A 40-minute discussion took place this evening (Wednesday, 25 June 2025) at the Governor’s Secretariat between the delegation led by the Honorable Governor of the Northern Province, Mr. N. Vethanayakan, and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr. Volker Turk.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary of the Northern Province, Mrs. Thanuja Murugesan, Secretary to the Governor, Mr. M. Nanthagopalan, Jaffna District Secretary, Mr. M. Pratheepan, Mannar District Secretary, Mr. K. Kanakeswaran, Kilinochchi District Secretary, Mr. S. Muralitharan; and Mullaitivu District Secretary, Mr. A. Umamakeswaran. A delegation led by the UN Resident Representative to Sri Lanka, as well as officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also participated.
Speaking to the media following the discussion, Governor Vethanayakan stated that the High Commissioner inquired about the current status of resettlement and land release. He noted that the government has affirmed its commitment to returning land to the people and that this process is progressing gradually.
However, he emphasized that a significant portion of land still remains to be released. He further pointed out that the Forest and Wildlife Departments have acquired land without the knowledge or involvement of local authorities, resulting in the loss of residential and agricultural lands. The Governor informed the Commissioner that the current government is working to resolve these issues through the formation of district-level committees.
The High Commissioner and the UN Resident Representative also inquired about the recent gazette notification issued by the Land Titles and Settlement Department.
District Secretaries explained that while the procedural framework is appropriate, it is essential to allocate sufficient time for people to respond and comply.
The Commissioner also raised concerns about the military presence in the region, particularly regarding its involvement in farming and commercial activities on civilian land. The Governor responded that such activities have declined compared to previous years, but acknowledged that some issues still persist.
In addressing the issue of the disappeared, the Commissioner expressed serious concern. The Governor acknowledged that affected families have yet to receive a resolution and emphasized that the current government, unlike its predecessors, has adopted a more progressive and inclusive approach to addressing such sensitive issues.
The discussion also covered the problem of drug abuse. The Governor noted that a rehabilitation center for drug users has not yet been established in Jaffna, but steps are underway to set one up. The Commissioner further inquired about which authority would be responsible for operating these centers.
The Commissioner also inquired about the status of refugees returning from India. The Governor stressed that adequate support must be provided to ensure their successful reintegration, noting that sustained repatriation efforts can only be viable if appropriate assistance mechanisms are in place. Additionally, both the Governor and District Secretaries briefed the Commissioner on plans to establish investment zones in the Northern Province.
