US embassy release statement on Jaffna university crisis !

The United States Embassy in Colombo has expressed its concern about recent threats to freedom of expression in Sri Lanka.

Issuing a statement, the embassy said “the November 28 beating of a reporter in Jaffna, harassment by Government of Sri Lanka officials of independent media outlets, and searches without warrants of journalists all serve to stifle media freedom.” Additionally, the Embassy is greatly concerned about reports of attacks on students in Jaffna. We call upon authorities to exercise restraint and respect peaceful demonstrations. US embassy release statement on Jaffna university crisis! Once again Lankan army attacks Jaffna University students: 7 injured Once again Lankan army attacks Jaffna University students: 7 injured Military personals and police officials illegally entered to the Jaffna university hostel and carried out attack against students yesterday where the students made preparations commemorate Martyr’s day. Students stage protest against the brutal attack at 11.00 am this morning. During the time of protest protesters have covered their mouth with black cloth. Military personals together with police once again carried out attack against protestors when they tried to march up to main road. Several students were injured from these attacks. However university lecturers hold discussions with security personals and rescued the students. Meanwhile CID official was injured from the stones attack carried out by the students inside the university compound. Group of unidentified persons threw stones towards vehicle of TNA parliamentarian E.Sarawanabawan who has visited the Jaffna University today. At present military personals were deployed in the university premises, sources said. (2nd lead) Police officials carried out attack against university students engage protest in Jaffna today. 7 were injured and currently receiving treatment at the Jaffna Teaching hospital. Tense situation continues in the University compound and general public were not permitted to visit the site. Tamil National Alliance parliamentarian M.A.Sumanthiran thoroughly condemns joint attack carried out by the army and police against the students of Jaffna University. Military personals entered the women hostel has damaged the beds and doors, MP said.