‘The truth can never be buried. The Chemmani mass grave is a reminder of the enforced disappearances and genocide committed against the Tamil people in Sri Lanka.
Even after 29 years, the perpetrators have not been punished. Justice has not been served. Therefore, an internationally monitored forensic investigation into the mass graves identified in Sri Lanka, including Chemmani, is necessary,” he also stressed.
29 Years Without Justice
For 29 years, the families of the disappeared have been denied closure and justice. The Chemmani mass grave, discovered in 1995, contained the remains of Tamil civilians allegedly killed by Sri Lankan security forces. Despite the overwhelming evidence, no one has been held accountable for these heinous crimes. Senator Shoebridge rightly points out that this impunity perpetuates a cycle of violence and injustice.
An International Investigation is Crucial
Senator Shoebridge is demanding an internationally monitored forensic investigation into all mass graves in Sri Lanka, including Chemmani. This is essential to ensure impartiality and transparency. A credible investigation, overseen by international experts, is the only way to uncover the truth, identify the victims, and bring the perpetrators to justice. The Sri Lankan government’s investigations have been widely criticized for lacking independence and effectiveness.
Key Demands:
International forensic investigation.
Independent monitoring.
Justice for victims’ families.
Accountability for perpetrators.
The call for an international investigation is supported by numerous human rights organizations and Tamil diaspora groups. They argue that it is the only way to address the deep-seated impunity that has
plagued Sri Lanka for decades. The discovery of mass graves like Chemmani is not an isolated incident, but rather a symptom of a larger problem: a lack of accountability for past atrocities.
What’s Next?
Senator Shoebridge’s advocacy is a vital step towards achieving justice for the Tamil people. The Australian government and the international community must support his demands and pressure the Sri Lankan government to cooperate with an international investigation. The truth can never be buried, and the victims of the Chemmani mass grave deserve justice, no matter how long it takes.
