Concerns raised over Indian diplomats meeting with North and East Politicians

Colombo (News 1st); On Monday the 20th of July, a delegation from the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka called on several political leaders in the Eastern Province citing it was not uncommon for diplomats to visit various communities and factions in the country they are assigned to.

However, concerns have been raised as to why the meeting with Tamil National Alliance Leader R. Sampanthan took place behind closed doors at his residence in Trincomalee.

Following the meeting, R. Sampanthan speaking to reporters said he would comment on any matter other than the meeting with the Indian delegation.

It was reported, the Indian delegation had also met with representatives from several other political parties at a luxury hotel in Nilaweli, Trincomalee as well.

In addition, they had also called on several politicians in the North a fortnight ago.

Susantha Punchinilame a candidate from the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna suspects the meeting was not open to the media because it could have been one with Ex-leaders of the LTTE and is concerned if it is an attempt to create turmoil in the country.

Udaya Gammanpila, who is also a candidate of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna said anyone has the right to hold private meetings and not reveal its contents to the media adding despite policy differences with the TNA he respects their privacy.

However, Minister Wimal Weerawansa, the Leader of the National Freedom Front raised an alarm stating "There are asking you not to question because they want to conceal something. We do not have any sort of deal with any diplomatic institution which we cannot reveal to the country. If it is something which cannot be revealed, that is a concerning matter,".

Rusiripala Thennakoon, the Group Leader of the National Development Front speaking to the media said it can be insinuated that they are attempting to create a new political force in the country adding the meeting could also be related to the agreements struck with India regarding the Oil tank farm in Trincomalee and also the Trincomalee Harbour.