Vedda community permitted to enter forests

By Nayanajeeewa Bandara

The Department of Wildlife has taken step to issue special identity cards to those from the Vedda community to enter the forests and use the resources to make a living without any obstacles.

During an inquiry held in response to a petition submitted to the Human Rights Commission by Ratugala Vedda leader Sudawannila Eththo, a senior official of the department said the indigenous people in Dambana and Ratugala will receive identity cards under stage one of the project. 

He said only the individuals recommended by the leader of the community will be entitled to these special identity cards.