The Humanitarian mission to free the Northern Province is proceeding according to the strategies devised by the military stated the Defence Secretary Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa during the media briefing held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Conference Hall today (28). The Defence Secretary stated that the key issue raised during the conference held with the diplomats was the Internally Displaced Persons. According to Government statistics around 31713 families are displaced in Kilinochchi alone. These families have fled from combat areas in Mulatheive. He clarified that the Security Forces continue to consolidate their positions in the North. There are no shortages of food and other essential commodities for those displaced in those area.
Government sources have clarified that the mechanism which controls the supply of food and medicine to those areas are functioning perfectly. Defence Secretary however stated that he hoped all those who have been displaced in the conflict would be able to report to Vavuniya soon as all facilities for them will be provided there. A campaign will be launched to alert the civilians in uncleared area to report to Vavuniya. Immediate relocation of the IDP's will be commenced afterwards. The other issue raised by the International Community was the civilian casualties.
Defence Secretary stated that the security forces have been instructed to carry out operations with zero civilian casualties. Even pro LTTE Medias have not been able to prove civilian casualties he confirmed. Even buildings have not been damaged he stated this is to ensure that there is zero civilian casualties. Responding to a question on rehabilitation he stated that any terrorist who gives up arms is welcome as a normal citizen of the country. He also stated that many Vocational Training Institutions have been set up in the north and East area. He also stated that our military, one of the best militaries in the world is paving the way for a political solution. The ultimate solution is a political one and the military is trying to create an environment where a political solution can be implemented.
