An India-Sri Lanka Canoe Sprint traversing the Palk Strait between the two countries was special for multiple reasons. The event was held to mark close cultural bonds between the two country going back thousands of years. The stretch between Thalaimannar in Sri Lanka and Dhanushkodi in India is also the marine path crossed by Hindu Lord Ram in the epic Ramayana...Watch in for more details!

India-Sri Lanka Canoe sprint

<p>At least seven people were killed and another 21 wounded when a race car ploughed into spectators at a packed motorsport event hosted by Sri Lanka's army Sunday (Apr 21), police said.</p>

<p>A driver crashed into the crowd on an unprotected stretch of the track at the Fox Hill circuit, which is maintained by the Sri Lankan army.</p>

<p>A video shared widely on social media showed track marshals waving yellow flags to warn other drivers to slow down after a car overturned on the track.</p>

<p>The drivers are seen speeding past in clouds of orange dust until a red car slams into the crowd, and people are heard screaming.</p>

<p>"A total of 27 people were taken to hospital and seven of them succumbed to their injuries," spokesman Nihal Thalduwa said, adding that an eight-year-old girl was among the dead.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At least seven people were killed and over 20 others sustained injuries when a car went off track and crashed into a group of spectators at the Fox Hill Super Cross race in Diyatalawa today.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Srilanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Srilanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Foxhill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Foxhill</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diyatalawaaccidemt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diyatalawaaccidemt</a> <a href="https://t.co/AFeoYGwCQY">pic.twitter.com/AFeoYGwCQY</a></p>
— Easwaran Christian Rutnam (@easwaranrutnam) <a href="https://twitter.com/easwaranrutnam/status/1782029365687308627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lankas-sports-minister-accuses-top-cricket-administrators-of-corruption-652360"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Sri Lanka's sports minister accuses top cricket administrators of corruption</strong></a></p>

<p>Shortly before the crash, army chief Vikum Liyanage announced that the gates had been opened to spectators free of charge to promote motorsports, with the event being held for the first time in five years due to the Covid pandemic and the island's economic crisis.</p>

<p>"Today is a very special day... we decided to allow anyone to come in free," Liyanage said, claiming that about 100,000 spectators were at the Fox Hill circuit, around 180 kilometres (112 miles) east of Colombo.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka's roads are among the most dangerous in the world. On average, eight fatalities are reported daily along the 12,500 kilometres (7,812 miles) of roads.</p>


At least seven people were killed and another 21 wounded when a race car ploughed into spectators at a packed motorsport event hosted by Sri Lanka's army Sunday (Apr 21), police said.

At least seven people were killed and another 21 wounded when a race car ploughed into spectators at a packed motorsport event hosted by Sri Lanka's army Sunday (Apr 21), police said. A driver crashed into the crowd on an unprotected stretch of the track at the Fox Hill circuit, which is maintained by the Sri Lankan army. A video shared widely on social media showed track marshals waving yellow flags to warn other drivers to slow down after a car overturned on the track. The drivers are seen speeding past in clouds of orange dust until a red car slams into the crowd, and people are heard screaming. "A total of 27 people were taken to hospital and seven of them succumbed to their injuries," spokesman Nihal Thalduwa said, adding that an eight-year-old girl was among the dead. At least seven people were killed and over 20 others sustained injuries when a car went off track and crashed into a group of spectators at the Fox Hill Super Cross race in Diyatalawa today.#Srilanka #Foxhill #Diyatalawaaccidemt pic.twitter.com/AFeoYGwCQY — Easwaran Christian Rutnam (@easwaranrutnam) April 21, 2024 × Also read | Sri Lanka's sports minister accuses top cricket administrators of corruption Shortly before the crash, army chief Vikum Liyanage announced that the gates had been opened to spectators free of charge to promote motorsports, with the event being held for the first time in five years due to the Covid pandemic and the island's economic crisis. "Today is a very special day... we decided to allow anyone to come in free," Liyanage said, claiming that about 100,000 spectators were at the Fox Hill circuit, around 180 kilometres (112 miles) east of Colombo. Sri Lanka's roads are among the most dangerous in the world. On average, eight fatalities are reported daily along the 12,500 kilometres (7,812 miles) of roads.

At least 7 dead after car drives into spectators at Sri Lanka motor race

China blocking the Dalai Lama's visit to Sri Lanka earlier this year was a reflection of Beijing's insecurities around the Tibetan spiritual leader. And the fact that Sri Lanka has huge debts to China pending means it is again bullied into accepting the 'diktat' from the 'bully'. Inside South Asia decodes the dynamics at work.

Why is China blocking Dalai Lama's visit to Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe is expected to contest the Presidential elections later this year under a new symbol. A senior advisor to the President has revealed that he will represent several parties as a national candidate. Sri Lanka's Election Commission has to hold the next Presidential election by November this year. Watch in for more details!

Sri Lanka to hold Presidential elections by November

In election season, the Bharatiya Janata Party looks to revive the row around handing over of Katchatheevu island in the Palk Strait to Sri Lanka in 1974 and removal of fishing rights for Indian fishermen two years later. An RTI finding reveals the island was signed off to Sri Lanka by the then-Congress government of Indira Gandhi.

Katchatheevu in the eye of a storm

A top Sri Lankan Buddhist leader has said that China has been blocking the visit of Tibetan Buddhist Spiritual leader, Dalai Lama to the country. Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe Mahindawansa made the comments in an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi.

China blocking Dalai Lama's Sri Lanka visit, says Buddhist leader Dr Waskaduwe Mahindawansa

<p>A top Sri Lankan Buddhist leader has said that China has been blocking the visit of Tibetan Buddhist Spiritual leader, Dalai Lama to the country. Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe Mahindawansa made the comments in an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi.</p>

<p>He said, "We respect him and invited him to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have the freedom to invite."</p>

<p>Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe is the head or Mahanayaka Thero of Amarapura Sambuddha Sasanodaya Maha Nikaya. It is a Buddhist monastic order or sect in Sri Lanka. It is one of the major Nikayas (sects) in Theravada Buddhism, which is the dominant form of Buddhism practiced in Sri Lanka and many other parts of South and Southeast Asia. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The prominent Buddhist leader is in India this week to hand over part of Kapilavastu relics of Buddha to His Holiness Dalai Lama. He said, "Dalai Lama is a very important person. Buddhism was born in India, and his doctrine in India, his doctrine went to Sri Lanka via Ashoka's son- Mahinda, and daughter &nbsp;Sanghamitra. So I think, this is the way, one or two, original Buddha relics are presented to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama."</p>

<p><em><strong>Here are the excerpts of the full conversation:&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>Can you tell us briefly about the background and significance of the relic that you handed over to His Holiness and what was the intent behind this?</p>

<p><strong>Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa: </strong>Dalai Lama is a very famous leader, not only in India but a world-famous leader. So many times I heard his lectures and many friends from other countries asked about him and about his lectures also. I thought I must go and meet him. I have met him 203 times. So, I decided that I must present special things from Sri Lanka, to give to him. The Dalai Lama always preaches about kindness. He is very close to me.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/search-operation-launched-after-a-young-man-jumped-off-cruise-ship-in-front-of-family-708068">Search operation launched after a young man, 'jumped off' cruise ship in front of family</a></p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>If you can talk about Kapilavastu relics..</p>

<p><strong>Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe:</strong> After Buddha's cremation, many countries fought to get his relics. 8 countries/ rajdhanis. One portion was given to Buddha's relatives, Kapilavastu relics were to his village. They made a structure and put the relics. After that, over thousands of years, when India was under British occupation, the English discovered it. One Alexander Cunningham discovered it, and excavated the land. He found a big stone box and found the relics. He was not able to determine what the relics were about. It had some letters of Brahmi words. A Sri Lanka monk, a high priest, knew the relics, and pointed out these are Buddha relics. A portion from the relics were sent to Sri Lanka, to my temple. It was kept in my temple, generation after generation.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> And you gave Kapilavastu relics to the Dalai Lama..</p>

<p><strong>Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe:</strong> The Dalai Lama knows history well. Myself and the relics committee discussed it, we decided that Buddha was born in India, relics in Sri Lanka and I'm the custodian. So one original Buddha relic was brought to India, and presented to his holiness, the Dalai Lama. This is because, Dalai Lama is a very important person. Buddhism was born in India, his doctrine in India, his doctrine went to Sri Lanka via Ashoka's son- Mahinda and Daughter &nbsp;Sanghamitra. So I think, this is the way, one or 2, original Buddha relics are presented to his Holiness, the Dalai Lama.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-girl-left-in-coma-after-she-was-thrashed-by-three-teenagers-708070">French girl left in coma after she was thrashed by three teenagers</a></p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How was the reception at Dharamshala? If you can share some experiences or good memories that you can take away from the Dharamshala visit?</p>

