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Wednesday, April 15, 2009

The unending war in Sri Lanka

The temporary truce of two days to celebrate(??) the Tamil and Budhist new year ought to mean nothing to one and all. How can one celebrate or observe a new year when there is despair and doom all around. The Tigers have done nothing to alleviate the suffering of the civilians in their control. Ditto from the Sri Lankan Army which hopes to finish the war at what ever cost.

The shameless world looks on with out doing much. All that the big neighbour does is to pay lip service to the plight of those trapped and caught in the cross fire. The mercury in Tamil Nadu is slowly soaring, but the rising temperatures have nothing to do with the elections. The issue of Tamils in the Island manages to come up every now and then, propped by one party or another in the hope that some voters would turn their way. The case of a few immolations and the threat of blood bath in Tamil Nadu are unlikely to influence the course of events. Vaiko after all the drama has backtracked and has said that he remains committed to a united India while he is opposed to the idea of a united Sri Lanka at any cost! With the clout that he seems to enjoy with the leader of LTTE, even Vaiko seems uninterested in the safety of the civilians. He would be willing to sacrifice the civilians just to ensure that the life of his dear friend Prabhakaran is protected. Remember he said that no harm should come to Prabhakaran or else.... . But one must grant that through the thick and thin if one person has steadfastly supported the LTTE it is Vaiko who has not changed his stripes. For him it is something that is worth his time in prison and much more.

There have already been reports of violations even during the period of truce for these two days. Nothing more was expected in any case. The Sri Lankan Govt also has shown the door to Norway who may even be relieved that they could now keep away from both the parties who would not heed to any advice from anyone. The SL Govt always felt that Norway had a soft corner for the LTTE and did not really work for a unitary Sri Lanka.

The Tamil have been trying their best to see if any of their actions would change the course of the war of attrition. Their demonstrations in Canada, the desecration of the statue of Nehru in London, demonstrations in Australia , UK etc., have not resulted in any change in the world opinion. There have been the usual noises to say that there has to be a negotiated settlement and devolution of powers to the Tamils and the civilians should not be held has hostages against their will etc., The no fire zones have been reported to be safe havens for the LTTE, an excuse apparently used by the SLA to fire in to these very safe areas.

When will the plight end?? is a million dollar or rupee question depending on who you want to blame for the continued sad state of affairs.

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