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Top stories — November 11, 2026

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Cabinet approves MoU for 100 new Suwa Seriya ambulances funded by India

November 10·11 sources

The Cabinet of Ministers approved signing a Memorandum of Understanding with India to secure a financial grant to procure 100 fully equipped ambulances for the 1990 Suwa Seriya National Emergency Ambulance Service. Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa submitted the proposal following a request to India. He said the outright grant totals 1,725.7 million rupees and suppliers will be selected through competitive bidding. Officials sought the assistance because the existing fleet of 322 ambulances covers about nine million kilometres annually, resulting in wear and tear and frequent mechanical faults. Launched in 2016 with Indian aid and expanded nationwide in 2018, the free 24-hour service handles 1,000 to 1,200 patient transports daily. The Health Ministry will recruit personnel and handle maintenance.

HealthEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

NCPA introduces national guidelines for media reporting on children

November 10·4 sources

The National Child Protection Authority has introduced national guidelines to ensure child protection, dignity, and safety in media reporting involving children. Announced on 9 November 2026, the guidelines follow nearly 14 years of development by an expert committee led by NCPA Chairperson Preethi Inoka Ranasinghe. NCPA Director Shanika Malalgoda said the authority receives nearly 10,000 child abuse complaints annually, highlighting growing risks from media exposure, online platforms, and modern social challenges. The framework covers ethical reporting, abuse offences, child suicides, children's participation in activities, and, for the first time, digital media, artificial intelligence, and children with disabilities. Sri Lanka CERT Senior Information Security Engineer Charuka Damunupola reported that sensitive online incidents involving children rose from 53 in 2025 to 180 by November 2026, driven partly by content monetization on social media.

OtherEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Sri Lanka approves 200 million dollar ADB loan agreement to support MSMEs

November 10·2 sources

Sri Lanka’s Cabinet has approved entering into an agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to obtain a 200 million US dollar loan to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. The proposal was submitted by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, following the conclusion of negotiations between the Department of External Resources and the ADB. Drawn from the ADB’s ordinary capital resources, the loan is divided into a 100 million dollar policy-based component and a 100 million dollar financial intermediation component. Cabinet spokesperson Nalinda Jayatissa stated the policy-based loan has a 12-year repayment period with a three-year grace period, while the financial intermediation loan carries a 15-year repayment period alongside a five-year grace period. The facility finances the first phase of an approved 620 million dollar ADB programme across five sub-programmes, aligned with the International Monetary Fund’s Extended Fund Facility.

Economy & BusinessEnglishதமிழ்

Attorney General tells Court of Appeal decision on Gampaha Osman awaits investigation

November 10·5 sources

The Attorney General informed the Court of Appeal on 10 November that a decision on whether to proceed under the Prevention of Terrorism Act against Osmand Gunasekara, alias “Gampaha Osman”, will be taken after investigations conclude. Deputy Solicitor General Disna Warnakula made the statement before Justices Mahen Gopallawa and Annalingam Premshankar during a writ petition challenging Gunasekara’s detention. Gunasekara is in remand custody on allegations of aiding and abetting the murder of Ganemulla Sanjeewa. Gunasekara was produced before the Colombo Magistrate's Court on 9 November after 180 days of detention by the Colombo Crimes Division. While News 1st reported he was remanded until 13 November, Hiru News stated his remand was until the 19th. The Court of Appeal fixed the petition for 11 December. Defence Ministry Secretary Ravi Senewiratne and the Colombo Crimes Division Director are among 19 respondents named in the petition.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

NBRO issues disaster safety guidelines amid heavy rains, floods and landslides

November 10·3 sources

The National Building Research Organisation has urged the public to exercise high vigilance regarding landslides, floods, and other natural disasters caused by severe rain across the country. To minimize loss of life and property damage, the organisation advised people to follow official warnings, prepare emergency bags with essential medicines, documents, dry food, and first aid, and inform family members and neighbours about safety measures. Residents should monitor announcements from the Department of Meteorology and the Disaster Management Centre, watch for early landslide signs such as ground cracks or muddy water leaks, and evacuate immediately to safe locations if hazardous situations develop.

