MP Shanakiyan concerned over handling of Chemmmani mass grave

Colombo, June 30 (Daily Mirror) - Batticaloa District MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam has voiced serious concerns over the ongoing exhumations at the Chemmmani mass grave site in Jaffna questioning the transparency and security of the process.

In a statement, MP Rasamanickam pointed out that while 33 bodies have been exhumed so far, the site lacks adequate facilities to ensure the protection and integrity of the remains. 

Unlike the Kokkuththoduvai site in Mullaitivu where protective structures were built to shield the graves from rain and runoff, Chemmmani has only a basic shelter providing minimal cover, he pointed out.

He also criticised the limited media access to the site. 

“Despite the Office on Missing Persons stating that journalists can access the site twice a day, they are currently allowed just five minutes daily at 4:30 PM,” Rasamanickam said, contrasting this with Kokkuththoduvai, where media had access three times daily. 

“With the number of journalists increasing, more time is needed for proper documentation.”

The MP further questioned the security arrangements at the site, which are currently being handled by police and local cemetery workers. 

“This level of protection is not sufficient and could erode public confidence in the investigation,” he said.

Rasamanickam also criticised the absence of CCTV cameras at the site, noting that while officials claim Chemmmani’s accessibility reduces the need for surveillance, the installation of operational cameras would strengthen public trust and ensure transparency.