<p><strong>Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe:</strong> It is a very interesting place, I visited it for the first time. It is near the Himalayas. It's a historic event, and a very calm place. Very important place in India, a historical event.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> Plans to continue the engagement with the office of Dalai Lama?</p>

<p><strong>Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe:</strong> I thought yesterday, I must visit this place every year. Many people from across the world visit this place. Very important for India, this place. I must request that Indians, Sri Lanka, must visit respective countries.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> We understand that IBC assisted in the process of facilitating the smooth movement of your team from Colombo to Dharamshala and back and IBC was recently involved in the exposition of the relic in Thailand. Your comments please.</p>

<p><strong>Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe:</strong> International Buddhist Confederation is a very important organisation in the world, IBC, 45-49 countries connected to it, 400 organisations connected to. They are very important to the world, not just India. IBC has done great work, with relics being sent to Thailand.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/disneys-streaming-service-to-clamp-down-on-password-sharing-from-june-708076">Disney's streaming service to clamp down on password-sharing from June</a></strong></p>

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<p><strong>WION:</strong> You know, China's view on the Dalai Lama, do you think China will be angry with you giving the relics</p>

<p><strong>Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe:</strong> Last time, from Sri Lanka top Monks invited the Dalai Lama to visit Sri Lanka. But problem from China, why I don't know. We respect the Dalai Lama, as a Buddhist leader, he is not a merchant. We respect him and invited to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have freedom to invite. So in future, if he visits Sri Lanka, we are happy. Sri Lankans also visit Himachal as well. What is the problem, he is the Buddhist leader, he preaches Buddha's doctrine.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How do you see India, Sri Lanka ties?</p>

<p><strong>Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe:</strong> Our mother land is India, my cultural and religious connection came from India to Sri Lanka. It is a close country for us. Our language also starts from India, Sanskrit, Pali. We must develop our friendship, sometimes, religious, cultural, economic friendship. Our elder brother is India.&nbsp;</p>


A top Sri Lankan Buddhist leader has said that China has been blocking the visit of Tibetan Buddhist Spiritual leader, Dalai Lama to the country. Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe Mahindawansa made the comments in an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi. He said, "We respect him and invited him to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have the freedom to invite." Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe is the head or Mahanayaka Thero of Amarapura Sambuddha Sasanodaya Maha Nikaya. It is a Buddhist monastic order or sect in Sri Lanka. It is one of the major Nikayas (sects) in Theravada Buddhism, which is the dominant form of Buddhism practiced in Sri Lanka and many other parts of South and Southeast Asia. The prominent Buddhist leader is in India this week to hand over part of Kapilavastu relics of Buddha to His Holiness Dalai Lama. He said, "Dalai Lama is a very important person. Buddhism was born in India, and his doctrine in India, his doctrine went to Sri Lanka via Ashoka's son- Mahinda, and daughter Sanghamitra. So I think, this is the way, one or two, original Buddha relics are presented to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama." Here are the excerpts of the full conversation: WION: Can you tell us briefly about the background and significance of the relic that you handed over to His Holiness and what was the intent behind this? Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa: Dalai Lama is a very famous leader, not only in India but a world-famous leader. So many times I heard his lectures and many friends from other countries asked about him and about his lectures also. I thought I must go and meet him. I have met him 203 times. So, I decided that I must present special things from Sri Lanka, to give to him. The Dalai Lama always preaches about kindness. He is very close to me. Also Read | Search operation launched after a young man, 'jumped off' cruise ship in front of family WION: If you can talk about Kapilavastu relics.. Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: After Buddha's cremation, many countries fought to get his relics. 8 countries/ rajdhanis. One portion was given to Buddha's relatives, Kapilavastu relics were to his village. They made a structure and put the relics. After that, over thousands of years, when India was under British occupation, the English discovered it. One Alexander Cunningham discovered it, and excavated the land. He found a big stone box and found the relics. He was not able to determine what the relics were about. It had some letters of Brahmi words. A Sri Lanka monk, a high priest, knew the relics, and pointed out these are Buddha relics. A portion from the relics were sent to Sri Lanka, to my temple. It was kept in my temple, generation after generation. WION: And you gave Kapilavastu relics to the Dalai Lama.. Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: The Dalai Lama knows history well. Myself and the relics committee discussed it, we decided that Buddha was born in India, relics in Sri Lanka and I'm the custodian. So one original Buddha relic was brought to India, and presented to his holiness, the Dalai Lama. This is because, Dalai Lama is a very important person. Buddhism was born in India, his doctrine in India, his doctrine went to Sri Lanka via Ashoka's son- Mahinda and Daughter Sanghamitra. So I think, this is the way, one or 2, original Buddha relics are presented to his Holiness, the Dalai Lama. Also Read | French girl left in coma after she was thrashed by three teenagers WION: How was the reception at Dharamshala? If you can share some experiences or good memories that you can take away from the Dharamshala visit? Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: It is a very interesting place, I visited it for the first time. It is near the Himalayas. It's a historic event, and a very calm place. Very important place in India, a historical event. WION: Plans to continue the engagement with the office of Dalai Lama? Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: I thought yesterday, I must visit this place every year. Many people from across the world visit this place. Very important for India, this place. I must request that Indians, Sri Lanka, must visit respective countries. WION: We understand that IBC assisted in the process of facilitating the smooth movement of your team from Colombo to Dharamshala and back and IBC was recently involved in the exposition of the relic in Thailand. Your comments please. Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: International Buddhist Confederation is a very important organisation in the world, IBC, 45-49 countries connected to it, 400 organisations connected to. They are very important to the world, not just India. IBC has done great work, with relics being sent to Thailand. Watch | Disney's streaming service to clamp down on password-sharing from June × WION: You know, China's view on the Dalai Lama, do you think China will be angry with you giving the relics Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: Last time, from Sri Lanka top Monks invited the Dalai Lama to visit Sri Lanka. But problem from China, why I don't know. We respect the Dalai Lama, as a Buddhist leader, he is not a merchant. We respect him and invited to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have freedom to invite. So in future, if he visits Sri Lanka, we are happy. Sri Lankans also visit Himachal as well. What is the problem, he is the Buddhist leader, he preaches Buddha's doctrine. WION: How do you see India, Sri Lanka ties? Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: Our mother land is India, my cultural and religious connection came from India to Sri Lanka. It is a close country for us. Our language also starts from India, Sanskrit, Pali. We must develop our friendship, sometimes, religious, cultural, economic friendship. Our elder brother is India.

China blocking Dalai Lama's Sri Lanka visit, says top Buddhist leader

A political row erupted in India over an island. A tiny island between India & Sri Lanka known as Katchatheevu Island became a hot topic. A few days back, PM Modi hit out at Congress over its decision to hand over the island to Sri Lanka in the 1970s. Sri Lanka gave its first reaction to the controversy.

How is Sri Lanka reacting to the Katchatheevu island issue heating up in India?

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attack on Congress party over former prime minister Indira Gandhi's decision to "callously give away" the island of Katchatheevu has revived the discourse over the way the 285-acre uninhabited island's ownership changed hands.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-modi-says-congress-callously-gave-away-katchatheevu-island-to-sri-lanka-706145">PM Modi says 'Congress callously gave away Katchatheevu' island to Sri Lanka</a></strong></p>

<p>The development came after Tamil Nadu chief of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, K Annamalai, filed a&nbsp;Right To Information application and obtained crucial information related to how the 285-acre island came to be administered by Sri Lanka.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Katchatheevu issue heats up as India goes to polls. RTI shows its given to Sri Lanka by Frm Indian PM Indira Gandhi. PM Modi reacts. <a href="https://t.co/9CRUghTWbS">https://t.co/9CRUghTWbS</a> <a href="https://t.co/GmCxHjk4lq">pic.twitter.com/GmCxHjk4lq</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1774294837401178611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi later reacted on a report related to the row, and it immediately turned into a political issue in the ongoing election summer.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Eye opening and startling!<br />
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New facts reveal how Congress callously gave away <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Katchatheevu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Katchatheevu</a>.<br />
<br />
This has angered every Indian and reaffirmed in people’s minds- we can’t ever trust Congress!<br />
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Weakening India’s unity, integrity and interests has been Congress’ way of working for…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1774289695821938823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Katchatheevu island: Where is it located?</strong></h2>

<p>Katchatheevu is a 285-acre uninhabited island in the Palk Strait, between India and Sri Lanka. It is no more than 1.6 km in length and slightly over 300 m wide at its broadest point, according to the <em>Indian Express</em>.</p>

<p>Katchatheevu is about 33 km from the Indian coast and is some 62 km southwest of Jaffna, at the northern tip of Sri Lanka, and 24 km away from Sri Lanka's inhabited Delft Island.</p>

