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COVID-19Suwasariya Ambulance

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PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES

COVID-19 CASES IN

THE WORLD

TOTAL CASES

14,497,125DEATHS

606,484RECOVERD

8,661,830

CASES DEATHSUSA 3,840,911 142,926 BRAZIL 2,075,246 78,817 INDIA 1,106,135 27,428RUSSIA 771,546 12,342 S. AFRICA 350,879 4,948669

DEATHS

11RECOVERED

2,035

ACTIVE CASES TOTAL CASES

2,715 � Quarantine Unit

0112 112 705

� Epidemiology Unit 0112 695 112

� Govt. coronavirus hotline 0113071073

Health Promotion

Bureau 1999

For verified information on the coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any of the following authorities

THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 9.00 P.M. ON 19 JULY 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

epaper.themorning.lkepaper.aruna.lk

www.themorning.lkwww.aruna.lk

epaper.themorning.lkepaper.aruna.lk

www.themorning.lkwww.aruna.lk

MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020

ARBITRARY INCREASE OF PRICES

ABOLITION OF SAND/SOIL TRANSPORT LICENSES

The Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) had incurred millions of rupees in losses during the last few months due to the abolishment of the requirement of transport licences last year, The Morning learnt.

Accordingly, the Government had

incurred a loss of around Rs. 1,200 million as per an audit conducted by the GSMB during the last few months since the end of last year.

Speaking to The Morning, GSMB Director of Mineral Titling Hema Liyanarachchi said the GSMB had

not removed the requirement of obtaining mining and transporting licenses for sand and soil, but since the Police did not check the licenses, there was a huge reduction of obtaining licenses for transportation of sand and soil. As a result, the

incidents of illegal mining have increased.

Highlighting the Mines and Minerals Act, Liyanarachchi stressed that when applying for the license to transport sand or soil, the applicant should produce the mining license. However,

since there was no requirement to obtain a transport license, some individuals had engaged in illegal mining as well.

“According to the law, transporting sand and soil without a license is illegal,” she said, adding that the

powers have been vested in the Police to inspect whether they have obtained transport licenses or not.

In addition to the Police, officials of the GSMB also had such powers, Liyanarachchi said.

Contd. on page 2

GSMB incurs millions of rupees in losses

PHIS AT LOGGERHEADS WITH HEALTH MINISTRY

Despite the continuous attempts made by the Government to rectify the issue, public health inspectors (PHIs) have intensified their trade union action as they have now withdrawn not only from Covid-19-related duties, but all activities related

to communicable diseases including dengue control.

PHI’s Union (PHIU) President Upul Rohana told The Morning that they held several discussions with the Director General of Health Services last weekend (18, 19) but ended up without a conclusion.

He said that trade union action would be continued until their demands are met.

The union withdrew from Covid-19-related duties on Friday (17), protesting against a statement made by Minister of Health Pavithra Wanniarachchi.

Contd. on page 2

PHIs intensify TU action

Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva visited

the North to assess the security situation of the area and addressed troops of the Sri Lanka Army, Navy,

and Air Force with regard to the prevailing Covid-19 situation in the country.

Army Commander assesses security in the North

BY SARAH HANNAN

Considering the instructions of the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education has postponed the reopening of schools to 27 July.

Following the Covid-19 cluster that was reported from the Kandakadu Treatment

and Rehabilitation Centre along with the hundreds of close contacts testing positive for the virus, as a result recording the highest number of patients detected in a day in Sri Lanka, schools were instructed to shut down again for a week.

Speaking to The Morning,

Ceylon Teachers’ Service Union General Secretary Mahinda Jayasinghe said: “The absence of proper preventive health guidelines to control the spread of Covid-19 was quite prevalent as this time, the virus was also reported from a school level.

Contd. on page 2

Postponed on health instructions

PREZ PLEDGES SPECIAL PROGRAMME

A special programme will be launched to mitigate the disastrous consequences of landslides that frequently occur in the District of Kegalle, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has assured the people in the area.

He made this pledge while attending several public gatherings organised in the Kegalle District last Saturday (18). President Rajapaksa

visited Kegalle in support of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) candidates contesting the upcoming parliamentary election.

The President joined public rallies organised by candidates Rajika Wickramasinghe at Lavana Fairground in Bulathkohupitiya and W. Jayaratne in Dippitiya, Aranayake.

Contd. on page 2

Mitigating landslides and disasters

A total of 25 Army-built houses were handed over to low-income families in Pungudutivu, Jaffna last Saturday (18) as a “symbol of national unity”.

The entire project was funded by the National Housing Development Authority (NHDA) of the Ministry of Urban Development, Water Supply, and Housing and was brought to completion by five Corps of Engineer

Services (CES) regiment troops of the 51 Division of the Security Force headquarters in Jaffna.

The opening ceremony was graced by Northern Province Governor P.S.M. Charles, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva, District Secretary for Jaffna K. Maheshan, Commander of Security Forces of Jaffna

Major General Ruwan Wanigasooriya, Northern Province Chief Secretary A. Pathinadan, Secretary to the Department of Education of the Northern Province L. Illangoven, and General Officer Commanding of 51 Division Major General Lalith Rathnayake, along with NHDA officials, state officials, and other invitees.

Contd. on page 2

For low-income families in the North MILITARY-BUILT HOUSES

INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa said that the previous Government had no objective other than to sell local resources.

The Premier made these remarks addressing a public meeting held in Mahiyanganaya.

He pointed out that withdrawing from an international agreement is not an easy task.

However, the struggle to pass on the resources of the country to future generations will not be abandoned,

despite the challenges, he added.The Prime Minister said that it

was his determination to restore the resources that were lost to the country through international agreements to future generations.

Prime Minister Rajapaksa also stated that a programme will be implemented to develop the agrarian economy by increasing agricultural production throughout the country and creating opportunities in the local market.

Not easy to withdraw: PM

Sri Lanka Navy announced the appointment of Captain Indika De Silva to the position of Navy Media Spokesperson with effect from 15 July. Capt. De Silva succeeded Lieutenant Commander Isuru Sooriyabandara who held the position up until 14 July.

A product of Dharmasoka College in Ambalangoda, Capt. De Silva successfully completed the Naval Command and Staff Course at the US Naval War College in Rhode Island. Also a specialist navigator, he earned his recognition on special navigation from India and advanced navigation from China.

Capt. De Silva joined the Sri Lanka Navy in 1996 as an officer cadet of the 25th intake. He received his commission in 1998 as an officer of the executive branch.

Contd. on page 2

New Navy Spokesperson

A new division is to be established under the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), stated Senior Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Deshabandu Tennakoon.

The unit will be titled “Illegal Assets Investigations Division”, he said, addressing a press conference held at Police headquarters last morning (19).

Contd. on page 2

Probing assets of suspected criminals

During a special operation carried out in the Western Province, 1,563 people have been arrested over various offences.

Sri Lanka Police carried out special 12-hour raids in the province between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. last Saturday (18).

