All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Leader and Member of Parliament Rishad Bathiudeen has formally requested a meeting with Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi to discuss matters related to the facilitation of the Hajj pilgrimage.

In his letter, Bathiudeen proposed that Muslim Members of Parliament from across political parties join the discussion to ensure a comprehensive dialogue on the administration of Hajj affairs. 

He also requested the participation of the Director of the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs and other relevant officials to help address concerns and identify practical solutions for prospective pilgrims.

Bathiudeen urged that the meeting be scheduled during forthcoming Parliamentary sitting days, noting the importance of constructive engagement to resolve issues affecting the Muslim community. (Newswire)

The post Bathiudeen seeks meeting with Religious Affairs Minister to discuss Hajj pilgrimage issues appeared first on Newswire.

A Supreme Court judge today withdrew from proceedings on the appeal filed by former Minister Rishad Bathiudeen against a verdict relating to the clearing of forest reserves near the Wilpattu sanctuary and subsequent resettlements.

The appeal was taken up before a three‑judge bench comprising Justices A.H.M.D. Nawaz, Sampath Abeykoon, and Gihan Kulatunga. 

At the hearing, Justice Nawaz announced that he was stepping down from examining the petition due to personal reasons.

The bench directed that the appeal be called before another panel on September 9.

The case stems from a 2015 writ petition filed by the Centre for Environmental Justice before the Court of Appeal, challenging the clearing of forest land near Wilpattu and resettlement activities allegedly carried out under Bathiudeen’s direction. 

The Court of Appeal later held the former Minister responsible and ordered him to bear the costs of reforestation, estimated by the Department of Wildlife Conservation at around Rs. 1.6 billion.

Bathiudeen has appealed to the Supreme Court, arguing that the Court of Appeal’s ruling was unlawful and seeking its annulment.

Several other Supreme Court judges, Mahinda Samayawardhena, Yasanta Kodagoda, Janak de Silva, and Arjuna Obeyesekere, had previously withdrawn from hearing the petition. (Newswire)

The post Wilpattu forest case : SC Judge withdraws from hearing Bathiudeen appeal appeared first on Newswire.

The Court of Appeal today(15) dismissed the writ application filed in 2018 concerning the resettlement of Muslims in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province.

The writ petition had been filed by Public interest litigation activist, Nagananda Kodituwakku and senior journalist Malinda Seneviratne. 

According to MP Rishad Bathiudeen’s Media Office, the matter, which had been pending for nearly seven years, saw repeated delays in conclusion despite several directives from the court. 

Attorney-at-Law Hejaaz Hizbullah, appearing on behalf of MP Rishad Bathiudeen, argued that the case lacked merit and had been pursued primarily for media publicity rather than legal grounds. 

He requested the court to dismiss the application due to the petitioner’s continuous failure to proceed.

Agreeing with this submission, the Court of Appeal dismissed the writ petition today.

Deputy Solicitor General Manohara Jayasinghe appeared for the 1st to 3rd respondents. Attorneys Hejaaz Hizbullah with Shifan Mahroof represented MP Rishad Bathiudeen. Ruwantha Cooray appeared for former minister Basil Rajapaksa. (Newswire)

The post Appeal Court dismisses 2018 writ on resettlement against Rishad appeared first on Newswire.

The second Mass Wedding Ceremony under the “Mawaddatha wa Rahmah” (Affection and Mercy) initiative, launched by Leader of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) MP Rishad Bathiudeen, was successfully held in Vavuniya on Tuesday (07).

According to MP Bathiudeen’s Media Office, the event, the first of its kind in Sri Lanka, brought together 20 Buddhist, Catholic, and Hindu couples in a collective wedding ceremony that celebrated harmony, compassion, and unity among Sri Lanka’s diverse communities. Each couple was also presented with a cash grant to help them begin their new lives.

The program was funded by Sheikh Mahmoud Fateh Abdullah Al Khajeh, who made this contribution in remembrance of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, whose life of compassion and generosity continues to inspire humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Reflecting the interfaith harmony that Vavuniya represents, religious leaders from all major faiths participated in the ceremony, offering their blessings and messages of unity. The event was graced by Ven. Mihintale Thero, as the Chief Guest, symbolizing the spirit of peaceful coexistence among all communities.