<p>The island is relatively new on the geological timescale. It appeared on Earth as one of the results of a 14-century volcanic eruption.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who controlled Katchatheevu?</strong></h2>

<p>The island was controlled by the Jaffna kingdom of Sri Lanka in the early medieval period. In the 17th century, Ramnad zamindari based out of Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram came to control the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The island became part of the Madras Presidency during British Raj.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">MEA's Summary note for meeting of the Informal Consultative Committee in March 1968 on Kachchatheevu quoting Nehru, JS J&amp;T in MEA, Attorney General: <a href="https://t.co/dSt4iZej5R">https://t.co/dSt4iZej5R</a> <a href="https://t.co/eOPr6tW6qt">pic.twitter.com/eOPr6tW6qt</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1774743766425063848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>But its control remained a matter of contention due to fishing rights that came with the ownership of this island.</p>

<p>A colonial survey marked Katchatheevu in Sri Lanka. But the British challenged this citing the ownership of the island by the Ramnad kingdom.</p>

<p>This dispute was not settled until 1974.</p>

<p>In 1974, India and Sri Lanka signed the ‘Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime agreement’.</p>

<p>An annual report of Ministry of External Affairs for 1974-75 says: "The long outstanding problem of Kachchativu was amicably settled on 28 June 1974, with the conclusion of the agreement between India and Sri Lanka on the boundary in the historic waters between the two countries and related matters. The Agreement sets out the geographical co-ordinates of the points constituting the boundary in the historic waters between the two countries and sets at rest a longstanding controversy with the neighbouring country regarding the island of Kachchativu."</p>

<p>"Although the island of Kachchativu falls on the side of the boundary of Sri Lanka and will belong to Sri Lanka, the Agreement safeguards the rights of Indian pilgrims and fishermen who would be entitled to visit the island in the same manner as they were doing before this Agreement came into force. No travel documents or visas will be required by them to visit this island. The Agreement also provides that the vessels of both countries will enjoy in each other's waters such rights as they have traditionally enjoyed therein."</p>

<p>The pilgrims herein refer to the Indian Catholics who annual visit an early 20th century Catholic shrine, the only inhabited structure on the island, the St Anthony church. In 2023, 2500 Indians made the journey to Katchatheevu from Rameswaram for an annual service at the Church.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another agreement was signed in 1976, during the period of Emergency in the country. This agreement barred either country from fishing in each other's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Katchatheevu is located at the edge of the EEZs of either country. This continues to keep the nature of waters around it uncertain in relation to the fishing rights.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Fishing rights of Indian fishermen and Katchatheevu</strong></h2>

<p>It is in relation to the fishing rights of Indian fishermen that Katchatheevu features repeatedly in Tamil Nadu politics with regular correspondence between state government in Chennai and central government in New Delhi.</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said, "In the last 20 years, 6,184 Indian fishermen have been detained by Sri Lanka and 1,175 Indian fishing vessels have been seized, detained, or apprehended by Sri Lanka. This is the background of the issue."</p>

<p>Jaishankar called it a "live issue" and not something that surfaced "suddenly".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The then CM of Tamil Nadu has written to me numerous times. And my record shows that to the current CM, I have replied 21 times on this issue. This is not an issue that has suddenly surfaced. This is a live issue."</p>

<p>"It is an issue that has been very much debated in parliament and in Tamil Nadu circles. It has been the subject of correspondence between the union government and the state government."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">EAM Jaishankar <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> holds a presser on Katchatheevu issue. In a rare presser from BJP HQ, EAM Jaishankar explained the issue with Indian Govts pacts of 1974, 1976 &amp; origin of Indian govt claim on Island that is now Sri Lankan territory. Development ahead of India polls <a href="https://t.co/bZBCzuOZNU">pic.twitter.com/bZBCzuOZNU</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1774708125150613723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The row has become very much political, with Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party chief MK Stalin saying it's the BJP's 'diversionary' tactic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress leader P Chidambaram questioned why Prime Minister Modi is raising an issue which was settled in 1974.</p>

<p>"Why is the PM raking up an issue that was settled in 1974? In 1974, the Indira Gandhi government, in order to help lakhs of Tamils, negotiated with Sri Lanka. Katchatheevu island was acknowledged as belonging to Sri Lanka. In return, 6 lakhs Tamils were allowed to come to India. The issue was closed 50 years ago," P Chidambaram claimed.</p>

<p>Referring to India's standoff in 2020 in Ladakh, he claimed Chinese troops are occupying Indian territory.</p>

<p>"2,000 sq km of Indian territory has been occupied by Chinese troops. The PM says no Chinese troops are present in Indian territory and no part of Indian territory is in occupation of Chinese troops. You gave a clean chit to China. He should talk about what has happened in the last 3 years instead of what happened 50 years ago. Chinese occupation is aggression. I would request the PM to speak about that," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attack on Congress party over former prime minister Indira Gandhi's decision to "callously give away" the island of Katchatheevu has revived the discourse over the way the 285-acre uninhabited island's ownership changed hands.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attack on Congress party over former prime minister Indira Gandhi's decision to "callously give away" the island of Katchatheevu has revived the discourse over the way the 285-acre uninhabited island's ownership changed hands. Also read | PM Modi says 'Congress callously gave away Katchatheevu' island to Sri Lanka The development came after Tamil Nadu chief of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, K Annamalai, filed a Right To Information application and obtained crucial information related to how the 285-acre island came to be administered by Sri Lanka. Katchatheevu issue heats up as India goes to polls. RTI shows its given to Sri Lanka by Frm Indian PM Indira Gandhi. PM Modi reacts. https://t.co/9CRUghTWbS pic.twitter.com/GmCxHjk4lq — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 31, 2024 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi later reacted on a report related to the row, and it immediately turned into a political issue in the ongoing election summer. Eye opening and startling! New facts reveal how Congress callously gave away #Katchatheevu. This has angered every Indian and reaffirmed in people’s minds- we can’t ever trust Congress! Weakening India’s unity, integrity and interests has been Congress’ way of working for… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 31, 2024 × Katchatheevu island: Where is it located? Katchatheevu is a 285-acre uninhabited island in the Palk Strait, between India and Sri Lanka. It is no more than 1.6 km in length and slightly over 300 m wide at its broadest point, according to the Indian Express. Katchatheevu is about 33 km from the Indian coast and is some 62 km southwest of Jaffna, at the northern tip of Sri Lanka, and 24 km away from Sri Lanka's inhabited Delft Island. The island is relatively new on the geological timescale. It appeared on Earth as one of the results of a 14-century volcanic eruption. Who controlled Katchatheevu? The island was controlled by the Jaffna kingdom of Sri Lanka in the early medieval period. In the 17th century, Ramnad zamindari based out of Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram came to control the island. The island became part of the Madras Presidency during British Raj. MEA's Summary note for meeting of the Informal Consultative Committee in March 1968 on Kachchatheevu quoting Nehru, JS J&T in MEA, Attorney General: https://t.co/dSt4iZej5R pic.twitter.com/eOPr6tW6qt — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 1, 2024 × But its control remained a matter of contention due to fishing rights that came with the ownership of this island. A colonial survey marked Katchatheevu in Sri Lanka. But the British challenged this citing the ownership of the island by the Ramnad kingdom. This dispute was not settled until 1974. In 1974, India and Sri Lanka signed the ‘Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime agreement’. An annual report of Ministry of External Affairs for 1974-75 says: "The long outstanding problem of Kachchativu was amicably settled on 28 June 1974, with the conclusion of the agreement between India and Sri Lanka on the boundary in the historic waters between the two countries and related matters. The Agreement sets out the geographical co-ordinates of the points constituting the boundary in the historic waters between the two countries and sets at rest a longstanding controversy with the neighbouring country regarding the island of Kachchativu." "Although the island of Kachchativu falls on the side of the boundary of Sri Lanka and will belong to Sri Lanka, the Agreement safeguards the rights of Indian pilgrims and fishermen who would be entitled to visit the island in the same manner as they were doing before this Agreement came into force. No travel documents or visas will be required by them to visit this island. The Agreement also provides that the vessels of both countries will enjoy in each other's waters such rights as they have traditionally enjoyed therein." The pilgrims herein refer to the Indian Catholics who annual visit an early 20th century Catholic shrine, the only inhabited structure on the island, the St Anthony church. In 2023, 2500 Indians made the journey to Katchatheevu from Rameswaram for an annual service at the Church. Another agreement was signed in 1976, during the period of Emergency in the country. This agreement barred either country from fishing in each other's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Katchatheevu is located at the edge of the EEZs of either country. This continues to keep the nature of waters around it uncertain in relation to the fishing rights. Fishing rights of Indian fishermen and Katchatheevu It is in relation to the fishing rights of Indian fishermen that Katchatheevu features repeatedly in Tamil Nadu politics with regular correspondence between state government in Chennai and central government in New Delhi. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said, "In the last 20 years, 6,184 Indian fishermen have been detained by Sri Lanka and 1,175 Indian fishing vessels have been seized, detained, or apprehended by Sri Lanka. This is the background of the issue." Jaishankar called it a "live issue" and not something that surfaced "suddenly". "The then CM of Tamil Nadu has written to me numerous times. And my record shows that to the current CM, I have replied 21 times on this issue. This is not an issue that has suddenly surfaced. This is a live issue." "It is an issue that has been very much debated in parliament and in Tamil Nadu circles. It has been the subject of correspondence between the union government and the state government." EAM Jaishankar @DrSJaishankar holds a presser on Katchatheevu issue. In a rare presser from BJP HQ, EAM Jaishankar explained the issue with Indian Govts pacts of 1974, 1976 & origin of Indian govt claim on Island that is now Sri Lankan territory. Development ahead of India polls pic.twitter.com/bZBCzuOZNU — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 1, 2024 × The row has become very much political, with Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party chief MK Stalin saying it's the BJP's 'diversionary' tactic. Congress leader P Chidambaram questioned why Prime Minister Modi is raising an issue which was settled in 1974. "Why is the PM raking up an issue that was settled in 1974? In 1974, the Indira Gandhi government, in order to help lakhs of Tamils, negotiated with Sri Lanka. Katchatheevu island was acknowledged as belonging to Sri Lanka. In return, 6 lakhs Tamils were allowed to come to India. The issue was closed 50 years ago," P Chidambaram claimed. Referring to India's standoff in 2020 in Ladakh, he claimed Chinese troops are occupying Indian territory. "2,000 sq km of Indian territory has been occupied by Chinese troops. The PM says no Chinese troops are present in Indian territory and no part of Indian territory is in occupation of Chinese troops. You gave a clean chit to China. He should talk about what has happened in the last 3 years instead of what happened 50 years ago. Chinese occupation is aggression. I would request the PM to speak about that," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: How the row over Katchatheevu island between India and Sri Lanka was diffused and revived

