BBS Linked To Governing Rajapaksa Family – New York Times Editorial

June 28, 2014

The anti-Muslim violence that erupted in Southern Sri Lanka has accentuated the need to expose links among the hard-line Buddhist organization Bodu Bala Sena (BBS), the Sri Lankan security forces and the Rajapaksas, yesterday’s editorial of the New York Times has asserted.

President Rajapaksa

The editorial, titled ‘Sri Lanka’s Agony’ has taken a very moderate stand on the recent violence that erupted against the Muslims in the island nation.

Referring to President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s tour of the areas affected by the violence, following his return from participating in the G77 Summit in Bolivia, the writer has expressed concerns over the promises made by the Government before the UNHRC on bringing the perpetrators who instigated the violence, to justice.

“President Mahinda Rajapaksa toured the afflicted area, while his government promised the United Nations Human Rights Council that it would conduct an investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice. Whether it will do so is an open question in view of its refusal to allow an investigation into allegations of human rights abuses during the recent civil war as called for in a resolution by the council on March 27,” the piece sates.

Furthermore, it has highlighted President Rajapaksa’s failure to repudiate BBS by name, despite his statements directing the Police to take actions against any individuals/ groups inciting ethnic or religious hatred.

“Most Sri Lankans, including the overwhelming Buddhist majority, want nothing to do with the Bodu Bala Sena. Sri Lanka needs healing.”

Furthermore, the editorial has called on President Rajapaksa to move immediately to allow the OHCHR-led probe on Sri Lanka and to implement recommendations of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission.

“Only these tangible steps will allow Sri Lanka to move forward toward reconciliation and justice for all Sri Lankans,” it has further stated.

We publish below the Editorial in full;