Contd. on page 2

1,563 arrested in 12-hour op

Around 170 Indian nationals stranded in Sri Lanka were repatriated on a special Air India (AI 0282) flight from Colombo to Delhi last Saturday (18), the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka said.

The flight was scheduled as part of Phase IV of “Vande Bharat Mission”, an initiative of the Government of India to undertake the largest-ever repatriation from all over the world for the return of Indian nationals stranded abroad due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Contd. on page 2

6th repatriation flight takes off

INDIANS STRANDED IN SL KING RAVANA’ S FLYING MACHINE

The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) has made an open call to the public to submit any literature or paraphernalia that suggests the existence of flying machines during King Ravana’s reign in ancient Sri Lanka.

Speaking to The Morning, an official attached to the Research and Projects Unit of the CAA said the project was initiated to gather evidence of the existence of such technologies.

Contd. on page 2

CAASL to archive literature on Ravana

He said it was compulsory to obtain prior approval from the authority to increase

drug prices according to the National Medicines Regulatory Authority Act No. 5 of 2015.

As explained by Dr. Jayasinghe, companies had increased prices of medicines during the past few months, violating the conditions of registration issued by the authority and causing much hardships to patients, especially in the backdrop of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Contd. on page 2

z Cancellation of registrations sent to 10 companies: NMRA

Focus on 10 pharmaceuticals

z 10 drugs noted by NMRA not under price controls: Pharma Chamber

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA

The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) has issued cancellation of registrations notices of 10 pharmaceuticals last week for increasing prices

of several drugs without the prior approval of the authority, NMRA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Kamal Jayasinghe told The Morning.NMRA Chief

Executive Officer Dr. Kamal Jayasinghe

REOPENING SCHOOLS

the morningMonday , July 20, 2020

2

OPINION/NEWS

Contd. from page 1

Cartoon of the day

There are an estimated 1.8 million Sri Lankans employed overseas. These workers contributed $ 6.7 billion to the Sri Lankan economy in 2019.

A recent study details how estimates show that one in every 11 households received international remittances, migrants normally remitting once a month, and the average amount remitted being Rs. 40,000 per month.

This policy brief is intended to highlight key concerns relating to the safety and wellbeing of Sri Lankan migrant workers and contains a proposed set of guidelines and actions that should be taken by the Government to address the urgent needs of the Sri Lankan migrants.

Policy briefSri Lanka Government interventions

In mid-April 2020, the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Relations with the Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau (SLFEB) held video conferences with their offices in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Iran, and Israel.

Issues such as increasing cases of unemployment, loss of contracts, non-extension of work permits, and halting of temporary freelance work were noted. The impact on living conditions of families in Sri Lanka was recognised.

Despite these facts, the government prioritised the repatriation of members of the tri-forces undergoing training as well as students registered at universities from China and South Asia in March and April.

The Sri Lankan Government has, through the Ministry, engaged in a number of interventions with regard to the repatriation of overseas Sri Lankans (OSLs):

y Setting up the Contact Sri Lanka web portal on 26 March to enable OSLs who wished to return to Sri Lanka to register their details for. By 29 May, a total of 42,000 persons from 123 countries had registered.

y In mid-May, the Ministry stated that those persons who have valid work visas should reconsider requests to return. Rather, the Government would look to assist those who do not have visas, who are illegal migrant workers in the country of destination because they are more likely to not have access to health facilities, etc.

y Instead of acknowledging the complexities remaining in a foreign country with little to no income or providing solutions for said problems, the Government offered that it would “try and provide dry rations and, where necessary, medicines” for those who stay back.

y While the Government of Kuwait had in April 2020 offered an amnesty to Sri

Lankan workers who did not possess valid visas to register to be repatriated, out of approximately 100,000, less than 500 had done so. It was mid-May by the time the Government of Kuwait repatriated 460 Sri Lankans to the country. On their return and being moved to quarantine centres in Sri Lanka, it was found that 412 of the returnees were infected with the virus.

Quarantine centres: Tri-forces vs. Govt. health services

The Sri Lankan Government was quick to recognise the need to set up quarantine centres for returnees within a few weeks of the pandemic. However, it is of concern that it is the Sri Lankan military and not the Ministry of Health that sets up or directs these quarantine centres. The Sri Lankan Army Commander issues statements with regard to the health conditions of the number of returnees in quarantine centres, as opposed to a representative of the Ministry of Health. It is the Sri Lankan tri-forces highlighted on the clearance certificates given to those who have completed the required two-week period of quarantine.

It has to be also noted that the focus on repatriating Sri Lankans from South Asia focused sharply on members of tri-forces who were undergoing military training in the region.

There are two issues of concern in the management of the Covid-19 spread in Sri Lanka. One is the seemingly subservient role of the excellent health service sector in the country treating those who are afflicted with the virus and who may be asymptomatic and would need to have follow-up and monitoring. The other is valorising members of the tri-forces over the “Rata Virowo” migrant workers especially employed in the Middle East.PCR Tests for Sri Lankans requesting repatriation

One of the requests the Sri Lankan Government is making to governments of countries employing Sri Lankan migrant workers who wish to be repatriated is to conduct free PCR tests prior to leaving their host countries. The Kuwait Government declined this request when it repatriated 466 Sri Lankans in May. In June, the Governments of Lebanon and the UAE agreed to conduct the test without a cost to Sri

Lankan migrant workers.Critical living conditions of migrant workers

The situation of migrant workers, both blue-collar and undocumented, continues to be of serious concern. Many blue-collar workers who had received steady monthly incomes that paid for the rent for accommodation, food, schooling for children, and healthcare have seen their salaries greatly reduced. This has meant they are unable to support their families, let alone pay their cost of living. Prolonged periods of lockdowns also severely restrict their ability to obtain basic necessities.

Undocumented/unregistered migrant workers have become one of the most at-risk groups.

With the implementation of lockdowns and layoffs, these workers are facing much hardship with no income to pay for food or lodging; some have been compelled to seek shelter in camps when Sri Lankan missions have been unable to provide them with shelter. Reports on the conditions of women who are pregnant in Gulf countries have revealed the extreme conditions of vulnerability they face.

The Sri Lankan Government has initiated a programme of providing support in some countries to migrant workers stranded or unable to return. While this is commendable, this has to be recognised as a short-term measure which is only reaching a relatively small number of migrant workers in a few countries. We also note that the Government has been able come to an agreement with the Government of Italy to facilitate the regularisation of visa status of Sri Lankans through a special amnesty.Returnee migrant workers

At present, at least 50,000 migrant workers have requested repatriation to Sri Lanka. The issue that needs to be addressed urgently is the formulation and implementation of policies, both for short-term and long-term remedies, on what the country can give back to these workers.

An issue that is surfacing is the alarming reports of social ostracising of returnees who return to their villages, towns, and homes after the completion of the mandatory period of quarantine. These persons are often regarded not as having

been cleared medically of any infections, but as persons who are carrying the virus and a danger to the community.

