Urban or Rural no difference: We are victims of the present development

Praja Abilasha Steering Committee meeting held today with the participation of our partners from various parts of the country. Hema Munipura of Praja Organization represents the Urban Poor communities raised very much disturbing information among the group. In the name of resettlement, the slum dwellers have been sent out from their place of origin and without giving a proper shelter. Even they were informed the new shelter, people need to pay LKR 500,000 as Hema said to get the key of the house. It is only those who can pay LKR 500,000 get the house as new settlement. The Defense and utban development authority take steps to up root people from their original places and this was highly criticized by a minister Vasudewa Nanayakkara too. Hema says "Most of the slum dwellers are affiliated to UNP[the main opposition] and UPFA government do not bother about our grievances as we are not their[UPFA is the ruling party of the country] supporters." "So, it is violation of our fundamental rights." Recent incidents of chase away of the community at Castle hospital area at Colombo 8 is clear indicator of how the poor people's remaining wealth is taking away for a better future of wealthy people in the country. There are number of communities who are opposing to these injustices though majority are keeping silence. PA team decided to attend the work with the assurance of people that they will not run behind money even though they will be paid in a higher rate than the normal. Tharawatta community is ready to go to court and fight. We assure the mediation, if the community firmly come forward for fight for their rights. Hema and Raajan will do the necessary follow up actions. Herman