investigation. There Jayasundara. National Security Council (NSC) and IGP at the time of the attacks, H.M.P.B. Herath told The Sunday (positions) in some of them. We seems to be a mysterious hand that The PSC consisted of then meetings and leaving out key Pujith Jayasundara, to determine Morning. have found evidence that some of is there, which is why people are Deputy Speaker J.M. Ananda individuals from meetings,” the if they had failed to act on prior “So far, statements have been the suicide bombers had invested in sheltered. There was ample warning Kumarasiri as Chairman and MPs report stated. intelligence reports warning of the recorded from over 650 persons the said organisations and some had to prevent the attacks, but that failed , , Parallel to the PSC was the impending attacks. by the investigations unit of the donated land to them as well,” SP to happen. This raises questions,” Dr. , Field first Presidential Commission of Thereafter, following calls from Commission while 55 people have Senaratne said. Gunaratne said. Marshall , M.A. Inquiry (PCoI) appointed by former Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal been questioned by the Commission He said that a lawyer and a Contd. on page 6

FOLLOWING AG'S GUIDELINES TO PRISONS Thousands released to ease congestion Following the guidelines from On 21 March, three prisoners at the “In his letter to Acting IGP Chandana the Attorney General (AG), the Anuradhapura Prison died as jail guards Wickramaratne, the Attorney General Department of Prisons has proceeded opened fire to control rioting prisoners stated that he had instructed the Acting to release some 4,000-odd prisoners protesting against the restrictions IGP following a discussion held between to ease prison congestion in the face imposed on family visits due to the senior police officers and myself. He of the Covid-19 pandemic, receiving pandemic and the possibility of an is issuing these instructions in terms of praise from rights groups which have infected person being within the prison Section 393(2) of the Code of Criminal now called for a step further in prison complex. Procedure (Act) in an effort to minimise reforms. the congestion within prisons in view of The move to release prisoners AG’s guidelines the Covid-19 pandemic,” he noted. comes as tensions within prisons have Commissioner General of Prisons Section 393(2) of the Code of reached a breaking point over the T.M. Jayasiri Vijayanath Tennakoon Criminal Procedure Act No. 15 of 1979 coronavirus outbreak. told The Sunday Morning that there had states: “The Attorney General shall give The exodus of remand prisoners has been around 16,800 remand prisoners advice, whether on application or on been recommended mainly for minor islandwide. his own initiative, to state departments, drug-related offences, particularly Tennakoon said the AG had instructed public officers, officers of the police, those dealing with small quantities of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) on and officers in corporations in any cannabis or heroin and not habitual the guidelines upon which to release the criminal matter of importance or users as they are sent to rehabilitation remand prisoners in order reduce prison difficulty.” centres. overcrowding. contd on page 6 4 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, April 19, 2020

BY SARAH HANNAN ONCOMING MONSOON AND COMBATING COVID-19 At a time when the country’s focus has shifted fully to stopping the spread of Covid-19, the monsoon too is now managing to divert our attention to a different type of disaster. Another battle The Department of Meteorology indicated that over the coming week too, showers or thundershowers would occur in several places of the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North Western, Southern, and North Central Provinces as well as the Mannar, Mullaitivu, and Vavuniya in the making Districts after 2 p.m. Heavy rainfall above 75 mm is expected particularly in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, and North Western Provinces and Mannar and Vavuniya Districts. While there is a possibility of localised strong winds during thundershowers, the public

Many Sri Lankans who migrated for work and studies have requested the Government to bring them back to PHOTO NEWS.UN.ORG Sri Lanka and in the coming weeks, the Government will accommodate their requests in is requested to take adequate Gampaha, Puttalam, Kurunegala, economy over the health of their Sri Lankans who migrated for keeping with a strategic plan precaution to minimise damages Matara, Galle, and Mannar citizens, Sri Lanka has prioritised work and studies have requested caused by lightning activity. Districts. the health of its citizens over the Government to bring them Acting Chief of Defence Staff and Army Commander Strong winds experienced over Disaster Management Centre the country’s economy. The back to Sri Lanka and in the Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva the past few days had affected (DMC) Assistant Director and decisions that were made by coming weeks, the Government people from the Nuwara Eliya, Spokesperson Pradeep Kodippili, the President, Prime Minister, will accommodate their requests and relevant decision makers in keeping with a strategic plan.” decided that it was their foremost He also added that the duration responsibility to save people’s for quarantine has been extended Since there are little to no reports lives from this deadly pandemic,” from 14 days to 21 days after of a community-level spread of she noted. several observations were made Covid-19, I believe it is high Wanniarachchi further said that previously, with some of the time that normalcy is restored Sri Lanka has therefore been able infected cases beginning to in the country. As much as to limit the number of fatalities show symptoms after 14 days. In we prioritised the health of the reported due to Covid-19. With addition, any person who is at the nation, we have to now start stringent public healthcare quarantine centres will undergo thinking about strengthening measures in place, Sri Lanka has a PCR test after 10 days of being the economy as well been able to reduce the spread of under quarantine and if the test Minster of Health and the virus at a community level. returns negative, such persons Indigenous Medical Services and Wanniarachchi reiterated that are sent home before the full Women and Child Affairs and with the country being placed on quarantine period ends. Social Security sporadic and extended curfew for Pavithra Wanniarachchi nearly a month, the strain on the country’s economy is becoming apparent and that this curfew speaking to The Sunday could not go on for too long. Although the country is placed Morning, said: “Although the “Since there are little to no under curfew, relief efforts are country is placed under curfew, reports of a community-level being carried out to ensure that relief efforts are being carried spread of Covid-19, I believe the people affected by adverse out to ensure that the people it is high time that normalcy is weather events are attended to affected by adverse weather restored in the country. As much Disaster Management Centre events are attended to. We are as we prioritised the health of (DMC) Assistant Director and closely co-ordinating with the the nation, we have to now start Spokesperson District Disaster Management thinking about strengthening Pradeep Kodippili Centre Units (DDMCU) of the the economy as well,” affected areas, and through the Wanniarachchi elaborated. respective divisional secretariats As Sri Lanka continues to we are arranging necessary Strategic plans in place observe physical distancing and compensation payments.” With the Government now adapts alternative methods to Last week, about 1,083 considering to bring back Sri continue operations of many houses were damaged due to Lankans who are stranded state and private organisations by strong winds and ice rains in abroad, Acting Chief of Defence implementing work from home the Puttalam District and the Staff and Army Commander (WFH) strategies, the possibility DMC had informed the National Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva, of a Covid-19 outbreak within Disaster Relief Services Centre elaborating on the quarantine the country has been eliminated. to provide relief to the people process that is in place at the 55 Many are eager to get back to affected by the damage. quarantine centres, noted: “Many their regular lifestyles, which It was also reported that the they were used to, prior to the strong winds damaged 125 small increment in Covid-19 cases in and medium business places as Sri Lanka. well as important infrastructure Director General of Health in these areas. Services (DGHS) Dr. Anil The National Disaster Services Jasinghe explained that it is too Centre provided about Rs. 5.2 soon to determine the level of million to offer relief to the the potential risks. He said: “The people affected by this situation, nature of the Covid-19 virus is as while the National Insurance such that it can occur in waves. Trust Fund (NITF) will provide As we have observed in many the related damages. other countries, the moment a country realises that it managed Restoring economic to flatten the curve, surges stability resume. So far, Sri Lanka has not Commenting on the situation, So far, Sri Lanka has not reported a social transmission Minster of Health and Indigenous reported a social transmission of the virus and all the positive Medical Services and Women and of the virus and all the positive cases that were reported are Child Affairs and Social Security cases that were reported are limited to first contacts, thereby Pavithra Wanniarachchi, stated limited to first contacts, thereby limiting the spread of the virus. that over the past few days most limiting the spread of the We need to continue to maintain of the positive Covid-19 cases virus. We need to continue to this, so that we could be assured were reported from people who maintain this, so that we could that the risk has lowered for were at quarantine centres and be assured that the risk has Covid-19.” only a very few were reported lowered for Covid-19 He reiterated that there is still from a community level. Director General of Health Services a potential risk involved, but the “While many developed Dr. Anil Jasinghe steps taken so far have ensured to countries have prioritised their take control of the situation. the sunday morning 5 Sunday, April 19, 2020 SPOTLIGHT

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Temporary rice shortage Amidst the battle against Covid- resolved: Govt. 19, ensuring food security in the The Ministry of Agriculture last week country in the coming months stated that the shortage of rice in the would undoubtedly pose a great market during the New Year holidays challenge to the State, with farmers has been addressed and assured that expressing concerns over their there wouldn’t be any disruption to rice inability to recommence cultivation supply in the days ahead while urging due to the lack of funds and a the public not to panic. shortage of quality-certified seeds. Responding to the issue of an impending rice shortage due to Meanwhile, the disparities between the government price controls, Ministry farmers’ selling prices and consumers’ of Mahaweli, Agriculture, Irrigation, purchase prices remain, despite efforts by and Rural Development Secretary Neel the Government to bridge the gap. Bandara Hapuhinna told The Sunday A kilogramme of tomatoes in Colombo Morning that there was a temporary a day before the New Year last week was shortage in the market during the being sold at Rs. 400, while the upcountry New Year holidays, but that now it tomato farmers sold their harvest at Rs. 100 had returned to normalcy as there per kg, with much of their crop still rotting were ample stocks of rice in state and in the farmlands with no buyers. privately owned storage facilities. As claimed by leaders in the farming “There is no shortage of rice and industry, while the earning of huge profits the maximum retail prices (MRPs) by middlemen at the cost of farmers is imposed on several rice varieties would not new, the issue had got worse due to be strictly implemented and therefore, the prevailing situation in the country, the public can purchase rice at lower especially as many economic centres were prices,” Hapuhinna said. closed a week prior to the New Year to Accordingly, the MRPs per control the spread of the coronavirus. kilogramme of rice varieties including As a result, many farmers were still keeri samba, steamed/boiled white/red struggling to sell their crops. samba, white/red raw samba (excluding Farmers are neither against the suduru samba), steamed/boiled white/ Government’s initiatives to control the red nadu, and steamed/boiled white/red spread of the deadly virus nor do they BATTLING COVID-19 WHILE ENSURING FOOD SECURITY raw rice (excluding mottaikarupan and expect much at a time of an epidemic, attakari) are Rs. 125, Rs. 90, Rs. 90, Rs. but they question how they are to survive 90, and Rs. 85, respectively. when they can’t sell their crops. They Meanwhile, All Ceylon Farmers’ also raised concerns over the majority of Federation’s (ACFF) President consumers spending hundreds of rupees Namal Karunaratne stressed that the for just a bagful of vegetables while the Government should take strict measures farmers’ crops are rotting due to transport against the mill owners who would not bottlenecks. comply with government regulations The farming community last week and those who try to hide stocks to commended the Government’s decision create an artificial shortage. to use trains to transport vegetables to the The majority of stocks are available markets. A growing with private mill owners, and the Nevertheless, the famers claim that Government has only around 50,000 although the Government had launched metric tonnes (MT) of paddy at present, several mechanisms, these in isolation which include the stocks with the would not solve the issue; they said the Army, Karunaratne said, adding that crops wouldn’t be available until the therefore it was important to control Government came up with a proper holistic the large-scale private mill owners by solution. implementing the regulations strictly. It is in this backdrop that the farmers Speaking to The Sunday Morning, warned the Government to prepare for Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) a shortage of vegetables in the coming Director Asela Bandara stressed that months, as many farmers had already given problem strict legal action would be taken against up cultivating as they couldn’t earn enough those who sell rice above the MRP. money to start for the next season, and also z due to the shortage of proper seeds. Farmers unable to re-cultivate due to lack of funds Meanwhile, explaining the measures taken by the Government, Government Lack of transportation; z Lack of good-quality seeds, an added woe for farmers Information Department Director General Nalaka Kaluwewa last week noted that the economic centres too far Government has successfully completed Speaking to The Sunday Morning, country by using stations as centres,” he far to sell their harvest. the first phase of purchases on 11 and 12 Prasanna Lanka Koswatte, a vegetable said, adding that distribution through the After closing down the economic April in the Nuwara Eliya, Dambulla, and farmer in Mandaramnuwara who wrote off railway system was the easiest and most centres across the island, the Government Anuradhapura Districts, while the second a crop yield that he expected would bring economical way to go. introduced a mechanism to distribute phase of purchases would occur in the in thousands of rupees in profit, stressed: “I “We have a railway line connecting the produce through the divisional secretariats Ratnapura and Hambantota Districts on can’t pluck the entire harvest and transport entire country, and so we should use it to last week. Accordingly, subcommittees 15 and 16 April, with special focus on the it alone because I cannot spend on labour distribute vegetables around the country tasked with supplying essential services purchase of the banana harvest. for something that will not fetch me any and thereby give these farmers a chance at each divisional secretariat should order According to him, the Government is profit.” to earn something while giving relief to goods from the economic centres before 10 taking measures to purchase the vegetable Koswatte has a plot of land where the consumers who currently purchase a.m. on a daily basis. harvests without letting it go to waste. he mainly cultivates beans, while also vegetables at higher rates,” Karunaratne These orders can be placed at the Urging the farmers not to panic, as the cultivating smaller quantities of leeks, stressed. Dambulla, Tambuttegama, Nuwara Eliya, Government has notified the relevant carrots, and potatoes. Usually, he shared, “Still however, the Government has not Keppetipola, and Embilipitiya Economic We have a railway line connecting government agents regarding the intention April is the month in which he earns a understood that agriculture isn’t an industry Centres, which have been closed in order to the entire country, and so we should to purchase of their crops, the Director considerable amount as almost at all other on which you can pull down the shutters curb the spread of Covid-19. General also noted that all the related times of the year, middlemen earned a today and restart in a few weeks,” he said, The economic centres will confirm use it to distribute vegetables around issues faced by the people in receiving the majority of the profit. However this year, adding that crops will ripen and cows will the possibility of supplying the required the country and thereby give these relief packages should be brought to the he is in dire straits, similar to almost all the give milk; harvesting has to be done in a goods before 2 p.m., and then distribute farmers a chance to earn something notice of the government agent closest to other farmers in his village. timely manner. these among the divisional secretariats while giving relief to the consumers them or the divisional secretary of their At present, he is scrambling to arrange In addition, Karunaratne alleged that the with the approval of the Government. The who currently purchase vegetables at relevant area, in order to obtain solutions to labour, which is in short supply, in order purchasing mechanism launched by the distribution of these orders among traders higher rates their issues. to harvest the wheat he grew on eight Government was not practical and it puts would be handled by the subcommittees at All Ceylon Farmers Federation (ACFF) hectares. farmers into trouble as they have to travel the divisional secretariats. President Namal Karunaratne The curfew starting 20 March that was prompted by the coronavirus pandemic Cultivation hampered by occurred at the same time as Sri Lanka’s The Government should intervene importation of these seeds,” he added. I can’t pluck the entire harvest peak farming season. Even though farming seed shortage and take the necessary measures while Asked whether the home gardening is declared an essential service, meaning Along with toilet paper, face masks, and implementing strict laws against these concept would be effective, the former and transport it alone because that activities relating to the same are liquid sanitiser bottles, locals are noticing actions by the culprits, Karunaratne noted. State Minister stressed that at a time I cannot spend on labour for allowed to continue, the halting of overall an acute shortage of seeds, with the Meanwhile, Former State Minister of like this, it would help but soon after the something that will not fetch me economic activity and supply chain majority engaging in home gardening in Agriculture Vidura Wickramanayake also curfew is lifted and things come back to any profit restrictions have left farmers in a difficult fear of a shortage of food in the near future. noted that the farmers in the Kalutara normal, most people might forget about the Vegetable farmer in Mandaramnuwara, situation. These woes are being echoed by However, the seed shortage is affecting District had complained about a lack of concept. Prasanna Lanka Koswatte farmers across the country. traditional farmers the most as they cannot proper seeds for farming. “With the Covid-19 pandemic, the W.M. Gunawardene, a farmer in proceed to cultivate for the next season. “Seeds are the most important thing situation would be different as there will Welimada, said the new centres were set All Ceylon Farmers Federation (ACFF) when it comes to farming, whether it is be an unavoidable recession as predicted up far away, sharing that farmers from President Namal Karunaratne told The home gardening or traditional farming. But by many economists, and during such a Buyers are not coming to the Welimada and Keppetipola had to go all Sunday Morning that farmers were in a now, in Sri Lanka, we have hybrid seeds time, a country cannot depend on imports. farmlands and farmers have no the way to either Hakgala, Haldummulla, difficult position as they couldn’t find the which yield only a single harvest and the Therefore, homegrown products would way to transport their crops that or Mahiyanganaya, which was impossible. necessary seeds for their cultivation. seeds produced in the harvest cannot be be more important to minimise any food The main crops cultivated by farmers in The government authorities are yet to replanted or do not give a productive crop. shortage,” he noted. far to earn a small sum. The Welimada include carrots, leeks, potatoes, provide seeds, he said, adding that the The seed business is a lucrative business According to him, curtailing importation transport cost would be much tomatoes, and beans. fertiliser and other necessary items for and Sri Lanka at present depends on the would be important in promoting local higher than our income “Buyers are not coming to the farmlands and the cultivation were also not yet given to agriculture. A farmer in Welimada, farmers have no way to transport their crops farmers. Asked about the state-owned unused W.M. Gunawardene that far to earn a small sum. The transport The ACFF exposed another racket of lands, Wickramanayake noted that those cost would be much higher than our income,” quality seeds being adulterated with low- lands should be utilised for the cultivation he stressed. quality seeds. of commercial crops. “Now we use hybrid seeds, which However, when The Sunday Morning Manning Market closed Politics in a crisis gives a bumper harvest unlike traditional contacted Ministry of Mahaweli, The Colombo Manning Market will However, speaking to The Sunday Morning, seeds, but these seeds need to be Agriculture, Irrigation, and Rural remain closed for another week, the All Ceylon Farmers Federation (ACFF) looked after well and need fertiliser and Development Secretary Neel Bandara Government Information Department President Namal Karunaratne alleged that agrochemicals, unlike traditional seeds. Hapuhinna, he noted that the Government announced last Friday (17). the henchmen of some politicians had now But from hybrid seeds, farmers cannot would solve the issue in the near future. The measure has been taken to curb entered the vegetable business and were trying get a second generation (of crops), unlike “As many people started home the spread of Covid-19. Farmers, to take control of distribution. from traditional seeds,” he explained, gardening, there was a small shortage wholesalers, and retailers have been “At a recent meeting, the farmers pointing out that several businessmen were (of seeds) in the market, but that will be requested to proceed to the economic requested the Government to launch a engaging in mixing quality seeds with low- rectified soon and all the necessary seeds centres in Meegoda, Narahenpita, mechanism connecting railway lines quality seeds with the aim of earning huge will be distributed through the Department Ratmalana, Welisara, Piliyandala, and to distribute the vegetables around the sums as there is a shortage in the market. of Agriculture,” he noted. Veyangoda until further notice. 6 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, April 19, 2020