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (April 1) slammed the MK Stalin-led DMK over the Katchatheevu island issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prime minister alleged that nothing was done by the party to safeguard the interests of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.</p>

<p>He added that the new details which have emerged on India giving the Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka have unmasked the double standards of DMK.</p>

<p>Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Rhetoric aside, DMK has done NOTHING to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests. New details emerging on #Katchatheevu have UNMASKED the DMK’s double standards totally. Congress and DMK are family units. They only care that their own sons and daughters rise. They don’t care for anyone else. Their callousness on Katchatheevu has harmed the interests of our poor fishermen and fisherwomen in particular."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-launches-scathing-attack-on-opposition-india-alliance-india-still-paying-for-misdoings-of-congress-706292">PM Modi launches scathing attack on opposition INDIA alliance; ‘India still paying for misdoings of Congress’</a></p>

<p>The remarks were made by the prime minister citing a report published by The Times Of India in which it was stated that then chief minister M Karunanidhi had given a nod to the agreement even though his part was against the deal.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rhetoric aside, DMK has done NOTHING to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests. New details emerging on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Katchatheevu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Katchatheevu</a> have UNMASKED the DMK’s double standards totally.<br />
<br />
Congress and DMK are family units. They only care that their own sons and daughters rise. They don’t care for anyone…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1774636476506223045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The media report was published after the Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai received an RTI reply to his queries on the 1974 agreement - in which the Katchatheevu island was given to Sri Lanka - that took place between Sri Lanka and India when Indira Gandhi was the country's prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday (Mar 31), the prime minister targeted the Congress over the Katchatheevu issue.</p>

<p>"Weakening India's unity, integrity and interests has been the Congress' way of working for 75 years and counting," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>S Jaishankar says 'PM Nehru wanted to give it away'</strong></h2>

<p>External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar launched a scathing attack on Congress and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), in a press conference, he said, "In 1974, India &amp; Sri Lanka concluded an agreement where they drew a maritime boundary, and in drawing the maritime boundary Katchatheevu was put on the Sri Lankan side of the boundary."&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is the background of the issue that we are discussing. In the last five years, the Katchatheevu issue and the Fisherman's issue have been repeatedly raised by various parties in the Parliament,"&nbsp;Jaishankar further said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: No system is perfect says Indian PM Modi on electoral bonds scheme</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-no-system-is-perfect-says-indian-pm-modi-on-electoral-bonds-scheme-706369/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>He added that this issue has not become a ‘live issue' suddenly and said, “It is an issue which has been very much debated in parliament and in the Tamil Nadu circles. It has been the subject of correspondence between the union government and the state government."</p>

<p>"In an observation given by the then PM Jawaharlal Nehru in May 1961, he wrote, 'I attach no importance at all to this little island and I would have no hesitation in giving up our claim to it. I do not like matters like this pending indefinitely and being raised again and again in parliament.' So, to Pandit Nehru, this was a little island, it had no importance, he saw it as a nuisance... For him, the sooner you give it away, the better. This view continued on to Indira Gandhi as well," said the foreign minister.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (April 1) slammed the MK Stalin-led DMK over the Katchatheevu island issue. The prime minister alleged that nothing was done by the party to safeguard the interests of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (April 1) slammed the MK Stalin-led DMK over the Katchatheevu island issue. The prime minister alleged that nothing was done by the party to safeguard the interests of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. He added that the new details which have emerged on India giving the Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka have unmasked the double standards of DMK. Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Rhetoric aside, DMK has done NOTHING to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests. New details emerging on #Katchatheevu have UNMASKED the DMK’s double standards totally. Congress and DMK are family units. They only care that their own sons and daughters rise. They don’t care for anyone else. Their callousness on Katchatheevu has harmed the interests of our poor fishermen and fisherwomen in particular." Also Read: PM Modi launches scathing attack on opposition INDIA alliance; ‘India still paying for misdoings of Congress’ The remarks were made by the prime minister citing a report published by The Times Of India in which it was stated that then chief minister M Karunanidhi had given a nod to the agreement even though his part was against the deal. Rhetoric aside, DMK has done NOTHING to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests. New details emerging on #Katchatheevu have UNMASKED the DMK’s double standards totally. Congress and DMK are family units. They only care that their own sons and daughters rise. They don’t care for anyone… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 1, 2024 × The media report was published after the Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai received an RTI reply to his queries on the 1974 agreement - in which the Katchatheevu island was given to Sri Lanka - that took place between Sri Lanka and India when Indira Gandhi was the country's prime minister. On Sunday (Mar 31), the prime minister targeted the Congress over the Katchatheevu issue. "Weakening India's unity, integrity and interests has been the Congress' way of working for 75 years and counting," he said. S Jaishankar says 'PM Nehru wanted to give it away' External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar launched a scathing attack on Congress and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), in a press conference, he said, "In 1974, India & Sri Lanka concluded an agreement where they drew a maritime boundary, and in drawing the maritime boundary Katchatheevu was put on the Sri Lankan side of the boundary." “This is the background of the issue that we are discussing. In the last five years, the Katchatheevu issue and the Fisherman's issue have been repeatedly raised by various parties in the Parliament," Jaishankar further said. Watch: India: No system is perfect says Indian PM Modi on electoral bonds scheme He added that this issue has not become a ‘live issue' suddenly and said, “It is an issue which has been very much debated in parliament and in the Tamil Nadu circles. It has been the subject of correspondence between the union government and the state government." "In an observation given by the then PM Jawaharlal Nehru in May 1961, he wrote, 'I attach no importance at all to this little island and I would have no hesitation in giving up our claim to it. I do not like matters like this pending indefinitely and being raised again and again in parliament.' So, to Pandit Nehru, this was a little island, it had no importance, he saw it as a nuisance... For him, the sooner you give it away, the better. This view continued on to Indira Gandhi as well," said the foreign minister. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi hits out at DMK, says new details on Katchatheevu unmasked party's double standards

India's Southern State of Tamil Nadu a tiny Island between India and Sri Lanka is adding fire To The divide among political parties. Jaishankar says Nehru found Kachatheevu to be a nuisance. What’s the latest controversy between the BJP and the Congress over a tiny island?

Katchatheevu Island row: Key facts about the tiny island, explained

Over the weekend Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena wrapped up his official visit to China. It was the first trip by a top Lankan leader to Beijing after Colombo put a moratorium on recovering visits by Chinese research ships. Watch to know more.

