• We doubt the statistics on the Covid mortality were also distorted

By Ajith Siriwardana  

 The Government is manipulating data and information on the Covid-19 pandemic, violating the people’s right to know the true situation of the pandemic,the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna yesterday alleged. 

Former JVP MP- Sunil Hadunnetti told a news conference that it was vital for the people and decision making bodies to know the true data and information on the pandemic situation.  

He said it was reported that there had been a contradiction in the data and information issued by the Covid Task Force and the Provincial Directors of the Health Services and pointed out that it was a serious matter.  
“It was reported that there was a contradiction of the data on Covid patients in the Gampaha District. We doubt the statistics on the Covid mortality were also distorted,” he said.  

Mr.Hadunnetti said the Covid Task Force was getting data through the Health Ministry and added that it was either the Director General of Health Services or Head of the Covid Task Force was releasing the incorrect information.  
He said the Government was not taking decisions as recommended by the health authorities and medical experts.  

“State Minister Sudarshani Fernandopulle claimed that her opinion  was being disregarded by the decision- making people. Medical experts also claimed that if the country is not locked down, Covid deaths could increase by 1,200 within the next 20 days.  The Government is ignoring such opinions,” he said. 

• Medical experts also claimed that if the country is not locked down, Covid deaths could increase by 1,200 within the next 20 days