BY AGRA RANASINGHE As the Covid-19 pandemic spread across the world, the “work from home” (WFH) concept has also spread Is the state sector really along with it due to physical distancing measures adopted by governments. In Sri Lanka too, following the discovery of the first few patients in mid-March, this concept has taken hold working from home? unlike ever before, especially as the Government has declared this a WFH period for all, excluding essential We had two deliveries made to services. clients and we made those on time, successfully co-ordinating However, while it is possible in the same way we did before to carry out certain jobs remotely the lockdown. We don’t know due to modern technology, there the long-term effect of this but are some fields where this method we are adjusting very well cannot be employed as effectively. Fortunaglobal (Pvt.) Ltd. CEO At the Department of Motor Suren Kohombange Traffic (DMT) for instance, services are mostly provided to the public via face-to-face interactions. lockdown was declared, we had DMT Commissioner General certain experiences of working Sumith Alahakoon spoke to The from home. Initially, there were Sunday Morning about how WFH some workers getting used to the measures have only had limited system. After this initial process, value to his department. we have successfully advanced it Alahakoon said: “Most of the to a level where it is almost like services which are provided by we are working from office. In our department are not possible fact, we had two deliveries made to provide from home. But every to clients and we made those on week, we conducted a meeting time, successfully co-ordinating through video call and tried to get in the same way we did before most of our work done, at least to a the lockdown. We don’t know certain extent. We decided to give the long-term effect of this but the contact numbers of our officials we are adjusting very well,” said to the customers so that they can Kohombange. contact them and get assistance if While tech companies are they have any issue. naturally geared to work remotely, are larger companies equipped to handle this transition as smoothly? To determine this, we spoke to I think attitude towards this Dialog Axiata PLC CEO Supun situation matters more than Weerasinghe, who said: “From technology. I saw that some the educational sector. Many mark sheets to the staff. I think understand what the lecturers are He noted: “The state 14 March, we have been using (students) were dedicating universities are using the WFH attitude towards this situation trying to say too. The first week departments have been advised to work from home measures for their time to work from home measure, especially for the matters more than technology. I was really hard; later we got used work from home and with the new the employees and it has been and some were not. For non-academic staff, and in saw that some were dedicating to them but to be honest, it is still technology and communication very successful. We have been example, research conferences some universities lectures were their time to work from home difficult. Most of the students are facilities. The decision has supporting the network with were held online and lecturers conducted online for the students and some were not. For example, absent in the sessions because they been successful as a first step in everyone to give connectivity in particular were fulfilling who have online assignments and research conferences were held have poor network connections.” fighting the coronavirus crisis and to the entire country. We have their part such. online and lecturers in particular However, Minister of Foreign supporting the Government’s effort been launching new products and University of Sri University of Sri were fulfilling their part.” Relations and Skills Development, to counter the virus and provide supporting network operations, and Jayewardenepura Faculty of Jayewardenepura Faculty of Students have been severely Employment, and Labour protection to all the people. Of a majority of the staff is working Humanities and Social Sciences Humanities and Social Sciences affected by the curfew; they Relations course, the essential services also from home. Dean Prof. Shirantha Heenkenda Dean Prof. Shirantha Heenkenda have had to rely on online said that remote work has indeed ran and delivered on expectations “If there are critical shared their experience in remote lectures and online submission been successful. in this time of need.” requirements, they come to the working, especially with regard to for their assignments. Sharing In the private sector, many network operation centre or “There were some driving the non-academic staff. her experience, Efi Lakisha, a leading tech companies of the go to the customer site. As an licenses to be printed by 30 Prof. Heenkenda noted: “In student at a private university world such as Google, Yahoo, and organisation, we were working April but we could not. We are certain areas, some of our officials said that online lectures were Apple have been using remote in terms of platforms for people looking forward to get some of did their work from home, not that effective and difficult to As an organisation, we were working for years and have to work from home. As a result, our officials to come and complete especially the non-academic staff comprehend. working in terms of platforms simply needed to accelerate it we handled it seamlessly and such work, while maintaining who had work that needed to be “Lectures have not been for people to work from home. to meet physical distancing and were able to keep supporting the physical distancing. Some of our completed on computers. We also useful but lecturers made a great As a result, we handled it lockdown needs over the past organisation, the customers, and officials got some work done from introduced a new filing system. effort to conduct the lectures. seamlessly and were able to keep few weeks. To assess whether the network during this pandemic.” home, but our systems were not Some officials who live near the All the lecturers and the supporting the organisation, local tech companies too have He added that the importance developed to provide the services university have taken the necessary students struggle with network the customers, and the network found this transition as easy as of this measure is to prevent the online. Therefore, it was difficult to documents from the university and connections. Subjects such as during this pandemic the global giants have, we spoke spread of Covid-19, which is why get most of our work done.” worked from home. I appreciate IT and mathematics are difficult Dialog Axiata PLC CEO Supun to Fortunaglobal (Pvt.) Ltd. CEO more than 2,000 Dialog employees Another sector which was their dedication. to understand through online Weerasinghe Suren Kohombange. have been working from home about to fall into danger was “Some students have sent their lectures. It’s really difficult to “Actually, even before the during this period.

Contd. from page 3 was decided that these cases would be taken up such a conspiracy must be punished. next week in courts,” Nawaratne added. High-profile... “Those who are involved in Thousands released... He went on to say that long-term measures any cover-up or conspiracy must Tennakoon said the AG had stipulated that Beyond BASL’s recommendations would require amendments to various pieces Meanwhile, Government be caught and punished. Those he would not object bail being granted to those Meanwhile, Bar Association of Sri Lanka of legislation, noting: “The Remand Prisoners Spokesman and State Minister of responsible must be revealed to the remanded for being in possession of less than 5 g (BASL) President Kalinga Indatissa PC revealed Ordinance of 1991 for one would have to be Investment Promotion Keheliya people,” he said. of heroin and are yet to receive the Government that the instructions given by the AG to the amended.” Rambukwella said that the With regard to commemorations Analyst’s (GA) report. In addition, the AG has (Acting) IGP went beyond the recommendations However, he asserted that serious offenders investigations would proceed for the one-year anniversary of the also given leeway to release prisoners who have made by the BASL. were not even considered for release. “Those unhindered under the current Easter Sunday attacks, the Cardinal been detained over the possession of 5 kg or less “What we recommended was that remand convicted of murder, rape, and child abuse were Government. urged the public to conduct a low-key of cannabis and have been in remand for more prisoners who are in remand as they were unable not even thought of when we were considering “I saw that some arrests have been affair and to abide by the preventive than a month as well as those detained for having to meet their bail conditions should be released. the release of prisoners. We are only including made including Bathiudeen’s brother. measures taken by authorities in light less than that amount. “The Attorney General That recommendation has been accepted, but the those who have been already enlarged on bail So, it’s obviously proceeding. of the Covid-19 outbreak. also observed that the remanded prisoners other instructions of the Attorney General were but haven’t furnished the bail requirements,” While the Government’s priority “Only the bishops and a Buddhist scheduled to be released on bail must not be in addition to what we suggested,” he informed. he averred. Meanwhile, Committee for is (handling) the coronavirus, monk will participate in the habitual offenders involved in drug trafficking, Indatissa said the BASL had not seen the letter Protecting Right of Prisoners (CPRP) President investigations are still ongoing. celebrations in Katuwapitiya. I ask island reconvicted criminals, and those arrested sent by the AG to the (Acting) IGP and thus Attorney-at-Law Senaka Perera commended I cannot say when it would be for a for two minutes of silence at for large-scale drug trafficking and money could not remark further. the Government’s initiative to release remand concluded; it all depends on the 8.45 a.m. in memory of those who laundering charges,” Tennakoon added. Soon after the Anuradhapura Prison riots, prisoners. “We appreciate the measures the intensity of the investigations. were lost in the attacks, as that is The Commissioner General of Prisons further a committee consisting of the BASL and Government has taken to release prisoners. This That will take its own course. The the time the first bomb went off,” he said that a total of 4,500 prisoners have been other relevant officials was appointed to make is something we have been calling for, for a very important thing is that they’re still said, adding that church bells would release thus far due to the Covid-19 pandemic recommendations on the matter of inmate release long time. At least now this valuable step has at it. But they are quite confident of also be sounded in churches and and around 12,300 remand prisoners remained. to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. been taken,” he said. Perera went on to say that tracking the culprits down,” he said. temples. The Cardinal then called “Around 80% of these remand prisoners are it was important to now look at prisoners held on the masses to light a candle at drug-related offenders,” he said. A way forward under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Archbishop seeks action 8.47 a.m. and engage in religious Secretary to the Ministry of Justice, Human Then Secretary of the BASL Kaushalya “There are some prisoners who have been Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal observances. Rights, and Legal Reforms J.J. Rathnasiri told Nawaratne said a meeting was held on 26 March detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act Malcolm Ranjith, on Thursday An extraordinary gazette was The Sunday Morning that those who are in where short, medium, and long-term solutions and they have been imprisoned for more than a (16), urged the Government to hold issued last month extending the term remand awaiting various reports for their cases to were discussed. “Due to the urgency of the day, decade without their case being heard,” he said. accountable those who failed to heed of the PCoI appointed by former be heard would also be released on bail. we decided upon short-term measures first. We He urged authorities to now look at inmates prior warnings and prevent the attack. President Maithripala Sirisena in “Prisoners who are in remand because they are will look into the medium and long term in the imprisoned under the PTA to ensure their cases “We appreciate that the present September last year to investigate the awaiting reports from the Government Analyst’s near future, but what we need most at this point are promptly taken up or the prisoners treated Government is carrying out an Easter Sunday attacks, which was set laboratories (Department) and such as well as is to reduce congestion and protect from the justly and released. impartial, thorough investigation to expire on 20 March. minor drug offenders who have been in remand coronavirus,” Nawaratne said. “Some held under the PTA are just rotting into the Easter Sunday attacks. But The President’s Media Division for more than six months will be released on He said that the committee had recommended away in jail without any case being heard. It those who knew about the attacks informed The Sunday Morning a temporary basis and any other such remand it was crucial to have some prisoners released as is high time that officials look at these people beforehand but failed to stop the that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa prisoners will be released,” Rathnasiri said. soon as possible, particularly those enlarged on as they are humans too and are being treated attacks or warn authorities must be has extended the term of the PCoI He stressed that such cases were only released bail but unreleased. inhumanely. Their cases must be heard as soon as brought to justice,” the Cardinal said. headed by Court of Appeal Judge on bail. “So, they will be given bail and then the “We have proposed that those who are possible or (should have) them released,” Perera He went on to say that there was a Janak de Silva by six months, till 20 case would be taken up on a later date when the enlarged on bail but are still imprisoned as they said. conspiracy and everyone involved in September this year. reports are made available.” haven’t met the bail conditions be released. It (SG) the sunday morning 37 Sunday, April 19, 2020 FOCUS

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA While the economic loss caused by many weeks of indefinite lockdown is yet to be calculated by the Government, uncertainty looms over the financial stability of many businesses around the country. Last week, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) stated that the slowdown in the global economy caused by the coronavirus outbreak is likely to cost the economy at least $ 1 trillion in 2020. As predicted by economists, almost all the countries around the world would be affected by this global economic crisis. However, the economic crisis in Sri Lanka is different from many RE-INTRODUCTION OF TAX AMENDMENTS other countries as the crisis hit the country at a turbulent time, In Sri Lanka, we know our further exposing an economy history and we did not improve already weighed down by rising our fiscal situation. On top of public debt and a budget deficit that, we have this crisis and hovering at over 5% of GDP. the Government is not in a To help cushion the economic Grappling for fiscal good position to face it due to blow, the Government last the narrowed fiscal space week re-introduced some tax MPCC Chairman Prof. Sirimal amendments through the Inland Abeyratne Revenue Department (IRD) for high-income earning employees and companies while reversing Monetary Policy Consultative the tax bonanza announced in consolidation? Committee (MPCC) of the Central January as part of the relief employee on a quarterly basis them to deduct the amount from above payment is a regular fixed gains and profits from conducting Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) package presented in President to the IRD. However, unlike the their salaries, Guruge explained, payment (interest, rent, etc.), on betting and gaming; and gains Chairman Prof. Sirimal Abeyratne Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s election PAYE tax which is applicable pointing out that no employer the request of the recipient, an and profits from the manufacture said that returning to some of pledges. for an income of more than Rs. however would be allowed to Advance Income Tax could be and sale or import and sale of those taxes is one measure that 100,000 per month, the new tax deduct the tax without the consent deducted by the payer of such any liquor or tobacco products can be taken by the Government The income tax rates on has introduced a ceiling of Rs. of the employee. payment (if such payer is a WHA), were set at 18%, 40%, and 40%, or the relevant authorities at a time gains and profits from 250,000 per month. However, as Guruge said, the as per the declaration made to the respectively. like this even though it would not manufacturing; gains and In a circular issued on 8 IRD would maintain separate files WHA (sic),” the IRD stated. want to. profits from conducting April, the IRD said: “With for those who earn Rs. 3 million In addition, the income tax rate Non-effective mechanism “Sri Lanka didn’t have the betting and gaming; and effect from 01.04.2020, on the or more a year even though the of a company, an individual, or Meanwhile, former Janatha fiscal strength to face a crisis like gains and profits from the request of employee whose measure was on a voluntary basis. a partnership; income tax rates Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) MP this. Now, many of the western manufacture and sale or gross remuneration for a month When asked how much more on certain profits of specific lashed out at the countries – although their troubles import and sale of any liquor exceeds Rs. 250,000 per month the Department was expected industries; and tax slabs of Government for re-introducing a are much more than what we or tobacco products were or Rs. 3,000,000 for a year of to earn from the new revision, individuals are also revised. non-effective tax mechanism. have (experienced) in terms of the set at 18%, 40%, and 40%, assessment, an Advance Personal Guruge explained that the tax Accordingly, the income tax He claimed that the taxes were damage from the coronavirus – respectively Income Tax could be deducted by was introduced to regularise the rate on the taxable income of a more of way of the Government have spending capacities stronger the employer (sic).” taxes already being paid while no company was set at 24%, while paying taxes to the Government than ours. That’s why they The Pay As You Earn (PAYE) new income was expected by the the income tax rate on gains and where there was no income, approve millions and billions in tax and the Withholding Tax On request of employees Department. profits from specific businesses adding that the tax structure was spending in order to handle it as (WHT) introduced by the However, when The Sunday He also noted that those who was set at 14%. never effective during the previous well as to take care of the people previous Government – to which Morning contacted IRD could not pay taxes during the The income tax rates on gains Government either. including those who lost work. the then “Joint Opposition” that Commissioner General Nadun curfew period would be released and profits from manufacturing; Instead of providing tax Their salaries are also being paid is now in power vehemently Guruge, he stressed that the new from the penalty but the taxes concessions at a time when a by these governments – at least opposed – have now been tax revisions were in no means would somehow be collected. JVP MP Handunnetti claimed pandemic has hit the country, the a percentage,” Prof. Abeyratne re-introduced under different to re-introduce the previously “Resident person in respect of that the taxes were more present Government has burdened noted. taxes named as the “Advance scrapped taxes by the Government, the dividend, interest, discount, of way of the Government the public by imposing new taxes, “In Sri Lanka, we know our Personal Income Tax” (APIT) and but to make it easy for certain charge, natural resource payment, paying taxes to the Handunnetti stressed. history and we did not improve “Advance Income Tax” (AIT). individuals who were eligible for rent, royalty, premium or Government where there our fiscal situation. On top of APIT, which is similar to the tax payments as a national duty. retirement payment received, was no income, adding that Fiscal strength that, we have this crisis and the PAYE tax, can be deducted by The tax structure announced and/or on service performed by the tax structure was never questioned Government is not in a good the employer with the consent of last week was a request made such individual. However, with effective during the previous Elaborating on the tax revisions position to face it due to the the employee, or be paid by the by employees as it was easy for effect from 01.04.2020, if any of Government either and its effect on the economy, narrowed fiscal space,” he added.