With the prospect of thousands of migrant workers returning to Sri Lanka in the course of this year, we strongly recommend the Government proactively ensure their wellbeing in society and employment opportunities within the country.Government policies and programmes for the future

We recognise and appreciate the efforts the Sri Lankan Government has made to repatriate migrant workers. The Government has initiated moves to find new overseas employment opportunities such as in South Korea, new markets for Tea, and markets for protective gear.

At the same time, it is also important that the Government respects the rights of Sri Lankan citizens stranded overseas. Priority must remain that of assisting migrant workers to return to Sri Lanka amidst this pandemic, irrespective of whether they may lose their current employment. The suspension of flights bearing Sri Lankan migrant workers to Sri Lanka from West Asian countries in the month of April, for example from Kuwait, once again raises concerns on the situation of those being left behind. How can services for migrant workers whose return is being delayed be strengthened? What access do Sri Lankan migrant workers employed overseas have to information on safe return?Measures being taken for in-country employment of returnees

We make the following recommendations to the Government as actions that can be taken as immediate responses to the issues that are surfacing due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The recommendations provided are to convey the concerns put forward by civil society for necessary action as a way to provide relief to the affected migrant workers.Recommendations

1. Ensure that the bilateral agreements entered into with each country are honoured with the protection of the contractual obligations of the employer to employees.

2. Enhance measures that are being used to identify Sri Lankan migrant workers who are

at risk of losing their jobs or have already lost their jobs, and account for all steps taken to redress these grievances.

3. Protect the human rights and self-respect of vulnerable migrant workers as well as of those who request repatriation due to lack of income, access to adequate healthcare, and violation of employment contracts.

4. Engage in constructive discussion with countries of employment to ensure healthcare and social protection coverage for all Sri Lankans employees.

5. Engage in constructive dialog with countries of employment to mitigate any possibilities of incidents of trafficking, particularly among those who are currently without valid visas.

6. Formulate effective measures to establish special mechanisms within ministries such as Labour, Social Welfare, Economic Affairs, Women’s Affairs, Agriculture, and Small Industries to formulate programmes for the socioeconomic reintegration of migrant workers who, having returned to the country due to the pandemic, do not wish to or are unable to return to employment overseas.

7. Put in place a programme to expedite the provision of debt relief to migrant workers who have obtained loans from banks in Sri Lanka prior to or while being employed abroad.

8. Develop support programmes for dependent families of migrant workers in Sri Lanka who are facing financial hardship due to termination of employment or long delays in remittances of family members overseas. These programmes could be to initiate to delay or cancel payment of financial burdens such as rent for housing or loans for self-employment enterprises of these families.

9. Intervene to initiate a constructive social dialogue through the media to prevent the stigmatisation and marginalisation of migrant workers and their family members who have completed mandatory quarantine procedures.

10. Actively engage with countries of destination to offer a period of amnesty for regularisation of visas for Sri Lankan migrant workers who currently do not have legal documentation.

(This article was written by the Women and Media Collective)

Immediate and subsequent steps for migrant workers

6th repatriation...Acting High Commissioner of India Vinod K.

Jacob met the Indian nationals at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and bid the happy passengers a safe journey. Based on the registrations received by the High Commission of India, a passenger manifest will be prepared for these flights. Priority will be given to compelling cases in distress including migrant workers/labourers who have been laid off, short-term visa holders faced with the expiry of visa, people with medical emergency/pregnant women/elderly, those required to return to India due to death of family member, and students as stated in the Standard Operating Procedure issued by Ministry of Home Affairs of the Government of India. The Indian nationals who were stranded in Sri Lanka due to restrictions on international travel due to the pandemic have expressed their happiness at the opportunity to return home. Over 1,800 Indian nationals have been repatriated from Sri Lanka so far, including this flight, through five special Air India flights on 29 May, 15 June, 22 June, 3 July, and 8 July; the Indian naval ship Jalashwa which made a voyage from Colombo to Tuticorin on 1 June; and through various charter flights.

New Navy...He served in the Navy for nearly 24 years,

undertaking various appointments at various capacities, such as the Director of Operations at Sri Lanka Coast Guard, and serving as the Commanding Officer and Executive Officer on board several naval ships as well as at shore establishments. He was awarded the Rana Wickrama Padakkama (RWP) twice in recognition of his acts of gallantry on board fast attack crafts, fast gunboats, and offshore patrol vessels.

For low-income...Initial work of the housing scheme commenced

with the co-ordination and management of funds made by Illangoven, who was also instrumental in selecting the beneficiaries and was closely supervised by Major General Rathnayake under the guidelines given by Major General Wanigasooriya.

The Commanding Officer of the five CES regiment troops, using technical and architectural expertise of the Army, put up separate houses, each worth about Rs. 500,000 and inclusive of electricity, water, sanitary facilities, dining room, bedrooms, kitchen, and other key units.

Probing...The new unit will be in charge of probing assets

of those who are involved in criminal activity.Furthermore, it is the responsibility of the Illegal

Assets Investigations Division to deal with the

full-time confiscation of immovable and movable property and money earned through various rackets and narcotics under the Money Laundering Act.

1,563...Among them, 771 have been apprehended

under arrest warrants while another 792 have been arrested over corruption cases.

Meanwhile, 2,093 in the Western Province have been warned over failure to wear face masks and another 968 for not maintaining social distance.

CAASL to...If sufficient information is gathered, the unit

is looking at carrying out further research by visiting the historic sites with the assistance of the Department of Archaeology.

Anyone who is willing to contribute towards this initiative is required to submit copies or original literature or paraphernalia through email to mgrrdp@caa.lk or by contacting the unit on 076-6317110 before 31 July.

– Sarah Hannan

Mitigating...The Maha Sangha chanted seth pirith to invoke

blessings on him, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said. Responding to queries by the public, President Rajapaksa said native crops will receive a higher price in the future as the importation of minor crops has been halted. After hearing public grievances, the President then instructed officials to develop the Bulathkohupitiya-Yatiyanthota Road.

Furthermore, he paid special attention to the request of protecting the youth from the drug menace prevalent in the area, the PMD said.

He also attended the public meeting organised by SLPP candidate Indunil Shantha Gunasekara at the Mayurapada Central College playground.

Several issues faced by health sector workers were explained and the people discussed the importance of amending age-old laws in order to revive co-operative movement, to which the President responded positively.

The President also participated in meetings organised by candidates Saman Jayasinghe, former Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, and candidate Udayakantha Gunathilaka. Earlier in the day during meetings held at the Deraniyagala Sirisaman Central College playground and Deraniyagala Children’s Park, President Rajapaksa stated that priority will be given to promote local rubber

cultivation and production, while assuring a reasonable price for rubber, adding that it will be instrumental in attracting unemployed persons to the industry. Spice producers too voiced their grievances. Former State Minister Kanaka Herath and SLPP candidate Ajith Shaminda were also present on the occasion.

