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UNP MP’s self-immolation bid thwarted
View(s):Police yesterday thwarted an attempt by Parliamentarian Suresh Vadivel to carry two cans of kerosene into Parliament, allegedly to carry out his threat to set himself on fire in protest against the Government’s failure to address the plantations sector wage dispute.
The Badulla District UNP MP was stopped by the policemen on duty, while his parliament colleagues who gathered at the entrance persuaded him to give up his plan.
In a speech on Friday, in Parliament, Mr. Vadiwel hit out at the Government’s inaction and threatened to set himself on fire if no action was taken to address the issue. His speech came against the backdrop of failed talks between trade unions and the Labour Minister this week. Following the threat, additional police personnel were placed at the entrance to Parliament.