Tamil Diaspora News Urges U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Seek the Release of Tamil Artist Sangeethsan Ganeshkumar
Washington, D.C.
Tamil Diaspora News calls upon U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to urgently raise concerns with the Government of Sri Lanka regarding the arrest and detention of Tamil artist Sangeethsan Ganeshkumar under Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).
The arrest of a young artist for alleged expression through music raises serious concerns regarding freedom of expression, cultural identity, and democratic rights. Human rights organizations, legal experts, and international observers have long criticized Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act for enabling arbitrary detention and restricting fundamental freedoms.
The continued use of the PTA against Tamil journalists, artists, activists, and community members undermines Sri Lanka’s commitments to democratic governance and reconciliation.
Tamil Diaspora News respectfully urges Secretary Rubio and the U.S. Department of State to:
▪ Call for the immediate release of Sangeethsan Ganeshkumar unless credible criminal charges consistent with international human rights standards are presented.
▪ Urge Sri Lanka to ensure due process, access to legal counsel, and protection of fundamental rights.
▪ Press for the repeal or substantial reform of the Prevention of Terrorism Act in line with international human rights obligations.
▪ Encourage Sri Lanka to protect freedom of expression and cultural rights for all communities.
The United States has consistently championed democratic values, freedom of expression, and human rights around the world. We respectfully request that these principles be applied in addressing the ongoing concerns surrounding the detention of Sangeethsan Ganeshkumar.
Letter to Secretary Rubio
The Honorable Marco Rubio
Secretary of State
United States Department of State
Washington, D.C.
Dear Secretary Rubio,
We respectfully write to request your attention regarding the arrest and detention of Tamil artist Sangeethsan Ganeshkumar under Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act.
The detention of an artist for alleged expression through music has generated significant concern among Tamil communities and human rights advocates worldwide. The Prevention of Terrorism Act has long been criticized by international organizations for its broad powers of detention and its impact on civil liberties.
We respectfully urge the United States Department of State to engage with the Government of Sri Lanka and encourage:
1. The immediate release of Sangeethsan Ganeshkumar unless internationally recognized criminal standards are met.
2. Full protection of his legal rights and due process guarantees.
3. Reform or repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act consistent with international human rights norms.
4. Protection of freedom of expression and cultural identity for all communities in Sri Lanka.
We believe that promoting democratic freedoms and human rights remains essential to achieving genuine reconciliation and lasting peace in Sri Lanka.
Thank you for your consideration of this important matter.
Respectfully,
Tamil Diaspora News
Washington, D.C.
Thank you,
Tamil Diaspora News,
New York,
June 10, 2026