Non Government Organizations leaving the LTTE held areas won't hinder the humanitarian activities of the civilians living in those areas, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said, pointing out that the state has put in place a systematic mechanism to address all the necessary grievances of the Northern masses.

While commenting on the factors that led to urge these organizations to vacate from Wanni, Defence Secretary said that the decision was taken to ensure that no unfortunate incidents took place.

In an interview with a weekend newspaper, Mr. Rajapaksa said that that these workers were given deadlines to reach government controlled areas but if they continue to remain defying instructions, the government could not take responsibility for their safety in future.

"The INGOs and NGOs were mainly involved in development projects in uncleared areas but under the prevailing situation they cannot carry out any development projects there. The other reason is that we cannot guarantee the safety of their lives as the military offensive has been intensified", he said.

He also pointed out that these INGOs and NGOs can continue with their humanitarian activities from Vavuniya and hand over the relief to Government Agents which will be directed to the civilians in need.

The Defence Secretary said that the government would follow the normal procedure as the government mechanism is fully active in the Wanni providing humanitarian assistance.

(Courtesy : Department of Information )