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| Friday, 24 October 2003 |
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| Hindu Congress incensed at President's response The All Ceylon Hindu Congress lashed out at President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga over her reluctance to halt the PA political demonstration on Deepavali Day and also called into question some of the excuses given by her in defence. In a press release, the Congress has asked if it was worthy of a national political leader to say that had the Hindus protested in advance the date could have been shifted. Did not these leaders know that Deepavali falls on October 24? the joint press release signed by its President V. Kailasapillai and General Secretary Kandiah Neelakandan stated. Following is the full text of the release: "We are shocked to note the responses from Her Excellency the President and the PA Leaders to our appeal and that of the others not to have political demonstrations and rallies on Deepavali Day. We are astonished to note some of the explanations and excuses. Can a leader of a political party which claims to be a national political say that had we protested in time they would have changed the date and that they will ensure that it is not repeated on Hindu religious days in the future. It is not a matter of consolation for Hindus. Did not these Leaders know that Deepavali falls on 24th instant? Another PA Leader claimed that Deepavali is celebrated in the night. We regret to note the ignorance of leaders who claim to be national Leaders and who had been Cabinet Ministers of Sri Lanka. We were the first to protest against the political events on October 24 and we are glad that some of the political leaders have joined in that protest. However we are non-political. We (as the Federation of Hindu Religious Associations and Trusts in Sri Lanka) have also criticised the celebrations organised by the Minister of Hindu Religious Affairs. We note that he is inviting the Prime Minister and the Leader of Opposition to join in the celebrations. Celebrations in Colombo are unwarranted. We appeal to all leaders to take steps to resolve the problems of Hindus in the country who are still suffering in many ways. On the sacred Deepavali we appeal to all the Hindus to pray for an immediate political solution to satisfy the aspirations of the Tamil speaking people and the others and to restore peace in this country. Let all the Hindus engage in prayers and assist all their brothers and sisters who need be assisted in many ways." |
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