Sri Lankan PM meets Xi Jinping & Chinese Premiere

India's Southern State of Tamil Nadu a tiny Island between India and Sri Lanka is adding fire To The divide among political parties.

Katchatheevu Island row: War of words ahead of Parliamentary polls

Sri Lanka NSA meets Indian foreign secretary

<p><strong>Lok Sabha Elections 2024</strong>: The island of Katchatheevu, located just 25 km from Rameswaram in India's Tamil Nadu state, has emerged as a focal point in the ongoing election campaign in India in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term.&nbsp;<img alt="Google Earth" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="120bd516-0291-43b8-b782-e593f212529c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-31T103054.608.png" /></p>

<p>The development comes after Tamil Nadu chief of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, K Annamalai, through a Right To Information application obtained crucial information related to how the 285-acre island came to be administered by Sri Lanka.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Katchatheevu issue heats up as India goes to polls. RTI shows its given to Sri Lanka by Frm Indian PM Indira Gandhi. PM Modi reacts. <a href="https://t.co/9CRUghTWbS">https://t.co/9CRUghTWbS</a> <a href="https://t.co/GmCxHjk4lq">pic.twitter.com/GmCxHjk4lq</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1774294837401178611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Annamalai's RTI application found that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's government decided to hand over Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka in 1974. The official documents showed how New Delhi gave up its control over the island in the Palk Strait.</p>

<h2><strong>Katchatheevu island row: PM Modi reacts</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and described the information as 'eye opening and startling'. "New facts reveal how Congress callously gave away #Katchatheevu. This has angered every Indian and reaffirmed in people’s minds- we can’t ever trust Congress! Weakening India’s unity, integrity and interests has been Congress’ way of working for 75 years and counting," PM Modi wrote.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Eye opening and startling!<br />
<br />
New facts reveal how Congress callously gave away <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Katchatheevu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Katchatheevu</a>.<br />
<br />
This has angered every Indian and reaffirmed in people’s minds- we can’t ever trust Congress!<br />
<br />
Weakening India’s unity, integrity and interests has been Congress’ way of working for…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1774289695821938823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a press conference in New Delhi, the BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi said: "On the issue of Katchatheevu, I would like to remind the entire nation that it belonged to India till 1975 and it is just 25 km from the Indian coast in Tamil Nadu. Earlier Indian fishermen used to go there but during the reign of Indira Gandhi, the then government handed it over to Sri Lanka… In that agreement, it was also said that no Indian fisherman could go there. Because of this, many fishermen have been caught and lodged in jail and faced atrocities."</p>

<p>Trivedi said that "neither DMK (Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party) raises this issue nor Congress raises this issue..."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The island of Katchatheevu, located just 25 km from Rameswaram in India's Tamil Nadu state, has emerged as a focal point in the ongoing election campaign in India in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The island of Katchatheevu, located just 25 km from Rameswaram in India's Tamil Nadu state, has emerged as a focal point in the ongoing election campaign in India in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term. The development comes after Tamil Nadu chief of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, K Annamalai, through a Right To Information application obtained crucial information related to how the 285-acre island came to be administered by Sri Lanka. Katchatheevu issue heats up as India goes to polls. RTI shows its given to Sri Lanka by Frm Indian PM Indira Gandhi. PM Modi reacts. https://t.co/9CRUghTWbS pic.twitter.com/GmCxHjk4lq — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 31, 2024 × Annamalai's RTI application found that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's government decided to hand over Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka in 1974. The official documents showed how New Delhi gave up its control over the island in the Palk Strait. Katchatheevu island row: PM Modi reacts Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and described the information as 'eye opening and startling'. "New facts reveal how Congress callously gave away #Katchatheevu. This has angered every Indian and reaffirmed in people’s minds- we can’t ever trust Congress! Weakening India’s unity, integrity and interests has been Congress’ way of working for 75 years and counting," PM Modi wrote. Eye opening and startling! New facts reveal how Congress callously gave away #Katchatheevu. This has angered every Indian and reaffirmed in people’s minds- we can’t ever trust Congress! Weakening India’s unity, integrity and interests has been Congress’ way of working for… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 31, 2024 × In a press conference in New Delhi, the BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi said: "On the issue of Katchatheevu, I would like to remind the entire nation that it belonged to India till 1975 and it is just 25 km from the Indian coast in Tamil Nadu. Earlier Indian fishermen used to go there but during the reign of Indira Gandhi, the then government handed it over to Sri Lanka… In that agreement, it was also said that no Indian fisherman could go there. Because of this, many fishermen have been caught and lodged in jail and faced atrocities." Trivedi said that "neither DMK (Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party) raises this issue nor Congress raises this issue..." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi says 'Congress callously gave away Katchatheevu' island to Sri Lanka

The Katchtheevu issue: In the latest Prime Minister Modi has slammed MK Stalin led DMK over the issue. The Prime Minister said that the party has done nothing to safeguard Tamil Nadu's interests. Watch to know more!

Katchatheevu Issue: India's PM Modi says 'Congress callously gave away Katchatheevu Island'

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Matheesha Pathirana took a one-hand diving stunner to his right during the crucial league match against Delhi Capitals in front of a packed ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Batting first, the Capitals were off to a flyer, courtesy of David Warner and freshly recalled Prithvi Shaw. The duo stitched a 93-run partnership by the halfway mark of the innings when&nbsp;Pathirana surprised everyone with his athletic prowess.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mustafizur Rahman bowling from over the wicket bowled a slower and full-length delivery on the stumps. Warner shaped up to play a reverse sweep and got decent meat on it. However, the placement wasn't perfect and 'Baby Malinga' as he is often called in these circles, used his slingers to dive to his right and pluck a difficult catch out of thin air.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fans went berserk after the catch and richly applauded the Sri Lankan for the catch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Are you craaazyyy or what, Maheesh Pathirana? This has to be the catch of the season. Excellent comeback by CSK," said one user, while another commented:&nbsp;"Already the catch of the season. Take a bow Matheesha Pathirana."</p>

<p>A third added: "Pathirana behaving like nothing much happened. What a character and WHAT A CATCH too."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝗦𝗧𝗨𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗥 🤩<br />
<br />
Matheesha Pathirana takes a one hand diving catch to dismiss David Warner who was on song tonight<br />
<br />
Watch the match LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JioCinema</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> 💻📱<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/sto5tnnYaj">pic.twitter.com/sto5tnnYaj</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1774450716569936069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Pathirana's heroics in the field did not stop there as he came in to bowl and cleaned up Mitchell Marsh as well Tristan Stubbs in the same over. The Australian all-rounder was starting to tee off before Pathirana darted in his slingy, pacy yorker at the base of the stumps which Marsh could not dig out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marsh's replacement Tristan Stubbs could not last long either and succumbed to a similar lethal delivery. The quick wickets flattened DC momentarily who had to go in a shell for a bit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Teams:</b></p>

<p><b>Delhi Capitals</b>&nbsp;(Playing XI): Prithvi Shaw, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Tristan Stubbs, Abishek Porel, Axar Patel, Anrich Nortje, Mukesh Kumar, Ishant Sharma, Khaleel Ahmed</p>

<p><b>Chennai Super Kings</b>&nbsp;(Playing XI): Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja, Sameer Rizvi, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Mustafizur Rahman</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Matheesha Pathirana took a one-hand diving stunner to his right during the crucial league match against Delhi Capitals in front of a packed ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Matheesha Pathirana took a one-hand diving stunner to his right during the crucial league match against Delhi Capitals in front of a packed ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Batting first, the Capitals were off to a flyer, courtesy of David Warner and freshly recalled Prithvi Shaw. The duo stitched a 93-run partnership by the halfway mark of the innings when Pathirana surprised everyone with his athletic prowess. Mustafizur Rahman bowling from over the wicket bowled a slower and full-length delivery on the stumps. Warner shaped up to play a reverse sweep and got decent meat on it. However, the placement wasn't perfect and 'Baby Malinga' as he is often called in these circles, used his slingers to dive to his right and pluck a difficult catch out of thin air. The fans went berserk after the catch and richly applauded the Sri Lankan for the catch. "Are you craaazyyy or what, Maheesh Pathirana? This has to be the catch of the season. Excellent comeback by CSK," said one user, while another commented: "Already the catch of the season. Take a bow Matheesha Pathirana." A third added: "Pathirana behaving like nothing much happened. What a character and WHAT A CATCH too." 𝗦𝗧𝗨𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗥 🤩 Matheesha Pathirana takes a one hand diving catch to dismiss David Warner who was on song tonight Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia 💻📱#TATAIPL | #DCvCSK | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/sto5tnnYaj — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2024 × Pathirana's heroics in the field did not stop there as he came in to bowl and cleaned up Mitchell Marsh as well Tristan Stubbs in the same over. The Australian all-rounder was starting to tee off before Pathirana darted in his slingy, pacy yorker at the base of the stumps which Marsh could not dig out. Marsh's replacement Tristan Stubbs could not last long either and succumbed to a similar lethal delivery. The quick wickets flattened DC momentarily who had to go in a shell for a bit. Teams: Delhi Capitals (Playing XI): Prithvi Shaw, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Tristan Stubbs, Abishek Porel, Axar Patel, Anrich Nortje, Mukesh Kumar, Ishant Sharma, Khaleel Ahmed Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja, Sameer Rizvi, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Mustafizur Rahman (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: Pathirana’s one-hand stunner, two yorker dismissals flatten DC - WATCH

Sri Lanka Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, on Wednesday (Mar 27) announced that China will help the island nation build its strategic deep sea port and an airport in the capital city of Colombo. The two countries also signed nine new agreements amid Sri Lanka’s efforts to restructure and revive its bankrupt economy.