Environment & Weatherසිංහලதமிழ்

Meteorology Department forecasts heavy rain exceeding 100 mm across several provinces on 10 November

November 10·9 sources

The Department of Meteorology forecast rainfall exceeding 100 mm on 10 November across the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, and Uva Provinces, and Galle and Matara Districts. Showers were expected elsewhere after 1:00 p.m. By 5:30 a.m., Deniyaya recorded 162.5 mm of rain, Udugama 139 mm, and Dehiowita 115 mm. Rising water levels prompted the Irrigation Department to issue minor flood warnings for the Gin River and Attanagalu Oya basins. Separately, police reported that a 61-year-old man and his 60-year-old wife died from electrocution that morning in Aulegama, Wariyapola.

Environment & WeatherEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Batticaloa court extends remand of Pillayan and two others until 23 November

November 10·6 sources

The Batticaloa Magistrate's Court on Tuesday extended the remand of former State Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, known as Pillayan, and two military intelligence informants until 23 November. The case involves the 2008 killings of five people in Batticaloa with a T-56 rifle, including a police officer in Kallady, a TMVP member in Kattankudy, and an abducted businessman. Informants Mohamed Sifan and Mohamed Saheed appeared in person. Most outlets reported Pillayan appeared via video link, though Tamil Mirror stated prison authorities reported a technical fault prevented his virtual appearance. The court also issued an arrest warrant for a fourth suspect residing in London, named Mohamed Pais, also referred to as Police Pais or Police Boys.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Kayts court postpones Mandaitivu mass grave hearing as military report delays

November 10·2 sources

On 10 November 2026, Magistrate Aneefa Rajeef of the Kayts Magistrate's Court adjourned the hearing into the alleged 1990s Mandaitivu massacre and mass grave to 5 January 2027. Jaffna District Crime Prevention Police submitted available evidence but requested more time. Police explained that the military has not yet provided requested details regarding officers stationed at a local camp needed for taking statements. Attorneys representing the victims urged the court to expedite investigations and collect additional evidence swiftly. Victims expressed deep concern over ongoing delays in the case, which was first heard on 17 September 2025. Attendees included Office on Missing Persons attorney Poorni Mariyanayagam, regional coordinator T. Selvakkumar, and Velanai Divisional Council members Swaminathan Prahalathan and Anusiya Jayakanth.

Crime & Courtsதமிழ்

COPE reveals university lecturers owe nearly Rs. 30 billion over bond breaches

November 10·6 sources

The Committee on Public Enterprises revealed that university lecturers across Sri Lanka who breached bonds and stayed abroad owe the state approximately Rs. 30 billion. COPE urged authorities to establish a formal recovery mechanism. The disclosures came during a meeting on 4 November reviewing Eastern University's 2023 and 2024 performance, chaired by MP Dr. Nishantha Samaraweera, whom Virakesari identified as Samarawickrama. COPE ordered the urgent recovery of Rs. 3,633,900 overpaid to a lecturer who rejoined after contesting elections. Another Rs. 99,181,457 went unrecovered after 38 staff bypassed attendance systems to take excess leave. Rejecting claims that records were lost to floods and the 2004 tsunami, COPE ordered a three-month investigation into missing personal files and conflicting qualification certificates.

EducationEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

UN experts urge Sri Lanka to amend proposed counter-terrorism bill

November 10·5 sources

United Nations human rights experts on Monday urged the Sri Lankan government to amend its proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill to comply with international human rights law. The experts welcomed plans to repeal the 1979 Prevention of Terrorism Act and acknowledged improvements in the draft, but warned that vital human rights concerns remain unaddressed. They recommended limiting the definition of terrorism to intentional death or serious injury, excluding property damage, and subjecting all detention orders to prompt judicial oversight. The experts also urged abolishing military arrest and search powers, ensuring independent detention review committees, and guaranteeing detainees legal counsel, medical care, and visits from the Human Rights Commission. Meanwhile, Samagi Jana Balawegaya parliamentarian Ajith P. Perera stated that the government's proposed amendments to the legislation remain insufficient.

PoliticsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Four Chinese nationals remanded for collecting rare wildlife from Sinharaja forest

November 10·5 sources

Wildlife officers arrested four Chinese nationals, including one woman, on 9 November 2026 for illegally collecting endemic wildlife from the Sinharaja forest reserve. The suspects were remanded by the Kalawana Magistrate's Court until 23 November. Most outlets reported that over 250 specimens from roughly 40 species were recovered, whereas Hiru News reported over 79 animal specimens and rare plant samples. Hiru News also noted that chemicals, equipment, and a car were seized. Investigators stated the suspects had previously visited Sri Lanka. The Magistrate ordered the specimens sent to the National Museum—or the Department of National Zoological Gardens, according to Hiru News—for identification, after which live animals will be released.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Sri Lankan rupee appreciates slightly as US dollar falls on 10 November

November 10·3 sources

The Sri Lankan rupee appreciated slightly against the US dollar on Tuesday (10), according to exchange rates released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The central bank recorded the buying price of a US dollar at Rs. 328.0447 and the selling price at Rs. 336.9832, marking a slight decline in the dollar's value compared to the previous day. Commercial bank buying rates for the dollar ranged from Rs. 325.00 at National Savings Bank to Rs. 329.90 at Amana Bank. Selling rates ranged from Rs. 334.90 at Amana Bank to Rs. 337.50 at National Savings Bank. Selling prices for other major foreign currencies, including the Australian dollar, Canadian dollar, euro, sterling pound, and Swiss franc, also recorded slight fluctuations compared to the previous week.

Economy & Businessසිංහලதமிழ்

Petroleum Corporation chairman expects solution soon on foreign fuel companies' supply control

November 10·1 source

Petroleum Corporation Chairman Rajakaruna stated that the Corporation cannot intervene when foreign companies control fuel supply, as it operates like a company in the market. He said ministerial-level discussions are underway and anticipated that a solution would be found in a day or two. Rajakaruna added that distributors face reduced income and seek government control, though legal implications and public inconvenience must be assessed before making a firm decision.

Economy & Businessதமிழ்

Petroleum distributors protest in Colombo over fuel supply disruptions and commission cuts

November 10·2 sources

Members of the Sri Lanka Petroleum Distributors Association staged a peaceful protest in front of the World Trade Center in Colombo on the morning of 10 November. The protesters opposed a decision reducing distributor commissions from 3.6 percent to 1.5 percent and called for uninterrupted fuel supplies to privately owned filling stations. They also urged the immediate appointment of an official to regulate the fuel pricing formula, in accordance with a 2022 Cabinet paper. Association President Kosala Vithanarachchi accused private importers RM Parks, Sinopec, and Shell/OOS of halting distribution midway. He stated this has caused severe shortages, leaving stations needing seven weekly loads with fewer than three.

Economy & Businessதமிழ்

Supreme Court delivers decision on PSTA Bill to Speaker Jagath Wickramarathne

November 10·1 source

The Speaker’s Office confirmed on 10 November 2026 that the Supreme Court’s decision on the Protection of the State from Terrorism Act (PSTA Bill) has been handed over to Speaker of Parliament Dr. Jagath Wickramarathne. The determination addresses petitions filed concerning the proposed legislation.

Politicsதமிழ்

Principals protest alleged racist remarks by Nuwara Eliya Gamini National School principal

November 10·1 source

Principals in the Nuwara Eliya Education Zone have protested alleged racist remarks made by Nuwara Eliya Gamini National School Principal Nimal Kumaradasa on 7 November 2026. During a Ministry of Education awareness program, Kumaradasa allegedly stated he objected to providing lunch to Tamils, claiming they would dirty the dining area. Most participating principals protested by leaving their lunch packets and water bottles on the dining stage and on the principal's desk. The principals submitted a written complaint requesting an investigation. Nuwara Eliya Zonal Education Director D.M.S. Dissanayake confirmed receiving the complaint and said a special committee would be appointed to investigate.

Educationதமிழ்

Cabinet approves Rs 1.73 billion contract to resume Kelaniya University building construction

November 10·1 source

The Cabinet has approved resuming construction on a ten-storey building for the Faculty of Business and Management Studies at the University of Kelaniya. Work on the project had been suspended because of the economic crisis. The contract was awarded to Axis Structural (Pvt) Ltd for 1.73 billion rupees, excluding value-added tax, after the company submitted the lowest of 10 bids under national competitive bidding. The decision followed recommendations from the High-Level Procurement Committee and the Procurement Appeals Board. The Prime Minister submitted the proposal in the capacity of Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education.

