Query on Dr. Shafi causes heated arguement in House

An oral question raised by Samaji Jana Balawegaya ( SJB) MP on Dr. Safi of the Kurunegala Hospital who was accused of sterilising Sinhalese women, caused heated arguments among ruling party and SJB MPs in Parliament yesterday.

The argument flared up when MP Wijesiri referred to Justice Minister Ali Sabri's attire.

" We thought that people who belong to 'Viyath Maga' would answer oral questions with responsibility. We thought they would do better. It looks like they don't live up to expectations though they come to Parliament wearing jackets and ties" Mr. Wijesiri said.

The Minister then hit back at the MP saying the latter should not instruct him on his attire. " Do you want me to dress like you do? You don't have to instruct me on how to dress. My attire is accepted by the judiciary as well" the Minister said.

In response to a query raised by the MP to name the lawyers retained by Dr. Shafi for his case, the minister said his ministry could not spend time for such petty matters." There are 795,000 cases pending in courts. Do you expect us to find the lawyers involved in these cases" the Minister questioned.

MP Wijesiri then replied saying it is questionable as to why those in the government are silent on Dr. Shafi now.

MP Dr. Harsha de Silva who joined in the cross talk said a Minister should not become arrogant when an MP raises an oral question.

Chief Government Whip Johnston Fernando said the commotion was caused by an unwanted remark made by MP Wijesiri. (Yohan Perera and Ajith Siriwardana)