The “Mawaddatha wa Rahmah” project was first launched on 24th August 2025 in Puttalam, where 20 Muslim couples were married under the same initiative. That inaugural ceremony was graced by the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Sri Lanka, Khalid Nasser Al Ameri, as the Chief Guest.

Through this initiative, MP Rishad Bathiudeen aims to promote social harmony, inter-religious unity, and compassion among communities, extending practical support to young couples from all walks of life, a true reflection of affection and mercy in action. (Newswire)

The post 20 interfaith couples tie the knot in Vavuniya under Rishad’s harmony initiative appeared first on Newswire.

All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Leader, MP Rishad Bathiudeen, has called for the immediate intervention of Minister of Health, Nalinda Jayatissa, to protect the constitutional rights of Muslim women employed in the public health sector in the Trincomalee District.

In a letter addressed to the Health Minister, MP Bathiudeen highlighted growing concerns surrounding recent directives reportedly issued by the Provincial Director of Health Services – Eastern Province, instructing Muslim women health employees to refrain from wearing the Hijab, a traditional religious head covering, while on duty.

“This directive has caused significant distress among the affected women,” MP Bathiudeen wrote. “It directly contradicts their constitutionally protected rights to religious freedom, personal dignity, and cultural identity.”

MP Bathiudeen pointed out that for years, Muslim women in Trincomalee’s public health services have been performing their duties diligently while wearing the Hijab, with no impact on their professional responsibilities or work performance. 

He said that the sudden change in policy has sparked outcry from civil rights advocates and community members alike.

MP Bathiudeen emphasized the following key points in his appeal to the Health Minister:

• Religious freedom is guaranteed under Article 10 and Article 14(1)(e) of the Constitution of Sri Lanka.
• The Hijab does not interfere with the execution of medical or administrative duties.
• Cultural and religious diversity must be respected in the workplace, especially within a pluralistic society.
• The request is not for a new privilege, but for the continuation of an accepted and long-standing practice.

Calling for swift action, the MP urged the Minister to issue a clear directive allowing Muslim women to wear religious attire in the workplace, within reasonable health and safety parameters.

“Your intervention would not only uphold constitutional values but also send a powerful message of inclusion and respect,” he added. 

The letter has been welcomed by human rights groups and Muslim community organizations, who argue that such restrictions could set a dangerous precedent if left unaddressed. (Newswire)

The post Rishad writes to Health Minister over constitutional rights of Muslim women appeared first on Newswire.

All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Leader MP Rishad Bathiudeen has underscored the importance of collaboration and strategic planning to leverage Sri Lanka’s assets for economic recovery. 

Addressing the Parliament yesterday, MP Bathiudeen warned that without prudent decision-making, Sri Lanka risks falling into a deeper economic crisis despite its abundant resources. 

MP Bathiudeen stressed the significance of India as a key partner for Sri Lanka, particularly in terms of economic support and connectivity, noting the absence of discussions regarding road connectivity during the President’s recent visit to India, specifically referencing the proposed bridge between Sri Lanka and India, which had been a topic of previous administrations.

Highlighting the potential benefits of enhanced connectivity with India, including economic growth and tourism development, he pointed out that a bridge connecting Sri Lanka to India could facilitate travel and trade, benefiting both nations and improving livelihoods, especially in the Northern regions of Sri Lanka. 

To illustrate the potential benefits of such initiatives, he cited successful international examples of infrastructure projects, such as the bridge between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia and the Channel Tunnel between France and England.

MP Rishad Bathiudeen urged the current government to prioritize constructive dialogue and strategic partnerships, particularly with India, to foster economic recovery and development. (Newswire)

The post Rishad backs India-Sri Lanka bridge project appeared first on Newswire.

All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Leader MP Rishad Bathiudeen has urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to reconsider the decision to forcibly return the group of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar currently seeking asylum in Sri Lanka.

In a letter addressed to the President, MP Bathiudeen said Sri Lanka must adhere to international humanitarian principles and consider the well-being of these individuals who have fled persecution in their homeland. 

He further advised that it would be appropriate to collaborate with the United Nations to identify a suitable third country where these refugees can resettle, with their consent, once it is deemed safe for them.

MP Rishad Bathiudeen’s letter to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake,

Your Excellency,

This is to inform you with grave concern regarding the decision to repatriate the Rohingya refugees currently seeking asylum in Sri Lanka. It is my firm belief that we must adhere to international humanitarian principles and consider the well-being of these individuals who have fled persecution in their homeland.

