SL starts work on voluntary repatriation
The Hindu
It is working with other agencies on the collection of preliminary data: Deputy High Commissioner
The Sri Lanka Deputy High Commission has commenced work on voluntary repatriation of Sri Lankan nationals living in the rehabilitation camps of Tamil Nadu, according to Deputy High Commissioner D. Venkateshwaran.
The diplomat, who assumed charge in April this year, told The Hindu on Friday that the Deputy High Commission, together with the office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Departments concerned of Tamil Nadu, including the Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Welfare of Non Resident Tamils, and non-governmental organisations, was also working on the collection of preliminary data for repatriation. The Deputy High Commission had proposed a “suitable” ferry service or passenger air service, accommodating the cargo in containers, for repatriation.
According to the Tamil Nadu government’s document, 58,822 persons were staying in 108 rehabilitation camps as on July 31. Besides, 34,087 refugees were living outside the camps.