Valikamam North Land crisis: Constant weekly fasting protest begins

The people of Valikamam North who have been dwelling in 32 welfare centres decided to hold a continuous fasting protest for the release of their lands in the Valikamam North area. As it was decided in the meeting held on 26th of February, the protest would be carried out every Friday in one welfare centre, accordingly, the first protest begins at Kannaki welfare centre today (Mar 4). Though the president assured the land crisis would be sorted out within six months during the Jaffna visit in December 2015, the promise would not seem to be implemented according to the recent statement of the Defence Secretary and the actions taken to expand the airport. The expansion of the Palaly Airport and development of the fishery harbour in Myliddy are going to be carried out despite releasing the lands of the people, which are to be released for resettlement. The people have been residing in welfare centres for 26 years.