No starvation in Tiger-held areas, Civilians confirm [November 20 2008]

Civilians returning from the LTTE-held areas have confirmed that these is no food shortage or starvation in those areas. The appearances of those who flee the LTTE and arrive into government controlled areas do not suggest that they have starved or are malnourished, says Foreign Secretary Palitha Dr. Palitha Kohona while thanking India for the humanitarian aid for the IDPs. While the entire population in the LTTE controlled areas may be some 200,000 it has been impossible to assess the exact number due to the prevailing situation, but cannot be the 300,000 or above as the screaming headlines of the media. The government has always provided them the essentials contrary to claims, Dr. Kohona added.