The take-over of Thoppigala

By: S. A. Robins, Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

I do not intend to belittle the bravery or sacrifices of our armed forces; but the ease with which they took control of Thoppigala, after months of struggle hints that they met no resistance. Had the LTTE already withdrawn? Was it part of their strategy? Where are the casualties? Did the Tigers leave behind just one rocket launcher only?

Was the launching of the offensive by our armed forces by any chance decided beforehand by the LTTE? Did the taking of Thoppigala signify beyond any reasonable doubt, that strategic control of the eastern area was under the complete control of the army?

To raise such questions may be thought to border on being unpatriotic, but queries like these can crop up in the minds of even the most patriotic of Sri Lankans.

Celebrations were decreed, to applaud what was acclaimed as an outstanding victory of our armed forces. All the pomp and pageantry of these celebrations creates a suspicion that Thoppigala provided an ideal ‘red herring’ to distract the minds of the people from other pressing problems like the rocketing CoL, abductions and killings, the plight of refugees, and the deteriorating economy.

It also tended to place emphasis on the military aspect; eroding the peace process still further. Granted that the taking over of Thoppigala was a strategic must but did it call for exhibiting such jubilation as was displayed?

Those in the armed forces make great sacrifices, risking their lives. Is it correct that they should be used as pawns in the chessboard of corrupt politics? Surely they deserve better than that!