A public rally held in Nedunkerny, Vavuniya District by Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya has sparked controversy following allegations of politically motivated power disruptions in the surrounding areas.
The rally, which took place on 20 April as part of the National People’s Power (NPP) election campaign, was aimed at bolstering support for candidates contesting under the NPP banner for the Vavuniya North Pradeshiya Sabha. The Prime Minister’s presence was seen as a key endorsement of the party's campaign in the North.
However, local residents in Pattikkudiruppu, Marayiluppai, and Olumadu reported that their electricity supply was deliberately cut during the event. According to accounts from those in the area, the supply was diverted to ensure uninterrupted power to the stage and surrounding facilities used for the rally, including equipment used by security personnel. As a result, electricity was reportedly available exclusively in the central town area of Nedunkerny where the rally was held.
Residents alleged that both police officers and electricity board officials were involved in the power redirection. Opposition party representatives have reportedly lodged formal complaints with election authorities, citing unfair practices and misuse of public resources for political gain.
In response to inquiries, the complaints division of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) offered a different explanation. They stated that the power outage in the affected areas was due to a coconut palm frond falling onto a high-voltage line in Nedunkerny. The division claimed the supply was temporarily disrupted to carry out necessary repairs, which they asserted was the sole cause of the interruption.
The event saw the attendance of Deputy Minister Upali Samarasinghe, Members of Parliament M. Jegatheeswaran and S. Thilakanathan, candidates contesting in the local elections, and a large number of NPP supporters.
This is not the first time allegations of politicised infrastructure disruptions have surfaced in the North-East during election periods. Tamils have consistently raised concerns about the use of state institutions and resources in a manner that disadvantages Tamil parties and undermines democratic norms.
