Digambaram Grilled: Where Was This Unity for Estate Workers?

COLOMBO (News 1st) — Palani Digambaram, Member of Parliament from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), was put in a difficult position when asked why the political unity currently shown in support of remanded former President Ranil Wickremesinghe was not seen during the long-standing wage struggles of estate workers.

Responding to the question, Digambaram said, “We have been continuously speaking about the wage issues of the plantation community. But the problem lies with the companies that are supposed to pay.”

Pressed further on whether discussions alone are sufficient, he admitted, “Yes, we are still talking. But talking is not the same as coming together. The companies must take responsibility—that’s the real issue.”

The MP’s remarks came amid growing criticism that opposition parties have rallied around Wickremesinghe’s legal troubles, while failing to show the same urgency for pressing socio-economic issues affecting marginalized communities.

When asked directly whether the current political unity is for the people or for Wickremesinghe, Digambaram responded, “What can I say? This government needs to be sent home. It’s not a government that listens—it’s an authoritarian regime.”