
Jaffna University students issue statement against expansion and reconstruction of Palaly airstrip
The students union of Jaffna University requested Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmogan Singh not to support the plan to expand Palaly airstrip. The students union has issued the following statement,
“We, the Tamil people, are deeply concerned about your decision of supporting the plans to expand Palaly airstrip in Jaffna. The Palaly airstrip is now occupied by the Sri Lankan army who is occupying our traditional homeland. This airstrip is a traditional residence of thousands of Tamil people. These people are displaced and have been living in refugee camps for more than 30 years. Thus, this reveals that the decision of supporting the project is welcoming and assisting the Sri Lankan army to occupy Tamil peoples land, while we are carrying out peaceful protests against the military and dreaming of resettling in our homes.” “As we are wishing to resettle in our land, we kindly request, on behalf of the Tamil people, that you reconsider your support for expanding the Palaly airstrip.”
16 December 2005
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