The President also attended public gatherings organised by candidate Y.G. Padmasiri in Dehiowita, Ruwanwella and candidate L.H. Sudath Manjula at the Ruwanwella Public Ground. The public commended the new political culture introduced by the President and apprised the President on the development of byroads as well as seeking solutions to the prevailing drinking water problem. President Rajapaksa instructed former State Minister Herath to immediately commence the development of roads in rural areas under the ongoing 100,000 km road development project, the PMD added. He also paid attention to the issues faced by the graduates and graduate Samurdhi officers in the district. People have also discussed with the President on recultivating abandoned lands belonging to the Janatha Estate Development Board (JEDB). Moreover, the President has instructed the relevant officials to resolve issues pertaining to the tourist hotspot of Kithulgala.

Provincial Council member Wathsala Janadari Padmasiri handed over a set of proposals on the development in Dehiowita to the President.

Postponed... The unclear instructions shared from time to

time by the Ministry of Education has jeopardised the wellbeing of schoolchildren of Sri Lanka after many children who went to school in Rajanganaya got infected by Covid-19.”

Meanwhile, last Saturday (18), Minister of Education Dullas Alahapperuma said that schools will reopen on 27 July for Grades Five, 11, and 13, while the rest of the grades will be brought in after the general election as most schools will be used as polling stations and counting centres.

Furthermore, the date to hold the local Advanced Level (A/L) examination is to be decided this week.

Secretary to the Ministry of Education N.H.M. Chithrananda, when asked how the education sector should adapt for such an unplanned closing down, noted: “This pandemic is still ongoing and we will heed the health authorities warnings before we reopen schools once again.”

PHIs...Rohana said that trade union action would be

continued until the Government recognises them as legally authorised officers by issuing a gazette notification under the Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases Ordinance. “We have kept saying this for three months now and a few of our officers are already facing legal implications as they carried out their duties which they are not legally bound

to do,” he stressed. On several occasions, the PHIs had demanded their powers be increased through the issuance of a gazette under the Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases Ordinance. Several rounds of discussions had also been held with no final decision being taken.

– Maheesha Mudugamuwa

GSMB...Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal last week

issued an order directing the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) to implement the law as before, requiring licences for the transportation of sand, soil, and clay.

Court of Appeal Acting President Justice A.H.M.D. Nawaz and Justice Sobhitha Rajakaruna made this order pursuant to the writ petition filed by the Center for Environmental Justice (CEJ) and its Executive Director Hemantha Witharanage.

– Maheesha Mudugamuwa

Focus on...The 10 medications and supplements embroiled

in the pricing controversy include an anti-histamine (Zeos 10 mg), a high blood pressure drug (Herbesser SR 100 mg), anti-convulsants (Rivotril 0.5 mg and Levitoz 5 mg), a dementia medication (Dozil 5 mg and 10 mg), an anti-fungal cream (Daktacort cream), a drug against worm infestations (Vermox 100 mg and 500 mg), an antiseptic (Betadine cream), a vitamin C supplement (XonCe), and a calcium supplement (Calcivita). Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Chamber of the Pharmaceutical Industry (SLCPI) has denied the allegation levelled by the NMRA, claiming that the 10 drugs referred to in the notice do not fall within the category of price-controlled essential drugs. There are now 74 such price-controlled essential drugs. As it was reported, the SLCPI in a statement has stated that they have not violated any price regulations as mentioned by the NMRA and the industry was compelled to marginally adjust prices of the drugs mentioned, which do not fall within the category of price-controlled drugs.

“...While the increase in the maximum retail price (MRP) of certain medicines was inevitable with the challenging situation of the rupee vs. dollar depreciation, SLCPI’s utmost endeavour is to ensure a regular supply of drugs, which is needed in full supply more than ever and in great demand in combating the Covid-19 situation,” the statement read. “While all pharma importers

have implemented an annual increase in the prices of non-controlled medicines, adjusted to the devaluation of the rupee, what is most disturbing is that the NMRA has selectively issued cancellation notices to just five importers, which displays a dangerous discriminatory trend,” the statement added, raising more concerns.

COVID-19

businessthe morningMonday , July 20, 2020

3

Dialog Axiata PLC recently introduced a novel addition to the MyDialog app in the form of a state-of-the-art solution for customer data protection, an initiative aimed at augmenting customer service.

Data protection has become a paramount concern in the era of the “new normal”. As an enhanced solution, the MyDialog app is further secured with a fingerprint scanner and facial recognition technology. These multi-biometric features are taking

security levels to the next tier for the protection of personal and transactional information on the MyDialog app.

These latest security features are currently available on selected smartphones and tabs whereas existing users can simply update their MyDialog app to obtain them.

The MyDialog digital self-care app is the most downloaded telecom app in Sri Lanka, offering users complete control of over 450 Dialog services.

Dialog introduces multi-biometric features on MyDialog

Hatton National Bank PLC (HNB) announced on Thursday (16) that it has granted debt moratoriums worth Rs. 350 billion as at the end of June 2020 to individuals and enterprises negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. In total, HNB granted over 65,000 moratoriums across the entire spectrum of the bank’s clients including corporate, SME (small and medium-sized enterprises), micro, and retail customers.

Working in line with Government-led initiatives, HNB also facilitated Rs. 9.5 billion in working capital (WC) loans at a concessionary interest rate of 4% p.a. via the Central Bank’s “Saubhagya Covid-19 Renaissance Facility” and “Credit Guarantee and Interest Subsidy” schemes.

In order to support SMEs that were not captured by the Saubhagya fund, HNB also leveraged its own internally generated Rs. 5 billion Covid SME relief fund to disburse loans at a concessionary interest rate of 8% p.a.

“So far, relative to our regional peers and even several developed nations, Sri Lanka has made commendable progress

in mitigating the spread of Covid-19 while facilitating a gradual revival of essential economic activity. Working in line with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), HNB has sought to do its part during this unprecedented crisis by supporting customers who are impacted by the pandemic.

“While significant assistance has been provided in terms of concessionary working capital loans and debt moratoriums, there are many more clients, especially SMEs, who are still facing severe constraints that still require support. We wish to reassure

these customers that HNB will always stand with you in this difficult moment and provide all possible assistance to ensure that enterprises are able to bridge gaps in their balance sheets in order to secure a strong recovery despite the challenges ahead,” stated HNB Managing Director/CEO Jonathan Alles.

Under HNB’s Covid relief programme, businesses with annual turnover below Rs. 1 billion will be eligible to apply for loans upto Rs. 50 million in order to meet their most immediate working capital requirements.

HNB provides over Rs. 350 b in loan moratoriums

HNB Managing Director CEO Jonathan Alles

The flagship, 50-storey, mixed development venture of the Sanken Group, Capitol TwinPeaks resumed construction on 18 May and is now proceeding at full force.

Having achieved major construction milestones of the development prior to the lockdown, the project is currently proceeding with a complete workforce at maximum efficiency to deliver the fully completed condominium project to its investors and residents at the earliest possible date amidst the myriad of challenges posed by the global pandemic.

Both Sanken Construction (Pvt.) Ltd. (the contractor) and Capitol Developers Ltd. (the developer) are members of the Sanken Group. Singapore’s P&T Architects and Engineers Ltd. is its architectural design partner.

