Dedicated media need bouquet not brick-bat!

– The Sudar Oli Editorial

(September 28, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) The struggle demanding justice and life with honour has reached a crucial juncture in the isle of Sri Lanka.

It is remarkable that the Tamils all over – in this country and abroad – are a source of strength and courage to this struggle.

But, it cannot be denied that a historic responsibility is cast on the shoulders of the media. It may be the media based in the Tamil homeland, Colombo, abroad or in the websites. They may be the radio broadcasts or telecasts. They are all a source of support for this Tamil national struggle.

Their contributions need praise. The contributions that are made by the media based in Tamil homeland and Colombo extending their support to this great cause despite harassment, threats, pressure etc need praise.

On the one hand there are the laws that stare at them, that can deal with them. On the other hand there are forces that can by pass the law and unleash violence on them.

In the midst of all these perils, they discharge their duties. It is unfortunate that many do not realize the role of these media.

Many of the analysts who live safely in expatriate countries are unaware of the ground situation, the reality in the theater of the conflict.

It is unfair to cast aspersions on them. There must be a collective responsibility to bring all such media dedicated to this great cause under one umbrella. That is the need of the hour!

(An English translation of the Editorial in The Sudar Oli, a Tamil daily based in Colombo.) - Sri Lanka Guardian