POLITICISATION OF SAMURDHI RELIEF Samurdhi recipients’ conundrum z JVP claims process politicised and selective z Govt. denies allegations, says issues being sorted

BY AGRA RANASINGHE devastated, they have not received Former JVP MP Bimal Bandula Thilakasiri said that he is “There was an issue in the the relief that was said to be granted Rathnayake echoed these views, not aware of areas where Samurdhi process with regard to the loans Last week, The Sunday Morning by the Government. and told The Sunday Morning that recipients have faced this situation that Samurdhi recipients have learnt from Lanka Private Bus When contacted, former Janatha the Government is not concerned and asked the writer to provide taken before, as some of them have Owners’ Association, Lanka Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) MP about the people who are affected, him with the areas where these not settled the loans. Therefore, Professional Three-wheeler charged that this referring to the Rs. 5,000 allowance complaints were received from. there were some issues in the Drivers’ Association, and some mechanism had been politicised. as well as the Samurdhi benefits. When contacted, Co-cabinet mechanism because Samurdhi other professional collectives that “There are many issues and Rathnayake said: “We see that Spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella officials are responsible for the the majority of the bus drivers, complaints against this mechanism the process of granting Rs. 5,000 said that all Samurdhi beneficiaries financial management of their conductors, three-wheeler drivers, of granting relief to Samurdhi has been carried out selectively This whole process is controlled will receive the benefits by 23 April. institutions. But as the Government lottery ticket sellers, and other daily recipients. This whole process is and is ineffective and politicised. by the members of the relevant Rambukwella noted: “With has already taken action to prevent wage earners had not received the controlled by the members of the The Department of Samurdhi pradeshiya sabha. Relief is regard to this matter I must say this situation, I think the process is allowance of Rs. 5,000 which was relevant pradeshiya sabha. Relief Development has been made a granted to those who are well that this is a massive operation. I continuously happening and will granted by the Government earlier is granted to those who are well political wing of the Sri Lanka known to them; therefore, don’t think you can find this kind benefit the people as intended.” this month. Now, it has emerged that known to them; therefore, this Podujana Peramuna (SLPP). The this mechanism of granting of operation anywhere in the world. However, in some areas people many Samurdhi recipients are also mechanism of granting relief has a letter sent by the Department relief has a lot of issues. Basically 90% of the recipients, were providing positive feedback yet to receive benefits promised to lot of issues. This mechanism has of Samurdhi Development to This mechanism has become except the public servants who get showing their gratitude to the them through a presidential directive. become politicised.” the District Samurdhi Director politicised their salaries deposited to the bank Government for arranging relief On 23 March, President Gotabaya General clearly states that the 2019 Former JVP MP Vijitha Herath account, seek this relief. I’m sure measures for them. Rajapaksa directed two major relief electoral register should be used as the operation was done in a short All attempts to contact Minister of measures to benefit Samurdhi as a guide when finalising the list period, there can be shortcomings. Women and Child Affairs and Social recipients who have been affected of beneficiaries, and that a copy of “How did they obtain the electoral Also they can make an immediate Security Pavithra Wanniarachchi by the prevailing health and this register should be given to the register which was in the possession appeal if they haven’t received it. proved futile. economic crisis. The first was to Samurdhi Community Based Bank. of the Election Commission? To my “I’m not saying this whole provide interest-free loans of Rs. “We ask from where and from knowledge only the SLPP obtained operation is 100% perfect, but 10,000 to Samurdhi recipients and whom the Department of Samurdhi a copy of the electoral register the attempt should be appreciated

Samurdhi cardholders through Development obtained the electoral and now it is being circulated by because this is not an easy task. There was an issue in all Samurdhi banks. The second register. The grama niladhari has top officials of the Department Imagine, 14,000 officials providing the process with regard to was for the Samurdhi Authority to We ask from where and several other documents which of Samurdhi Development. It relief to 5.8 million families; it is the loans that Samurdhi issue title certificates to Samurdhi from whom the Department contain information about everyone cannot be denied because it has a massive task. But the bulk of recipients have taken before, recipients and low-income families of Samurdhi Development in his division and there is no need the SLPP watermark on it. That this has already been done and as some of them have not for nutritional food items, directing obtained the electoral register. to refer the electoral register. What is why we say that apart from the I’m directly looking into this. By settled the loans. Therefore, that they should be provided with The grama niladhari has is important in granting this relief sacrifices made by the health staff the 23rd of this month everybody there were some issues in the rice, lentils, onions, and food cards several other documents which at this time is not the 2019 electoral and other government officials for should be benefiting from the mechanism because Samurdhi on a weekly basis. contain information about register, as somebody listed under the suppression of the virus, the relief and if not, they can make an officials are responsible for the Nearly a month on since the everyone in his division and Hambantota in that register could be Government is not concerned about immediate appeal.” financial management of their announcement of these relief there is no need to refer the trapped in Colombo by now. There the problems of the people.” The Sunday Morning also spoke institutions measures, many complaints electoral register are about 40,000 people who are When inquired for further to former Minister of Samurdhi Former Minister of have been reported by Samurdhi Former JVP MP trapped in Colombo this way.” information on the matter, Affairs and former MP S.B. Samurdhi Affairs and recipients, saying that although He also questioned the Department of Samurdhi Dissanayake who said that the former MP S.B. Dissanayake they are economically and socially Government’s process asking: Development Director General process is still ongoing. 8 the sunday morning EDITORIAL/POLITICS Sunday, April 19, 2020

A grim milestone Election heat and the unanswered returns; pendulum questions Next Tuesday, 21 April, marks a grim milestone in Sri Lanka’s contemporary history, when the country marks the first anniversary of the deadly Easter Sunday bombings. The gruesome attacks that sways towards EC targeted three packed churches on Christianity’s most holy morning and three luxury hotels at around the same time, killed over 250 z EC to discuss ground situ and call z Govt. to look at South Korean innocent souls and injured or maimed hundreds more. The attacks carried out by a group of radicalised Islamist terrorists stunned the for report from health authorities elections and Indian election model country, which exactly 10 years ago, to almost the day, had thought it had fired the last bullet in its war against terror. Despite the fate of the 2020 within the red zones. The attacks not only destroyed life and property but ripped apart the general election taking nation’s fragile economy which depended on tourism for sustenance. centre stage these days, last Debate on elections Ever since the Easter attacks, the question of “why” has eluded most week witnessed one of the However, the EC is to meet tomorrow academic forums. One cannot still comprehend why a seemingly most low-key celebrations of (20) to discuss the holding of the 2020 well-to-do group of Muslim youth should decide to blow themselves the Sinhala and Tamil New general election and its modalities. up and wreck the country of their birth for no other purpose than Year in our times. It was a It is learnt that the EC is considering to enjoy the company of 72 virgins. To date, that primary question time for reflection, more than requesting a report from the health remains valid and unanswered while their alleged links to the global any other time. authorities on the latest situation of terror outfit ISIS and the purported larger scheme of things remain Covid-19 in the country before making unsubstantiated. Even the First Citizen, President a final call on when the election would Although many commissions have been appointed to probe the security Gotabaya Rajapaksa, celebrated the New be held. lapses that led to the attacks, no commission has been appointed either Year at his private residence in Mirihana. The past few days have seen the EC by the previous or the present regime to find out the actual reason for Traditional New Year celebrations in the coming under pressure from parties the attacks and its beneficiaries. It is pertinent to recall that about a hometown were not to be this year due to affiliated to the Government calling on year earlier, in 2018, the same outfit that carried out the Easter attacks the lockdown in place in a bid to combat the Commission to announce the date of were linked to several incidents in the Kandy District where Buddhist the Covid-19 global pandemic. the general election as is mandated by shrines were systematically vandalised. The purpose of these incidents After the dawn of the New Year, the the Commission without trying to pass at the time seemed to be to inflame Sinhala-Muslim relations in the Hill President wished his elder brothers Minister President Gotabaya Rajapaksa EC Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya the buck to the Supreme Court to make Country, especially in areas with a Muslim majority, and cause a riot. and Prime Minister an observation. They almost succeeded as Sinhala gangs began attacking Muslims in over the telephone Government is keen on holding elections However, tomorrow’s meeting at the the district. It was the timely intervention of the military that prevented and afterwards telephoned his younger and having a new Parliament in place by EC would see authorities representing key a blood bath. It can be surmised that having failed in the first attempt, brother, Basil Rajapaksa, who is the Head the first week of June as legally stipulated. sectors like health, security, and public the group resorted to more deadly means to try and create another of the Presidential Task Force providing When considering the holding of administration coming together to discuss rift, this time between the Christians and Muslims on Easter Sunday. relief to the public. parliamentary elections, senior government the ground situation and whether it is That was also not to be, as the leader of the Catholic Church in Sri Prime Minister Rajapaksa and his family the officials have closely monitored the recently conducive to hold elections. Lanka, His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith acted swiftly to guide spent the New Year at their hometown in black box concluded general election in South Korea After this discussion, the EC is expected his flock away from seeking retaliation by pacifying the community Carlton House. and the manner in which the election to request a written report from the Director even as body parts of victims were being collected from around him Minister Mahinda Amaraweera, who by Capt. Vasabha progressed despite the threat of Covid-19. General of Health before making a final at Kochchikade. It is to the credit of the security forces that they were was also in Tangalle for the New Year, had South Korea’s general election saw its call on Saturday (25). able to capture most of the key figures involved in the bombings within visited the Prime Minister on Tuesday (14) interview with foreign media that it was left-leaning governing party achieving In the event the health authorities give a matter of hours which further helped ease the mounting tensions to extend warm wishes for the New Year. necessary that Sri Lanka partially lift the a landslide victory when results were an all clear to hold elections, the EC is and prevent yet another blood bath. The Premier, on Wednesday (15), had lockdown for economic revival and keep announced on Thursday (16). likely to announce a date to hold elections The many commissions that were subsequently appointed found visited Medamulana to wish his elder rigorously testing like countries such as Foreign media reported that the victory during the last week of May. serious lapses in the state security apparatus that enabled the attacks brother Chamal. South Korea and Germany. showed the confidence of the public in Meanwhile, Archbishop of Colombo to be carried out, but what is causing consternation among the people The President and Basil Rajapaksa “This is the most challenging period President Moon Jae-in’s successes in Cardinal Malcom Ranjith last week is that no politician has yet been charged on any count of negligence returned to work the following day to ensure after World War II; we are going to containing the coronavirus. joined a majority of Opposition political of duty, even though that fact has been firmly established by the the smooth functioning of the mechanism see a downside in the global economy. Moon’s Democratic Party and its allies parties that have been calling for a further commissions. put in place to combat Covid-19. Furthermore, there is no visible global took 180 seats in the 300-member National postponement of the general election until It must be kept in mind that it was President Maithripala Sirisena The President’s public relations centre leadership in response to the pandemic.” Assembly, while the Opposition, United the Covid-19 threat is eliminated from who precipitated a security crisis back in October 2018 by triggering was flooded with many telephone calls Speaking of the Government’s response Future Party (UFP), won 103. the country. a constitutional coup that led to the ouster of the sitting Prime from the public. With over 50 dedicated to the coronavirus outbreak, he said the South Korea’s voting system combines Minister and Cabinet of Ministers. It was at this time that President telephone lines and a staff of over 75 lockdown has been “successful so far”. direct and proportional votes. Sirisena seized control of all defence-related subjects including working 24 hours a day, the centre is now “The health sector and the military are Strict safety measures were introduced the Police and the Ministry of Law and Order. It was this status a hive of activity. As of last week, the doing a wonderful job.” by the South Korean authorities to ensure quo that prevailed up to the time the attacks took place and to add President’s public relations centre had However, he said, the Government had voters’ safety and prevent the spread of fuel to the fire, the Minister in Charge was away from the country received over 35,000 telephone calls from lagged behind in terms of ensuring adequate Covid-19 in the country. visiting Singapore on a private visit when the attacks took place. the public expressing their grievances. stocks of testing kits, face masks, and more Voters had their temperature checked Even though he was immediately informed of the attacks, Sirisena It is in this backdrop that the Government ventilators. on arrival and wearing masks and gloves decided to return only the next day. decided to explore the possibilities of “The Government should have arranged was made compulsory. No doubt the presidential commission probing the attacks has its resuming economic activities in the country these by January,” Wickremesinghe added. According to foreign media, about work cut out and one can only hope that it will leave no stone unturned in order to revive the country’s economy. Meanwhile, senior UNPers together 14,000 polling stations were open at 6 in getting to the bottom of it all and punish those responsible, whoever President Rajapaksa last week chaired with the Party Leader had also discussed a.m. (0900 GMT) around the country after they may be from whichever party. The arrest of a key suspect in Mount a meeting to explore the possibility of how to extend support to the Government disinfection, and voters were required to Lavinia last week seems to be an indication that the investigation is the immediate resumption of day-to-day to combat Covid-19. wear a mask and have their temperature headed in the right direction. It is also important that those currently economic activities at provincial level in Apart from that, they also discussed the checked upon arrival. Anyone whose in custody are prosecuted in court without delay. order to safeguard the national economy. need to meet with the Election Commission temperature was higher than 37.5 degrees Former Minister With an election round the corner, it is inevitable that the Easter The President’s Media Division noted (EC) to discuss the impending general Celsius (99.5 Fahrenheit) was led to a Sunday attacks will once again become a key issue on political that several representatives of the health election and concerns. special booth. Last Thursday (16), he urged the platforms. Our bankrupt politicians who have displayed greater skills sector including all the provincial directors UNP Assistant Leader Ravi All voters had to use hand sanitiser and Government not to hold elections at this in digging bones in graveyards than presenting constructive proposals of health briefed the President on the current Karunanayake, in writing, requested a plastic gloves when casting ballots and point due to the volatility of the coronavirus for the development of the country, should at least this time around situation in the country, at the meeting held meeting from the EC. maintain one metre (40 inches) distance outbreak. consider respecting those who perished and the walking dead who at the Presidential Secretariat. Meanwhile, the Janatha Vimukthi between each other. Addressing the media on the have lost limbs and loved ones and desist from the temptation to Peramuna (JVP) and Samagi Jana Apart from the elections in South Korea, commemoration event of the anniversary indulge in graveyard politics. Partial lifting of lockdown Balawegaya (SJB) have also, in writing, the President Rajapaksa-led Government of the Easter Sunday attacks, Cardinal Meanwhile, one can only hope that answers to the unanswered While the Government contemplated requested for meetings with the EC to is also looking at the manner in which Ranjith said that the Covid-19 situation questions will materialise at least by next April, which will be the the partial lifting of the lockdown and the discuss the general election. elections are held in neighbouring India. in Sri Lanka was still not under control. only consolation for all the victims who continue to suffer in silence. President sought recommendations from The EC has however maintained that Elections in India are spread across “I don’t think this is an appropriate time With Covid-19 wreaking havoc on an already economically devastated the health sector on an exit strategy, United discussions with political parties could several days and given the lockdown to hold elections. As of this morning, there country, politicians of all hues, if they truly have the interests of the National Party (UNP) Leader, former Prime be held only after discussing the current of several red zones in the country, the were 238 Covid-19-infected persons and country at heart, should have their hands full in coming up with Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that situation in the country with department Government is also considering the holding there are thousands more under quarantine strategies to lift the country out of the doldrums. For that to happen, Sri Lanka should partially lift the lockdown officials and other relevant officials. of elections on a scattered basis. in detention centres across the country. It parties have to nominate qualified, experienced professionals as their imposed to combat Covid-19 in order to Much emphasis has been laid on the is clear we have not been able to contain candidates and it is up to the people thereafter to send the best possible keep the economy going. Govt. and elections fact that the authorities have managed to the situation,” the Cardinal said. team to represent them in Parliament. Wickremesinghe said during an Be that as it may, it is evident that the contain the spread of the virus to areas He said that the reports of new cases What progress can a country achieve when one of its more educated must cease before it could be considered former MPs, now clamouring for re-election, claims that Covid-19 that things are “under control”. should not be a barrier to reopen the country since only seven people “When there has been a prolonged period have died from it as opposed to 106 from dengue last year? of time without any reports of new Covid- This also raises the question as to what purpose the multitude of 19 cases, then we can say that things are representatives and ministers serve in other layers of the bureaucracy better and the situation is under control. such as the provincial councils when all of them have remained Therefore, I don’t think we should have dissolved and proven their uselessness at a time the country has elections at this point in time,” Cardinal faced its greatest challenge in recent times. They have had no role to Ranjith said, adding that elections are not play and no one missed their services either. Therefore, this may be and should not be the priority. a good time to take this matter up on election platforms and consider the viability of this white elephant which was thrust upon the country Constitutional crisis by neighbour India through the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. It is in this backdrop that former Our next set of rulers owe it to the country to do the right thing for Speaker has urged the the first time in their lives, for it is nothing but their commissions and Government and the Opposition to put omissions that have brought this country to its knees. Easter Sunday their differences aside and work toward was an example of the abject failure of our politicians to look beyond avoiding a constitutional crisis. their petty noses. Let’s ensure no room is left for another ever again Issuing a statement to the media, by this time next year. Jayasuriya said that the Government and Opposition must engage with the EC and with each other urgently and in good faith No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. and if there are any precautions or new Fax - 011 2 673 441 laws that the Commission determines General - 011 5 200 900 would allow it to safely hold elections in Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 time, these must be explored immediately. Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 Contd. on page 11 E-mail - [email protected] PHOTOS PRADEEP DAMBARAGE the sunday morning 39 Sunday, April 19, 2020 ECONOMY

