Saturday Jun 13, 2026
Saturday Jun 13, 2026
Saturday, 13 June 2026 06:38 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
ITAK Parliamentary Group Leader and MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam met with European External Action Service (EEAS) Head of the South Asia Division (ASIAPAC) Charles Whiteley in Brussels this week, where discussions focused on a range of political, human rights, and governance issues affecting Sri Lanka and the Tamil people.
A key issue raised during the meeting was the continued use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the recent arrest and detention of Tamil rapper Ganeshkumar Sangeethsan (Hiphop Sangee) under its provisions. Rasamanickam expressed serious concern over the case and highlighted the implications it carries for freedom of expression, democratic freedoms, and human rights in Sri Lanka.
During the meeting, the MP also handed over a letter from ITAK General Secretary M.A. Sumanthiran regarding the arrest of Hiphop Sangee and reiterated the longstanding call for the repeal of the PTA. He emphasised that despite repeated commitments by successive governments to abolish the legislation, it continues to be used against individuals, particularly within the Tamil community.
The MP also drew attention to the implications of the continued use of the PTA in the context of Sri Lanka’s obligations under the European Union’s (EU) GSP+ trade concession scheme. He noted that the continued arrest and detention of individuals under the PTA, including the recent detention of Hiphop Sangee, raise serious concerns regarding Sri Lanka’s compliance with international human rights commitments that form the basis of GSP+ eligibility. He stressed that the repeated assurances given by successive governments to repeal the PTA have not been fulfilled and that the continued use of the law undermines Sri Lanka’s commitments relating to fundamental rights, freedom of expression, due process, and democratic governance.
The meeting also addressed the urgent need to conduct the long-overdue Provincial Council elections, with Rasamanickam stressing that meaningful devolution of power and democratic representation remain essential for addressing the political aspirations of the Tamil people.
Discussions further covered ongoing constitutional reform proposals, with emphasis on ensuring that any future constitutional arrangements safeguard the political rights, equality, and aspirations of the Tamil people.
The MP also raised the issue of enforced disappearances, highlighting the continued struggle of families seeking truth and justice for their missing loved ones. He stressed the importance of accountability, credible truth-seeking mechanisms, and justice in line with international standards.
The continued occupation of lands in Tamil-majority areas was another matter discussed. Rasamanickam highlighted that significant extents of land remain under military and state control and called for their expedited release and return to their rightful owners. He stressed that land release is essential to facilitate the resettlement of displaced families, restore livelihoods, and ensure that affected communities can rebuild their lives with dignity.
Rasamanickam reiterated the importance of continued international engagement in addressing the legitimate political, human rights, and social justice concerns of the Tamil people and welcomed the EU’s ongoing attention to these issues.
