Civil society organisations met with Professor Rajiva Wijesinghe, the Secretary General of SCOPP in the District Secretariats of Batticoloa and Ampara. The purpose of the meetings had was to exchange views and  understand the ground reality as well as working conditions for civil society in Ampara and Batticoloa District and to see how the SCOPP can assist with overcoming any difficulties they face in implementing their work.

The organizations appealed to SCOPP to intervene and ensure that abductions by unidentified persons are stopped, assault on youths do not take place, delays at check points are minimized, free legal aid services be accessible to grieving persons, information in those who get arrested be made known to their families, conflict affected victims be provided with priority service in obtaining social welfare, roads and transport systems improved.

A  mechanism is being contemplated at district level to receive complaints from grieving parties if they feel injustice has been done to them and a focal point be appointed at the District Secretariat to facilitate communication with security establishments and civil society when mutual concerns arise. 

Prof. Rajiva Wijesnha, Secretary General, SCOPP in discussion with

Religious and civil representatives in Amparai on his visit to the East last week.

The Secretary General, after paying heed to the ground issues faced by the Civil Society Organizations while carrying out their work, expressed his contentment over the work carried out by the NGOs which has undoubtedly lessened the burden of the Government.

(Courtesy : SCOPP - Lead stories in the media - Section &  Daily Mirror )