Karuna group is accused of widespread rights violations

Spokesman of the Tamil Peoples Liberation Tigers (TMVP), widely known as Karuna faction, admitted that the party was recently split between groups led by the top leader, Karuna, and the leader of the militant wing, 'Commandent' Pillaiyan.

However, Asad Moulana said it was a clash of opinions between a two groups than a split in the party.

Sindujan killing

"In the cordial talks between our leader Karuna Amman on Sunday, Commandent Pillaiyaan and various other high ranking commandents agreements has been reached," he told BBC Tamil service.

In the cordial talks between our leader Karuna Amman on Sunday, Commandent Pillaiyaan and various other high ranking commandents agreements has been reached Spokesman Asad Moulana

"In a democratic political party", he said, "every member has the freedom and to express their views".

There have been media reports that a senior military leader loyal to Pillaiyan, Sindujan, was killed by supporters of Karuna Amman.

But the reports were anything but the truth, according to the spokesman.

"Everything said in the press is not true," Asad Moulana said.

SLA 'involvement'

The TMVP which conducts its own investigation into the death of Sindujan is not in a position to reveal details of the incident, he added.

He also denied reports that Sri Lanka Army (SLA) played a major role in helping resolve the split in the TMVP, a highly influential organisation in eastern Sri Lanka.

"To resolve the crisis within us, we needed some time and rumours spread utilising that time frame . We will never allow the military or any other third party to interfere".

The Karuna faction is accused of widespread abductions and recruiting underage cadres by many internationational rights watchdogs.

The TMVP denies the accusations.