Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekhar faced strong public opposition when he attempted to join a protest held near the Chemmani Sitthupattu cemetery in Ariyale, Jaffna.
Protesters vocally expressed their disapproval, stating that the minister had failed to take adequate steps to ensure justice regarding the Chemmani mass grave issue. Demonstrators continued their protest until the minister left the area.
The Chemmani mass grave was initially discovered in 1996, with a significant number of human skeletons unearthed during court-ordered excavations. A legal case was subsequently filed concerning this discovery.
Public attention has once again turned to the Chemmani site following the recent discovery of human remains near the Sitthupattu cemetery. Renewed excavations, mandated by the court, led to the uncovering of 19 human skeletons.
However, these excavations have been temporarily suspended until a comprehensive report on the findings is completed. Authorities have announced that excavation work will resume on May 26.
Amnesty International has called on Sri Lankan authorities to ensure that all excavation efforts at the Chemmani site adhere strictly to international standards.
