My speech in #Parliament: In Nov, people remember fallen Heroes who participated in wars, but even in the remembrance of the dead there is discrimination against the #Tamils in SL who are not allowed to remember their dead, while Rohana Wijeweera is permitted to be commemorated.

I apprehend authorities using #COVID19 as a ruse to stop people going to cemeteries where their loved ones are buried to pay homage. I urge the government to act magnanimously and not use #COVID19 or anything else to prevent legitimate commemorations by family members & others.

I want to record my appreciation for the way in which the health sector of our country have worked dedicatedly for the last several months, that needs to be recorded in this House. They have often cried out for new laws that can deal with this issue, which we dont have.

#Lockdowns and #curfews are necessary at times like this, but it must be imposed under a proper legal regime. I call upon the government to stop acting for political expediency and act in the interests of the country.