Christian Clergy Hold ‘Chemmani Solidarity Cry’ Vigil in Jaffna
On Thursday, Christian clergy and bishops from the North-East convened in Jaffna for a symbolic protest named the “Chemmani Solidarity Cry,” demanding justice for genocide victims. The National Christian Council of Bishops organised the event, which began near the Jaffna Arch at the Eternal Flame memorial.
The protest attracted Catholic dignitaries and clergy from various dioceses across Sri Lanka. Before the demonstration, the delegation honored the victims by laying floral tributes at the Eternal Flame memorial, commemorating those lost in the genocide against Tamils.
The participants then silently marched to the Hindu cremation grounds at Sindubathi, home to the Chemmani mass grave, to pay respects to those killed and buried there. This gathering represented one of the most prominent interfaith solidarity events in the Northern region in recent years.
The clergy described their action as “a moral and spiritual call for truth and accountability, urging the Sri Lankan state to deliver justice for the atrocities committed during and after the war.”
Background on the Chemmani Mass Graves
The Chemmani mass graves were uncovered in 1998 after a Sri Lankan soldier on trial for the rape and murder of a Tamil schoolgirl revealed that hundreds of Tamils who vanished following the army’s 1995 capture of Jaffna had been buried in this area.
Significance of the Vigil
- Highlighted demands for justice for genocide victims
- Demonstrated interfaith solidarity in the North-East
- Brought attention to historical atrocities linked to the war
The event remains a powerful spiritual and political statement advocating for recognition and accountability.
Author’s summary: The Chemmani Solidarity Cry vigil in Jaffna united Christian clergy in a solemn call for justice and recognition of Tamil genocide victims, emphasizing interfaith solidarity and accountability for war crimes.