Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land, and Irrigation K. D. Lal Kantha addressed growing public and political scrutiny surrounding recent controversial public remarks made by independent Jaffna District Member of Parliament Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna.
Speaking to reporters, Minister Lal Kantha responded to allegations that the National People's Power (NPP) government was ignoring inflammatory speeches delivered on political platforms. Opposition figures had highlighted recent events where MP Archchuna publicly identified with banned Tamil militant groups and accused the diaspora of funding the current administration.
Addressing the unconventional behavior of the Jaffna MP, Lal Kantha suggested that the public and political establishment should view his actions with empathy rather than hostility.
"That MP behaves differently in Parliament compared to everyone else," Lal Kantha noted. "I am not sure whether he is suffering from some level of psychological distress or mental depression. We should refrain from using harsh terms like 'madman.' Instead, we ought to look at someone like him with a degree of sympathy."
The Minister referenced recent claims made by Dr. Archchuna—including allegations involving public funds and historical appointments—arguing that such statements stem from personal issues rather than deliberate political strategy. He emphasized that his assessment was made out of concern rather than an attempt to demean the lawmaker.
When questioned on why the government had not issued official press releases to refute Dr. Archchuna’s statements regarding foreign funding and political endorsements, Minister Lal Kantha dismissed the need for continuous formal denials.
On Proving Allegations: "If someone makes claims against the government on a public stage, the burden of proof lies with the speaker," Lal Kantha stated.
On Media Strategy: "If the NPP administration responded with press releases to every claim made by various individuals, we would have to establish an entirely separate unit just for media statements. Unsubstantiated claims naturally lose credibility over time."
However, Lal Kantha placed responsibility on the political organizers who invite MP Archchuna to share their stages. He questioned whether hosting speeches that promote banned organizations aligns with the principles of parties that historically took strong nationalist positions against separatist movements.
In response to concerns that inflammatory rhetoric could trigger ethnic tension, the Minister reiterated the government's stance against racism and communal division. He expressed confidence that statements from non-mainstream figures would not destabilize the country or incite nationalist clashes, as the general public does not view such remarks as serious political discourse.