The falling rupee would hurt the result of the impact of Covid-19. public in more ways than one; for Concerns of a slowing global one, it would directly affect the We imported big onions economy have since intensified prices of all commodities including recently at a cost of Rs. 130 on account of a series of travel essential food and medicine. per kilogramme whereas in the bans, port closures, countrywide Continue to fall market, the price never goes up lockdowns, and factory shutdowns above Rs. 110 per kilogramme. to help prevent the virus from Highlighting the impact of If it is only about 100 kg, we spreading. the rupee depreciation, former could have managed the cost, According to the latest South CBSL Deputy Governor Dr. W.A. but when it’s about 2.5 MT, Asia Economic Focus, a biannual Wijewardena predicted the rupee it becomes a huge loss for an economic update presenting recent would further depreciate even importer economic developments and a though the Central Bank intervened Member of the Colombo near-term economic outlook for in the normal course of rupee Importers’ Association South Asia, released by the World depreciation and brought it back to Alshafa Yoosuf Bank recently, a sharp economic Rs. 195 from Rs. 200, the lowest- slump in each of the region’s ever rate recorded in the country’s eight countries is anticipated. This history. fall was that in the past, the CBSL slump would be caused by halting had printed more money than it economic activity, collapsing trade, needed. and greater stress in the financial RUPEE’S VOLATILITY CONTINUES AMIDST COVID-19 “Part of that money went to the and banking sectors. There is a number measures hands of the public and they used it The report further presents a taken by the Government, for consumer purposes rather than range forecast estimating that including halting the investment purposes. As a result, regional growth will fall to a range importation of non-essential part of that has gone out of the between 1.8% and 2.8% in 2020, items such as motor vehicles country as they spend on imported down from 6.3% projected six and also opening a new goods. That eventually created a months ago. That would be the account for investors. In deficit in balance of payment and region’s worst performance in Warnings addition, the local productions foreign reserves. The part that the last 40 years, with temporary including agricultural had been used locally had gone contractions in all South Asian productions have been to inflation, making Sri Lanka’s countries. increased to prevent them from inflation rate higher than that of the being imported other competitive countries,” he Co-cabinet Spokesperson further explained. Dr. Bandula Gunawardana However, the good side of the Unfortunately, the Central of further rupee depreciation, as explained Bank is not in a position to by Dr. Wijewardena, is the hold it for long because they “Unfortunately, the Central re-emergence of local products don’t have enough foreign Bank is not in a position to hold it and opening of more space for exchange reserves to back it. for long because they don’t have locally manufactured products. Eventually, the rupee would enough foreign exchange reserves Accordingly, the situation continue to fall and along to back it. Eventually, the rupee is a welcome sign as local with that, all the goods that depreciation we import from the rest of the would continue to fall and along manufacturers/producers would be with that, all the goods that we able to supply local products. world would increase in their BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA rupee’s volatility with a tilt towards import from the rest of the world On the other hand, he claimed prices depreciation against the dollar and would increase in their prices, the situation is not favourable for Former CBSL Deputy Governor In the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic, the Sri alleged that the CBSL would not which cannot be avoided,” he importers, as the “prices of goods Dr. W.A. Wijewardena Lankan rupee plunged to an all-time low earlier this month, be able to hold it at the current rate continued. like medicine and other essentials surpassing the Rs. 200 mark against the US dollar for the first as the country lacks sufficient forex Elaborating on the reasons imported from other countries In case of prolonged and broad time in history, and again on Wednesday (15) limped back to reserves. for the fate of the rupee, Dr. would skyrocket.” national lockdowns, the report settle at Rs. 195.78. Macroeconomic matters such as Wijewardena stressed that the warns of a worst-case scenario slowing economic growth, corporate depreciation is a process that Negative growth in which the entire region would According to the exchange rates As the country’s economic crisis earnings, and market volatility are Sri Lanka has undergone not predicted experience a negative growth rate issued by the Central Bank of Sri deepens, economists and other the mostly debated topics at a time just recently, but throughout its As the threat of a full-blown this year. Lanka (CBSL), the selling rate of subject matter experts predict the of currency depreciation within the post-independence history due trade war between the world’s two As predicted by the World the rupee slid to Rs. 200.46 against further depreciation of the rupee in country’s policymakers, economists, to the bad economic policies of biggest economies – the US and Bank, the deteriorated forecast the US dollar on 8 April while the near future while also raising analysts, and business management successive governments. China – receded, currency markets would linger in 2021, with growth the buying rate was recorded at concerns over its effects on the experts. However, the woes aren't “We started in 1948 with Rs. were expected to be stable at the projected to hover between 3.1% Rs. 193.95 on the same day, after common man. restricted to corporate corridors 4.76 against US dollar. And now beginning of the year. and 4%, down from the previous which the selling rate appreciated They claimed the excessive alone as it affects the common man we are at Rs. 195,” he said, adding However, by February, global 6.7% estimate. to Rs. 195.78. trade dependence has led to the alike. that a reason for this continuous stock markets crashed as an initial Contd. on page 14

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA ECONOMIC FUTURE POST COVID-19 With the Covid-19 pandemic and the ensuing lockdowns and curfews wreaking havoc on the global economy, The Sunday Morning took a closer look at Sri Lanka’s situation and what could be done to expedite its economic recovery. A make or break stage All domestic industries and trade, except for a few international exports such as tea, have come to a standstill as a result of the enforced lockdown and curfews imposed by At the same time, the reduction the Government since 2o March as of VAT (value-added tax) a measure to prevent and contain the from 15% to 8% is a deadly Covid-19 outbreak. thing. These are the things Shippers’ Academy Colombo the Government will have CEO Rohan Masakorala, speaking to consider. There is nothing to The Sunday Morning, said to it other than losing face if that the measures taken by the they withdraw their original Government, while effective at proposal and tell the public that containing the coronavirus, would they are not in a position to offer necessitate a serious effort to restart it right now the economy. Senior economist and former Central Bank Deputy Governor Dr. W.A. Wijewardena

All the economic experts have to put their heads together and the National Export Strategy (NES) churn out something. But and this Government had also again, I’d like to point out agreed to continue with the project. that we can’t handle this in “We wanted to diversify our isolation. This is a global issue exports at that time and looked at and the global leaders – the PHOTO © VARUNA SHUTTERSTOCK the most critical or earliest possible Chinese, the US, the G7 (Group avenues we could go through. About of Seven), and perhaps the six areas and four service areas have oil-rich countries – should get systems have already collapsed. health checks, etc. to make the that the export sector should expect but those (products) represent a small been listed under the NES, which together and then look into a People have lost cash in hand; supply chain work.” a massive hit in the coming months. fraction in Sri Lanka’s exports so include boat building, medical solution for the entire world people have lost customers; whether Export sector expecting “With this total lockdown, the economic impact on the export tourism, expansion of electronic Government Spokesman and State it’s the global export industry or companies are going to find it very industry is huge. component manufacturing, and light Minister of Investment Promotion domestic industries, everything has massive hit difficult to start. On one side is the “And nobody can stop people engineering. Keheliya Rambukwella come to standstill. Restarting any of Noting that much of the export export market, and since it’s very from closing down some of the “A process towards this end had these will be a big challenge. markets may be lost due to the clear that our markets are Europe and factories, reducing salaries, and started and that was introduced “So, I think, personally, that they pandemic, Masakorala pointed out the US, demand is not going to come making employment redundancies in 2017. Now, maybe the new “Basically, if the Government went a little too far by shutting back in a big way, but there are some in some cases” Government can go beyond this continues with this current fourth- down the other 19 respective orders that we can work with. Export focus needs to shift after the Covid-19 situation, because phase lockdown – which is the districts. Some of the factories that “The status quo is never going we have always had a vulnerable highest – it will damage our are located out of Colombo could Automation of processes at the to go back to what it was one-and- The CEO of the Shippers’ economy – that is why we got the economy severely, because out have informally started earlier than government offices that was a-half months ago. The Export Academy then asserted that it was GSP+ scheme.” of 25 districts, Covid-19 cases when the green light was given – stalled for over 20-30 years, Development Board (EDB) long past time Sri Lanka shifted have been indicated in only six or I’m talking about the rubber sector Chairman has revised our export away from apparel as its main SL to be competitive to is now being done. So, this attract FDI seven districts, and even then, our which I represent – but the supply situation has given them a forecast for the year from $ 18.5 export. country’s numbers have been well chains were not allowed to operate. shock, and people will have billion to about $ 10.5 billion. He said that the former United Masakorala then spoke of the managed by the security forces, “For example, tea was allowed to do business in a different “This indicates that there won’t National Party (UNP)-led country’s requirement for foreign the medical community, and also to be exported but practically, it way post Covid-19. It’s an be enough business even if we start; Government had initiated a process direct investment (FDI) and the the Government getting behind the could not be done because there opportunity in disguise, albeit a some companies will have 10-15% to diversify the country’s exports need for reforms in labour laws lockdown. were districtwide lockdowns due painful one of their original order, some will have and that the current Government and a stable tax system to ensure “The issue here is that when to which truckers couldn’t go from Shippers’ Academy Colombo CEO 30%. Some products like rubber should take it further. competitiveness in the global you stop those economic wheels, one district to another and there was Rohan Masakorala gloves or medical equipment will “The last Government, with EU market. restarting won’t be easy because no mechanism to give them proper have a 100-200% increase in demand, (European Union) support, started Contd. on page 14 10 the sunday morning VIEWS Sunday, April 19, 2020

PHOTO LALITH PERERA

CELEBRATING INDOORS DURING COVID-19 Connecting Helping hands The way in which we generally celebrate with loved ones Easter is rather spiritual as it begins with the Lent season, Maundy Thursday, Good spiritually Friday, and Holy Saturday. We get together Before the A NEW as a family for lunch to celebrate Easter. curfew was However this time, it was a tad difficult to imposed, prepare the same lunch as we used to as what me and it is rather challenging to get the groceries delivered to our my family doorstep. We also had to be cautious when making anything generally did because there was always a chance that we would run short for Easter EXPERIENCE on ingredients. However, the one good thing that came out was pray BY DIANDRA ANNE of this curfew was that we worked as a community by at home helping out our neighbours and sharing our items. and then Covid-19 has put a halt to all the celebrations around the world. Due to the Upeksha Perera – housewife head off to Church for outbreak of the pandemic, the Government has imposed a curfew in order the midnight to contain the spread of the virus. While the imposition of a curfew is the Mass. right way to go, many people have suffered as a result of this. People are The next morning we frustrated as their social interactions with their loved ones are limited to would pray at home once again and mere phone calls and texts. Barely getting by then have a wonderful spread for In addition to this, major celebrations such as Easter Sunday and those I work in Colombo but my hometown is Embilipitiya. Due to lunch. Since the curfew was imposed the current curfew I could not go back home and celebrate. In this time, we could not do what we popular within the Sri Lankan community such as Avurudu have been kept addition, it is difficult to get by as there is not enough food and did in the previous years. We could to a minimum all thanks to the curfew. There are also those who are unable drinks. This time I “celebrated” Avurudu in tears. Usually I spend not go anywhere and we basically to go back home to celebrate the occasion with their families; a truly tragic Avurudu with my beloved wife and children. We have a splendid had to watch the Mass from home. situation. To see how the general public conducted these celebrations time; we eat and play games together and enjoy ourselves. It was While it is sad that we could not difficult to stomach, as we do not have enough food and no way spend our Easter as we usually do, I under the strain of the current situation, we took a few opinions of people to celebrate Avurudu this time with our families. There was no do feel something good has come out from different walks of life. happiness; it was sucked out. of being confined to home. Thushara Edirisooriya – construction worker In my opinion, we pray more sincerely to God since we are under curfew; we pray much more genuinely during this period than we usually did. For the greater good The reason for that is, we are in a If you look into the past, you see I felt that celebrating Avurudu in a much crisis situation and we need God’s that the traditions carried out during more simplistic way was more suitable A lull in the help and guidance in order to survive Avurudu derive from our ancestors. given the current crisis situation the celebrations this pandemic. Easter, before this The rituals we carry out such as world is undergoing. Celebrating pandemic and curfew, was more maintaining the cleanliness of the Avurudu in this manner did not We generally go to church on Sundays and or less a time to meet up with your house, whitewashing the walls, bother me too much as we are then my daughter and her family come to family and friends. However this cleaning out the kitchen, and doing it for the greater good, as our place for lunch and we do little activities time, it was more of a spiritual getting ready for the auspicious the Government has implemented like making Easter eggs and such. This time connection, which in a way is good time were all done within the this curfew for our own safety. however, there was a lull and it was very for our society. Easter is a time for confines of our house this time. Therefore, I do not consider it a quiet. We obviously could not go for Mass so sharing, love, and forgiveness and However, unfortunately, this time negative impact. we resorted to watching it on the television. the true meaning of this has been around we were not able to make Karminie Samarakoon Thereafter, it was just lunch for me and my husband. Life is not brought to light as a result of this the usual spread due to the limited Kodituwakku – retired banking too easy these days as it was hard to purchase the necessary curfew. ingredients, nor could we professional and ingredients. We generally have a grand lunch but this time we Myrna Smith – housewife visit our parents. social worker couldn’t do it. Furthermore, Swarna Soysa – member of Inner Wheel Club of Colombo West

