Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Colombo (Agenzia Fides) - “Resolving the question of the Tamil refugees, which has remained unresolved since the end the war, is an important and fundamental step for ethnic reconciliation in Sri Lanka.” This is what Agenzia Fides learned from local Church sources, noting that the question, still a part of the national news, involving public opinion, could lead to social tension if it remains undefined. If, however, the government finds a just manner to resolve it, in respect for the dignity and rights of the over 200,000 Tamil internal refugees, “the path to social peace and reconciliation between the two components of Sri Lankan society (Singalese and Tamil) will be easier.”
In which case, Fides' source commented, “the wounds of the war would be able to heal more quickly, thanks to the efforts and good will on the part of society and the religious communities that can make a great contribution to peace.”
In past months, the Catholic Church has made various appeals to President Mahinda Rajapaksa's government, asking that they take action to resolve the situation of the Tamil refugees still president in the northern part of the country. There, over 200,000 people live amidst great misery and suffering. The Conference of Major Superiors of Sri Lanka has sent a letter to the President, showing their appreciation for the work carried out until now, but calling for a rapid solution to the emergency situation of the Tamil refugees.
The Tamil Christians of India also, in a note to the authorities, ask that the government in Colombo allow the NGOs to intervene and work in the refugee camps in order to guarantee basic aid and the protection of human rights.
Many Catholic religious and volunteers are working in the refugee camps to alleviate the suffering and pain of the refugees and offer education to the children. The evacuees only want to return to their own homes. The military keeps them from doing so and controls the camps, with the fear of infiltration of Tamil guerrillas. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 8/10/2009)
