Smart tabs and underworld dominate cabinet meeting

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The proposal to present smart tabs to school children was presented to the cabinet of ministers once again on Tuesday (June 26). The cabinet convened under the auspices of President Maithripala Sirisena, following the meeting several Ministers expressed their views. According to Minister Sarath Fonseka, an objection was raised against the proposal to provide tabs, as the children could use them for unsavory activities. He noted that a 5 member sub-committee of Ministers has been appointed to look into this matter, the committee consists of the Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister Sarath Amunugama, Minister Champika Ranawaka and two others. When questioned why attempts are being made to push through rejected proposals the minister stated that there is a group within the cabinet who state that this is necessary. Journalists also questioned the minister whether such acts are being done out of fear of a possible presidential bid by Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Fonseka responded to this query by stating that if Gotabaya contests for the Presidency he is prepared to place the bond to secure his nomination. Responding to a question on the spike in underworld activities, Deputy Minister of Law and order, Nalin Bandara stated adamantly that the underworld is not raising its head but instead is being eradicated. When questioned about an incident where a handcuffed man threw a hand grenade at the police, Nalin Bandara said that he is not aware of the incident in question and that he needed to inquire into it.