A tough lesson Divine A sense of numbness Aiding festivities Although the Sinhala intervention While at home we did not celebrate Easter Since I am from a mixed family, and Tamil New Year is a as we usually did; we were basically in front of we celebrate both Easter and holiday that my family looks We really do the television listening to the Mass. We did not Avurudu. However, because I run forward to every year, this not “celebrate” feel the way we usually do; that Easter feeling, a catering business, Easter gets year’s Avurudu was not very Easter in that although we were trying to. We did however rather busy and it is the same for celebratory, owing to the sense as Easter is make some delicacies at home Avurudu. During Avurudu, we go pandemic that has pervaded more of a spiritual and tried as much as possible to our hometown which is located the world. occasion for us. to make it seem like it was in Negombo, but this time we were At our household, What we generally the same old Easter being stuck here. We of course had the Avurudu celebrations were do is tune into the celebrated this year as well. essential services passes in order minimal. In fact, we did television Mass. But our hearts went out to the to cater to the general public, so not even prepare the usual Due to this, I do people who were stuck we catered a lot of Avurudu kavili, delicacies or carry out the not sense much of a difference in the in other areas unable to lunches, and dinners. I was basically conventional traditions. past and this year’s Easter. I think get home and unable to working right throughout Easter However, at the auspicious this curfew is a good thing, however. celebrate this Avurudu and Avurudu and couldn’t visit my time, we lit a lamp to signify positivity and On the one hand it helps stop the and Easter with their family. This year we were rather prosperity. spread of this disease and on the families. busy as we were doing essential Being confined at home definitely taught us how other, people got a chance to spend Christeen services; serving clients during the to be grateful for the little things in life. I believe more time with their families and Weerasekere – curfew, hence my celebrations were that it is this year that we discovered the true think about their lives. teacher minimal. essence of Avurudu – togetherness. Nimal Udugampola – tea Dilanka Mannakkara – Poojani Dissanayake – marketing sector consultant Chairman of Kaha Bath strategist Gedara (Pvt.) Ltd. the sunday morning Sunday, April 19, 2020 hot seat

priority, the methods of the knew that they were infected COVID-19 tests, and the frequency of it. but were hiding, but what There are two ways of I’m talking about is not like testing. The first is aggressive that. Some patients may testing, where without have the virus even without waiting for the patients to their knowledge. John come to us, we go and find Hopkins University is one THE them and administer the tests of the best universities in the and treatment. The second US where extensive research is repeated testing. Repeated on Covid-19 is being done. testing is to ensure that They say that when we find NEXT STEPS individuals who test negative one patient, there may be BY AGRA RANASINGHE on the PCR (polymerase eight other people among chain reaction) tests are the public who have no idea Last week saw talks from the Government on relaxing certain curfew restrictions in Open when checked again to be doubly they are carrying the virus. order to restart crucial sectors of the economy, particularly the export sector. It was sure. That is why we should go also announced that all universities will be opened in three separate stages from Although there is a for aggressive testing and maximum capacity of 1,500 detect them. 4 May, while schools will reopen on 11 May. In light of these developments, The maximum that can be tested in a day, we Sunday Morning contacted the Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA) are only testing 500; we can Is this a favourable to determine if they are still advocating for a tightening of curfew and lockdown testing capacity only open up the country if environment for the measures and also the Health Ministry to inquire if a relaxation of measures is we cover the maximum daily repatriation of Sri prudent at this stage. capacity. Therefore, we are Lankans living abroad? is utilised currently in an unpredictable They should be brought situation. back to the country with more developed and It is very difficult to say, but Dr. Haritha Aluthge Is this a conducive increased quarantine there could be. Otherwise, we environment to reopen facilities. First, the Will not could open the country overnight. Below are the excepts schools and start working? Government should take a of GMOA Secretary of the decisions that we The whole country should policy decision to see who Is this a favourable environment Dr. Haritha Aluthge’s discussed were implemented not be opened up at once. should be given priority. increase for the repatriation of Sri interview with The in the meetings held with the If we are starting schools, There are some Sri Lankan Lankans who are living abroad? President, the task forces, we should first start them in health specialists in the US; Anybody who’s coming should Sunday Morning. and Health Minister. low-risk areas. All schools if we get them back to the be quarantined for a minimum Then, we went for a should not start at the same country, we can use them as number of tests of 14 days. So, if that facility How do you assess the complete lockdown after time because there are some frontline workers because is available, yes, they can be current state of the Covid- 19 March. The result of districts which are still at we only have limited staff. repatriated to our country. That is 19 pandemic in Sri Lanka? those implementations is risk. Gradually, districts unnecessarily a logistical issue which should not We can categorise the the controlled situation we should be opened up one by What kind of response be decided by the health sector. disease into four stages. are in right now. At this one. We can’t say whether have you received from Stage one is where we time, we are in the top 10 it is the correct decision to the general public for your Dr. Sudath Samaraweera What kind of support and didn’t have any cases till in international ratings. open up the country. efforts and advocacy over Below are the excepts increasing it unnecessarily. reception have you received 27 January. We came to the Therefore, there is success. the past few weeks? of Health Ministry Chief from the general public for the second stage on 11 March. At this time, we should not Do you think it is What we have learnt Epidemiologist Dr. Sudath Is this a conducive environment efforts of the Health Ministry Now, we are at stage 3A, just remove the restrictions appropriate to restart the through experience is that Samaraweera’s interview to reopen schools and start and the health sector as a whole where we have patient and let the people roam free. election process? we can only succeed if with The Sunday Morning. working? to fight this situation? clusters. At this time, we Whatever is done should Risk assessment is the 80% of society complies It should be done in a spaced- The main thing is they adhered should avoid going to stage be done considering the main thing that affects these with the restrictions and How do you assess the current out manner. If there’s a decision to to the public distancing measures four which is community scientific basis. Therefore, decisions. Therefore, firstly, other measures taken by the state of the Covid-19 pandemic reopen the schools, all the schools and supported us to control this spread. we should increase the we should be done with the Government. Although there in Sri Lanka? in the country should be reopened pandemic. And most of the people It is difficult to manage facilities we have for testing. tests. Then, we can go for are some people who don’t With the decrease in the number for all students to be educated. But are coming and getting examined a country like Sri Lanka if There are three groups a decision. Considering the obey the rules, the majority of cases that have been reported it should start from low-risk areas on their own initiative to see it goes to the fourth stage, that should be consulted in current situation, we can’t go of the people comply with of late, we think that the pandemic where the disease is unlikely to whether they are infected or not. especially because the taking decisions; political for an election. As experts rules and regulations. That’s is well under control. However, spread, such as the hottest districts. They are also complying with our capacity of our health sector leaders, the health sector in the health sector, we can’t really why we have been there may still be asymptomatic Higher education institutes should testing methods. is limited. Therefore, we and security forces, and the comment on election law able to control the spread. As cases that may generate more new be opened finally. Overall, public support is good should act immediately to social capital. But none of and we can’t say that an the GMOA, we are thankful cases. Therefore, we should still for the control of the disease. prevent this situation. We them are able to give an election should be planned to the people who have stay indoors. We are monitoring What kind of health and I think they are tolerating the should try to turn this around overall picture of the local now. Therefore, legal experts positively responded to us. and doing tests to see whether protective measures should inconvenience caused by the and get back to the previous Covid-19 situation. I’m not and constitutional experts there are any asymptomatic cases. people adopt when the restrictions. Actually, it is because stage we were in. talking about the number should make that decision. When this situation is This disease has a high proportion Government relaxes curfew or of the public’s support that we of patients. What I mean is But from our point of view, brought under control in of asymptomatic cases that may eases restrictions? have been able to control this Can we be satisfied with that we can’t give a correct we can’t say that the current Sri Lanka, what kind of give rise to clinical cases. We can’t People should continue in the situation so far. the manner in which the assessment on the disease situation is conducive for an health measures should say with certainty, but with the same way we have advocated for Government has handled because the number of tests election. the public take to prevent evidence we have, we think the the country. When this virus is eradicated this health crisis? we have done is not enough. such a pandemic from situation is under control. from Sri Lanka, what kind of If we consider this from For example, we think that Do you think there are occurring again? Do you think it is appropriate to health and preventive measures the start of this pandemic – the Anuradhapura District is more individuals who Because this is a global Are you satisfied with the plan the election at this stage? should the public adopt to which was when we found out of danger, but we don’t are infected with this pandemic, even if we progress health authorities and It depends on what type of prevent such a pandemic the Chinese patient who was know that for certain yet disease and hiding without eradicate it from our country, the Government have made election work people are starting happening again? infected with Covid-19 – because we haven’t done informing the responsible the world may still be in containing the spread of the on. The advice we have given Until this pandemic is wiped out from that day onwards, we enough testing. authorities? fighting to contain its spread. virus since the initial outbreak? is that health measures such from the whole world, people have as the GMOA advocated Therefore, the number Of course, there must be; Only when this virus is Yes, we are. as public distancing should be to adhere to the health measures certain actions. Because with of tests should be increased it’s not that they are hiding, completely eradicated from adhered to. like physical distancing and limited resources, it is harder and the Ministry of but they don’t even know the world can we forget Will you be able to increase hygienic measures like sanitising to control a situation like this Health should declare the that they are infected with about the precautions and the number of tests being Do you think any individuals hands, wearing masks when they in a country like Sri Lanka methodological formula for the virus. We had actually live as we used to. Till then, conducted? in the general public are are having symptoms, etc. The if it gets to the community it because they haven’t done found many such patients. we have to adhere to health We have already increased infected with this disease and public have to continuously adhere spread level. that yet. They should declare In the beginning, we found precautions and preventive the number of tests as necessary. hiding without informing the to these guidelines if the country is From 11 March, most to whom we should give some cases where patients measures. However, we will not be responsible authorities? to be rid of this menace.

Contd. from page 8

“The Commission would be responsible for in terms of Article 70 (5) (b) of the here the remedy to be resorted to in such its dereliction of duties and creating chaos in the Constitution. an event. country, especially at this critical juncture,” Dr. 3. Your Commission after acceptance of the 7. I emphasise the fact that your request to Election heat... Rajapakshe pointed out. nominations published the Gazette the President urging him to refer this “The Government is of the view that there of conducting the general election. Following is Dr. Rajapakse’s letter to the EC: No. 2167/12 dated 20 March 2020 matter to the Supreme Court seeking is not necessarily any impediment to holding EC Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya, earlier this specifying the requirements stipulated its opinion is highly unwarranted as parliamentary elections on or before 28 May 2020.” month, advised the President to seek the Supreme Parliamentary election 2020 in Section 24 (1) of the Parliamentary the consultative jurisdiction vested in “It is the position of the Election Commission that Court’s opinion, citing constitutional issues that can I write this letter as a citizen and a candidate Election Act No. 01 of 1981, but failed the Supreme Court under Article 129 the prevailing situation and logistical constraints arise by delaying the general election as a result of of the parliamentary election which was to specify the date of election in terms of is limited to the specific circumstances prohibit parliamentary elections from being held the coronavirus outbreak in the country. scheduled to be held on 25 April 2020 and Section 24 (1) (c) to be read with Section where the President is of the opinion in time for the new Parliament to be summoned “I emphasise the fact that your request to the to insist on you to exercise the statutory duty 10 of the said Act. that there is an important question of to meet by 2 June 2020.” President urging him to refer this matter to the and obligation cast upon your Commission 4. Although your Commission exercised the law or fact which has arisen or likely to He said in the event holding elections in time Supreme Court seeking its opinion is highly to preserve the inalienable sovereignty of the powers under section 24 (3) to postpone arise. Please note that when the law has is not possible, a constitutional crisis must be unwarranted as the consultative jurisdiction vested people enshrined in Article 3 of the Constitution the election due to an emergency or completely provided for matters referred avoided at all costs. in the Supreme Court under Article 129 is limited of the Republic of Sri Lanka by conducting unforeseen circumstances, you have to above, seeking the opinion of the Jayasuriya further warned that such a crisis to the specific circumstances where the President the said election with due diligence and within failed and neglected to perform your Supreme Court makes no sense. entails the risk of delegitimising and destabilising is of the opinion that there is an important question the time frame stipulated in law. Although it constitutional and statutory duties and 8. In terms of Article 103 (2) of the the country and could gravely impact Sri Lanka’s of law or fact which has arisen or is likely to arise. is not necessary to elaborate here the relevant obligations by not fixing a new date Constitution, the object of the Commission prospects of obtaining economic relief. Please note that when the law has completely constitutional and statutory provisions in of election, which should not exceed a is to conduct free and fair elections and Every country in the world is putting political provided for matters referred to above, seeking the relation to the said election, I would like to period of three months from the date of referenda and further in terms of Article differences aside and uniting to face this threat. opinion of the Supreme Court makes no sense,” draw your attention to the following legal the dissolution as it was a mandatory 104 (B) (3), the Commission is responsible Sri Lanka is the only democracy to face Covid- Dr. Rajapakshe said in the letter. provisions and circumstances for completeness requirement in terms of Article 70 (5) (c) and answerable to the Parliament, and in 19 crisis without a legislature to pass laws and He said the Commission was obliged to fix of my stance and for clarity. of the Constitution. turn to the people. financial appropriations to combat the pandemic the new date for the election within the said time 1. The President by exercising his prerogative 5. Your Commission was obliged to fix the new 9. Please note that there is no any ambiguity and its economic consequences, Jayasuriya added. frame, enabling the President to summon the new powers under Article 70 (1) of the date of election within the said time frame, or uncertainty in the existing law relating “In the interest of the nation, I appeal to the Parliament on a day not exceeding three months Constitution, dissolved Parliament by the enabling the President to summon the new to the conduct of the said election and Government, Opposition, and other stakeholders from the date of dissolution as provided in Section proclamation published in the Gazette No. Parliament on a day not exceeding three I urge that your Commission shall to set aside their political differences and to take 24 (3) of the said Act. 2165/8 dated 2 March 2020 and fixed the months from the date of dissolution as perform your constitutional duties and urgent and meaningful steps to avoid an unnecessary Dr. Rajapakshe further noted that there was no date of election as 25 April 2020 and fixing provided in Section 24 (3) of the said Act. obligations ensuring the sovereignty of third crisis for our country,” Jayasuriya said. ambiguity or uncertainty in the existing law relating the date of the commencement of the new 6. In the event the Health Authority the people which include their franchise to the conducting of the said election and urged Parliament as 14 May 2020 as required by completely rules out the possibility of and fundamental rights in terms of Wijeyadasa faults EC the Commission to “perform its constitutional Article 70 (5) (a) of the Constitution. conducting the election due to health Article 2 of the Constitution. The Former Justice Minister Dr. Wijeyadasa duties and obligations ensuring the sovereignty 2. The President fixed the said date of hazard on the new day you fixed for the Commission would be responsible for its Rajapakshe PC, in a letter to the EC on Friday of the people which include their franchise and summoning the new Parliament as he was election, it is a matter to be addressed at dereliction of duties and creating chaos (17), said there is no need for the Government to fundamental rights in terms of Article 2 of the obliged to fix a date not later than three that point, which is premature to address in the country, especially at this critical seek the opinion of the Supreme Court on the date Constitution”. months from the date of the proclamation at this moment. Hence, I do not address juncture. 12 the sunday morning OPINION Sunday, April 19, 2020

