Apr 29, Colombo: Secretary of Defense Retired General Kamal Gunaratne says that a number of steps have been taken to provide relief to the dependents of soldiers and police personnel killed in terrorist activities.

The Cabinet approval has been granted for the lifetime salary and allowances payment for war hero dependents, the Defense Secretary said at a media briefing held at the Ministry of Defense today. Over 30,000 countrywide war hero dependent families will be benefited with the move, he added.

“A number of facilities are now available as pledged,” the Defense Secretary stressed recalling futile protests staged demanding those despite the real facts.

Accordingly, the total of salaries and allowances entitled to receive until the completion of 55 years of the deceased member will be paid to the widows of married Tri-Forces / Police Members who died due to terrorism during their life time.

Furthermore, approval has been granted for the payment of lifetime monthly allowance of Rs. 25,000 to the parents of married/unmarried Tri-Forces and Police personnel from the date of completion of the age of 55 years to the veteran who died following terrorist activities.

Meanwhile, responding to a question on coronavirus upsurge in the island, Gen. Gunaratne said, “There is no decision for a total ‘lockdown’ except isolating the affected areas according to the extents of clusters”.

“Arrangements are in the pipeline to enhance the number hospital beds by providing 2500 additional beds from the tri-forces to cater to the situation, if demanded”, he added.

Meanwhile, the Defense Secretary also clarified the details of the investigation into the Easter attack.