The Rohingya people, as you are aware, have sought refuge in our country due to severe violence and oppression in Myanmar. They have come to Sri Lanka not as economic migrants, but out of genuine fear for their lives. The international community, including the United Nations, recognizes the plight of these individuals, and it is incumbent upon us as a nation that values human rights and dignity to offer them protection during their time of vulnerability.

We must ensure that our actions align with international laws and conventions on refugees, which emphasize the principle of non-refoulement – the prohibition of sending individuals back to places where they face threats to their lives or freedom. By upholding this principle, Sri Lanka will not only protect the rights of these vulnerable individuals but also demonstrate its commitment to international humanitarian standards.

Historically, Sri Lanka has been a land of refuge for those fleeing persecution. Many Sri Lankans have themselves lived as refugees in other countries during times of conflict. It is critical to remember that the current situation of the Rohingya refugees mirrors the struggles we have faced as a nation in the past. In light of this, I urge you to reconsider the decision to forcibly return these people to Myanmar, where their safety and human rights are still at risk.

I kindly request that these refugees be treated with respect and dignity while they remain in Sri Lanka. They should not be treated as prisoners but as people in need of our compassion and support. Furthermore, it would be appropriate to collaborate with the United Nations to identify a suitable third country where these refugees can resettle, with their consent, once it is deemed safe for them. (Newswire)

The post Bathiudeen appeals to President for Rohingya refugees appeared first on Newswire.

The National Peoples’ Power (NPP) has won two (02) seats in the Vanni District under the Preferential voting system.

The preferential votes for the Vanni District are as follows;

NPP – 02 seats

Selvathambi Thilakanathan – 10,652 votes

Arumugam Jegadishwaran – 9,280 votes

ITAK – 01 seat

Thurairasa Ravikumar – 11,215 votes

SJB – 01 seat

Rishad Bathiudeen – 21,018 votes

DTNA – 01 seat

A.Adaikkalanathan – 5,695 votes

SLLP – 01 seat

Cader Masthan – 13,511 votes. (Newswire)

The post Vanni Preferential votes announced appeared first on Newswire.

A brawl was reported between supporters of former MP Rishad Bathiudeen and former State Minister Kader Masthan in the Pattanchivur area in Vavuniya last night.

According to the Vavuniya Police, two persons were injured in the clash and admitted to the Vavuniya Hospital. 

It is reported that both Kader Masthan and Rishad Bathiudeen were to hold their final political rallies in view of the Parliament Election in the said area.

Supporters of Kader Masthan had attacked the vehicle of Rishad Bathiudeen while the latter was en route for his political rally.

A clash had broken out between the supporters of the two former MPs, after which the Vavuniya and Nelukkulama Police intervened and contained the situation.

The Police said several vehicles belonging to both parties had been damaged in the clash. 

The Vavuniya and Nelukkulama Police have launched investigations to apprehend those involved in the clash. (Newswire)

The post Supporters of Two former MPs clash in Vavuniya (Video) appeared first on Newswire.

All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Leader Rishad Bathiudeen has raised concerns over the establishment of a liquor bar in Mannar, taking the matter to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

In a letter to the President, the ACMC Leader points out that the permit for the liquor bar had been provided for political advantage and that it was granted by the former government.

He further highlights that the said liquor bar has been established on the main road in Mannar close to schools, garment factories, and residential areas.

Stating that area residents had staged a protest against the liquor bar as recently as last month, the former MP pointed out that despite protest no action has been taken by the authorities. 

“I kindly request you to intervene in this matter and take the necessary steps to cancel the permit for this liquor bar. The well-being of the residents, particularly the young students and workers in the area, must be prioritised, and we trust in your commitment to ensure that justice and fairness prevail,” Bathiudeen said in his letter to the President. (Newswire)

The post Bathiudeen seeks President’s intervention against Mannar liquor bar appeared first on Newswire.

The All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) led by MP Rishad Bathiudeen will decide on supporting a presidential candidate on the 14th of August.

Speaking to media MP Bathiudeen said that the ACMC had arrived at this decision following discussions by the High Command of the party. 

“As we are with the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) at the moment, we will continue to attend these meetings. There have been requests to support the SJB, as well as requests to support the current President,” Bathiudeen said. (Newswire)

The post ACMC to announce support for Presidential candidate next week appeared first on Newswire.

