Defence Spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said that shifting the holy shrine of 'Our Lady Madhu' to an LTTE controlled area at a time when the Security Forces are engaged in a humanitarian mission to liberate the area from the clutches of terrorism, poses a great threat.

Minister Rambukwella added that the LTTE's decision to move the holy shrine might have been prompted by factors such as diverting the attention of the international community from the ongoing military operations against the LTTE terrorists and deliberately creating a negative image of the Government and the good work done by the security personnel.   

The Minister made these comments at a media briefing held in Colombo today (17). While categorically denying the fact that security forces attacked the Madhu Church, Minister Rambukwella said 'Madhu Church never attacked by and was never a target of the security forces,' He added that the respect of the security forces towards the Church has prevented them entering the West side of the area while forces are positioned in North, East and South of the area.    

Minister Rambukwella reminded that the holy shrine of 'Our Lady Madhu' was never removed when this area was liberated in 1999. He added, citing credible information, that the holy shrine has been taken 70 kms away to LTTE held area. He reiterated that although the government has informed all relevant persons that the shrine can be kept under 'full protection' in Government controlled area, the decision taken ignoring the government's commitment to protect the shrine is regrettable. 

The Minister finally emphasized that the holy shrine is a national heritage and should be protected by all, irrespective of faith or ethnic identity.

(Courtesy : Department of Information)