The Sri Lankan government on Thursday pledged urgent action to address the concerns of Tamil political prisoners languishing in jails for several years on suspicion of links to the now-defeated LTTE as their hunger strike entered fourth day. Justice Minister Wijayadasa Rajapakshe visited the prisoners on hunger strike this morning and assured speedier action. The protesting prisoners, however, demanded an assurance from President Maithripala Sirisena. Over 200 Tamil inmates have been on a hunger strike since Monday. At least 8 of them had been hospitalized as a result of the hunger strike. They demand speedy action to release them as most of them have spent time in jail without charges being filed against them. At least 40 of them have been convicted under the provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). They have appealed their sentences, Tamil groups said. The inmates said that they will not suspend their fast unto death till they get an acceptable solution.(PTI)
A Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 212 helicopter belonging to the No. 72 squadron has crashed into the Madhuru Oya reservoir this morning, Air FOrce Media Spokesman Eranda Geeganage said.
Update: Five of the twelve passengers on board the bell 212 aircraft that crashed into the Maduru Oya today, have succumbed to their injuries, the SLAF said.
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