Sri Lanka PM Dinesh Gunawardena in China to cement Colombo, Beijing ties

<p>Sri Lanka Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, on Wednesday (Mar 27) announced that China will help the island nation build its strategic deep sea port and an airport in the capital city of Colombo. The two countries also signed nine new agreements amid Sri Lanka’s efforts to restructure and revive its bankrupt economy.</p>

<p>Gunawardena said China would “assist” Sri Lanka in restructuring its external debt, which is a key condition for the $2.9 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout and also offered “assistance to develop” Colombo International Airport and Hambantota port.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sri Lanka PM’s visit</strong></h2>

<p>The Sri Lankan PM is in the midst of a crucial six-day visit to China – the island’s biggest bilateral creditor – during which he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan: China firm suspend power project after five engineers killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-china-firm-suspend-power-project-after-five-engineers-killed-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-attack-704829/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>China has yet to respond to the debt restructuring assistance claim made by Gunawardena’s office since the plans have not been made public, reported news agency AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Sri Lankan PM’s office said that the Chinese premier had promised Beijing would “assist Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring process continuously and help Sri Lanka to develop its economy.”</p>

<p>China has offered “assistance to develop” Colombo International Airport and Hambantota port, said a statement from Gunawardena’s office.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-bridge-collapse-joe-biden-appreciates-sos-sent-by-indian-crew-on-ship-704755">Baltimore bridge collapse: Joe Biden appreciates quick SOS sent by Indian crew on ship</a></strong></p>

<p>Hambantota, in southern Sri Lanka, was handed to a Chinese state-owned company in 2017 on a 99-year lease for $1.12 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move has since sparked security concerns in India with New Delhi saying that the port could be used by Chinese research vessels for espionage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Sri Lanka has maintained that their ports will not be used for any military purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Xi reaffirms ties</strong></h2>

<p>During his meeting with Gunawardena, Xi reportedly called for the consolidation of friendly relations between China and Sri Lanka and said that Beijing is willing to work with Colombo to carry forward the spirit of the Rubber-Rice Pact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also called on Sri Lanka to join hands to advance their strategic cooperative partnership featuring sincere mutual assistance and ever-lasting friendship, according to an official statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-strongly-condemns-terrorist-attack-on-chinese-nationals-in-pakistan-704876">China ‘strongly condemns’ terrorist attack on Chinese nationals in Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>China is Sri Lanka’s largest bilateral lender and owned 52 per cent of the $40 billion external debt when Colombo announced its sovereign default in 2022.</p>

<p>The Sri Lankan PM’s visit came days after the IMF concluded its second review of the $2.9 billion bailout.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Sri Lanka Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, on Wednesday (Mar 27) announced that China will help the island nation build its strategic deep sea port and an airport in the capital city of Colombo.

Sri Lanka Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, on Wednesday (Mar 27) announced that China will help the island nation build its strategic deep sea port and an airport in the capital city of Colombo. The two countries also signed nine new agreements amid Sri Lanka’s efforts to restructure and revive its bankrupt economy. Gunawardena said China would “assist” Sri Lanka in restructuring its external debt, which is a key condition for the $2.9 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout and also offered “assistance to develop” Colombo International Airport and Hambantota port. Sri Lanka PM’s visit The Sri Lankan PM is in the midst of a crucial six-day visit to China – the island’s biggest bilateral creditor – during which he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qing. WATCH | Pakistan: China firm suspend power project after five engineers killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack China has yet to respond to the debt restructuring assistance claim made by Gunawardena’s office since the plans have not been made public, reported news agency AFP. The Sri Lankan PM’s office said that the Chinese premier had promised Beijing would “assist Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring process continuously and help Sri Lanka to develop its economy.” China has offered “assistance to develop” Colombo International Airport and Hambantota port, said a statement from Gunawardena’s office. Also Read | Baltimore bridge collapse: Joe Biden appreciates quick SOS sent by Indian crew on ship Hambantota, in southern Sri Lanka, was handed to a Chinese state-owned company in 2017 on a 99-year lease for $1.12 billion. The move has since sparked security concerns in India with New Delhi saying that the port could be used by Chinese research vessels for espionage. However, Sri Lanka has maintained that their ports will not be used for any military purposes. Xi reaffirms ties During his meeting with Gunawardena, Xi reportedly called for the consolidation of friendly relations between China and Sri Lanka and said that Beijing is willing to work with Colombo to carry forward the spirit of the Rubber-Rice Pact. He also called on Sri Lanka to join hands to advance their strategic cooperative partnership featuring sincere mutual assistance and ever-lasting friendship, according to an official statement. Also Read | China ‘strongly condemns’ terrorist attack on Chinese nationals in Pakistan China is Sri Lanka’s largest bilateral lender and owned 52 per cent of the $40 billion external debt when Colombo announced its sovereign default in 2022. The Sri Lankan PM’s visit came days after the IMF concluded its second review of the $2.9 billion bailout. (With inputs from agencies)

China to ‘assist’ in developing strategic deep sea port, says Sri Lanka PM amid visit to Beijing

<p>Sri Lanka’s former president Maithripala Sirisena on Monday appeared before the crime investigation department to record a statement on his recent remarks on the 2019 Easter Sunday suicide bombings that he was “aware” of the masterminds of the attacks that killed 270 people, including 11 Indians.</p>

<p>Sirisena, 72, was president between 2015 January and 2019 November. He had previously denied any knowledge of the attacks on April 21, 2019.</p>

<p>Nihal Thalduwa, police spokesperson, told reporters that a five-hour-long statement was recorded.</p>

<p>Sirisena arrived around 10:30 in the morning and left around 4 pm, the police said.</p>

<p>Sirisena making a public statement in the central town of Kandy on Wednesday said “he was aware of the masterminds of the attacks.: “I know who did it”, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-congress-releases-sixth-list-including-names-of-five-candidates-704138">Lok Sabha polls 2024: Congress releases sixth list including names of five candidates</a></strong></p>

<p>The Opposition National People’s Power lawyers met the Attorney General on Monday and urged him to issue an order to arrest Sirisena.</p>

<p>“It is a crime to conceal information,” Sunil Watagala, an NPP lawyer said.</p>

<p>The Catholic Church, rights groups and Opposition parties are united in their cry for Sirisena’s arrest.</p>

<p>Sirisena had said that he received information three weeks ago and that he would be willing to testify in court on camera. He said that if he were to make an open court statement, his life and his family could be in danger.</p>

<p>Nine suicide bombers belonging to the local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ) linked to ISIS carried out a series of blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-seeks-debt-relief-from-india-after-insisting-on-troop-withdrawal-703245">Maldives seeks debt relief from India after insisting on troop withdrawal</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the timing of the bombing ahead of the 2019 presidential election was the subject of conspiracy theories which suggested that the Rajapaksa brothers then in opposition had taken political advantage of the attacks.</p>

<p>Sirisena was accused and found guilty in a special presidential panel he appointed as the country’s president. The findings blamed him for inaction on the prior intelligence received on the attacks.</p>

<p>Later, he was ordered to pay Sri Lankan rupee 100 million to the relatives of the victims of the attack as compensation. He has so far paid only a part of it.</p>


Sri Lanka’s former president Maithripala Sirisena on Monday appeared before the crime investigation department to record a statement on his recent remarks on the 2019 Easter Sunday suicide bombings that he was “aware” of the masterminds of the attacks that killed 270 people, including 11 Indians.

