President's Office VIP blocks relief to 600 victims

The Presidential Commission of Inquiry appointed to probe political victimisation received thousands of complaints of which about 600 were vetted and confirmed as genuine. The Cabinet recently agreed the victims should receive compensation or reinstatement to their jobs.

This was affirmed by a Cabinetapproved committee chaired by State Minister Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena. But despite going through the process, a higher- up in the President's office is blocking action, informed sources said. The victims have expressed disappointment saying they suffered under the previous administration and are now receiving no relief from this Government.