Capitol TwinPeaks Managing Director Rohana Wannigama commented: “The Sanken name is synonymous with timely delivery and high-quality construction that rivals international projects. We aim to ensure standards are met whilst being mindful of the timing and how it affects return on investment, given the unprecedented work environment we are faced with. We aim to

expedite the remaining construction work in order to meet this need.”

The project, located in Colombo 2 which is already becoming an elite neighbourhood, is expected to provide the highest capital gains.

“We are working to ensure an efficient and smooth flow of work to meet our customers’

expectations despite the delays to obtain imported materials, due to the global lockdown still in effect. However, the Sanken Group is committed to financing the project together with the banks in order to complete the project, honouring our commitment,” Wannigama added.

Capitol TwinPeaks set for completion

The Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA), the premier government institution driving the nation towards digital inclusivity, is calling for applications for e-Swabhimani 2020, the digital social impact awards scheduled to be held for the 10th consecutive year in recognition of digital solutions with strong social impact.

Individuals, groups, and organisations who have developed disruptive digital solutions are encouraged to apply for this nationally acclaimed and accepted award which recognises digital solutions developed to enhance and add value to the lives of citizens of Sri Lanka.

Applications can be submitted under several categories: Government and Citizen Engagement, Health and Wellbeing, Learning and Education, Environment and Green Energy, Culture and Tourism, Smart Settlement and Urbanisation, Business and Commerce, Inclusion and Empowerment, and Digital Entertainment.

In addition to these, to ensure inclusiveness, a new category has been introduced and applicants below 26 years of age are eligible to apply for the newly introduced Youth category. Winners from the above categories will receive

both local and international recognition, opportunities to take their solutions to the global level, and a chance to represent Sri Lanka at the World Summit Awards (WSA), to which ICTA acts as the national expert and is mandated to carry out the national pre-selection process.

A grand jury comprising experts in diverse areas of interests will conduct the evaluation, taking into account the social impact alongside the technical and strategic aspects under each category.

Since its inception in 2009, e-Swabhimani has built the best of local talents, incentivising them to reach greater heights through an innovation-based approach. Strongly committed to promote innovative and creative digital products and services of local developers, e-Swabhimani serves as a platform to take the best digital content and applications to the global level, providing them the due recognition.

The winners of e-Swabhimani, who have represented the World Summit Awards since 2010, have brought fame to Sri Lanka by emerging victorious in many categories.

The closing date for applications is 31 July 2020. Interested applicants can obtain more information by visiting www.eswabhimani.lk.

ICTA opens applications for e-Swabhimani 2020

Cargo Boat Development Company PLC (CBD), an associate company of the Renuka Hotels Group, has completed the refurbishment of its landmark building in Fort. The 38-year-old edifice underwent a Rs. 609 million renovation over a period of one-and-a-half years and is now ready for occupancy by companies looking for contemporary office spaces in the heart of Colombo’s business district at a very reasonable rent.

The newly renovated CBD Business Centre holds its prime Fort address at 41, Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo 1, located right opposite the Central Bank and is within walking distance of the World Trade Center (WTC). The building notably offers its residents the exclusive advantage of access through both Hospital Street and Janadhipathi Mawatha, with panoramic views overlooking Colombo city, its harbor, Port City, and the ocean. This commercial property is also within close proximity to a number of prominent commercial and state enterprises, major roads, public transport services, restaurants, banks, and other conveniences. Tenants looking for a prominent workplace environment stand to benefit greatly from this central location and accessibility.

The building houses a total of 54,400 sq. ft. of rentable, modern office space spread across 11 floors. Every 5,700 sq. ft. of office floor can be subdivided into two separate office spaces of 2,800 sq. ft, with each half-office equipped with three sets of sanitary facilities and a pantry area. The rent is currently being offered at special introductory rates of Rs. 195 per sq. ft. (plus taxes) for office floors one to nine, and Rs. 220 per sq. ft. (plus taxes) for the ground floor.

In addition to new masonry and electrical and plumbing infrastructure throughout the entire building, each floor has undergone significant renovation work and now boasts state-of-the-art and energy-efficient central air conditioning and LED lighting systems, with separate electricity, water, and BTU

meters for each office. Interior and common area renovations include a refurbished entrance lobby with reception, newly installed service and passenger elevators, upgraded fire detection and security systems, and a cutting-edge 100% backup generator.

What truly distinguishes the property from other commercial spaces in the Fort area, however, is its 36-vehicle capacity car park – 12 at the basement level and 24 at the ground floor. Additional services include an on-site building management service, 24-hour security, CCTV in common areas, a fire detection and protection system, and provision for cable internet.

“We have relaunched the CBD Business Centre with a contemporary new look and an upgraded suite of facilities and services,” said CBD Managing Director Niruja Thambiayah. “At a time when potential tenants are becoming increasingly discerning about the office space they take, we wanted to ensure that with this refurbishment, we tick all the boxes with respect to design, sustainability, functionality, and convenience.”

The renovation was undertaken by C1 contractor Sanken Construction (Pvt.) Ltd. and the design was conceptualised by a dedicated team at Avant-Garde Urban Design Partnership.

CBD specialises in property development and property rentals and has been operating the industry for nearly 40 years. As a part of the Renuka Hotels Group, it is led by several of the same executive directors.

Newly refurbished CBD Business Centre ready

Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC (DIMO) has implemented several projects to elevate the customer experience by introducing numerous digital platforms.

"DIMO made a strategic decision to enhance the company's investment in digital transformation so that customers can access a large number of DIMO products and services by simply using their devices with an enhanced customer experience,” said Chairman and Managing Director Ranjith Pandithage. “Resultantly, the company developed and deployed three cutting-edge digital solutions that meet the different needs of DIMO customers. The www.carsatdimo.lk website, the DeX Automotive mobile app, and the www.dimoretail.lk website, all of which were designed to further underscore the company’s commitment to use advanced technology to improve the customer experience.”

The www.carsatdimo.lk was launched for brand new and pre-owned Mercedes-Benz and Jeep vehicles. By visiting the website,

interested parties can find the entire portfolio of luxury, brand new and pre-owned Mercedes-Benz and Jeep vehicles offered by DIMO, along with special financing options from some of Sri Lanka's leading banks and finance companies. The website provides a hassle-free approach for prospective buyers to access all key details of the entire range of Mercedes-Benz and Jeep vehicles available at DIMO.

Customers can browse through the up-to-date database of vehicles and enjoy a host of special offers. A current owner of a Mercedes-Benz or Jeep, whether it has been purchased from DIMO or a third party, has the choice of trading the vehicle for a brand new or pre-owned Mercedes-Benz or Jeep. If required,

they can also sell the vehicle to DIMO through the website without purchasing a new vehicle following a valuation by the company’s experts.

Current DIMO customers have the added advantage of being able to request for a valuation of their DIMO-maintained vehicle through the website by entering their registration number without having to bring it over for an inspection since all service and maintenance records are already with the company. A dedicated 24-hour hotline and a WhatsApp number has been made available for customers to contact a sales expert directly to enquire about any product or offer listed on the website.

