17.4.2008
Defence
Spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said that shifting the
holy shrine of 'Our Lady Madhu' to an LTTE controlled
area at a time when the Security Forces are engaged in
a humanitarian mission to liberate the area from the clutches
of terrorism, poses a great threat.
Minister Rambukwella added that the LTTE's decision to
move the holy shrine might have been prompted by factors
such as diverting the attention of the international community
from the ongoing military operations against the LTTE
terrorists and deliberately creating a negative image
of the Government and the good work done by the security
personnel.
The
Minister made these comments at a media briefing held
in Colombo today (17). While categorically denying the
fact that security forces attacked the Madhu Church, Minister
Rambukwella said 'Madhu Church never attacked by and was
never a target of the security forces,'
He
added that the respect of the security forces towards
the Church has prevented them entering the West side of
the area while forces are positioned in North, East and
South of the area.
Minister
Rambukwella reminded that the holy shrine of 'Our Lady
Madhu' was never removed when this area was liberated
in 1999. He added, citing credible information, that the
holy shrine has been taken 70 kms away to LTTE held area.
He reiterated that although the government has informed
all relevant persons that the shrine can be kept under
'full protection' in Government controlled area, the decision
taken ignoring the government's commitment to protect
the shrine is regrettable.
The
Minister finally emphasized that the holy shrine is a
national heritage and should be protected by all, irrespective
of faith or ethnic identity.