Education system Strategies need to be implemented in a future- overhaul necessary oriented manner and Having said that, it is this needs to be thought worthwhile to point out about for the short, medium, and long term that the school education curriculum should be re-organised, giving priority to subject clusters/components covering physical health, emotional wellbeing, discipline and conduct, mindful use of digital technology, good citizenship, and family and peers. Incorporating such skills in one’s life will undoubtedly pave the way to build a resilient society which will be ready to face situations similar or worse than we are experiencing at present. Activities and play, dietary habits, and biological needs especially, need to be accommodated under the physical health component in a practical and approachable manner for students. It is most unfortunate to hear and see Our future the increase in physiological Enhance your or psychological suffering, disorders, and illnesses among students due to numerous resilience during the reasons including stress, depends on bullying, violence, abuse, etc. If the country is targeting a prosperous future, the future citizens need to be reinforced with psychological, social, and emotional skills, enabling them to become stress, anxiety, and lockdown depression-free and to finally BY DR. CHARUNI KOHOMBANGE Help children release their WHAT WE achieve their fullest potential. stress Therefore, it is necessary to Currently, around 2.6 billion people yy Help children find positive ways to improve these sets of skills around the world, approximately express feelings such as fear and under the emotional wellbeing one-third of the world’s population is sadness. Every child has his or her cluster. living under some kind of lockdown own way of expressing emotions. When reshaping the mode or quarantine due to the Covid-19 Sometimes engaging in a creative DO TODAY pandemic. The World Economic of delivery of education, activity, such as playing or drawing zPrompt attention needed on developing emotional skills we have to keep in Forum (WEF) foresees that this can facilitate this process. Children mind that a greater will result in a secondary epidemic feel relieved if they can express and number of unknown and of burnouts and stress-related communicate their feelings in a safe BY DR. JAYANTHA BALASOORIYA AND BUDDHINI KAWINDRA think is true or false, we have unpredictable situations absenteeism in the latter half of 2020. and supportive environment to think about this matter like the Covid-19 Sudden change in the daily routines We all witnessed the world turning upside down in yy Keep children close to their parents seriously for the amelioration pandemic might emerge along with physical distancing a matter of days, due to microscopic virus particles and family, if considered safe, and of the systems in place in order in the future. We cannot invariably creates stress in many of avoid separating children and their consisting of a set of genes enclosed by a spiky sphere to make a better impact on the say which version or at us. Based on the studies reported from caregivers as much as possible coming into the spotlight. future. which time something of China, people who are quarantined Hence, it is high time to are very likely to develop a wide this nature will hit next. yy Provide engaging age-appropriate Simply, the situation made In order to control the think back on the shortcomings range of symptoms of psychological Therefore, we have to activities for children, including it clear that human beings life-threatening situation, and what could have been done stress including low mood, insomnia, be prepared to face such activities for their learning. Where are not always as physically authorities have imposed laws differently in this situation. anxiety, anger, irritability, emotional unanticipated challenges possible, encourage children to or psychologically strong as and regulations for people to As we are aware, the exhaustion, depressive mood, and continue to play with siblings and they seem. Striking changes manage their behaviour during education system must Yes, it is true that we post-traumatic stress symptoms. Low let them socialise with others via are being noticed in people’s the emergency situation in the evolve with our societies, are living in a digital age mood and irritability specifically communication over the phone thinking, practices, and best-possible people-friendly anticipating changes rather and arena, and younger stand out as they are very common. or internet. In addition to routine behaviour as a result of the way. than simply reacting to generations are more Out of all, children, elderly people, education, make use of this time to Covid-19 pandemic. Many people adhered to problems. Meanwhile, the role tech savvy than the older people who are being quarantined, develop their life skills. Get them At the very beginning, these, but in contrast, many of education policymakers generations. Most countries and also the frontline workers are engaged in daily household activities people’s natural instincts for displayed unacceptable and planners should be are starting to rely more on mostly affected. as appropriate survival kicked in. People practices and behaviours changed from “technocrat” to digital technology and even This article is aimed at discussing were queuing in stores to buy when facing difficulties and “transformer”. on artificial intelligence (AI), the mental health impact related to yy Discuss Covid-19 with your children masks, food, hand sanitiser, challenges during the outbreak Lessons learnt from the thereby showing early signs of the Covid-19 outbreak, compiled in an honest and age-appropriate etc. as their lives depended on of the Covid-19 pandemic. Covid-19 pandemic and the a possible future technological referring to the fact sheets published manner. If your children have sourcing these items. Some people did not know post-Covid-19 pandemic predominance over humanity. by the World Health Organisation any concerns about the disease, Days, weeks, and now how to follow the rules and period in the future will have As mentioned in the very (WHO). addressing them will ease their months have passed; hospitals were too impatient to maintain to be evaluated; the strategies beginning, technology is a anxiety. It is important to remember are packed with patients a distance of one metre need to be implemented in a very sharp double-edged Why does Covid-19 affect that children will observe adults’ infected with the virus; from each other and failed future-oriented manner and blade. Therefore, promoting our mental health? behaviour and emotions for cues on doctors, nurses, and health to follow the recommended this needs to be thought about digital technology even in In addition to the threat of the new how to manage their own emotions staff are crusading to save safety precautions at the for the short, medium, and education and the health sector virus, people are facing challenges during difficult times lives at all costs; people supermarkets, ATMs, banks, long term. should be done with serious due to the sudden unforeseen loss were instructed to pause any and other public places. Some caution. of income and self-isolation due to What is the psychological kind of gatherings; and the of them were rushing from Some of the points While combining technology physical distancing. Furthermore, it is impact of Covid-19 on the world seems to have stopped place to place without having discussed here are food with education to further hard to escape the constant barrage of elderly? turning for a while, causing a any urgent matters to attend for thought. ensure equity and access, news which focuses mainly on Covid- For older individuals and also those temporary halt in the rat race, to, violating the country’s Such plans need to be students are required to be 19. This too can add to feelings of with underlying health conditions, while technology plays the role imposed rules and regulations. developed as individual-based, educated on the mindful use of stress and despair. having been identified as more of a virtual life saviour. This attitude displayed home-based, institution-based/ information, social networks, vulnerable to Covid-19 and to be by society caused many school-based, and society- and cyberspaces without losing What could be the impact told that you are very vulnerable, People are being given disciplinary disputes. based, taking note of the their connection with family, of the Covid-19 crisis on can be extremely frightening. The an opportunity to uncertainty of situations which society, or the environment. children’s mental health? psychological impacts for these deeply understand the Lessons learnt from might emerge in the future. More importantly, future Children are likely to be populations can induce anxiety and reality of the life. the Covid-19 pandemic It is difficult to comprehend citizens need to consider the experiencing worry, anxiety, and fear; stress or anger. Its impacts can be Technology – a sharp and the post-Covid-19 how things will change if frontline role family and peers this can include the types of fears that particularly difficult for older people double-edged blade – is well pandemic period in the another pandemic is to occur. play in their lives. Therefore, are very similar to those experienced who may be experiencing loss of known for its superior power future will have to be On this note, it is crucial future education needs to by adults, such as a fear of dying, a memory or dementia, and some older to change lives in this digital evaluated; the strategies and viable to take measures assign more weight to the fear of their relatives dying, or a fear people may already be socially isolated arena. On the bright side, new need to be implemented in order to make aware and importance of family, peers, of what it means to receive medical and experiencing loneliness which can technologies empower people’s in a future-oriented improve the readiness of elders, other living beings, and treatment. As the schools are closed get worse in this situation. self-expression, information- manner and this needs to society to face such emergency relationships. as part of the necessary measures, seeking capabilities, and be thought about for the situations in order to minimise The education sector children have less opportunity to be Helping older adults, socialisation, while help is short, medium, and damage caused to people due has a big responsibility in with their friends and get that social especially in isolation and just a phone call – or rather, a long term to recklessness – the education developing desirable skill support that is essential for their those with loss of memory/ message through WhatsApp, and health sectors need to be sets in students, as it is the mental wellbeing. dementia What is to blame? Viber, Emo, Messenger, the forerunners taking these foundation of every aspect Being at home can place some yy Older adults may become more WeChat, etc. – away. Theoretically, everyone gains measures. of social as well as economic children at increased risk of, anxious, angry, stressed, agitated, On a number of fronts, knowledge on such matters The education and health development of any country or or increased exposure to, child and withdrawn during the outbreak modern-day young people’s from our education system, or sectors are closely related; in society. protection incidents or witnessing or while in quarantine. It is vital to and students’ lives have perhaps via the use of modern order to practise good health, interpersonal violence if their home give them the emotional support clearly improved in terms of technology, or possesses it in people need to have a good Consider preparing for is not a safe place. This is something the unexpected through families and healthcare healthcare, public safety, and the form of general knowledge, education. Without education, that requires the attention of child professionals support for their physical and common sense, or instincts. we cannot apply good health When reshaping the mode protection authorities. mental wellbeing as a result The problem is that such practices. Even if their health of delivery of education, we Although all children are perceptive yy Share simple facts about what is of technology. Nonetheless, knowledge is not practically conditions may be good, have to keep in mind that a to change, young children may going on and give clear information natural challenges could be far applied in the right situation at people need to be guided greater number of unknown find the changes that have taken about how to reduce the risk of more threatening for the world. the right time. Some argue that through a good education and unpredictable situations place difficult to understand. Both infection in a simple and concise Technology can do many this can be solely attributed in order to practice and be like the Covid-19 pandemic young and old children may express manner so that older people can things, but biological system to education, while others disciplined in maintaining might emerge in the future. We irritability and anger. Children understand. Repeat the information changes are proven to be far indicate that the effect and the such good health practices. cannot say which version or at may find that they want to be whenever necessary as their short- more powerful. complexities of psychological Therefore, for the sustainable which time something of this closer to their parents, make more term memory is impaired. It may This is a hard time for status, culture, genes, social development of any country, nature will hit next. Therefore, demands, and in turn, some parents also be helpful for information to be everyone all over the world, norms, etc. are causation utmost priority should be we have to be prepared to face or caregivers may be under undue displayed in writing or pictures irrespective of nationality, factors. given to education and health such unanticipated challenges. pressure themselves. Contd. on page 14 religion, cast, or skin colour. Irrespective of which you collectively. Contd. on page 14 the sunday morning 133 Sunday, April 19, 2020 FOCUS No evidence that cats pose risk to humans DR. VIM KUMARATUNGA veterinary, and scientific groups together about wild bats. In some countries, bats in a joint effort, are more crucial at times are being brutally culled. This could like these than ever before. pose huge risks to our global ecosystem Advanced practitioner in As a vet, this pandemic has hit our This entire pandemic has brought which is already hugely damaged. Bats veterinary ophthalmology profession hard in the same way it has to light our unnatural, invasive, are the only mammals that fly and have Dr. Vim Kumaratunga devastated many others. Here in the UK, destructive, and abusive relationship migratory patterns; they are vital for many vets have lost their jobs or been with our natural world and the the pollination of many trees and plants furloughed. Those of us still required to wildlife that inhabit it. Wet markets and are intricately woven into the fabric carry out our duties are working harder trading illegal wildlife produce of many natural environments. It is than ever in many instances. There is a and bushmeat have been brought vital that in countries like Sri Lanka, BY PAVANI JAYASINGHE MUNAGAMAGE lot of misinformation and as vets who are into question and shut down by these kinds of rash steps without any also trained in epidemiology and public international governments scientific basis should not be taken. Mass On 5 April, it was reported by the Bronx Zoo in New York that one of health, we feel it is our duty to not only culling of species of wild animals is also its tigers, Nadia, a four-year-old Malayan tiger, had tested positive for care for sick animals, but also to help keep incredibly ineffective. the worldwide novel coronavirus. As this news report went viral on the the public informed. ac.uk/news/2020/april/ebi-coronavirus. The other wild animal that has internet, more and more people began to repeatedly question whether In Sri Lanka, the veterinary profession html) where I currently work, is one been brought into the limelight is the this newfound disease in animals has a chance of spreading to more is often ignored and treated with of the many institutions worldwide pangolin. There is some evidence that of the same species or even humans, creating an internet fluster.To disrespect. At times like these, please working tirelessly to shed more light on the pangolin could potentially have remember to be grateful to your local the questions that still need answering. acted as an intermediate host for Covid- gain a better understanding, The Sunday Morning contacted advanced vets and the service they are selflessly What we suspect is that this virus, like 19. However, this evidence is currently practitioner in veterinary ophthalmology Dr. Vim Kumaratunga to clarify offering. MERS and SARS previously, may have conflicting for many scientific reasons. some questions regarding this matter. We do not yet know enough about this originated in a wild animal and through The pangolin has been frequently listed Below are excerpts of the interview: virus to make any detailed comments or another animal vector come into contact as the world's most illegally trafficked statements. Bristol University, through with humans. animal. In your opinion, does the tiger that has Since the release of this report, are the UNCOVER (See: http://www.bristol. Many assumptions are being made Contd. on page 14 now contracted Covid-19 mean indoor there any precautions you would like pets/street cats are able to transmit this to recommend to pet cat owners in Sri virus to its owners? Lanka? This particular tiger and the other large There is currently no evidence that cats at the Bronx Zoo that have apparently pets can transmit Covid-19 to their displayed respiratory signs and apparently owners/humans. However, the following tested positive for Covid-19 will not pose precautions are worth considering: a threat to pets or humans outside the yy For normal households with no zoo as they are contained within the zoo, members currently affected by the which is closed to members of the public, virus/with no apparent clinical signs, as are all zoos worldwide currently. normal precautions of hand washing More detailed information regarding and hygiene should be followed. You the type of testing that was carried out do not have to avoid contact with your or the types of samples obtained (i.e. pets whether it was blood or swab samples of respiratory secretions or tissue samples yy If you are a person with potential directly, etc.) have not yet been released Covid-19 symptoms or have tested by the Bronx Zoo. It is likely that PCR positive for this virus, then avoid (polymerase chain reaction) testing was contact with your pets or wear conducted considering the fact that the gloves and a mask when handling zoo has openly announced the positive any animals, and wash your hands results. thoroughly for a minimum of 20-30 seconds with soap and water after any interaction with an animal yy If you are a person who has a There is no evidence that keeping pets compromised immune system (elderly/ confined or indoors will minimise infirm, on immune compromising the risk of disease transmission drugs, has a history of respiratory in any way, when there are no disease or asthma, has diabetes, etc.), current reports of animal-to-human then avoid contact with animals and transmission. The recent report by ask a friend or family member to help BBC has been highly condemned by you care for your pet where possible the veterinary and animal welfare yy There is no evidence of pets carrying community and was not based on the virus on their fur (fomite transfer), any solid scientific facts so please do not try to wash or disinfect your pet. Dettol and other chemical SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) is still antiseptic solutions are highly toxic poorly understood. Scientists are doing to cats and may result in the death their best to discern this virus' mode of your pet. Washing animals in of transmission and conduct further potentially caustic disinfectants is research into animal vectors. It is highly highly distressing for the animal and likely that the virus did originate in unnecessarily cruel. Do not do this! a zoonotic fashion (animal-to-human y transmission). However, these zoo- y Do not force cats that are used to based large cats and any pet cats or dogs roaming freely to stay indoors. This (very few reported cases) that have so is highly distressing for cats that are far tested positive for Covid-19 have territorial and enjoy freedom during come into contact with a human who normal times. This could precipitate a was positive for Covid-19. So in these multitude of other health problems for cases, this is a potential human-to-animal your cat such as stress-related lower transmission (rather than the other way urinary tract disease (cystitis is often around). However, there is no definitive triggered by stress in cats) or result confirmation of this as yet and the in normally handleable, friendly, and animals have either shown no symptoms/ docile pets becoming more aggressive clinical signs or have recovered from or feeling threatened. There is no mild clinical signs with basic supportive evidence that keeping pets confined care, as per the reports. or indoors will minimise the risk There is absolutely no evidence that of disease transmission in any way, pet cats pose any risk to humans at when there are no current reports of present. It is of paramount importance animal-to-human transmission. The not to sensationalise these few, rare cases recent report by BBC has been highly reported in the media. We do not have condemned by the veterinary and enough evidence to base any of these animal welfare community and was not allegations on. based on any solid scientific facts. Many animals are susceptible (See: https://icatcare.org/covid-19-dont- to different strains and types of start-keeping-your-cats-indoors/) coronavirus. However, the coronavirus family of viruses is large and because What is your personal opinion on the domestic cats can be affected by pandemic? coronaviruses which cause Feline It is a very difficult time for many Infectious Peritonitis and Feline Enteritis of us. Yet, like all things in life, it can (these viruses are globally prevalent and also provide the opportunity to learn have affected cats for decades with not a and grow. I am fascinated by this virus single reported case of these viruses ever and as a veterinary ophthalmologist, affecting humans in any way), this does I would particularly like to research not automatically translate to the fact the ophthalmic transmission and that domestic cats or other cat species implications of Covid-19. Global One can be affected by Covid-19. Health initiatives, which bring medical, 14 the sunday morning Sunday, April 19, 2020 ECONOMY/FOCUS

