Clearing has begun at the Visuvamadu Theravil Thuyilum Illam in preparation of Maaveerar Naal which is marked on November 27.
Thuyilum Illams – Resting Places – were constructed by the LTTE for their fighters. Thuyilum Illams across the Tamil homeland were destroyed both during the armed conflict and later bulldozed over by the Sri Lankan state following the Tamil genocide in 2009.
Tamil MP Charles Nirmalanthan who was also present, said:
"Even though our heroes couldn't live to achieve their dreams, it is our duty to remember them and their bravery every year. The parents of LTTE cadres should gather at the Thuyilum Illams in their districts to remember their children."
On Maaveerar Naal - Great Heroes Day - thousands gather at the Thuyilum Illams across the North-East to remember the Tamils who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for liberation.
Since the end of the armed conflict, Tamils have been subjected to harassment and intimidation by Sri Lanka's security forces for organising and participating in Tamil memorialisation events, particularly those in the lead up to Maaveerar Naal.