THE govt is on the ball this time.
They've asked the UN to get involved in moving the trapped civillians to safety, discharging part of the responsibility of a legitimate government concerned about its citizens.
The UN says they cannot direct either the LTTE or civillians who choose to stay behind, but will continue to provide humanitarian assistance where and when necessary.
Nevertheless this is a dialogue the SLG needs to have on a continuing basis with all humanitarian aid agencies to ensure this resource is utlized to the maximum.
"..Last week the Government called on the INGOs based in the Wanni to persuade the LTTE to allow civilians to leave for Government-controlled areas without imposing restrictions on them, following reports that the separatists were holding on to the people and using them as human shields....
...United Nations agencies in Sri Lanka have said they are unable to advise civilians to vacate LTTE-controlled areas despite a government request to this effect. Heavy fighting in the Wanni has forced thousands of civilians to move deeper into guerrilla-dominated areas..."
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