Easter Sunday terror attack: Rs. 47 mn paid as compensation so far

The government has so far paid compensation amounting to Rs. 47 million for 103 victims of the Easter Sunday terror attack, Secretary to the Ministry of National Policies, Economic Affairs, Resettlement & Rehabilitation, Northern Province Development and Youth Affairs - V. Sivagnanasothy told the Daily Mirror.

He said although a sum of Rs.1 million was promised as compensation to those who died in the blasts that took place at several locations on April 21, the above sum was made up of part payments to the relatives of the victims of the tragedy.

“The full payment of Rs.1 million would be paid after they submit the death certificates and other proof required by us,” Mr. Sivagnanasothy said.

“A total of 113, 29, 48, 03, 07, 37, 20 and 09 deaths have been reported from St. Sebastian’s Church at Katuwapitiya, Zion Church in Batticaloa, St. Anthony’s Church in Kochchikade, Tropical Inn, Dehiwala, the Dematagoda blast, the Shangri-La, Cinnamon Grand and Kingsbury hotels respectively,” he said.

Accordingly, 266 deaths have been reported so far while 407 are reported injured following the terror attacks.

He said they had also made advance payments of Rs.5 million, Rs.10 million and Rs.10 million for the renovation of the Zion, Katuwapitiya and Kochchikade churches respectively.

Meanwhile, he said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had instructed them to expedite the renovations of churches being carried out by the Army and Navy.

On April 24, the Cabinet approved Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe’s memorandum to provide compensation for deaths and injuries caused to victims of the Easter Sunday bomb blasts.

As a result, Rs.1 million had been approved for payment to relatives in the case of a death of a loved one. Those who suffered disabilities or injuries in the incident were to be paid a maximum of Rs.500, 000, depending on loss of their earning capacity or the disability mentioned in the medical certificate issued by the respective government hospitals.

Moreover, owners of private properties damaged will be paid compensation based on the Government Chief Valuer’s valuation, subject to a maximum of Rs. 5 mn. (Sheain Fernandopulle)