Uncover the truth behind the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks as Udaya Gammanpila reveals unpublished reports. Find out how negligence and cover-ups could reshape Sri Lanka’s political landscape
The 2019 Easter Sunday attacks in Sri Lanka remain a painful memory, leaving deep scars on the nation. With investigations continuing, questions about accountability and transparency have surfaced. Recently, Udaya Gammanpila, a former MP, brought forward alarming revelations. He disclosed details from two unpublished reports that cast doubt on the actions of certain high-ranking officials. Additionally, Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith voiced strong objections to the manipulation of these investigations, reinforcing the need for truth and justice.
Gammanpila’s Revelation
Former MP Udaya Gammanpila stirred the political landscape with his revelation regarding the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks. In a press conference, he exposed two unpublished reports, which pointed fingers at key figures for their alleged negligence in preventing the attacks. His claims centered on two senior police officials: Ravi Seneviratne, the former Senior Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and Shani Abeysekera, the former CID Director. These reports have ignited debates about justice and accountability.
Role of Ravi Seneviratne
Ravi Seneviratne, now the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security, plays a crucial role in the controversy. According to Gammanpila, the reports accuse Seneviratne of failing to act on prior intelligence about the imminent attacks, specifically a warning from the State Intelligence Service (SIS) on April 9, 2019. This failure, as per the reports, resulted in the devastating bombings just days later.
Seneviratne, who was overseas during the critical period, allegedly left instructions not to open any confidential letters addressed to him. This resulted in vital intelligence sitting unopened on his desk for 12 days, a delay that proved costly.
Investigations and Reports
Two key reports form the backbone of Gammanpila’s claims:
- The First Report: Led by retired Supreme Court Justice S.I. Imam, this investigation examined 25 allegations, including those made in the “Channel-4” video, surrounding the attacks. The focus was to determine whether these accusations were accurate and if negligence contributed to the tragedy.
- The Second Report: Chaired by retired Justice A.N.J. de Alwis, this investigation delved into whether the police and intelligence services failed to prevent the attacks. The findings pointed to lapses in communication and decision-making, especially from high-ranking officials like Ravi Seneviratne.
Accusations Against Key Figures
The unpublished reports made startling accusations against two individuals:
- Ravi Seneviratne: As a key figure in the CID and the Terrorism Investigation Unit, Seneviratne was allegedly responsible for handling crucial intelligence that could have prevented the attacks. His failure to act on 13 intelligence reports from January to April 2019 about the militant group Thowheed Jammath and its leader, Zahran Hashim, remains a focal point of the accusations.
- Shani Abeysekera: As the former CID Director, Abeysekera’s role is also scrutinized. His involvement in the investigations during that period, and subsequent appointment to a high-ranking position in the new government, has raised concerns about impartiality and transparency in the justice process.
Reaction from Religious and Political Leaders
Religious and political leaders have weighed in on the ongoing investigations, with one of the most prominent voices being that of Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith. The Archbishop has been outspoken about his dissatisfaction with the investigations, condemning attempts to manipulate the narrative. He insists that the truth must be upheld, calling on the government to ensure that justice is served for the victims of the 2019 attacks.
Gammanpila has also issued stern warnings, urging the government to release the full details of the reports or face public backlash. His revelation about the contents of these reports has placed significant pressure on the administration to act transparently.
Gammanpila’s Call to Action
In his address, Gammanpila called for the immediate removal of Ravi Seneviratne from his post as Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security. Citing the allegations of negligence, he argued that Seneviratne’s presence in such a powerful role undermines the credibility of any future investigations. Additionally, Gammanpila urged the President to issue a public apology for what he described as an abuse of power by concealing critical information from the public.
If these demands are not met, Gammanpila warned of serious repercussions, including the possibility of initiating impeachment proceedings against the President. His message was clear: the public demands justice, and the current administration must answer for its actions.
Legal and Political Implications
The revelations brought forward by Gammanpila could have far-reaching legal and political implications. The former Senior DIG, Ravi Seneviratne, has already filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking to prevent his arrest, highlighting the legal battle that lies ahead. If the reports are released and legal action is pursued, it could lead to further scrutiny of the government’s handling of the Easter Sunday attacks.
Politically, the situation places the current administration in a precarious position. Allegations of negligence and cover-ups could erode public confidence in the government’s ability to deliver justice. This may result in calls for reforms or leadership changes in key government institutions, including the Ministry of Public Security.
Future Outlook
With the controversy surrounding the unpublished reports, the future of the investigations remains uncertain. There is growing pressure for the government to reopen the case under new leadership, ensuring that those responsible for the failures leading up to the Easter Sunday attacks are held accountable. The outcome of this ongoing saga will likely impact public trust in the Sri Lankan justice system.
The 2019 Easter Sunday attacks continue to haunt Sri Lanka, not only because of the loss of lives but also due to the unresolved questions surrounding the tragedy. Udaya Gammanpila’s revelations about the two unpublished reports have reignited the debate on transparency and accountability. As the nation awaits further developments, one thing is certain: the pursuit of justice for the victims of the attacks is far from over.
FAQs
- What were the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks?
The attacks were a series of coordinated bombings targeting churches and hotels in Sri Lanka on April 21, 2019, leading to the deaths of over 250 people. - Who is Udaya Gammanpila, and what has he revealed?
Udaya Gammanpila is a former MP who revealed details from two unpublished reports related to the Easter Sunday attacks, accusing high-ranking officials of negligence. - What are the main accusations against Ravi Seneviratne?
Seneviratne is accused of failing to act on intelligence that could have prevented the attacks, leading to allegations of negligence. - Why is Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith involved in this issue?
The Archbishop has been vocal in criticizing the government for manipulating the investigation findings and has called for transparency and justice for the victims. - What are the political implications of Gammanpila’s revelation?
The revelations could lead to legal actions, impeachment proceedings, and increased public demand for justice and government accountability.