Educationதமிழ்

Cabinet approves submitting new veterinary professional conduct regulations to Parliament

November 10·2 sources

The Cabinet has approved a proposal to submit new regulations governing the professional conduct of veterinary surgeons and practitioners to Parliament for endorsement. The proposal was submitted by the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation. The Veterinary Surgeons and Veterinary Practitioners (Disgraceful Conduct) Regulations No. 01 of 2025 were published in Gazette Extraordinary No. 2470/12 on January 5, 2026. Formulated under the Veterinary Surgeons and Veterinary Practitioners Act, No. 46 of 1956, the rules define disgraceful conduct, including professional ethics violations and abuse of office. The measures empower the Sri Lanka Veterinary Council to appoint inquiry panels and enforce disciplinary actions, including issuing warnings, temporary or permanent suspension, and cancellation of registration.

Healthසිංහලதமிழ்

Cabinet approves MoU between George Mason University and Arthur C. Clarke Institute

November 10·1 source

The Cabinet has approved signing a five-year Memorandum of Understanding between George Mason University in the United States and the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies to enhance science and technology research collaborations. Under the agreement, proposed by the Minister of Science and Technology, both institutions will identify research challenges, develop technological solutions, and carry out mutually beneficial joint research. Collaboration will focus on key technological fields, including cybersecurity, unmanned aerial vehicles, space and satellite technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and 5G communication.

Educationதமிழ்

Cabinet approves road upgrade contracts under national highway and cyclone rehabilitation projects

November 10·1 source

The Cabinet has approved a proposal to award contracts for road upgrades under the National Highway Expansion and Improvement Project and a project rehabilitating roads damaged by Cyclone Ditwa. Submitted by the Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, the contracts will go to the lowest substantially responsive bidders recommended by the High-Level Procurement Committee following national competitive bidding.

Economy & Businessதமிழ்

Heavy rains cause sudden rise in water levels of Nuwara Eliya reservoirs

November 10·1 source

Heavy rains across the Nuwara Eliya district have caused a sudden rise in reservoir water levels. Two sluice gates of the Upper Kotmale Reservoir were opened on the evening of 9 November 2026, increasing water flow in the lower section of St. Clair Falls. Meanwhile, the Wimalasurendra Reservoir continues to overflow following heavy rains in Norwood, where catchment areas recorded 125 millimetres of rain. Norwood Police stated that the overflowing reservoir has raised water levels in the Kehelgamuwa Oya and the Kelani River.

Environment & Weatherதமிழ்

Cabinet approves household compost production project for Western and Southern provinces

November 10·1 source

The Cabinet has approved a proposal submitted by the President to launch a household-level compost production project under the 'Clean Sri Lanka – Clean City' national program. The project will be implemented under the National Solid Waste Management Plan, which is scheduled to run from 2027 to 2029. Organic waste makes up 50 to 60 percent of Sri Lanka's daily solid waste. Converting it into compost at home aims to substantially cut costs for waste collection, transport, segregation, recycling, and disposal. Under local government supervision, households in selected street areas will receive compost baskets along with technical guidance. The project will initially cover the Western and Southern Provinces, with plans to expand to other provinces depending on its success.

Environment & Weatherதமிழ்

Hatton Oya overflow submerges around 30 houses in Hatton Bilihathura

November 10·1 source

Approximately 30 houses in the Hatton Bilihathura area were submerged after the Hatton Oya overflowed, sending rainwater and mud three to four feet high into homes. Local residents safely rescued affected occupants amidst challenging conditions. The floodwaters damaged personal belongings and other possessions inside the properties. Residents stated the flooding occurred because a canal draining towards Hatton Oya was blocked, causing it to overflow. They noted that the area has continuously faced flood disasters due to this ongoing problem.

Environment & Weatherதமிழ்

Four arrested in Jaffna over theft of goods worth Rs. 1.7 million

November 10·1 source

The Jaffna District Crime Prevention Division Police arrested four suspects on the night of 9 November in connection with a theft. The suspects are accused of stealing goods valued at approximately Rs. 1.7 million during the night in 2025. Police have recovered the stolen items. Further investigations are underway, and police are taking steps to produce the suspects before court.

