Former Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has made the first installment of 15 million Sri Lankan Rupees as compensation to the victims of the Easter terror attacks in 2019. This payment comes ahead of a deadline set by Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court. Media reports on Wednesday confirmed that Sirisena had fulfilled the court’s order to compensate the victims for his negligence in preventing the devastating attacks.
In January, the apex court had ruled that Sirisena must pay a total of SLRs 100 million as compensation to the victims. The court held him responsible for his failure to take appropriate action despite having credible information about an imminent attack. The Easter terror attacks, which occurred on April 21, 2019, were one of the country’s worst, carried out by nine suicide bombers belonging to the local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ), linked to ISIS. The coordinated blasts targeted three Catholic churches and three luxury hotels, resulting in the loss of nearly 270 lives, including 11 Indians, and injuring over 500 individuals.
Sirisena served as Sri Lanka’s President and Defence Minister at the time of the attacks. The court’s decision to hold him accountable for his negligence marked a significant development in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families. The compensation payment by Sirisena serves as a step towards acknowledging the responsibility he bears for the tragic events that unfolded under his watch.
The Easter attacks not only caused immense loss of life and physical injuries but also left a lasting impact on the social and religious fabric of Sri Lanka. The targeting of churches and hotels during the Easter Sunday celebrations shook the country, prompting a period of grief and introspection. The bombings highlighted the presence of local extremist groups affiliated with international terrorist networks and underscored the need for enhanced security measures and intelligence sharing.
In the aftermath of the attacks, there were allegations of intelligence failures and lapses in the government’s response. The payment of compensation by Sirisena is a symbolic gesture that aims to address the grievances of the victims and their families, offering some solace amidst their enduring pain. It also sends a message about the importance of accountability, especially for those in positions of power, emphasizing the need for diligent and responsible leadership.
While the compensation payment is a significant development, it is important to recognize that it cannot fully compensate for the lives lost and the trauma endured by the survivors. The wounds inflicted by such acts of terror run deep and leave a lasting impact on individuals and communities. Therefore, in addition to financial reparations, it is crucial to prioritize the long-term support and rehabilitation of the affected individuals, ensuring that they receive the necessary care and assistance to rebuild their lives.
The process of healing and rebuilding in the aftermath of such horrific incidents is a complex and multifaceted task. It requires the collective efforts of the government, civil society organizations, and the international community to address the underlying factors that contribute to the rise of extremism and terrorism. Efforts should focus on fostering interfaith dialogue, promoting tolerance, and strengthening security mechanisms to prevent future attacks.
The compensation payment made by former President Maithripala Sirisena marks a significant step towards justice for the victims of the Easter terror attacks. It highlights the importance of holding those responsible accountable for their actions and serves as a reminder of the need for unwavering commitment to prevent such tragedies from recurring. The victims and their families deserve not only financial reparations but also comprehensive support and assistance as they navigate the difficult path to recovery.