Leader of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) MP Rishad Bathiudeen has engaged in a constructive meeting with the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jah.

According to the MP’s Media Unit, during the discussion held in Colombo last Thursday, MP Bathiudeen expressed sincere gratitude to the Indian High Commissioner for the invaluable support extended during the economic crisis in Sri Lanka. 

He also conveyed his appreciation for the significant gesture of granting 50,000 houses to the people affected by the war in the North and East regions.

Furthermore, MP Bathiudeen highlighted the urgent need to address the challenges faced by fishermen affected by coastal erosion in the Eastern provinces, particularly in areas such as Oluvil, Nindhavur, Karaithivu, Maaligaikaadu, Pandiyiruppu, Maruthamunai and Kalmunai. 

He requested the Indian High Commissioner’s intervention during his upcoming visit to the Eastern Province and assistance in obtaining funds from the Indian Government to support the fishermen affected by coastal erosion and to provide necessary support to safeguard their livelihoods. 

MP Bathiudeen also emphasized the importance of providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for the war-affected population in the North and urged for collaborative efforts with the Indian Government to achieve this goal.

The discussion also encompassed plans to revitalize the ferry service between Thalaimannar and Rameshwaram, aimed at fostering closer ties and enhancing mutual cooperation between Sri Lanka and India.

Several other key matters pertaining to the development of the Northern and Eastern regions were deliberated upon with a focus on leveraging the assistance of the Indian Government.

MP Bathiudeen reaffirmed his commitment to furthering the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between Sri Lanka and India, fostering greater cooperation for the prosperity and well-being of both nations.

Former State Minister and Chairman of ACMC, M.S.S. Ameer Ali too participated at the meeting and engaged in discussions on several matters pertaining to the developments in Batticaloa District. (Newswire)

The post MP Bathiudeen requests Indian assistance to help Eastern fishermen appeared first on Newswire.

All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) MP Rishad Bathiudeen says he will file a case against several state officials, including former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, for his wrongful arrest and detention.

Addressing the Parliament today (Dec 01), MP Bathiudeen alleged that former President Goatabaya Rajapaksa together with the Director of the Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) had intended to frame him and keep him in prison for five years for their political gains.

He further claimed that Criminal Investigations Department (CID) officials had threatened state officials working under his purview to make false statements against him, but they had refused to do so, due to which he has been released from all the cases filed against him.

MP Rishad Bathiudeen announced he would file a case next week against all the officials, including the TID Director and former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, against his wrongful detention.

He added that he would seek compensation from the said persons by filing the case. (NewsWire)

The post Rishad to file case against Gotabaya appeared first on Newswire.

A group of Sri Lankan Parliamentarians have handed over a letter to the United Nations (UN) Office in Sri Lanka with regard to the ongoing Palestine issue.

Taking to ‘X’, All Ceylon Makkal Congress Leader MP Rishad Bathiudeen said the letter has been signed by 159 Parliamentarians.

He further said that the letter was handed over to a representative of the United Nations Office today (Nov 14).

MP Bathiudeen added that a copy of the same was also delivered to the Palestinian Ambassador in Colombo.

MP Rishad Bathiudeen had earlier raised the matter in Parliament in October, stating that more than 2/3rd of the Sri Lankan Parliament has written to the United Nations seeking Justice for Palestine.

He urged the world leaders to find the root cause of the issue and find practical solutions to immediately address the issue. 

At the time, MP Bathiudeen said the Parliamentarians requested the Israeli authorities to engage in negotiations and to agree to implement the internationally approved resolutions. 

He added that the Sri Lankan Parliamentarians have appealed to the UN and its relevant international agencies to take necessary steps to force Israel to halt its aggression against Palestine. (NewsWire)

Full list of Signatures : 159 MPs list

𝟏𝟓𝟑 𝐌𝐏𝐬! More than 2/3rd of the Sri Lankan Parliament writes to @UN seeking Justice for #palastine – Rishad Bathiudeen MP in Parliament

Watch full video https://t.co/8IJy2GDQiq#Gaza #Gaza_Geniocide #Gaza_under_attack @palestine pic.twitter.com/XU4bqPygVq

— Rishad Bathiudeen (@rbathiudeen) November 10, 2023

The post 159 SL MPs sign document seeking justice for Palestine appeared first on Newswire.