Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Colombo (Agenzia Fides) - “Blatant attacks on civilians, by any of the parties to this conflict, are deplorable. An immediate and solemn resumption of peace talks between the warring parties is the only way to prevent further bloodshed of innocent people” said Jesuit Refugee Service South Asia regional Advocacy Officer Paul Newman during a meeting of JRS advocacy and programme staff held in Rome on November 10.
Last week 45 men, women and children lost their lives as a direct consequence of an artillery attack on a camp for displaced persons by the Sri Lankan armed forces, while thousands of others were forced to flee the camp. The episode was strongly condemned by Amnesty International, and local religious leaders including the local Catholic Church.
“This weeks events in Sri Lanka have demonstrated once again that civilians are always the main victims of conflict. They lose their homes, their means to earn a living and, sometimes, their lives. Many are also separated from their loved ones”. This is just the latest in a series of attacks by both sides on each other. Despite sporadic peace talks, nothing durable for the people of Sri Lanka has been achieved”.
“It is vital that the international community take concrete measures to encourage the belligerents back to the talks and bring to an end these ongoing brutal human rights abuses”, said Newman. In the interim aid workers and independent monitors must be granted free access to the conflict areas to be able to perform their duties. Their constant presence would alleviate some of the suffering of innocent people and serve as a deterrent against further human rights violations”.
This appeal follows a statement issued by the government of Sri Lanka to express regret for the death of about 65 displaced persons who fell under the fire of army troops. The government said the victims were being used by Tamil rebels as human shields. Two schools in Kathiravelli used as shelters were hit. The International Red Cross reported that about 70 people were injured in the attack, calling for respect for civilians and distinction between military and civilian buildings. Since April 200,000 people have been forced to abandon their homes. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 13/11/2006 righe 27 parole 275)
