Prof. Rajiva Wijesinha, Secretary, Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights referring to the Amnesty International's latest statement concerning the current situation in the north of Sri Lanka says that the government monitors the situation carefully, and addresses all problems promptly.

While stating that the government is doing its best under difficult circumstances, using the assistance of the United Nations as best possible, Prof. Wijesinha requests the Amnesty International to withdraw its claim that the government is not doing enough and that it is as much at fault as the Tigers for the plight of civilians. Instead, he asks them to concentrate on the task of pressurizing the LTTE to let the people enter the cleared areas.

Prof. Wijesinha also observes that it has been amply proved over the last year that Sri Lankan forces in operation, even in the most difficult terrain, are scrupulous about maintaining civilian safety.