Preserve historical identity

That archaeological excavations are being carried out in the North is a sure sign that the normalisation process is continuing apace. The war torn North was a no go zone for this kind of activity during the past three decades. Now that calm has returned all measures should be taken to recommence all functions and activity of national importance that was held back owing to the war situation. The ordinary people in the South would be keen to know the historical facts about the North given the various claims and counter claims by the protagonists on each side. There is no doubt that there is a vast reservoir of history buried under the surface of the Northern landscape waiting to be unearthed sifted and pronounced upon. It would be interesting to see what findings the archaeologists would make in the future pertaining to the factual history of the North. Some of these may even challenge the hitherto entrenched claims and notions pertaining to the North entertained by certain folk.

Yesterday we reported in our inside pages that archaeological excavations have unearthed ancient human settlements in the Vadamarachchi East area. According to Archaeology Director General Dr. Senarath Disssanyake they had found evidence of three human settlements in a three kilometre area that may be vitally important to prove the historical background of the Jaffna peninsula. Interestingly they had also unearthed remains of a large monastery that holds much expectation for more such findings to be unearthed in the near future that may give rise to interesting discussion and debate. There is also scope to ascertain the strong belief entertained by JHU archaeologist monk the Ven. Ellawela Medhananda Thera of a once flourishing Buddhist civilisation in the North. Already he had drawn attention to several vital artifacts and cultural symbols unearthed in the Eastern province that he says supports his claim of a thriving Buddhist civilization in the regions. Be that as it may the Archaeological Department should be commended for undertaking the task of unravelling the buried heritage of the North. The findings could help confirm or demolish widely held beliefs surrounding the past demographies of the North while also helping explode some myths. The project could also have tourist potential if properly marketed. What is more, with expectations of more important findings the North could now be drawn into the Cultural Triangle whereby the additional funds could keep pouring in to facilitate more and more digs unravelling new facets and angles to entrenched beliefs. Also now that the war is over, steps should also be taken to rebuild and restore vital historical monuments in the peninsula. For example, the Jaffna Fort which has suffered much damage should be preserved as a tourist attraction. These and other historical landmarks should be left untouched by the on going development activities in the North. All measures should be taken to preserve its historical identity and the traces of its civilization.

Disabled-friendly buildings

Wednesday's Supreme Court ruling making it mandatory for all public buildings to be designed to facilitate access of disabled persons no doubt would be a great relief to this unfortunate victims of circumstances. We celebrate events such as International Day of the Disabled but hardly take any tangible measure to ensure their wellbeing and comfort.

In terms of the court order local authorities are required to approve only building plans which ensure easy access to persons with physical disability. What is more all future buildings which are not disabled persons-friendly will be dealt with in terms of the Disabled Persons Accessible Regulations.

Today we have in our midst a large number of war heroes who are disabled. In that context the ruling could not have come at a better time. No soldier would like to be assisted or fussed over by anyone and would want to get about and attend to his tasks on his own if he can help it.

Meanwhile the Government should also take meaningful steps to launch more rehabilitation programs for the disabled. Today there are various service organizations who conduct such programs with foreign assistance. While we have to commend these voluntary organizations for their noble act the Government should take upon this task on an extended scale given the large number of war disabled in the country. They necessarily deserve the care of the State for their sacrifice.