The 13-member Indian parliamentary delegation led by Indian Opposition Leader Sushma Swaraj held a series of discussions with Sri Lankan political leaders. They had visited IDPs in Vavuniya and those resettled in Mullaitivu.

The Indian delegation requested an early solution to the problems faced by the people in the North and East.

Here we carry some views of local politicians on the discussion the Indian Delegation had in Sri Lanka.

TNA not sole representative of Tamils

Irrigation and Water Resources Management Minister and leader of the House

Nimal Siripala de Silva.

Q: The Indian delegation expressed concern about the delay in seeking a political solution to the problem of those in the North and East.

A: A solution has to be evolved in consultation with all political parties. The Government proposed a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) with representatives of all stakeholders to seek a suitable solution to the problem. The committee could not be formed due to the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) not nominating its members.

The TNA cannot be accepted as the sole representative of Sri Lankan Tamils. Fifty four (54%) percent of the Tamil community lives outside Jaffna, specially in Wellawatta, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. The TNA should not fail to understand this reality although they are free from the clutches of the LTTE.

All IDPs will be re-settled by August

Resettlement Minister Gunaratne Weerakoon.

Q: What was the Indian delegation's response to the IDPs resettlement program?

A: They were happy about their interaction with the people which they described as very informative in understanding their issues and needs.

We have resettled over 280,000 IDPs leaving a mere 3,000 in camps. They too will be resettled before the end of August according to our roadmap.

Political solution based on LLRC

UNP Senior Vice President Lakshman Kiriella - MP

Q: What are your views on the visit of the Indian delegation to the country.

A: The Government should maintain a positive relationship with South India and its politicians as well.

The UNP's stand is that a political solution should be based on the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) recommendations.