New York, USA – US Tamil Diaspora strongly urges that the planned promotion and transfer of Judge Anantharajah from Jaffna be rejected until the Chemmani mass grave excavations are fully completed and justice is delivered.
In the late 1990s, 15 skeletons were unearthed at Chemmani, but the excavation was abruptly halted, and justice was denied. Today, as the process is once again moving forward and more remains are being discovered, this moment represents a historic opportunity for truth.
The so-called promotion of Judge Anantharajah is nothing but a fake promotion designed to block the Chemmani progress. Removing him now will not only disrupt and delay the investigation, but also risk transferring the case to a future judge who may be Sinhalese or Muslim. Past experience has shown that many judges in Sri Lanka—out of fear or pressure—take orders from the government instead of standing firmly for justice. The families of the disappeared cannot afford another betrayal.
We demand:
- Judge Anantharajah must remain in Jaffna until the Chemmani excavations and investigations are completed.
- No political interference, fake promotions, or transfers should obstruct this process.
- The excavation must continue under the same judicial authority to preserve continuity, credibility, and accountability.
- International observers and forensic experts must be permitted to monitor the investigation to ensure transparency.
The Chemmani graves are not just about bones; they represent the voices of hundreds of Tamil victims silenced by war crimes. Families who have waited decades deserve answers, not another cover-up.
US Tamil Diaspora reaffirms: Justice delayed has been justice denied for too long. Judge Anantharajah must stay in Jaffna until Chemmani speaks in full.
Thank you,
Tamil Diaspora News, USA
August 4, 2025
