Kaaththaankudi shuts down in support of Hizbullah

[TamilNet, Saturday, 17 May 2008, 10:29 GMT]
Muslims in Kaaththaankudi on Saturday observed a protest shut down against the decision by the Sri Lanka's president Mahinda Rajapaksa in appointing the chief minister for the Eastern Province. Shops were shut down and mosques remained closed expressing support for M.L.A.M. Hizbullah, the Muslim candidate for the Chief Minister portfolio, despite requests to keep the mosques open for prayers. Meanwhile, at least 8 Muslim persons were attacked by Pillayan group paramilitary personnel, sources in Batticaloa said.

A Muslim person was attacked near the Batticaloa police station by armed paramilitary men.

Also, rural Muslim businessmen who went to Tamil areas for business purposes also complained that a hostile attitude was displayed by the paramilitary supporters.

Those who were subjected to attack or harassment were not prepared to lodge complaints with the police due to the fear of personal repercussion from the paramilitary personnel.

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