Contd. from page 9 Contd. from page 9

in essentials coming from India, Therefore, there should be a A make or break... Warnings of further... imports from other countries such proper mechanism to avoid such as Canada, Australia, Holland, negative impacts and facilitate “Are our FDIs going to come reach the end of the pandemic The outlook also highlighted that higher than the MRPs (maximum Pakistan, and Thailand are still them to rebuild their lives, this year or next year? There is situation.” the impact of the pandemic will hit retail prices) imposed by the continuing. Withanage stressed. a possibility that we can market low-income people hard, especially Government and the situation our country to get FDIs, provided Investment financing the informal workers in the hospitality, worsened with the continuous Consumers at risk Govt. says ‘under control’ our laws are amended to be more need of the hour retail trade, and transport sectors depreciation of the rupee. Meanwhile, consumer rights Meanwhile, when The Sunday competitive, because all the other While commending the who have limited or no access to A member of the Colombo groups are urging the Government Morning contacted Co-cabinet countries are also going to be Government for taking practical healthcare or social safety nets. Importers’ Association, Alshafa to immediately devise a plan to Spokesperson Dr. Bandula fighting for that investment. short-term measures by providing Yoosuf, told The Sunday Morning avoid the negative consequences of Gunawardana to ask him what the “Our labour laws are rigid and the needed financial services through Importers in dilemma that although the business was not the economic crisis and its impacts Government plans are to mitigate when you’re not flexible with banking and financial institutions As predicted by economists, the profitable, they would continue on the local consumer. the effects of the rupee depreciation, labour laws, foreign investors are for businesses in order to provide rupee depreciation will directly to supply goods considering the Speaking to The Sunday he said the Central Bank at present not happy to come; they will go to liquidity, Wijewardena said that affect local importers of all sectors prevailing situation in the country. Morning, National Movement has managed the falling of the rupee the most attractive place. the next step would be for the from food to motor vehicles. With Yoosuf is an importer of many for Consumer Rights Protection very well and has already reversed “They will also look at our tax Government to carry out investment the increase of import cost, the essentials including onions, (NMCRP) President Ranjith it within a few days. structure and whether it’s changing financing, which would require a local importers claimed they will potatoes, sprats, dry chilies, and Withanage said that ultimately, “There is a number of measures very often. For example, this new hike in state revenue, including an have no option but to increase the dhal. Comparing the MRP and the consumers would have to bear taken by the Government, Government came in and amended increase in taxes. prices. the import cost, he stressed that it the brunt, unless the Government including halting the importation the taxes and within three months, “Once the situation is over, that In this regard, as claimed by Dr. hardly covered the expense. creates a plan to avoid the negative of non-essential items such as they’ve gone back and amended it (liquidity) money cannot help Wijewardena, the Government “We imported big onions impact. motor vehicles and also opening again. These are not good signals; the economy grow, because it should provide a subsidy for drug recently at a cost of Rs. 130 per “The prices of all items – not a new account for investors. In not consistent. We don’t know what will simply be a form of liquidity importers as it is an essential kilogramme whereas in the market, necessarily the essentials, but addition, the local productions will happen after the elections. financing. What is needed by item. However, other importers the price never goes up above everything – will increase and including agricultural productions There are consistency issues in the economy in order to grow is of vehicles, raw materials, food Rs. 110 per kilogramme. If it is many people will have to restart have been increased to prevent policy. investment financing. For that items, etc. are also requesting the only about 100 kg, we could have their lives as they have lost their them from being imported,” Dr. “There is a possibility for purpose, it is necessary that the Government to reduce the taxes so managed the cost, but when it’s means of income generation during Gunawardana noted. Sri Lanka to attract new FDI, Government cuts down its budget as to enable a smooth operation of about 2.5 MT, it becomes a huge the past two months,” he said, He assured an immediate provided we have a proper plan and deficit; if possible, the Government these sectors as well. loss for an importer,” he stressed. adding that the consumers are now economic recovery from the consistent policy, but in the medium should generate a surplus and that Local food importers claimed Main essentials are still being spending only on essentials but the Covid-19 pandemic with the term, I don’t see the forecasted surplus must be transferred back as that they are in a quandary as the imported to the country, according sooner the curfew is lifted, they positive measures taken by the FDIs coming into the country.” investments. imported costs of food items are to Yoosuf. Although there is a halt would begin their normal lives. Government. Masakorala then pointed out “The Government has already that the cash flow into the country partly done away with the tax would to be severely undermined reforms it announced at the and foreign remittances had beginning of the year which was Contd. from page 13 indicated a 20-30% reduction in highly costly to the Budget in terms poor creature's existence that these loose The economic repercussions of this March alone. of revenue because the tax reforms connections between Covid-19 and the pandemic will be immense. We must learn “So, there’ll be people losing they had suggested were estimated No evidence... pangolin are not used as an excuse to cull them from this situation and move on with a jobs abroad also and they’ll want to to have cost a total of about Rs. Traditional East Asian medicines use or traffic them further. If anything, they must renewed resolve to approach our lives come back to Sri Lanka. Tourism is 500-600 billion in 2020. So, this pangolin scales for all sorts of quack remedies; be protected further. This entire pandemic differently. Whatever the losses and negatives also down to a big zero.” year, with the coronavirus pandemic pangolin scales contain keratin like our hair has brought to light our unnatural, invasive, of a catastrophe of this scale, if we learn When queried as to whether which has hit the economy, the and nails, and these scales have zero medicinal destructive, and abusive relationship with our nothing from it and do not modify our actions there was an opportunity for Sri Government cannot afford to even value. Pangolin meat is also eaten in many natural world and the wildlife that inhabit it. in the future, then that will be the biggest Lanka to come out of this stronger, lose one rupee. Asian countries as a delicacy. Wet markets trading illegal wildlife produce crime of all. Masakorala said that while there “In that respect, the Government The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) and bushmeat have been brought into question War, weaponry, and human might will not was potential, it would come at a has already partly revised this by is found in Sri Lanka and on several occasions, and shut down by international governments. overcome this virus, but science, education, cost. reintroducing the PAYE (pay as large illegal shipments of pangolin scales This needs to be a permanent closure of these and people coming together as a global “Yes, but a painful opportunity you earn) tax and the withholding and meat have been confiscated by the (Sri horrible markets where hygiene is often collective to do their part will. It is important because a lot of people are going to tax, but of course we have noted Lanka) Customs and Wildlife (Conservation) incredibly poor and people are in far too close to be humbled by the power of nature and put suffer. But of course, for a country that these two are advanced tax Department in the past. It is vital for this proximity to each other and wild animals. our lives in perspective at a time like this. like ours which has made absolutely collection strategies. It will help no policy reforms in a practical and the Government build up its cash pragmatic way, it will come as a flow, but with the new rates where Contd. from page 12 shock. only people earning more than “This is happening already, as we Rs. 3 million are being subjected Our future... can see that automation of processes to income tax with the first tax at the government offices that was grab being Rs. 3 million as well Enhance your resilience... There is still enough room and potential to stalled for over 20-30 years, is now as the relaxation of the income tax yy If they have underlying health conditions, yy Stringent biosafety measures: Physical strain take the necessary measures to prepare people, being done. So, this situation has payment deadline, right now, it is not make sure that all the medicines are available and discomfort of protective equipment for especially our next generation, to face difficult given them a shock, and people something the Government should to be used during the period of lockdown long hours may create stress in healthcare circumstances in a positive manner and eventually workers will have to do business in a have done. yy Let them perform simple daily physical overcome it. Since education is a lifelong process, different way post Covid-19. It’s “At the same time, the reduction exercises at home to maintain mobility and yy Higher demands in the work setting including people should make themselves aware and prepare an opportunity in disguise, albeit a of VAT (value-added tax) from reduce boredom long working hours, increased patient through various home, school, and social-based painful one.” 15% to 8% is a deadly thing. These numbers, and keeping up to date with best programmes. yy Maintain regular routines and schedules as are the things the Government will practices as information about Covid-19 Home-based programmes: The school Undisciplined culture much as possible or help create new ones have to consider. There is nothing develops education system should give priority to and to blame to it other than losing face if they in a new environment, including regular promote home-based programmes, such as for Senior economist and former withdraw their original proposal and exercising, cleaning, daily chores, singing, yy Reduced capacity to use social support due to example, converting the home into an eco-friendly Central Bank Deputy Governor Dr. tell the public that they are not in a painting, or other activities intense work schedules and stigma within the house with a green garden, enabling them to community towards frontline workers W.A. Wijewardena stated that an position to offer it right now and that yy Keep in regular contact with loved ones (for experience the green environment at home as a undisciplined Sri Lankan culture we must all make big sacrifices in example, via telephone, e-mail, social media, yy Fear that frontline workers will pass family. Education is also about the endowment was the cause for the Government’s order to bring the economy back to or video conference) Covid-19 on to their friends and family as a of one’s culture to the next generation. Sri Lanka decision to impose curfews, its growth path.” result of their work is a unique problem for is a country with a prosperous history in smart resulting in an economic shutdown, Impact on the people who are agriculture. Involving at least some aspects of Global issue healthcare workers unlike many other countries. quarantined for observation home gardening in providing or satisfying the “It is not different from what Meanwhile, Government WHO’s message to frontline workers daily dietetic needs of a family to an extent, might other governments are doing in the Spokesman and State Minister of Although the best facilities are given for y provide children an opportunity to practically world. They have simply followed Investment Promotion Keheliya these individuals by the Government to make y Feeling under pressure is a likely experience learn about smart agricultural techniques including the instructions given by the WHO Rambukwella said that Sri Lanka their lives easier during the quarantine period, for you and many of your colleagues. It is utilising the garden space efficiently. (World Health Organisation) that was not in isolation when facing psychological disturbances are inevitable. The quite normal to be feeling this way in the Furthermore, such family experiences could in order to prevent the spread of minimum economic activity due to fear of contracting the virus and even fewer current situation. The stress and the feelings provide support to family members and lessen the pandemic, there should be the Covid-19 outbreak. chances of worse outcomes of the disease may associated with it are by no means a reflection stress so they can enjoy life while also promoting social distancing enforced by the “The fact of the matter here is weigh on their minds at all times. that you cannot do your job or that you are local customs. Through the time of social isolation government. that we are not in isolation as the weak. Managing your mental health and during the Covid-19 pandemic, people are “Therefore, our Government is economic impact is also the same How to release your stress during psychosocial wellbeing during this time is as encouraged to maintain home gardens. doing the same thing. But there is in other countries. Therefore, the the quarantine period important as managing your physical health This emergency situation reminds us of the old again a problem with Sri Lanka, economic leaders of the world have yy Stay connected and maintain your social yy Take care of yourself at this time. Try and saying “every dark cloud has a silver lining”, as because Sri Lankan people are not to come forward. Nobody is in networks. Try as much as possible to stick use helpful coping strategies such as ensuring there are some positive impacts even in the period the best disciplined people in the isolation. Global leaders must come to your personal daily routines or create sufficient rest and respite during work or of the Covid-19 pandemic – an example is that world and unless it is implemented forward and tackle this head-on.” new routines if circumstances change between shifts, eating sufficient and healthy the majority of the people became very concerned by force, there is a problem While leaving Sri Lanka’s food, engaging in physical activity, and about hygiene at home. However, such good where our people don’t follow economy to the experts, Minister yy Although you cannot meet your loved ones staying in contact with family and friends health practices need to be continued among the instructions. Rambukwella said, the world’s and friends, you can stay connected with public in order to transfer healthy genes to future “For example, Australians haven’t leading nations needed to step up them via telephone, e-mail, social media, or yy Avoid using unhelpful coping strategies such generations. Therefore, we have to develop some locked down the economy, but the and look for a solution to the global video conferencing as the use of tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs. mechanisms to sustain such practices. We need to instructions given to the people recession. In the long term, these can worsen your apply creative imagination to sustain good health yy During times of stress, pay attention to your mental and physical wellbeing have been voluntarily adhered to. “This plan cannot be explained own needs and feelings. Engage in healthy practices. Obviously, these cannot be achieved So, there was no necessity for the in two sentences. All the economic activities that you enjoy and find relaxing. yy The Covid-19 outbreak is a unique and overnight and may take time and hence strategies Government to close economic experts have to put their heads Exercise regularly, stick to regular sleeping unprecedented scenario for many workers, need to be developed to address different scenarios activities and enforce lockdowns together and churn out something. routines and eat healthy food particularly if they have not been involved in with short-term, medium-term, and long-term or curfews as we have done in Sri But again, I’d like to point out that similar responses. Even so, using strategies approaches. Lanka.” we can’t handle this in isolation. yy Have a positive attitude and mindset that have worked for you in the past to Since confinement at home could be stressful, He said the Government would be This is a global issue and the global towards the situation manage times of stress can benefit you now. mostly for children, they need to be provided more compelled to introduce a stimulus leaders – the Chinese, the US, the yy A near-constant stream of news reports You are the person most likely to know opportunities and encouraged to enjoy the period to the economy to kickstart it. G7 (Group of Seven), and perhaps about the outbreak can cause anyone to feel how you can destress and you should not be by reading, writing, innovating, inventing, etc. and “According to the instructions the oil-rich countries – should get anxious or distressed. Seek information hesitant in keeping yourself psychologically such activities will improve their creative thinking given by the WHO, once the new together and then look into a solution updates at specific times during the day well. Always remember: “This is not a sprint; abilities as well as learning outcomes. As a medium- infections curve starts flattening, for the entire world.” from a reliable source of information and it is a marathon”. You need to finish the race term strategy, during the post-Covid-19 pandemic you can relax restrictions. In the He asserted that the G7 countries avoid listening to or following rumours that without burning out period, if the situation still hasn’t completely settled, case of Sri Lanka, we haven’t and the developed world would need make you feel uncomfortable such proposed activities could be implemented at reached that situation yet. So to assist the developing countries. In Sri Lanka, the tri-forces and Police are home in a systematic way with the proper guidance people will have to tolerate this “The G7 and more wealthier Impact on frontline workers: “This playing a vital role in quarantine centres as well and directives of subject experts. for some time. But of course after countries should look towards is a marathon, not a sprint” as in the field. The resilience of these frontliners Home/family is the first learning place for any the end of the period, as I have supporting the low and middle- Frontline workers (including doctors, is of utmost importance to win this battle against of us. Therefore, practicing the accepted conduct already argued, there is a necessity income countries, because there’ll be laboratory scientists, nurses, public health Covid-19. and obeying simple rules should be inculcated in for massive reinvestment by the indirect effects on the G7 nations if inspectors, and all other health-related staff) Sources: children from a young age at home. Therefore, Government in order to first bring the developing countries are isolated. may experience additional stressors during WHO fact sheet “Mental health and every parent and senior citizen needs to motivate the economy back to where it was I’m not singling out Sri Lanka. I’m the Covid-19 outbreak due to the following psychosocial considerations during the Covid- their youngsters to engage in good behavioural before the pandemic and then boost generalising the fact that the entire reasons: 19 outbreak”, 18 March 2020. practices as we believe that there needs to be the economic activities to generate world will have to get together and IASC interim briefing note “Addressing education in behavioural change for the greater yy Stigmatisation towards those working with long-term economic growth. This find a solution to get out of this mental health and psychological aspects of good. Such qualities should be reflected in people’s Covid-19 patients and their remains is what needs to be done once they mess.” Covid-19 outbreak”, February 2020. behaviours the sunday morning 15 Sunday, April 19, 2020 SPORTS

