Concerned over intimidation of Lankan civil society: US

The US has expressed concern over the alleged deterioration of human rights situation in Sri Lanka

The United States has expressed concern over the alleged deterioration of human rights situation in Sri Lanka.

"We are especially concerned by the detention of well-known human rights defenders Ruki Fernando and Father Praveen Mahesan after they made inquiries regarding the arrest of another activist," US State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki said here yesterday.

While it is encouraging that Fernando and Father Mahesan have since been released, they continue to face harassment by security forces, she said.

"We are also aware of reports that additional human rights groups are being targeted for investigation by security forces," she added.

Psaki said that it is disturbing that the Sri Lankan Government has taken punitive measures against its own brave citizens who have devoted their careers and lives to investigating alleged human rights abuses by both sides during Sri Lanka's long and brutal civil conflict.

"The continued harassment of those who support the quest for reconciliation and accountability send a chilling effect across Sri Lanka's vibrant civil society, and undermine Sri Lanka's proud democratic traditions," she said.

Together with international partners, the United States continues to pursue a resolution on Sri Lanka at the UN Human Rights Council, she said.

"We are undertaking this action due to our support for the Sri Lankan people and strong concerns about the deteriorating human rights situation in Sri Lanka," Psaki said.

She urged the Lankan government to ensure human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Sri Lankans, including freedom of speech, freedom of peaceful assembly, and due process of law for those accused of crimes, consistent with its human rights obligations.