Justice for Priyantha Kumara

Now that Ravi Karunanayaka has been released of all charges in relation to the bond scam, the public has been left with a considerable doubt as to who was the mastermind behind this scam. Probably it is another attempt to get some support for an otherwise crumbling regime. We are yet to see what sort of decision the incumbent Executive would take regarding Ranjan Ramanayake.

Even though over 200 individuals have been arrested in relation to the incident, one cannot be certain about the punishment they will receive

However, the government now has an opportunity to win the hearts of its people with the actions it would take regarding the brutal murder of Priyantha Kumara Diyawadana. Even though over 200 individuals have been arrested in relation to the incident, one cannot be certain about the punishment they will receive. Diyawadana has been accused of blasphemy, but his family outrightly denied the allegations. Foreign Minister G. L. Pieris also reiterated the fact that accusations of blasphemy are baseless claims. However, in Pakistan, those involved in killing a blasphemer are regarded as heroes or even saints. Therefore, one cannot be certain about punishments they would receive.

Yesterday, the cabinet approved to give a Rs. 2.5 million grant to the family of the deceased. But no compensation or law could bring back the dead. The safety of the rest of the individuals seeking employment in Pakistan is now at risk. Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Pakistan says that bilateral relations won’t be affected due to this incident. Similar sentiments were echoed by Acting Pakistan Ambassador to Sri Lanka as well. The two countries have shared years long friendship especially with regards to the Buddhist heritage sites. But a human life cannot be taken for granted and justice should be served by carrying out an impartial investigation. - S. DE SILVA NUGEGODA