The Feminist Collective for Economic Justice has condemned the September 26 police attack on peaceful protestors in Mannar.
In a statement, the group praised the people of Mannar for their long-standing struggle against sand mining and a wind power project that threatens the region’s fragile ecosystem. They said the project, recently handed over to a local company, offers no guarantees that environmental protection or the well-being of local communities will improve compared to the previous Indian investor.
The full statement reads:
"The Feminist Collective for Economic Justice hears the cries of the birds, the land, and the people of Mannar. One of the darkest days of this government occurred on the night of September 26, 2025, when hundreds of police officers brutally attacked peaceful protestors. Many, including women and children, were hospitalized."
"For years, the people of Mannar have been fighting an inspiring battle against sand mining and the wind power project that threatens their fragile ecosystem. Wind turbines disrupt the migratory paths of thousands of birds, and sand mining is destroying the coastal environment. The community faces ongoing social, economic, and ecological harm."
"The government appears to be continuing the plans of the previous regime with only cosmetic changes. After halting the Indian company Adani from building a wind power plant, the contract has been handed to Sri Lankan firm Hayleys Fenton. There is no assurance that the local company will act differently in protecting the environment or safeguarding the people of Mannar."
