Sri Lanka Armed Forces occupying Jaffna peninsula which had forced its people to observe "Independence Day" in the past did not engage in any such activity on Thursday, sources in Jaffna said. Less than ten employees took part in the event in Jaffna Secretariat where Jaffna District Government Agent (GA) hoisted the National Flag, the sources added. Meanwhile, 34 persons including 3 Sinhalese serving prison sentence for minor offences were freed on the day.
Sri Lankan lion flag was seen hoisted only in some places including Sri Lanka Army (SLA) camps and banks.
In the past SLA soldiers had forced the residents of the peninsula to fly the lion flag at all public and private institutions and even on vehicles.
Of the three Sinhalese prisoners given clemency, one was working in Kaangeasanthu’rai harbour while the other two were serving in Palaali Military Agricultural Farm.
31 Tamil prisoners including 7 women serving their sentences in Jaffna Prison were pardoned.
On the whole Independence Day in Jaffna passed on as any other normal day, the sources said.
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