Right of reply
View(s):This refers to last week’s Sunday Times Sports Page story headlined “No accolades for Paralympics Bronze Medallist Dinesh’.
This story is based on several misconceptions and inaccuracies, in relation to the Paralympic – 2016 ‘bronze’ medal achiever, retired Corporal Dinesh Priyantha.
Firstly, the Army has never promoted any medallist after retirement from the service as your report claimed, quoting an anonymous ‘Army Official’. Retired Corporal Dinesh Priyantha’s sports achievement is the first such instance recorded in the Army history.
Secondly, the Army on the directions of the Commander in office, has been in the practice of felicitating national/international achievers and retired Corporal Dinesh Priyantha would be no exception. Hence arrangements will be made to promote and felicitate him since he has made the country proud at an international event. Corporal Dinesh Priyantha has received the Army patronage to achieve this international fame and will continue to receive all such assistance in the future.
Brigadier
Director Media
A W M P R Seneviratne RSP USP
n Sports Editor says — Our story was based on information received from Army sources. However we are happy to note that the Army has taken steps to honour Priyantha in recognition of his Paralympics achievement.