Deputy Minister of Defence Chairs Discussion on Welfare Measures for Disabled Military and Police Personnel Affected by Terrorism

Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), chaired a special meeting at the Parliament Complex on 09 June to accelerate the provision of welfare assistance to Tri-Forces and Police personnel, including members of the Special Task Force (STF), who sustained disabilities as a result of terrorist activities during the conflict.

As part of the government's commitment in addressing the welfare concerns of security forces personnel affected by terrorism, a programme was launched to identify disabled members of the Tri-Forces and Police to resolve their long-standing issues. A Cabinet memorandum formulated on the recommendations of an appointed committee has secured a Cabinet approval, enabling the implementation of the proposed relief measures.

Attention was directed towards the speedy implementation of the approved welfare programme, with discussions focusing on the appointment of Ministry of Health-represented medical boards to assess cases involving military and Police personnel who were killed, disabled, or discharged from service after being unable to resume duties due to conflict-related injuries. The proposed mechanism is expected to facilitate the efficient delivery of benefits to eligible beneficiaries.

The discussion further focused on establishing a structured mechanism to decentralize the functions of the medical boards and extend their operations to the regional level, thereby improving accessibility for eligible beneficiaries across the country. Emphasizing the need for prompt action, Deputy Minister directed the relevant officials to expedite the implementation of the mechanism.

Highlighting the need to ensure easy access to the programme for disabled veterans residing across the island, the Deputy Minister also instructed all stakeholders to make optimal use of the medical facilities available within the Tri-Forces to facilitate referrals to the medical boards and expedite the processing of benefits. He further emphasized that all eligible beneficiaries should receive their entitled assistance and welfare benefits promptly, without undue delay.

Reaffirming the government's unwavering commitment in supporting disabled service personnel who made immense sacrifices in the service of the nation, the Deputy Minister assured that every effort would be made to provide the necessary welfare and assistance to those affected.

The meeting was attended by the Tri Forces Commanders, the Director General of Health Services, senior officials of the Ministry of Defence, and senior officers representing the Tri Forces, Sri Lanka Police and the Special Task Force.