On September 11th, the fifth day of excavation at the Kokkuthoduvai mass grave site, Tamil National People's Front MPs Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam, Selvaraja Gajendran, and Attorney-at-Law Kandeepan visited the site. Following their visit, MP Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam addressed the media in a press conference, expressing deep concerns regarding the ongoing investigation and the restrictions placed on journalists.
MP Ponnambalam articulated that the lack of trust in internal mechanisms of justice raises scepticism about whether the investigations into the mass grave will provide answers to the pressing political questions of the Tamil people. He emphasised the paramount importance of documentation and monitoring of the process, particularly by an independent press. He noted that it is through the media that authorities can maintain transparency throughout the process, ensuring accountability.
In reference to the new restrictions imposed on journalists, MP Ponnambalam stated that the pressure and awareness generated by the media were instrumental in initiating the excavation. Therefore, it is disheartening that further restrictions have been placed on the media, potentially limiting their ability to report on critical developments.
MP Ponnambalam underscored that the bodies being excavated from the Tamil homeland are those of Tamil people. It is imperative to ensure that the ongoing investigations take into consideration the expectations and concerns of the Tamil people, especially the relatives of the victims who continue to live in their midst.
The visit by MPs and their expressions of concern highlight the need for transparency and accountability in the Kokkuthoduvai mass grave investigation, as the Tamil community seeks answers and closure regarding this painful chapter of their history.
