Uva Province Chief Minister Harin Fernando responded to the recent claims by the opposition that he has favoured the UNP supporters in awarding sand mining permits by saying that his instructions have been misinterpreted.

Releasing a statement to media, Fernando explained that the reason for his decision has not been explained by the opposition.

At a recent SLFP press conference, Opposition Leader Nimal Siripala de Silva slammed Fernando for giving control of sand mining in Rideemaliyadda Divisional Secretariat to a UNP politician. A letter issued by Fernando was circulated as proof.

According to the letter, Fernando has instructed the Provincial Land Commissioner to give sand mining permits to only those who have received permission from Uva PC Member and UNP Chief Organizer in Mahiyangana Upali Senaratne.

However, Fernando explains that this step had to be taken since sand mining had gone to dangerous levels during the previous government. Supporters of the former government engaged in sand mining with no regard to the environment, Fernando said. Meanwhile, there were UNP supporters who also asked for permission to mine sand. Fernando said that his instruction was given taking these factors into consideration.

He slammed the Opposition Leader’s statement as a sign of political bankruptcy.