Sri Lanka Navy to Release Occupied Lands in Jaffna, No Timeline Provided

Rear Admiral B. Liyanagamage, Commander of Sri Lanka's Northern Naval Area, has informed the Jaffna District Secretary that the Sri Lankan Navy will release lands occupied in the Jaffna District through established procedures, without providing a timeline.

This assurance was made during a meeting at the Kankesanthurai Naval Office, which addressed issues including illegal fishing by Indian fishermen, maritime smuggling, and the restoration of coastal infrastructure. The meeting emphasized the need for coordination among various governmental bodies to improve transport via the Kurikattuwan jetty.

Concerns were raised regarding the safety and certification of passenger boats to island areas, prompting plans to seek guidance from the Ministry of Defence. The discussion included senior officials and highlighted ongoing issues related to military control of land in the Tamil homeland, despite previous promises of land release.