Hartal and protest in Batticaloa demanding justice for missing persons

A hartal campaign was launched in Batticaloa today (Mar 19) demanding that international pressure  be exerted on the Sri Lankan government to declare information related to missing persons.

The hartal also resulted in the postponement of  term examinations at schools as students did not attend the exams despite teachers and principals marking their presence.

Over 1000 protestors belonging to the families of missing persons from the Eastern Province, took part in the protest which was held at the Kalady Bridge in Batticaloa.

Protestors, who held several placards, insisted that the Sri Lankan government must be accountable for the injustice faced by the victims’ families. They urged that this issue faced by them must be taken before the International Court of Justice.

 “We have no hope that the government would deliver justice to us,” the protestors claimed adding that they would continue to hold such protests until justice is delivered.

However, shops, banks, schools, and government institutions were kept open as usual in the Eravur, Kattankudy, and Oddamavadi areas. Bus services were also seen operating in these places.

(Reporting and pics by Deva Athiran)