Celebrations should not inconvenience anyone

The Government, while acknowledging with empathy the widespread euphoria of the people with regard to wiping out the menace of terrorism and the restoration of peace after almost three decades, reiterates that this victory belongs to all citizens of Sri Lanka, irrespective of ethnicity, religious faith, political affiliation or any other distinction.

The Government also notes while celebrating the end of terrorism no one should forget that the conflict was made of monumental tragedies, immense loss of lives, destruction of property and devastation of landscapes.

While celebrating the victory and remembering all those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the motherland, it is important that the people keep in mind that the nation has only just embarked on the arduous task of rebuilding communities and bringing development into regions that have suffered the inevitable depravations of war, the Government noted.

The Government emphasises moreover that it is of paramount importance that utmost care be taken to ensure that no one is inconvenienced or caused pain of mind in these celebrations. It must be remembered that a conflict of 30 years caused many people to incur great personal loss and therefore the utmost sensitivity be exercised at all times. The Government notes, further, that in Sri Lanka, there is a long history of treating the dead and the defeated with respect. Considering that this conflict references sensitive issues which are coloured by strong perceptions of culture and identity, it is imperative that all actions be informed by a need for a new national embrace among communities, more tolerance of difference and a greater sense of compassion as taught by all the religious faiths practised in the island.