Crime & Courtsதமிழ்

Report on nationwide incidents contains only website details and copyright notices

November 10·1 source

A report titled as a compilation of incidents across the country included only website description text and copyright notices, without reporting any specific events.

Otherதமிழ்

Sri Lanka appoints new secretaries to digital economy and youth ministries on 9 November

November 9·4 sources

On 9 November 2026, the Presidential Media Division announced the appointment of new secretaries to two ministries. Attorney Roshan Gamage, a Special Grade Officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service, was appointed as the new Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy. Dhanapala, also a Special Grade Officer and the outgoing Digital Economy Secretary, was appointed Secretary to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Daily News named him T. R. W. S. Dhanapala, whereas other outlets gave his initials as D.R.W.S. The Secretary to the President presented the appointment letters at the Presidential Secretariat. Daily News and Thamilan named him Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake (or Kumanayaka), while Thinakaran and Virakesari named him Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumara.

PoliticsEnglishதமிழ்

Meteorology department forecasts heavy rainfall exceeding 100 mm across several regions

November 9·8 sources

The Department of Meteorology forecast heavy rain exceeding 100 mm in parts of Sri Lanka on 9 Nov 2026. The public was advised to take precautions against lightning and temporary strong winds during thundershowers. Most outlets reported heavy rain would affect the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North Western, Northern, and North Central provinces, as well as Galle and Matara districts. However, one Thamilan report omitted three provinces and listed Uva Province instead. Showers were predicted at times in the Northern and Eastern provinces and Hambantota District, and after 1:00 p.m. elsewhere. Early morning mist was also forecast in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, and Uva provinces and three districts. Virakesari noted that coastal sea areas would see showers, northeast winds between 20 and 30 km/h, and temporarily very rough waters during thundershowers.

Environment & WeatherEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Verité Research reports nearly 40 percent of 2025 budget proposals lacked substantial implementation

November 9·2 sources

A Verité Research assessment found that 14 out of 36 high-value proposals in Sri Lanka’s 2025 budget, or nearly 40 percent, fell short of substantial implementation. The evaluation covered proposals valued at 500 million rupees or more, totaling 212 billion rupees. Another seven proposals, or 19 percent, were classified as undisclosed due to insufficient information. However, fully implemented proposals rose from 17 percent in 2024 to 33 percent in 2025, the highest rate since tracking began in 2017. Overall, 15 proposals, or 41 percent, were fully or substantially implemented. This progress occurred despite a shorter implementation window following the budget’s February 2025 presentation. Additionally, 64 percent of proposals were rated open, with none rated closed for the first time since 2017.

Economy & BusinessEnglishதமிழ்

Colombo court remands Gampaha Osman until November 13 over Ganemulla Sanjeeva murder

November 9·2 sources

The Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court on November 9 remanded Osman Gunasekara, known as Gampaha Osman, until November 13 following his 180-day detention over the murder of underworld figure Ganemulla Sanjeeva. Gunasekara, aged 69, was arrested on May 13, 2026, in Gampaha. He is accused of conspiring with overseas organized crime groups, providing the firearm, and aiding the assassination. Police seized a foreign-made repeater firearm, 10 live bullets, and two magazines during his arrest. The magistrate instructed the Commissioner of Prisons to ensure special security for the suspect. Sanjeeva, named Sanjeeva Kumara Samararatne, was shot dead inside the Colombo Hulftsdorp Court complex on February 19, 2025, by a gunman disguised as a lawyer.

Crime & Courtsதமிழ்

NBRO issues landslide warnings for nine districts amid heavy rainfall

November 9·2 sources

The National Building Research Organisation, referred to by The Morning as the National Building Research Institute, issued Level 1 and Level 2 landslide warnings across nine districts on 9 November due to continuous heavy rain. Level 2 warnings cover Nildandahinna, Walapane, and Ambagamuwa Korale in Nuwara Eliya District. The Morning reported that Level 2 warnings also apply to Passara in Badulla District and Deraniyagala in Kegalle District. Level 1 warnings were issued for designated divisions in Colombo, Galle, Kalutara, Kandy, Kegalle, Nuwara Eliya, and Ratnapura districts. The Morning included Badulla and Monaragala districts under Level 1 warnings as well. Residents across the affected areas have been advised to remain highly vigilant and exercise caution.

Environment & WeatherEnglishதமிழ்