Protect indigenous communities' rights - UN tells member States

Chaminda PERERA

The United Nations reiterating its unwavering commitment to promotion and protection of indigenous communities in the world, yesterday urged member States to take every effort to protect their rights.

The International Day of the world's Indigenous People that falls today symbolises the crises confronting languages mostly used by the indigenous community. This Day first declared by the UN in 1994 helps enhance awareness on these communities and their diverse culture.

These Communities numbering over 300 million and representing four per cent of the world population is badly affected by exclusion, discrimination and poverty.

Successive Sri Lanka governments have taken tremendous efforts to protect the rights of the Veddha community.

But they are still seeking recognition of their identities and ways of life in contemporary society, sources said .

UN Secretary General Banki Moon in a message said the proclamation of a day was preclude to greater milestone. The declaration is a visionary step towards addressing the human rigths of indigenous people.

The UPFA Government led by President Mahinda Rajapaksa has provided viable solutions to their problems.

Their right to education and better living conditions have been assured. Many development projects are being implemented in the Ampara and Badulla districts where these communities live.

Badulla District Secretariat jointly with the Samurthi Authority last year implemented the Kiramangalkadura tank renovation project in Gurukumbura, Dabana from which over 200 acres of land could be brought under cultivation.

Badulla District Secretary Rohana Disanayake said this project implemented by the Divisional Secretariat office on a request of Veddha chieftain Uruvarige Vannilaeththo was earlier estimated to cost Rs. 13 million but the Samurdhi Authority handled the project costing only Rs. 7 million.

Dissanayake said cultivable lands will also be distributed among the Veddha community after the tank's water level increases under this project.