Tamil families of the disappeared said that more than 280 people had died in recent years, without never knowing the fate of their loved ones who were forcibly disappeared by the Sri Lankan state.
The families condemned the ongoing suppression of their 15-year struggle for justice for over 1,000 missing children, including more than 39 infants who were handed over to the Sri Lankan army during the final phase of the 2009 Mullivaikkal genocide.
During a recent press conference, members of the association voiced their dismay over the continued intimidation they face and the glaring lack of accountability from the Sri Lankan government.
These families, who have been tirelessly seeking answers have endured immense hardship in their pursuit of truth and justice. They have travelled to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva and other international forums, pleading for global intervention due to the absence of justice mechanisms in Sri Lanka. Despite persistent intimidation, including police investigations and threats from Sri Lankan authorities, the families remain resolute in their determination to uncover the fate of their missing loved ones.
"We have lost more than 280 relatives in this fight for justice," said members of the association, highlighting the deep emotional toll this ongoing battle has taken on them. The families reiterated their demand for justice, urging both the Sri Lankan government and the international community to act.
On Children's Day, the families organized a vigil in Vavuniya to draw attention to their plight. S. Jenitha, head of the Association, led the protest, which was met with hostility from an individual claiming to represent the National People's Power (NPP) which is in power in Sri Lanka. This man attempted to disrupt the peaceful protest, warning the demonstrators to disperse and hurling insults at them. He went as far as threatening the women with arrest, claiming to be acting under "Anura's rule."
Despite attempts to stifle their protests, the families remain steadfast.
"We will continue to fight until justice and accountability are delivered by the Sri Lankan government," they declared, reaffirming their commitment to their struggle for truth and justice.