DeX Automotive, the company’s latest smartphone application which

provides a premium experience for Mercedes-Benz, Jeep, and AutoLab clientele, provides access to the entire DIMO customer experience for Mercedes-Benz, Jeep, and all customers via MercLife, JeepLife, and AutoLab segments with a flavour of the Mercedes-Benz and Jeep luxury experience provided during the journey at DIMO. Future customers are also welcome to check out the DIMO experience by downloading this application.

The DeX Automotive mobile app is available to download on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app provides a wide array of useful features such as viewing the latest Mercedes-Benz, brand new Jeep, as well as DIMO-certified pre-owned vehicles.

DIMO further digitalises customer experience

DIMO Management with the team presenting the digital platforms

the morningMonday, July 20, 2020

4

brunch

BY NAVEED ROZAIS

With a lot of attention given to how the tourism and hospitality industry can bounce back from the critical hit it took with the pandemic, the role of tour operators and how they could adapt to post-Covid-19 travel can sometimes be overlooked.

To this end, the youth arm of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), Sri Lanka’s apex inbound tourism industry body, put together an eminent panel of leading voices from tour operator associations and diplomats across Europe.

The webinar looked at what tour operators could do to promote Sri Lanka, the expectations of guests and tour operators when the destination reopens, and what a realistic timeline of a restart in tourism in Sri Lanka would look like.

The panel consisted of Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK Saroja Sirisena, German Travel Association (GTA) Head of Politics and Outbound Travel Adams Volker, former Director of UK Association of Independent Tour Operators Sam Clark, GTA Destination Committee Member Lal Wijetunga, Dutch Association

of Small-Scale Travel Organisations Member and Legal Advisor Carolien Halm, Association of Belgian Travel Organisers Committee Member Paul Ryckaseys, and SLAITO Youth President Maxime Wickramasinghe. The panel was moderated by former Chairman of Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) Rohantha Athukorala.

On reopening as a destination post Covid-19, the panel spoke about surveys conducted in their respective countries indicating that many travellers who would have previously chosen to travel abroad are opting to travel domestically or not at all for the near future. This indicates heavily

that travellers will only be looking to long-haul later in 2021, most likely for the winter season.

The panel also indicated that Covid-19 and contracting it will not be a major concern as travellers will simply cancel or reschedule trips, should an outbreak occur in their chosen destination. Something that travellers would be keen to have defined, however, is flexibility with travel arrangements and booking as well as minimised risk of losing any payments they may make.

Sri Lanka needs to start preparing for travellers in the long term, looking at things like defining visa procedures and fees, required medical check-ins,

and procedures to be followed, also outlining what happens if and when a traveller is diagnosed with Covid-19. A concern also raised was where travellers would be sent if they had Covid-19, as sending them to general hospitals is not realistic. Therefore, procedures and systems would need to be put in place to combat these issues, and it is not likely this will be successfully planned and executed by January 2021.

Another point raised by the panel was the role tour operators can play in general. Global situations and large-scale disasters like the 2004 tsunami, for instance, lead to a rise in demand for tour operators. This is because

there is a level of uncertainty in a destination which makes travellers more comfortable having a point of contact with whom they can link and address concerns with and someone they can physically deal with if changes to plans need to be made.

Moreover, another aspect that makes travellers feel safer with tour operators is that in many cases, tour operators are often responsible for repatriating travellers they have handled.

These factors will likely lead to a rise in demand for tour operators, particularly for those travelling post Covid-19. The long-term applicability of this demand, however, is uncertain as when things stabilise, it is very likely

travellers will begin handling their own travel again to cut costs.

In terms of things that could be done to assure travellers, the panel spoke about how a step was taken by the Turkish Hotels Association in working with French and German certification companies to have Turkish hotels certified in relation to Covid-19 health and safety. Moves like this could help build confidence in travellers thinking of visiting.

Another important aspect of inspiring confidence in travellers, as the panel noted, was clear and transparent communication on the ground in Sri Lanka across all levels – from the Government down to hotels and local tour operators – and then in turn to foreign tour operators. This is a great way to boost travellers’ confidence and the freedom of information means that foreign tour operators are better able to advise travellers and promote Sri Lanka as a destination.

The overall consensus of the panel was that Sri Lanka should look to welcoming tourists in the longer-term and do their best to make sure guests feel completely safe and secure investing in Sri Lanka as a destination and making the decision to travel here.

Restarting tourism post CovidFrom the perspective of tour operators

Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Health stated last week that the country was not facing a second wave of the Covid-19 virus, adding that the situation however is well

under control. Director General of Health Services Dr. Anil Jasingha stated that the new cluster reported in Kandakadu could be well controlled.

The virus is said to have manifested a second wave where the number of infections go up and then comes back down again. However, nothing is so clear-cut and you can be experiencing residual remnants of the first. For one wave to have ended, the virus must have been contained and have cases fall substantially. For a second wave to start, you would need a sustained rise in infections.

While the first case found in New Zealand after having none for 24 days and the rise in the risk of another breakout in Beijing after 50 days without reporting of the virus have not been categorised as “second waves”, the situation in Iran, where the death toll has risen greatly in mid-June, rising above 100 for the first time in two months, can possibly be categorised as a second wave.

Regardless of what the terminology is, the potential for another breakout has put the fear of god in us all, especially those in the entertainment and restaurant industry who were just starting to raise their heads

after sustaining three long months of almost being blown to bits.

While there isn’t a mass panic just yet in Sri Lanka, we can observe that the laissez-faire attitude everyone had adopted since the curfew was lifted has somewhat halted, adding a little more caution in their next step.

The Morning Brunch spoke to a few restaurateurs and those in the entertainment industry about what they have observed during the past few days.

Colombo Court Hotel & Spa Operations Manager Kevin Schumacher

“After reopening the outlets, we saw a slight increase in guests patronising the outlets. There were days we had to decline

reservations as we were running at full capacity,” he said. However, once concerns were raised with regard to a potential second wave, he said they saw a considerable drop in the number of patrons, raising concerns from the operational side of things for Colombo Court’s outlets.

“We saw a decrease in guests in the last few days. If this continues, we might even look at closing down the restaurant temporarily. However, we will still focus on our food delivery options so that our guests can experience our cuisine at their very own homes or offices.”

Sushi Kai Owner Pasindu Peiris“With the second wave scare, we have

observed a decrease in the frequency of customers. We saw that from last Saturday and Sunday onwards, there was a change in the number of patrons frequenting our restaurant,” he said, noting that despite it not being totally clear, they were able to operate quite comfortably last month. Sushi Kai has adopted all the safety guidelines mandated by the Government and so most customers have felt comfortable enough to dine in.

Pasindu said that during the pandemic, there were concerns raised as they operated a delivery service; while their regular customers trusted them with their food, the newer customers shared their concerns with them being a sushi restaurant and a majority of the

dishes being raw food items. Some customers have inquired about where their ingredients are sourced from, how the packaging is done, etc. He said they feel that with this fear of a second wave, they will most certainly be affected.

