News

‘Permission only for cannabis cultivation, not for consumption & transportation’

Published

12 months ago

September 21, 2023

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The Government does not intend at all to promote the use of cannabis in the country, which is included in the list of drugs in many other countries, Indigenous Medicine State Minister Sisira Jayakody said in Parliament yesterday.

In response to a question raised by the Opposition Leader, the State Minister said that the government does not even expect to give legal permission for consumption and transportation of cannabis for recreational purposes.

However, the government has focused on the possibilities of growing Hemp-based products for export only and the related feasibility report is expected to be tabled in the near future.

“The government only focuses on the possibilities of growing Hemp-based products for export. We expect to table the related feasibility study report in the near future. It is also not possible to issue liquor permits from a distance of 100 meters from schools, places of worship. Drafts are currently being prepared to amend the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol Act including the amendment to prohibit the sale of single cigarettes and the sale of cigarettes and liquor within 100 meters of schools and places of worship,” he further said.

News

Principal arrested in Mullaitivu for photographing postal ballot

Published

12 hours ago

September 8, 2024

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A principal has been arrested in Mullaitivu after allegedly photographing a postal ballot paper after casting his vote.

The incident occurred on Friday at the voting center located within the Mullaitivu Zonal Education Office.

According to reports, the principal, who was serving as an assistant returning officer, cast his vote on the ballot paper and then took a photograph of it. This was noticed by another officer at the location, who promptly filed a complaint.

The principal was taken into custody yesterday evening. The 55-year-old suspect, a resident of Puthukkudiyiruppu, has since been released on bail.

News

Palitha Bandara Fifth in T63 Javelin at Paris Paralympics

Published

14 hours ago

September 8, 2024

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Sri Lankan athlete Palitha Bandara finished fifth in the men’s T63 javelin throw at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

He achieved a personal best with a throw of 14.51 meters.

News

President meets ITAK leader amidst party’s conflicting support

Published

17 hours ago

September 8, 2024

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President Ranil Wickremesinghe met with Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) senior leader MP Mavai Senathirajah at his residence in Kankasanthurai, Jaffna, during his visit as part of the “Puluwan Sri Lanka” presidential campaign.

Senathirajah expressed confidence in Wickremesinghe’s chances in the upcoming election, noting his potential to ensure development in the Northern region.

This meeting adds complexity to ITAK’s stance, as the party, under MP M.A. Sumanthiran’s leadership, had earlier declared support for Sajith Premadasa, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya candidate.

Meanwhile, ITAK had also announced their decision not to support Tamil common candidate P. Ariyanenthiran.

Senathirajah, however, had previously stated that he was unaware of these decisions.