Paramilitary terrorise and intimidate Batticaloa voters

by admin
Jul 26, 2012

Paramilitary operatives are reportedly intimidating and threatening voters in the district of Batticaloa, TamilNet reported.

Voters have been threatened that they will be driven out of the area if they are found to be voting for the TNA (Tamil National Alliance) party at the forthcoming election to the eastern provincial council.

The armed men under the direction Pillayan’s TMVP, a constituent of the ruling party, UPFA (United People’s Freedom Alliance), have been roaming the village of Vaakarai, where over 7,500 Tamils are eligible to vote in the elections.

Paramilitaries have been using intimidation tactics to influence the outcome of elections since 2008 according to the TamilNet report.

The group is also thought to be behind several robberies in the area. Despite several complaints, no action has been taken against those responsible.

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