Minister says UNP-led accusations are a 'serious crime' against the country

Defence Affairs spokesman, Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, accused the opposition parties of trying to portray a 'bleak picture' on the overall picture in the east.

Admitting he was mainly referring to the main opposition, United National Party (UNP), the minister described UNP accusation as 'a serious crime' at a time government is trying to 're-establish democray' in the east.

There have been 26 minor incidents in the east since election campaign started, he said.

Fact finding mission

Political parties representing the opposition and the government alliance have expressed concern whether the security situation is conducive to conduct elections.

Local elections for Batticaloa Municipal Council and eight other local bodies are to be held on 10 March.

And many regard the elections as a means of grabbing huge money offered to Neganahira Navodaya' Rights activist Nimalka Fernando

However, a group of human rights activists travelled to the north and east on a fact finding mission contradicted Minister Rambukwella's remarks.

Leading activist and Counsel, Nimalka Fernando, said thousands of displaced people in refugee camps questioned the meaning of 'Neganahira Navodaya (Rising of the east)' while thousands are yet to be resettled.

"And many regard the elections as a means of grabbing huge money offered to Neganahira Navodaya'," she told journalists after arriving in Colombo.

There is no prison in Jaffna. Nearly 300 to 500 people are kept in 10 rooms in two separate houses Rights activist Sunila Abeysekara

Activist and Counsel Sudharshana Gunawardane said some candidates for the local polls are still carrying arms in the area.

In Jaffna, prominent human rights activist Sunila Abeysekara said farmers and fisher community are the most affected by the ongoing conflict.

Those who have surrendered to the authorities for their own protection are kept in two house with a very few facilities, she added.

"There is no prison in Jaffna. Nearly 300 to 500 people are kept in 10 rooms in two separate houses," Ms. Abeysekara said.