The Real Scene Video: State Media’s Double Standards For Harsha And Namal
August 19, 2013
The state-owned Independent Television Network has recently launched a series of attacks on UNP National List MP and Kotte Organiser Dr. Harsha De Silva, for resting his arm over the shoulder of a Buddhist monk during last Wednesday’s Enough is Enough protest in Colombo.
As obvious in the video sequence, De Silva and other MPs were tightly crammed on a flatbed truck, where UNP leaders were addressing the media. In the chaotic and congested situation, De Silva’s arm rests on the shoulder of a Buddhist monk who later turns to give the UNP MP a TV mic to pass on to another speaker, the stills of which have been skillfully manipulated to make the images look indecent.
Harsha’s apology; Read More
The Monk Involved In Harsha Controversy Handed Over To Police By BBS After Being Caught Drunk
August 19, 2013
The Buddhist Monk who was involved in a controversy created by state media regarding Dr Harsha de Silvaresting his arm on the shoulder, was handed over to the police by Bodu Bala Sena, after being caught drunk in a office at Dematagoda with a friend.
According to Withanage the monk was in the army and a few years ago he resigned from the army and became a monk. His father was killed by the JVP during the 1989 insurrection causing him to take up UNP politics.
Related posts;
The monk at BBS headquarters
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‘ITN Attack Is Unfair, But Take It Easy’ – President Phoned Harsha
August 19, 2013
President Mahinda Rajapaksa called UNP National List Legislator Harsha De Silva today, to express his regrets for a campaign of vilification against the Opposition Member by the state owned ITN, Colombo Telegraph learns.
Mahinda Rajapaksa
ITN has recently launched a series of attacks on UNP National List MP and Kotte Organiser Dr.Harsha Silva, for resting his arm over the shoulder of a Buddhist monk during last Wednesday’s Enough is Enough protest in Colombo.
President Rajapaksa is reported to have claimed that the campaign had been unfair since the incident could have happened to anyone. He told de Silva that if necessary an explanation and apology could have been made.
De Silva thanked him for the concern and informed the President that of his own accord he had given ITN an explanation and offered an apology to any one who may have been offended.
The President was surprised that ITN had not carried it and said he will take necessary action, he laughingly told Harsha to take it easy, Colombo Telegraph learns.
Subsequently, SLBC Chairman Hudson Samarasinghe called De Silva during his morning show and said the President had called him and asked him to call the UNP MP and give him an opportunity to explain what happened. Read More