Scope Cinemas (Pvt.) Ltd. Director/CEO Thushan Meemanage

“Since we reopened, we have received a very good response. We have been seeing a steady stream of movie-goers making their way over to the cinemas. However, with regard to the possibility of a second wave, it will be a huge revenue drop and from 13 July, we saw slight change in the way things have been progressing. People

in Colombo are scared and rightfully so. The pandemic is of serious concern and all we can do is hope for the best.

“Unless we are informed to halt operations, the cinemas will continue to screen movies and we can provide a guarantee to our patrons with regard to the health and safety of our venues as we have gone a step above what has been recommended in ensuring the utmost safety when it comes to preventative measures.”

Meemanage went on to say that Scope has employed the technology used in airlines to ensure the venue is sanitised after every show, which is a step they have taken beyond what has been recommended by the health authorities – all in order to ensure their patrons do not feel hesitant to have a relaxed and comfortable experience.

Shavindra Tissera of Cold Sweat

Speaking about the uncertainty arising from the possibility of this second wave and the uncertainty it created for their industry, Shavindra shared that their greatest concerns lie in the question as to when it would be safe for them to perform again.

While he did express that he is not so concerned with whether audiences would show up or not, he said the issues would arise if the Government imposes restrictions on travelling. He said he is not too worried as long as it is declared safe, but things would drastically shift if there is another lockdown and everything is forced to shut down.

The fear of a second wave of infection hangs over the heads of all countries that have managed to stamp out the virus, and it is up to the citizens to make sure they follow all proper guidelines to the best of their abilities so that they themselves will not have to suffer yet another economically painful lockdown.

Things are far from over

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE

With many of us getting used to the “new normal” and some even going as far as to refer to our present time as “post-Covid”,

we’ve been slowly approaching a troubling level of complacency. However, things are far from over as Sri Lankans are faced with a rude awakening to reality following the

spike in cases in the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre.

sportsthe morning

Monday , July 20, 20205

Every few years or so, Sri Lankan cricket fans go through conniptions as a result of some goings on at Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) with the national team, national selectors, SLC administrators, and/or the minister of sports.

The timing of conniptions may vary, as does the southwest monsoon, but they are also as inevitable as the monsoon. The latest is a delayed one considering the fact that it involves the 2011 World Cup (WC) final.

Villain identified within hoursThe Minister of Sports at the time has

inelegantly alleged that the result of the 2011 WC final was manipulated. In other words, Sri Lanka deliberately lost the match. As expected, the country stopped whatever they were doing – or not doing due to the pandemic – and focussed their attention on this bombshell of an allegation.

Within hours, the villain was identified: Ex-Minister of Sports Mahindananda Aluthgamage.

Convicted in, by, and for social media

The damsels in distress were identified just as quickly – the skipper, the deputy skipper, and the team.

The ex-Minister has been summarily executed many times in many ways for tarnishing the image of cricketing legends, icons, and the game itself on social media. Prior to that, he was accused of being a political stoolie, liar, and a sour puss, and promptly convicted in social media by social media and for social media.

Many believe something untoward occurred

We have conveniently forgotten that in the same WC after Sri Lanka lost to Pakistan by 11 runs, Independent Television Network (ITN) ran a commentary by Mahinda Abeysundera who implied that Mahela Jayawardene and Thilan Samaraweera may have deliberately underperformed. Many to date believe something untoward occurred at that final. One of those was Arjuna Ranatunga who has publicly expressed his concerns about the result of the final and the failure of the International Cricket Council (ICC) to investigate the allegations.

We are disregarding trail of evidence

At a minimum, if as the ex-Minister is said to have alleged there was an individual in the Sri Lankan dressing room who was using a

mobile phone while the match was in progress, then that person was in violation of ICC’s Anti-Corruption protocol because that protocol bans the use of mobile phones in a team’s dressing room during the match. The ruling was established just prior to the 2011 WC.

We are also disregarding the trail of evidence that point to the involvement of numerous Sri Lankan players, coaches, and ground staff in manipulating the result of cricket matches.

Previous allegationsEx-players and coaches Sanath Jayasuriya,

Kaushal Lokuarachchi, Dilhara Lokuhettige, Nuwan Zoysa, Avishka Gunawardene, Jeevantha Kulatunga, Jayananda Warnaweera, Tharindu Mendis, Anusha Samaranayake, and Chamara Silva (same player who was a part of the 2011 WC squad) along with a curator have been sanctioned by the ICC and SLC for violating anti-corruption protocols and engaging in other

corrupt practices. An employee at SLC’s Brain Centre was accused of trying to influence team selection by offering a bribe to former Minister Harin Fernando.

Under ICC ACU radar since 2017Fernando, who as the Minister of Sports

was instrumental in introducing legislation that outlawed corrupt practices in sports such as fixing last year, is on record as saying that ICC considers Sri Lanka as one of the most corrupt countries in world cricket.

According to an article in Cricinfo written by Andrew Fidel Fernando on 11 November 2019, SLC has been under investigation by ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) since 2017.

Players not involved?Former Minister of Sports Aluthgamage’s

allegations are not credible because he doesn’t seem to understand what and who is involved when matches are fixed for; if he did, he would

know that a match cannot be fixed without the involvement of players participating in the match. When Aluthgamage declared that the 2011 WC final was thrown in favour of India by SL but none of the Sri Lankan players were involved, he was ridiculed as an ignoramus and his credibility was forever compromised.

Since 1996, SLC and its pre-incarnation Board of Control for Cricket have had seven interim administrations appointed due to mismanagement, especially the mismanagement of finances.

Nothing positive will evolveYet, not none of those interim bodies were

able to stem the rot that had set in at SLC. The rotation from an elected body to an interim body came to a halt only when the ICC refused to recognise interim bodies in 2012 and threatened to withhold funds due until an elected body took over. Those who understand the nature and the extent of the problem should be concerned that Aluthgamage’s blunderbuss approach is likely to make certain that nothing positive will evolve from this episode because SLC does have a problem with match and spot-fixing. The proof is in the number of players, ex-players, and officials who have been sanctioned by the ICC and SLC itself.

Lost a golden opportunityFormer captain Mahela Jayawardene, one of

the chief protagonists in this saga, has said that reform of SLC must start with eliminating the nefarious influence of the betting industry in cricket in the country.

Unfortunately, by obsessing about the flaws of the messenger, we have lost a golden opportunity to stem the rot at SLC – same as the seven interim bodies who were entrusted to do so previously.

What must not be forgotten in the melee is that Sri Lankan players, coaches, ground staff, and administrative staff have been found guilty of anti-corruption protocols in the past. That is a fact.

by Sudat Pasqual

SQUARE CUTS

Slaying the messenger z It will not fix match or spot-fixing

Some pertinent questions for the fans

Did Aluthgamage first make the 2011 World Cup Final match-fixing allegation as far back as in 2011 when Sangakkara delivered the Colin Cowdrey lecture? Did then International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Haroon Lorgat visit Sri Lanka (SL) to find out more about it thereafter? Did the political hierarchy in SL then obstruct any further investigation into it? Does the ICC downplay the case as it was India who was the ultimate champion of the 2011 World Cup?

