SCOPP appeals to media for restraint

COLOMBO: The Government Peace Secretariat yesterday appealed to the media for responsible coverage of events surrounding steps taken to secure the Colombo city urging against resorting to emotive generalisations and sensationalistic headlines.

Issuing a media release the SCOPP says "phrases such as ethnic cleansing and comparisons with well known international problem points are misguided and ignore the ground situations which require thorough security measures."

The release states: "The Peace Secretariat has noted concerns raised in the media regarding the security measures taken on Thursday about some Tamils residing in lodges in Colombo. Coverage ranges from allegations of ethnic cleansing to suggestions that any process of removal was purely on a voluntary basis."

"In the current situation, it must be noted that two priorities need to be observed by the Government.

The first is to ensure the security of all citizens. But, secondly, it is also important to ensure confidence amongst all citizens in the rule of law."

"For the latter purpose clarity of information is essential. Unfortunately where security issues are concerned it is not possible to disclose all information fully. However, as much as possible should be made clear, with provision for questioning as appropriate."

"The recent searches have been in the context of dangerous explosions as well as the discovery of explosives capable of immense damage. It is therefore imperative that precautionary security measures are taken. In this context searches are essential, given the proven danger of infiltration. However, it is also essential that as little disruption as possible be caused to the lives of our citizens."

"The police then have a responsibility, after such operations, to issue a report on the number of those checked, along with the numbers of those who have been asked to leave Colombo, together with the criteria employed. We urge that when this is done, there be opportunities too for questions. At the same time we urge the media to cover such situations in a responsible fashion, without emotive generalizations or sensationalistic headlines."

Phrases such as ethnic cleansing and comparisons with well-known international problem points are misguided and ignore the ground situation which requires thorough security measures. At the same time we believe transparency is of the essence and would urge the police to respond actively to questions as to details and specific cases so as to minimize disruption and possible injustice."