Protesters say Canada has put NSSP leader's life in 'grave danger'

In a letter handed over to the Canadian High Commission in Colombo, the protesters said they are "extremely surprised" that Canada has branded the leader of the Nava Sama Samaja Party (NSSP) Dr. Vickramabahu Karunaratne as a member of the LTTE.

A protest was held in front of the high commission in Colombo to protest against the contents of a letter issues by the Canadian government envoys, refusing visa to the political leader.

Visa refused

"As a prominent member of a political party that has historically and consistently shown support for the LTTE we can conclude that your actions constitute membership in the LTTE," the letter stated.

As a prominent member of a political party that has historically and consistently shown support for the LTTE we can conclude that your actions constitute membership in the LTTE   Canadian High commission to Dr. Karunaratne

LTTE members and supporters are subjected to "extra judicial prosecution", the protesters say in a statement issued by them. They say the refusal letter has put karunaratne's life in grave danger.

"In a country where the state as well as paramilitary groups operates with impunity, we believe that by labeling Karunaratne as a Tamil Tiger, the Canadian high commission in Colombo justifies any harmful action against him," protesters said.

The embassy has also stated Vickramabahu Karunaratne has spoken in Pongu Tamil events in London and Madrid, Dr. Karunaratne says he has never visited Madrid.

The protesters urged the Canadian government to recall Mr. C McKinney, first secretary, immigration, of the Canadian high commission in Colombo and offer a public apology to NSSP leader.