Government to Address Indigenous Peoples’ Land Issues; PM Harini Assures

14-Jun-2026

.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has assured Indigenous community leader Uruwarige Vannila Aththo that steps will be taken to resolve longstanding issues relating to the use of traditional ancestral lands.

The assurance was given during a meeting between the Prime Minister and the Indigenous leader held at the Parliamentary Complex on June 12.

Discussions focused on challenges faced by Indigenous communities, particularly difficulties encountered in accessing and utilising their traditional lands. Vannila Aththo explained the hardships experienced by community members in exercising their customary rights.

The Prime Minister emphasised that Indigenous peoples are entitled to enjoy and use their ancestral lands without obstruction. She stated that the Government would expedite the necessary legal processes and pursue further measures to safeguard those rights.

The Indigenous leader also highlighted that residents of Hennanigala village, who were affected by Cyclone Titwa, had yet to receive adequate relief assistance. In response, the Prime Minister immediately contacted the relevant officials and instructed them to ensure that relief was properly distributed to affected families.

Issues relating to deficiencies at the Dambana School were also discussed. The Prime Minister assured participants that the matter would be examined and appropriate action taken.