Bhagwati-led intl panel terminates operation in Lanka

An Indian-led international panel of experts, constituted to monitor a Sri Lankan government commission probing human rights abuses, today decided to wind up its operations in the island nation, citing limitations to its functioning.

The 11-member International Independent Group of Eminent Persons (IIGEP), headed by former Indian Chief Justice P N Bhagwati, was tasked with observing the functioning of the Commission and commenting on transparency of its investigations and inquiries.

"The IIGEP has decided that it will terminate its operation in Sri Lanka," a statement by the group said, adding the step had been taken after due consideration and for fundamental reasons.

Besides Bhagwati, the IIGEP included experts and professionals from Australia, Britain, Canada, Japan, France, the Netherlands and the US as well as the European Union and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa in November 2006 had appointed a Commission of Inquiry to investigate and inquire into 16 incidents of alleged serious violations of human rights that took place in the island country since August 1, 2005. He subsequently invited 11 persons of international repute to form the IIGEP.

Source: PTI