Security situation a cause for worry

As the mystery over the whereabouts of LTTE chief Prabhakaran continue, senior government sources said it was unlikely that he would flee leaving his men behind, reports Tushar Srivastava.

As the mystery over the whereabouts of LTTE chief Prabhakaran continue, senior government sources in New Delhi said it was unlikely that he would flee leaving his men behind.

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“Prabhakaran is unlikely to flee the country. The legend will not allow him to leave. The picture of Taliban’s Mullah Omar wearing a burqah, pillion riding on a motorcycle, was enough to destroy that legend,” a senior government official said on condition of anonymity. “Rehabilitation and reconstruction is a major concern once the Sri Lankan military operation is over. The fighting has caused a lot of destruction. It’s a huge job ahead,” the official said.

New Delhi, he said, has made it clear that it was ready to provide whatever assistance possible. Senior officials said it was unlikely that the security situation in Sri Lanka would improve once the army takes control over the northern part of the country. Colombo has told New Delhi that in another two to three weeks time the army would take control over the northern part.

“Security situation will be fragile. This is just a military victory. LTTE cells still exist even if their conventional fighting army is finished,” said a senior official, who did not wish to be named. Another major concern for New Delhi is the future of the Tamil community there. “The war could have long time consequences on the Tamil community. Government needs to do something for them,” the official said.