Sri Lanka’s former president Maithripala Sirisena on Monday appeared before the crime investigation department to record a statement on his recent remarks on the 2019 Easter Sunday suicide bombings that he was “aware” of the masterminds of the attacks that killed 270 people, including 11 Indians. Sirisena, 72, was president between 2015 January and 2019 November. He had previously denied any knowledge of the attacks on April 21, 2019. Nihal Thalduwa, police spokesperson, told reporters that a five-hour-long statement was recorded. Sirisena arrived around 10:30 in the morning and left around 4 pm, the police said. Sirisena making a public statement in the central town of Kandy on Wednesday said “he was aware of the masterminds of the attacks.: “I know who did it”, he said. Also Read | Lok Sabha polls 2024: Congress releases sixth list including names of five candidates The Opposition National People’s Power lawyers met the Attorney General on Monday and urged him to issue an order to arrest Sirisena. “It is a crime to conceal information,” Sunil Watagala, an NPP lawyer said. The Catholic Church, rights groups and Opposition parties are united in their cry for Sirisena’s arrest. Sirisena had said that he received information three weeks ago and that he would be willing to testify in court on camera. He said that if he were to make an open court statement, his life and his family could be in danger. Nine suicide bombers belonging to the local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ) linked to ISIS carried out a series of blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels in Sri Lanka. Also Read | Maldives seeks debt relief from India after insisting on troop withdrawal However, the timing of the bombing ahead of the 2019 presidential election was the subject of conspiracy theories which suggested that the Rajapaksa brothers then in opposition had taken political advantage of the attacks. Sirisena was accused and found guilty in a special presidential panel he appointed as the country’s president. The findings blamed him for inaction on the prior intelligence received on the attacks. Later, he was ordered to pay Sri Lankan rupee 100 million to the relatives of the victims of the attack as compensation. He has so far paid only a part of it.

Sri Lanka: Former President Maithripala Sirisena quizzed by police for 5 hours after remark on Easter bombings

<p>Sri Lanka's President Ranil Wickremesinghe has expressed admiration for India's digital achievements, citing it as a model worth emulating. Speaking at a conference on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in Colombo, President Wickremesinghe emphasised the need for collaboration with India, highlighting the potential to save years in development by adopting India's digital strategies.</p>

<p>"In implementing it, we needed help, and the best place we could get was India. I spoke with PM Modi when I was in India last year, and as part of our integration, we said, we would like to go with India, you have done so much," stated President Wickremesinghe, underlining the significance of seeking guidance from India's experience.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-ranil-wickremesinghe-speaks-to-wion-on-chinese-vessels-upi-and-more-689010">Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe speaks to WION on Chinese vessels, UPI and more</a></strong></p>

<p>Acknowledging India's historical contribution, he added, "Another reason I took India, is it is the country that discovered zero. Where would the world be had India not discovered zero." Wickremesinghe expressed his intention to mirror India's digital advancements, tailored to suit Sri Lanka's needs. "Let us piggyback your experience. It will save us a few years, maybe 4-5 years in development," he affirmed.</p>

<p>President Wickremesinghe outlined his vision for Sri Lanka's digital future, emphasising the importance of digital public infrastructure. "We want to go ahead, I want to implement, I hope we have the support. We have to make the change, we have to join the 21st century. Just as India has done, we have to go ahead and do the same," he declared.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe speaks to WION on India-Sri Lanka ties &amp; more</strong></p>

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<p>Highlighting specific initiatives, Wickremesinghe mentioned the introduction of Artificial Intelligence in schools and the establishment of an institutional framework for a digital economy. He also expressed gratitude for India's assistance in the opening of an IIT branch in Sri Lanka, which will be the third foreign campus of IIT after Tanzania and the UAE.</p>

<p>Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, underscored the collaborative efforts between the two nations in advancing digital infrastructure.</p>

<p>He referenced to India's support to the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity Project (SL-UDI), akin to India's Aadhaar, as a symbol of this partnership. "Both leaders agreed to leverage India's DPI in accordance with Sri Lanka's requirements and priorities, towards efficient delivery of citizen-centric services," explained Jha.</p>

<p>Jha further emphasised India's commitment to supporting Sri Lanka's digital transformation, noting the inclusion of DPI in bilateral joint statements and vision documents. The conference was organised by the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka's Ministry of Technology.</p>


Sri Lanka's President Ranil Wickremesinghe has expressed admiration for India's digital achievements, citing it as a model worth emulating. Speaking at a conference on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in Colombo, President Wickremesinghe emphasised the need for collaboration with India, highlighting the potential to save years in development by adopting India's digital strategies.

Sri Lanka's President Ranil Wickremesinghe has expressed admiration for India's digital achievements, citing it as a model worth emulating. Speaking at a conference on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in Colombo, President Wickremesinghe emphasised the need for collaboration with India, highlighting the potential to save years in development by adopting India's digital strategies. "In implementing it, we needed help, and the best place we could get was India. I spoke with PM Modi when I was in India last year, and as part of our integration, we said, we would like to go with India, you have done so much," stated President Wickremesinghe, underlining the significance of seeking guidance from India's experience. Also read | Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe speaks to WION on Chinese vessels, UPI and more Acknowledging India's historical contribution, he added, "Another reason I took India, is it is the country that discovered zero. Where would the world be had India not discovered zero." Wickremesinghe expressed his intention to mirror India's digital advancements, tailored to suit Sri Lanka's needs. "Let us piggyback your experience. It will save us a few years, maybe 4-5 years in development," he affirmed. President Wickremesinghe outlined his vision for Sri Lanka's digital future, emphasising the importance of digital public infrastructure. "We want to go ahead, I want to implement, I hope we have the support. We have to make the change, we have to join the 21st century. Just as India has done, we have to go ahead and do the same," he declared. Also watch | Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe speaks to WION on India-Sri Lanka ties & more × Highlighting specific initiatives, Wickremesinghe mentioned the introduction of Artificial Intelligence in schools and the establishment of an institutional framework for a digital economy. He also expressed gratitude for India's assistance in the opening of an IIT branch in Sri Lanka, which will be the third foreign campus of IIT after Tanzania and the UAE. Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, underscored the collaborative efforts between the two nations in advancing digital infrastructure. He referenced to India's support to the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity Project (SL-UDI), akin to India's Aadhaar, as a symbol of this partnership. "Both leaders agreed to leverage India's DPI in accordance with Sri Lanka's requirements and priorities, towards efficient delivery of citizen-centric services," explained Jha. Jha further emphasised India's commitment to supporting Sri Lanka's digital transformation, noting the inclusion of DPI in bilateral joint statements and vision documents. The conference was organised by the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka's Ministry of Technology.

Sri Lanka President Wickremesinghe looks to adopt India's digital model

<p>Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has been suspended for two Tests, announced the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (Mar 19). Hasaranga had come out of Test retirement to take part in the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh but will be sitting out now. He was suspended for accumulating eight demerit points, including three handed to him in the recent ODI series against Bangladesh.</p>

<p>Hasaranga was found in breach of article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct in the third ODI of the three-match series against Bangladesh. The article refers to 'showing dissent at an Umpire's decision during an International Match.'</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rcb-officially-change-name-to-royal-challengers-bengaluru-in-glitzy-ceremony-701988">RCB officially change name to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in glitzy ceremony</a></p>

<p>The spinner, in the 37th over of the match (3rd DOI), had snatched his cap from the umpire and showed frustration. Sri Lanka eventually lost the game by four wickets as Bangladesh took the series 2-1. Hasaranga was fined 50 per cent of his match fee apart from getting three demerit points.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka's T20 skipper was already at five demerit points after being handed three points to him in the T20I series against Afghanistan last month. As per the ICC, accumulating eight demerit points in a 24-month period gets converted to four suspension points which are enough for a player to get suspended for two Tests, four ODIs or T20Is, whatever comes first.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a result, Hasaranga will not be featuring in the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. Apart from him, Sri Lanka's ODI skipper Kusal Mendis was also handed three demerit points and a fine of 50 per cent match fee for a Level 2 offence.</p>

<p>Mendis, after the end of the third ODI against Bangladesh, had abused the umpires while shaking hands and breached article 2.13 of the ICC Code of Conduct.</p>

<p>Article 2.13 breached by Mendis pertains to 'Personal abuse of a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire or Match Referee during an International Match.' It was Mendis' first offence in the 24-month period. Both the Lankan players accepted the sanctions handed by ICC match referee Andy Pycroft.</p>


Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has been suspended for two Tests, announced the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (Mar 19). Hasaranga had come out of Test retirement to take part in the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh but will be sitting out now.

Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has been suspended for two Tests, announced the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (Mar 19). Hasaranga had come out of Test retirement to take part in the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh but will be sitting out now. He was suspended for accumulating eight demerit points, including three handed to him in the recent ODI series against Bangladesh. Hasaranga was found in breach of article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct in the third ODI of the three-match series against Bangladesh. The article refers to 'showing dissent at an Umpire's decision during an International Match.' Also Read: RCB officially change name to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in glitzy ceremony The spinner, in the 37th over of the match (3rd DOI), had snatched his cap from the umpire and showed frustration. Sri Lanka eventually lost the game by four wickets as Bangladesh took the series 2-1. Hasaranga was fined 50 per cent of his match fee apart from getting three demerit points. Sri Lanka's T20 skipper was already at five demerit points after being handed three points to him in the T20I series against Afghanistan last month. As per the ICC, accumulating eight demerit points in a 24-month period gets converted to four suspension points which are enough for a player to get suspended for two Tests, four ODIs or T20Is, whatever comes first. As a result, Hasaranga will not be featuring in the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. Apart from him, Sri Lanka's ODI skipper Kusal Mendis was also handed three demerit points and a fine of 50 per cent match fee for a Level 2 offence. Mendis, after the end of the third ODI against Bangladesh, had abused the umpires while shaking hands and breached article 2.13 of the ICC Code of Conduct. Article 2.13 breached by Mendis pertains to 'Personal abuse of a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire or Match Referee during an International Match.' It was Mendis' first offence in the 24-month period. Both the Lankan players accepted the sanctions handed by ICC match referee Andy Pycroft.

Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga banned from upcoming Tests against Bangladesh. Here's why

<p>Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has appointed former Pakistan seamer Aaqib Javed as their new fast-bowling coach till the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in June (to be held in the Caribbean and the USA), the board announced in a statement on Saturday (March 16). Javed will depart for the Island Nation next week.</p>

<p>"Sri Lanka Cricket wishes to announce the appointment of former Pakistan pace bowler Aaqib Javed as the national team's fast-bowling coach," an SLC statement said. "He will work with the national team until the completion of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup."</p>

<p>A new-ball bowler during his time, Javed has served as Pakistan's bowling coach before, guiding them to their maiden T20 World Cup title in England in 2009. Later, he coached UAE when ICC granted them an ODI status, and they qualified for the 2015 World Cup Down Under. Besides, Javed was Pakistan's U-19 coach in 2004 when they won the title.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shane-watson-pulls-out-of-race-to-become-pakistan-head-coach-despite-lucrative-offer-700813">Shane Watson pulls out of race to become Pakistan head coach despite lucrative offer</a></strong></p>

<p>Javed, 51, is associated with the Pakistan Super League (PSL), serving as Lahore Qalandars' head coach since 2017. He led the franchise to successive titles in 2022 and 2023, while Lahore endured a disappointing campaign this season, winning just one game and finishing at the bottom of the points table.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Javed is a World Cup winner with Pakistan; he featured in 163 ODIs and 22 Tests between 1988 and 1998.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Sri Lanka revive after WC fallout drama</h2>

<p>Following last year's 50-over World Cup in India, where Sri Lanka suffered a dismal fate, especially against India in Mumbai, where they got all out on 55 in the chase of 358, an outrage from fans led to the chaos within the cricket board. The ICC had to step in and suspend the board on corruption and government intervention charges later.</p>

<p>However, their on-field cricket seemed to make headlines for the right reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Against Bangladesh on an away tour currently, Sri Lanka won the three-match T20Is 2-1 and were victorious in the recently concluded 2nd ODI, chasing 287 with three wickets remaining. While Wanindu Hasaranga returned with four for 45 in 10 overs, SL's first ODI double centurion, Pathum Nissanka, slammed a stunning 114.&nbsp;</p>


Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has appointed former Pakistan seamer Aaqib Javed as their new fast-bowling coach till the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in June (to be held in the Caribbean and the USA), the board announced in a statement on Saturday (March 16).

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has appointed former Pakistan seamer Aaqib Javed as their new fast-bowling coach till the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in June (to be held in the Caribbean and the USA), the board announced in a statement on Saturday (March 16). Javed will depart for the Island Nation next week. "Sri Lanka Cricket wishes to announce the appointment of former Pakistan pace bowler Aaqib Javed as the national team's fast-bowling coach," an SLC statement said. "He will work with the national team until the completion of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup." A new-ball bowler during his time, Javed has served as Pakistan's bowling coach before, guiding them to their maiden T20 World Cup title in England in 2009. Later, he coached UAE when ICC granted them an ODI status, and they qualified for the 2015 World Cup Down Under. Besides, Javed was Pakistan's U-19 coach in 2004 when they won the title. ALSO READ: Shane Watson pulls out of race to become Pakistan head coach despite lucrative offer Javed, 51, is associated with the Pakistan Super League (PSL), serving as Lahore Qalandars' head coach since 2017. He led the franchise to successive titles in 2022 and 2023, while Lahore endured a disappointing campaign this season, winning just one game and finishing at the bottom of the points table. Meanwhile, Javed is a World Cup winner with Pakistan; he featured in 163 ODIs and 22 Tests between 1988 and 1998. Sri Lanka revive after WC fallout drama Following last year's 50-over World Cup in India, where Sri Lanka suffered a dismal fate, especially against India in Mumbai, where they got all out on 55 in the chase of 358, an outrage from fans led to the chaos within the cricket board. The ICC had to step in and suspend the board on corruption and government intervention charges later. However, their on-field cricket seemed to make headlines for the right reasons. Against Bangladesh on an away tour currently, Sri Lanka won the three-match T20Is 2-1 and were victorious in the recently concluded 2nd ODI, chasing 287 with three wickets remaining. While Wanindu Hasaranga returned with four for 45 in 10 overs, SL's first ODI double centurion, Pathum Nissanka, slammed a stunning 114.

Sri Lanka rope in Pakistan’s Aaqib Javed as fast bowling coach for T20 World Cup

<p>Sri Lankan authorities have arrested 21 Indian nationals for illegally operating an online marketing centre in the island nation, violating the relaxed tourist visa norms, a media report said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The 21 Indian men in the age group of 24 to 25, who were in Sri Lanka on tourist visas, were taken into custody on Tuesday by the Department of Immigration and Emigration, the Daily Mirror newspaper reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-announces-visa-free-entry-for-india-six-other-countries-to-boost-tourism-650739" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-announces-visa-free-entry-for-india-six-other-countries-to-boost-tourism-650739&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiXsNK07vGEAxUSTmwGHXhiA4MQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1TB6DkSdzRz63Mh6a1XExE&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-announces-visa-free-entry-for-india-six-other-countries-to-boost-tourism-650739" target="_blank"><b>Sri Lanka</b>&nbsp;announces visa-free entry for India, six other countries</a></p>

<p>After a preliminary inquiry, the department raided a rented house in Negombo city, where those arrested were found operating an online marketing centre. The house had been converted into an office space where computers and other devices had been installed, the report said.</p>

<p>Under Sri Lanka’s law, those who visit the island nation on tourist visas are prohibited from engaging in any paid or unpaid work.</p>

<p>The Indian nationals had used the free-of-charge visa condition that Sri Lanka has granted to a set of countries till March 31 as part of an ongoing pilot project to promote tourism in the cash-strapped country.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-controversial-new-law-to-regulate-online-content-comes-into-force-686131">Sri Lanka’s controversial new law to regulate online content comes into force</a></p>

<p>They had arrived in Sri Lanka in February and March on tourist visas, a senior immigration official told the newspaper.</p>

<p>The arrested Indian nationals were transferred to the department’s detention centre in Welisara on the orders of relevant authorities, the report said.</p>


Sri Lankan authorities have arrested 21 Indian nationals for illegally operating an online marketing centre in the island nation, violating the relaxed tourist visa norms, a media report said on Wednesday.

Sri Lankan authorities have arrested 21 Indian nationals for illegally operating an online marketing centre in the island nation, violating the relaxed tourist visa norms, a media report said on Wednesday. The 21 Indian men in the age group of 24 to 25, who were in Sri Lanka on tourist visas, were taken into custody on Tuesday by the Department of Immigration and Emigration, the Daily Mirror newspaper reported. Also read: Sri Lanka announces visa-free entry for India, six other countries After a preliminary inquiry, the department raided a rented house in Negombo city, where those arrested were found operating an online marketing centre. The house had been converted into an office space where computers and other devices had been installed, the report said. Under Sri Lanka’s law, those who visit the island nation on tourist visas are prohibited from engaging in any paid or unpaid work. The Indian nationals had used the free-of-charge visa condition that Sri Lanka has granted to a set of countries till March 31 as part of an ongoing pilot project to promote tourism in the cash-strapped country. Also read: Sri Lanka’s controversial new law to regulate online content comes into force They had arrived in Sri Lanka in February and March on tourist visas, a senior immigration official told the newspaper. The arrested Indian nationals were transferred to the department’s detention centre in Welisara on the orders of relevant authorities, the report said.

21 Indians arrested in Sri Lanka for working illegally while on tourist visa: Report

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