becoming economically powerful. Then From left: Russian composer emerged events such as the European soccer Leonard Katsnelson and Georgian Grandmaster Bukhuti Gurgenidze leagues, the French Open, the NBA, etc. that with Leopold Mitrofanov placed a price on every champion. PLEASE 6 The Postmodern problem The extensive professionalism and global expansion of the media, especially the television platform, paved the way to create very rich individuals; the Supermen who transcended national boundaries. The RETHINK! Ronaldos, the LeBrons, and the Federers z Coronavirus and postmodern were born. Every year was packed with mega-buck high-profile sporting events sports realities and the old-world norm, “sports for the wellbeing of humans” turned into “humans BY REVATHA S. SILVA for the wellbeing of sports (business)” in a profoundly capitalist system. A deflection from The current capitalist economic and social system prevailing in our world took a harsh battering as we undergo the first truly disastrous pandemic, Covid-19, since the Spanish flu of one hundred years ago another world and the two world wars which ended 75 years ago. This first real global disaster of our time has sparked a discussion world over as to how While it is a common practice to name chess appropriate, effective, and humane this incumbent capitalist system openings, variations, and even the traps after the has been. Here, international sport is not an exemption as it also needs people who discovered them, a chess glossary THE CHESS to rethink how it has been run over the past century or so. What does generally contains a few unique terms that are coronavirus teach us about the way sports has been institutionalised in named after people as well. You are probably familiar with “Alekhine’s gun” or “Maróczy CORNER this world, in this socio-economic condition? Bind”, but have you ever heard of “Mitrofanov’s by Dulan Edirisinghe Here is a very brief historical perspective. Deflection”? If you haven’t, you are in for a treat. Leopold Mitrofanov (1932-1992) was a 1 Origins Tennis, rugby, and basketball developed as Russian chess composer. A chemical engineer This is where the magic happens. White The tendency to “play” physically has been fully fledged sports, cricket reached India by profession, he is said to have composed over plays the unbelievable 6.Qg5!! – Mitrofanov’s a part of the homo sapiens sapiens’ routine through the British, and the modern Olympic 7 Conclusion 300 studies with 40 of those being awarded first Deflection. since the earliest days of human evolution. Games began in Greece in 1896. It is in a height of such money-oriented prizes. His most famous study, dubbed “The Let’s revise this astonishing sacrifice. The moving rounded object, the ball, and sporting systems that Covid-19 struck the study of the millennium”, was composed in 1967. With one scarcely-believable move, white interacting with it, for example, has been world. It’s about the individual, not the As a child, Mitrofanov had to face many trials abandoned his own checkmating plans, gave one of their primordial actions. society; it’s about the dollars, not honour and tribulations during the siege of Leningrad. up his queen for nothing, and accepted a huge or dignity; it’s “win at any cost”, not the Ironically, his most famous creation suffered the material deficit. Careful observation reveals happiness of participation; and it’s the same fate with the sceptics discovering some that all white achieved was a microscopic survival of the (capitalist) system, not the minor flows in his original study. Ultimately, deflection of the black queen from h5 to g5. existence of the human being. As we stay at the following version with virtually the same Incredibly, this minute change makes all the home with all sports all over “locked down” solution is generally presented to the modern difference. for months, we can objectively rethink how audience. After 6...Qxg5+ 7.Ka6, the only way black sports could be run today for the betterment can prolong the game is by 7...Qa5+ 8.Kxa5 of human beings, the harmonious cohabitation Bxa7 (7...Bxa7 8.c7 Qa5+ also lead to the of all living beings, and the very survival of same main line). 5 'Pro era' begins the homo sapiens sapiens on Mother Earth. By mid-20th Century, amateur sports 2 Ancient sports slowly gave way to the surging professionals; Organised sports which we see today hence was the beginning of the “pro era”. have their roots in various civilisations; the Players became professionals, their sporting ancient Greeks had organised sports event, potentials improved in leaps and bounds, the Olympics, participated by its city-states wages and prize money came into the fray, in as far back as Eighth Century BC. The and a series of pro-player-based tournaments Chinese and the Indians have had their own began in all major sporting histories too. countries, resulting in these players

White to play and win Leopold Mitrofanov (1967)

Black has three extra pieces and a pawn White to play that is one step away from promotion. Yet, incredibly, the stipulation states that white’s White still has some surprises up his sleeve. task is to win. After 9.c7 black is forced to play 9...Kb7 White must start with 1.b6+ as his only hope 10.bxa7 and the white pawns finally triumph. lies in driving the black king to the last rank and then threatening to promote one of the pawns. 3 The Middle Ages 1...Kb8 runs into 2.g7, hence black plays 1... Running, jumping, throwing, as well as Ka8, retaining the option of Bb8. competitive fighting progressed as separate Now, after 2.g7 h1=Q 3.g8=Q+ Bb8 4.a7, sports during the Middle Ages through various white finally has a glimpse of hope. empires. Chariot racing was a popular sport during the Roman Empire.

The final position In the end, we find ourselves scratching our heads trying to comprehend what really 4 The Modern Era happened. After the infamous Qg5 move, The origin of the nation state, the industrial how did a few pawns end up stronger than an revolution, the colonisation project; they all armada of black pieces? Even the final position contributed to the development and spread of After 4.a7 is beautiful to look at. Without the presence a vast range of sport disciplines particularly It is not easy for black to avoid the threatened of the seemingly superfluous black knight, since the second half of the 19th Century. checkmate. 4...Nd7 runs into 5.axb8=Q+ Nxb8 black could have gained a stalemate after 9.c7 6.Qf7. The best option for black is to sacrifice Bxb6 10.Kxb6. a knight with 4...Nc6+ when white has no A few years later, another composer came up option but to accept it with 5.dxc6 (5.Ka6 with a minimalistic yet no less elegant version Qf1# ; 5.Ka4 Qe4+ 6.Kb5 Qb4+ 7.Kxc6 Qa4+ of Mitrofanov’s Deflection. 8.Kc5 Nd3#). Now after 5...Qh5+, it appears that black 10-15 days practice time for has a perpetual check. In order to appreciate the true beauty of Mitrofanov’s Deflection, it would be wise to pause here and examine the HNB-Hutch Clay Court Nationals position for a few minutes. One of the two highest- is one of the top two highest-rated rated tennis tournaments of the tournaments on par with the Sri country, the Clay Court Nationals Lanka Nationals held in August,” organised by the Sri Lanka Subramaniam said. Tennis Association (SLTA) The event is sponsored by at its headquarters at Green Hatton National Bank (HNB) Path, Colombo 7 was abruptly and Hutch Telecommunications interrupted last month just at Lanka, while Ceylinco Life, the very start of the competition Last year's girls' U -18 singles National Development Bank due to the coronavirus outbreak. champion Savini Jayasuriya (NDB), and Walkers Tours are the Tournament Director Ganendran PHOTO ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI co-sponsors. The official ball is White to play and win Subramaniam yesterday told HEAD, sponsored by 3G Sports. Joitsa (1984) The Sunday Morning Sports underway again once the at least 10 to 15 days to practise Anika Seneviratne and 1.Kxa6 runs into stalemate tricks after 1... that the organisers expect to situation of the country reaches and train as it will be hard for Sharmal Dissanayake are the Qe2+ 2. Ka5 Qa6+ 3. Kb4 Qb6+. So after the provide 10-15 days’ preparation normalcy. them to get into the court straight women’s and men’s defending “obvious” 1.Qg5 Qxg5+ 2. Kxa6, black can time before the resumption of “We expect to give all from their over-a-month-long champions, respectively, of this still try one final trick with 2...Qg8. the tournament when it gets participants, including the juniors, isolation at home. We know this tournament. After 5...Qh5+ White wins with 3.Bd5+ Qxd5 4.c8=Q#. Can the white king escape the checks? the sunday morning Sunday, April 19, 2020 sports Will our Big Bro be impressed? Conspiracy It was a fantastic proposal, many supposed. The Chief of the pop sport’s controllers here expressed his desire to give amid Corona our neighbouring Big Bro a helping hand at the time of What a conspicuous chat it was at the despair due to a virus. “Be practical man,” one was heard time of a plague! The pop sport’s bigwigs countering the bright move. last week had a chat on the election Who’s gonna fly here the – not the Diyawanna election, but boys under lockdown the Maitland Place one – with even in various parts of the their face masks on. They love this pop Of friends and foes globe? Silvas have game so much so that not even a deadly No permanent friends, they said, in politics. Now, the same can be said on our pop sport major stumbling epidemic can hold them from working controlled by the Maitland Place HQ. The closest confidantes of the two bosses, who are blocks, always. on its long-running ... goodwill!!! historic archrivals, are closing in on a deal behind screen at, of all places, a leading hospital. What are they up to? An election win, my friend! GREATGREAT BETRAYAL?BETRAYAL? Cricket heavyweights to switch camps!

BY REVATHA S. SILVA parties are to switch their allegiances, it will Sumathipala represented the same Rajapaksa Rajapaksas made certain the Sumathipalas kept not auger well, the sources predict, for the Government then too, like Ranatunga, and is away from cricket administration and restricted As the game is undergoing an unprecedented slide and is expected to member clubs of the country which are divided always regarded the most influential figure them only to politics. The particular period is suffer further in the post-Covid-19 atmosphere due to possible lack of for long, among these two factions. They are when it comes to Cricket Board elections considered one of the most successful ones in international tours, the heavyweights of the two historically envious camps most likely to consider the move as a serious even in situations where he is not holding any Sri Lanka’s recent cricket history. of local cricket administration, led by and Jayantha betrayal. office at SLC. During such period, they always allowed Dharmadasa, are planning to switch sides with over a year to go for the Our effort to reach Sumathipala yesterday interim bodies to run the sport under various cricket board elections, The Sunday Morning reliably learnt. Nishantha, one who sued him failed. presidents including Dharmadasa, Arjuna Meanwhile Nishantha Ranatunga, who held Ranatunga, and D.S. De Silva with Nishantha Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) incumbent President Dharmadasa, Silva object sway in local cricket administration during the Interim again? Ranatunga playing a decisive role. Shammi Silva, who has been regarded as one “Nothing. There was no such discussion. I have former Rajapaksa Government (2005-15), also Despite the above adamant denials, our sources If there will be an interim committee soon, of the closest allies of the Sumathipala camp, no interest in contesting at the moment. Firstly, said yesterday that “there is nothing like that”. confirmed the backdoor discussions last week with the allowance of the International Cricket has held discussions with Dharmadasa last I have to think about my businesses because of “I don’t need to change my position on the forthcoming Cricket Board elections. Council (ICC), the Nishantha Ranatunga party, week, informed sources revealed The Sunday the present situation in the country,” Dharmadasa (regarding his allegiance). People spread Such talks had been arranged through two which will also be propped up by another Cricket Morning Sports, while Nishantha Ranatunga, told The Sunday Morning yesterday. various stories. When I was at the Board too, middlemen who are both leading officials of Board stalwart, K. Mathivanan, will have a great the live-wire of the former Dharmadasa Shammi Silva said nothing has been discussed I dealt with them (the Sumathipalas) only the present SLC committee. advantage when it comes to the election time administration, has had initial talks with the so far with regard to the forthcoming elections. in a professional capacity whenever there In the meantime, there is strong speculation next year, being able to face it while in power. Sumathipalas – as the island is engulfed by the “It’s still too early to prepare for the election. was any request from them. That’s because that an interim committee will be appointed soon In such an eventuality, Mathivanan, a highly coronavirus pandemic – in a bid to get their Nothing has been discussed so far with anyone. I don’t mix politics with cricket. I who went after the country returns to normalcy following respected administrator among all concerned, support for the next SLC election scheduled My sole intention at the moment is to lift to court alleging that he (Sumathipala) can’t the current Covid-19 pandemic situation. In has been considered the best option for the for early 2021. the game. I don’t do anything targeting the come to cricket administration lawfully have that interim committee, Ranatunga will play Interim Committee presidency with Ranatunga Yet, both parties denied having such discussions elections,” Silva added. no reason to now have any talks with him,” the lead role, they figure out. being the secretary, the position he held at the when we contacted them yesterday (18). If the heavyweights of these bitterly rival Ranatunga stressed. During their previous tenure too, the time the Rajapaksa Government fell in 2015.

Sr. DIG Fernando Evolving tennis coaching during pandemic times aims swift recovery in Kandy sports Dinith like separate sets of balls and baskets for the various lessons. Having said that, since all BY HAFIZ MARIKAR IN KANDY Pathiraja equipment is likely to be used a majority of the time in the hot sun, this could of course Kandy sports will be fortunate to be a mitigating circumstance. have Senior Deputy Inspector General ON COURT 6. Since the prevalent medical knowledge is of Police Roshan Fernando, who will that sunlight helps destroy viruses on outside be in charge of the Central Province at Last week we discussed the challenges the surfaces, all tennis equipment should be this time of calamity, not only for sports coaching fraternity will face during the ongoing exposed to sunlight as much as possible. This but also for all other social activities pandemic. Whilst the exact figures are not comes with a note of caution that this is only across the area of Kandy. available, there are quite a number of coaches, the current pool of thought. All latest advice Being a responsible police officer, hitters, as well as other support staff who rely should be followed on this aspect at all costs. Fernando is also a sporting stalwart. on the game of tennis for their livelihood in 7. The possible use of gloves, sunglasses, and Hence, Kandy sports will benefit Sri Lanka. even visors can act as safety precautions. Of greatly, owing to his contribution in There are between 10-20 tennis academies compensate for the lesser amount of time with kids being kids, a total ban of social course, whilst these might sound fanciful, its bid to recover from the coronavirus around the country. All those academies also 5. Using separate sets of equipment for separate interaction will be impossible in any tennis when considering the situation that most pandemic, possibly in the coming employ coaches and trainers of various levels classes lesson, so it is very important that all social countries in the world find themselves in, weeks. who will face unprecedented challenges during 6. Making sure that all equipment used in the interactions between kids be done with the every precaution should be taken. Fernando is a former St. Mary’s this time. Since a majority of the private sector lessons are exposed to sunlight as much as required number of feet apart. The imposition 8. Following on from point two, even parents College, Negombo and Royal College, has started introducing pay cuts for their staff, it possible and adherence to this rule will totally be the must be encouraged to interact with the Colombo student who excelled in is natural to assume that this effect will trickle 7. Using gloves with necessary safety during responsibility of the coaches. coaches as much as possible, within reason, athletics, down to the field of tennis also. lessons 3. With the number of kids being less in a class using available technology. captaining the 8. Encouraging players as well as the parents and with the current economic climate being 9. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Royal athletics To host a group class or not to to have only the most necessary interactions what it is, it will be quite challenging for has advised that washing your hands is the team while host a group class 9. Wash, wash, wash coaches. Therefore, with that in mind, the safest precaution against the spread of this establishing Considering the economic ability of the 10. Education and vigilance coaches would have to decide the length of virus. This must be encouraged among all public school parents of the Sri Lankan tennis players, it Let’s now take these points, one at a time, the lesson according to their own programmes. the children at the entrance to the court as records. is the group classes that are most popular and envisage how each point will have to be Since it would likely have been one-and-a well as after they leave the court. Also it is While in in the country. But in the present time, adopted to face this crucial challenge. half to two hours earlier, coaches will now the duty of the coaches to discourage the the Police, challenges are also faced by the coaches 1. Sri Lankan group tennis lessons would have to alter these lessons according to the players from touching their faces as much Sr. DIG Roshan Fernando Fernando who are conducting group classes. Last week, usually have six to eight players on one court economic and medical realities. as possible during the time they spend on spearheaded we discussed and introduced, briefly, actions at a time. This would specially be true of 4. The challenge for the coaches will then be to the court. They should also encourage the in the promotion of cricket, football, that can be considered by coaches who are intermediate-level players. Since it is this make sure that the time the players spend on players to bring another piece of cloth which hockey, athletics, volleyball, cue sport, conducting group tennis classes to continue level of players that are the most active in any the court is put to maximum use. This will be they can use to not only wipe their faces, but tennis, table tennis, netball, and rugby to do so, while also taking into consideration given tennis programme in the country, this a challenge all coaches will have to face by even scratch an itch when they feel the urge mainly in the Kandy District. the safety of the participants. would constitute the usual number of players making sure that their lessons are now more to do so. "Every policeman has the highest Today we will discuss and elaborate on on one court at a time. This would not be specific and player centric. This would also 10. Finally, it is education and vigilance which integrity and character. Most of them these points further. possible in the current climate. The number mean that the coaches would have to spend will defeat this virus until medical science are sportsmen and sportswomen. They The points that were suggested last week of players at a given time might have to be more time preparing for these lessons. comes out with an absolute cure. It is the need to be given enough support and are as follows: restricted to about two or three players at a 5. Medical science has still not made a conclusive responsibility of the coaches to always be up that will enhance the overall image 1. Having smaller groups of players for the time on the court. pronouncement as to whether tennis equipment to date with their knowledge and then impart of the Police Department. That's why lessons 2. As mentioned in the earlier articles, any tennis could be “carriers” of the virus. However, it to their players. we plan to conduct coaching for all 2. Making sure that player interactions occur activity has a certain amount of social activity with all other surfaces being subjected to The above discussed points are by no means main sports as soon as the situation with the required distances apart in it. Tennis lessons are no exception to this contamination by this virus, there is no exhaustive. But they could form the basis improves here in Kandy. We can thus 3. Having one class for a lesser amount of rule. In fact, in certain circumstances parents reason to think that tennis equipment might of discussion among the coaching fraternity help improve sports in our whole area, time tend to send their kids to play tennis because be immune. Therefore, the coaches might have in Sri Lanka regarding the way forward in not only in the Police," Fernando told 4. Having more specialised sessions to of the social aspect of the game. Therefore, to consider using separate sets of equipment these challenging times. The Sunday Morning Sports last week.