Beyond this shallow “ugly politicians (Aluthgamage) vs. legendary cricketers (Sanga-Mahela)” ideological misconception, shouldn’t cricket emerge once again as a true sport, clearing its image often taken as a drama enacted according to a script of the bookie, at least in this part of the world?

IPL in UAE, not SLThe Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the organisers of the Indian Premier League (IPL), are reportedly considering hosting this year’s tournament in the UAE due to its more flexible quarantine laws – meaning, Sri Lanka has been opted out as a possible replacement venue. SLC had expressed its willingness to hold it, if India can’t,

months ago. Yet, the IPL apex council decided on Friday (17) to move the event to UAE where over 56,000 coronavirus cases have been reported so far with 338 deaths.

Ekaterina dies at 20Ekaterina Alexandrovskaya, who was born in Russia but competed for Australia in figure skating at the Olympics, has died in Moscow at the age of 20 last Friday (17). The cause of her death has not yet been disclosed, BBC said. Alexandrovskaya retired in February due to an injury.

Arteta outdoes GuardiolaArsenal Manager Mikel Arteta outmanoeuvred his mentor Pep Guardiola of Manchester City as they reached the FA Cup final with a 2-0 victory at Wembley last Saturday (18). Arteta, who left his job as Man City Assistant Manager to succeed Unai Emery at Arsenal in December, now has a chance to mark his first season in charge with major silverware when they face Chelsea or Manchester United in the final on 1 August.

BY ISHANI UPATHARITHA

It appears coronavirus could not do much harm to the “brain game” of chess. The Chess Federation of Sri Lanka (CFSL) successfully completed their first major national tournament, the seventh Sri Lanka Grand Prix 2020, at its headquarters in Nugegoda yesterday (19).

Fide Master (FM) Lasal M.S.T. De Silva, a 14-year-old schoolboy from Nalanda College, Colombo, who is considered one of the most promising chess players in the country at present, was crowned the champion.

On his way to victoryLasal earned nine points in 11 games

beating Thisal Manjith Piyumantha, Candidate Master (CM) and reigning national Under-16 champion Kevin Ranindu Silva, International Master (IM) Romesh Weerawardena, Jenith

Weeratunge, Elath Mathanga De Silva, Dimuthu Abeywardena, A.A.C.B. Amarasinghe, and CM Chandana Wijekoon in eight rounds.

De Silva beat last year’s champion CM Chandana Wijekoon in the 10th round last morning. He lost only against FM Minul Doluweera in the seventh round while drawing with Chinthaka Anuruddha and E.D.S. Chandula in the fifth and 11th rounds, respectively.

Chinthaka Anuruddha runner-up

Runner-up Chinthaka Anuruddha, who represented Kandy YMCA, earned 8.5 points in 11 rounds. He beat Jenith Weeratunge, Dimuthu Abeywardena, Mathanga De Silva, A.A.C.B. Amarasinghe, CM Wijekoon, and E.D.S. Chandula in six rounds.

He drew with IM Romesh Weerawardena, FM Minul Doluweera, champion De Silva, Thisal Piyumantha, and CM Ranindu Silva in the other five rounds. Ranindu Silva from St. Benedict’s College, Kotahena won third place.

First major sporting event during/after pandemic

The seventh Sri Lanka Chess Grand Prix which began on 11 June was the first major sporting event held in Sri Lanka after the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic in mid-March. It saw the participation of 12 leading chess players in the country. The CFSL offered Rs. 50,000 with the gold medal to the winner

while a total of Rs. 115,000 prize money was distributed among the winners.

South Asian Chess Council and Commonwealth Association General Secretary Luxman Wijesuriya, who is also the Vice President of the Asian Chess Federation, gave away the aw

Ranking (after 11 rounds)(Key: Rank / Player / Points)1. FM Lasal De Silva (9.0)2. FM Chinthaka Anuruddha (8.5)3. CM Kevin Ranindu Silva (7.5)4. FM Minul Doluweera (7.0)5. IM Romesh Weerawardena (6.0)6. Elath Mathanga De Silva (5.5)7. Thisal Piyumantha (5.0)9. E.D.S. Chandula (3.5)10. A.A.C.B. Amarasinghe (3.5)11. Dimuthu Abeywardena (3.0)12. Jenith Weeratunge (3.0)

Nalandian Lasal crowned championz 7th SL Chess Grand Prix 2020 ends in Nugegoda

Champion Lasal De Silva (centre) and second and third place winners Chinthaka Anuruddha and Kevin Ranindu Silva, respectively, with Chief Guest Luxman Wijesuriya (on extreme right) at the end of the seventh SL Chess Grand Prix 2020

Lasal M.S.T. De Silva (on right) of Nalanda College, Colombo in action

In BriefWI avoid follow-onWest Indies were 272/8 after 95 overs

in their first innings during the final session of day four yesterday (19) of their rain-affected second Test against England in Manchester.

Scores: England 1st inngs.469/9 dec – WI 1st inngs 272/8 (Kraigg Brathwaite 75, Shamarh Brooks (pictured) 68, Roston Chase 48 n.o.; Stuart Broad 3/66, Sam Curran 2/66)

ICC Board meets todayThe final fate of the T20 World

Cup slated to be held in Australia from 18 October will most likely to be known today (20) – it will most probably be postponed – while the other significant issue to be discussed in the videoconference will be the timeline for election of Shashank Manohar’s successor as ICC Chairman.

Hamilton wins Hungarian GPF1 champion Mercedes’ Lewis

Hamilton won the Hungarian GP for the eighth time yesterday (19). He won over Max Verstappen of Red Bull, who overcame a crash, while Valtteri Bottas won third place.

BY ISHANI UPATHARITHA

Today (20) we celebrate International Chess Day as approved by the United Nations (UN).

Chess is one of the most famous games in the world, played by about 700 million people presently. The World Chess Federation (FIDE) has picked 20 July as World Chess Day to mark its birth taken place on 20 July 1924 in Paris.

FIDE has membership of 190 countries

FIDE is currently headed by former Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Arkady Dvorkovich. It is one of the largest sports bodies in the world with a membership of about 190 countries.

The sport chess is one of the most popular sports in Sri Lanka, mostly among schoolchildren. The Sri Lanka Chess Federation (SLCF) claims they currently have a registered membership of around 150,000 chess players in the country.

SLCF organises over 150 events

The SLCF, founded in 1978 and is presently headed by Peshala Jayaratne, organises more than 150 tournaments every year, including about 10 international ranking events.

The reigning national men’s chess champion is Master

Harshana Thilakarathne (16) from Maliyadeva College, Kurunegla. He achieved the International Master title from FIDE this year. The current women’s national champion is Sayuni Gihansa Jayaweera of Dharmasoka College, Ambalangoda, who is still 17 years of age.

On this most important day, the current energetic chess community in Sri Lanka invites everyone in our country to introduce this great and exciting mind sport that develops every aspect of their life.

Gens Una Sumus!(The Latin motto of FIDE,

meaning “We are one family”)

Today is International Chess Day

Over 150,000 chess players in SL is ‘one family’

Harshana Thilakarathne

Sayuni Gihansa Jayaweera