President instruct officials to ensure return of civilian lands in N&E by Dec 1

President Maithripala Sirisena directed top government  officials to take necessary steps to ensure the release of civilian lands that have been under the custody of Tri-forces in North and Eastern provinces by December 31, Presidential Secretariat said. 

Chairing the second meeting of Presidential Task Force for the development of North and Eastern provinces which was held yesterday, President Sirisena instructed officials to fast-track the process of returning civilian lands to its rightful owners and it should be concluded by end of this year.

The Task Force also discussed options to resolve ways to address shortage for drinking water in many districts in North due to drought situation and President Sirisena directed officials to take adequate steps to address those issues. 

Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan, relevant ministers, parliamentarians representing North and Eastern provinces and senior government officials took part in the meeting.