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Knowledge Battle Heats Up: SL Mindhunt 1.0 Set for January 29th

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adminsp
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The competitive spirit of Sri Lanka’s brightest minds is set to be tested as the inaugural SL Mindhunt 1.0 – Corporate & Open Quiz Competition fast approaches. Organized by the SL Trivia Society in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Gampaha, the event promises an evening of intense intellectual challenge, networking, and strategy.

SL Mindhunt 1.0 will take place on Thursday, 29th January 2026, starting from 6.00 PM onwards at the MAIN Sports Bar & Restaurant in Havelock Mall.

The competition is designed to bring together a diverse mix of participants, including corporate professionals, higher education teams, and open quiz enthusiasts, all vying for the top prize. Teams, capped at four members each, will navigate 40 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) across five wide-ranging categories: Current Affairs & Business, Arts & Entertainment, Culture, History & Geography, Lifestyle, Science & Technology, and Sports & Games.

Adding a strategic layer to the contest, teams must drop one round and double the points of another, with a straightforward scoring system of 1 point per correct answer and no negative marking.

The stakes are high, with a substantial prize pool on offer: LKR 70,000 for 1st Place, LKR 60,000 for 2nd Place, and LKR 50,000 for 3rd Place. In addition to the cash prizes, the overall champions will be immortalized on a beautiful Rolling Trophy, which will bear their name engraved on the back. Corporate teams will also receive special recognition across various sectors, including Banking & Finance, IT & Telecom, FMCG, Manufacturing, and Higher Education.

Registration fees are LKR 15,000 for Open Teams and LKR 30,000 for Corporate / Higher Education Teams. Notably, each team registration includes LKR 10,000 redeemable for food and beverages at the venue.

Prospective quizzers are advised to register quickly, as the deadline is 27th January 2026, or earlier if event capacity is reached.

SL Mindhunt 2026 is poised to kickstart a new quizzing legacy in Sri Lanka, skillfully blending intense competition with valuable networking opportunities. For more information, interested parties can contact Lehindu (+94 71 925 3535), Keneth (+94 71 721 1954), or Senali (+94 77 044 0203).

COAL SCAM PLUNGES NATION INTO DARKNESS: Arbitrary Tendering Process Sparks Rs. 10 Billion Loss and Looming Power Cuts

By
adminsp
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0

The country faces a severe risk of a massive power crisis and widespread electricity cuts in the coming months, a direct consequence of the current government’s inefficiency and lack of transparency in the coal procurement process. Political groups, including the ‘Winning South Collective’ and opposition parties, warn that failure to secure the necessary coal stocks before April could cripple the Norochcholai Power Plant, making a return to nationwide darkness inevitable.

The core of this crisis is identified as a deeply flawed and allegedly corrupt tender procedure adopted by the government. The standard 42-day tender period was arbitrarily slashed to just 21 days without formal justification, and the minimum required coal reserve for suppliers was reduced from one million metric tons to 500,000. Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and Parliamentarian D.V. Chanaka have strongly accused the government in Parliament of relaxing these conditions to award the tender to unqualified, favored companies. Suspicion of a massive financial fraud has been raised, particularly over the government’s move to facilitate controversial companies like ‘Trident Chemphar’.

Recent inspections of coal shipments that arrived in the country revealed them to be substandard and below quality. While the tender specifications mandated a Calorific Value of 5,900 kcal/kg, test reports confirm the imported stock falls significantly short, ranging between 5,600 and 5,800. Furthermore, the high Ash Content, up to 21%, has led engineers to issue a stark warning about potential severe damage to the Norochcholai power plant’s boilers. The government’s decision to authorize the burning of this low-quality coal even before receiving the final test reports suggests that private commissions are being prioritized over public assets.

Audit reports and economic experts indicate that the financial loss incurred by the government due to these irregularities is a colossal Rs. 7 to 10 billion. The public has expressed serious doubts as to whether the failure to import coal on time is an internal strategy to create an opening for the ‘diesel mafia,’ which profits from expensive diesel-generated electricity. Accusations that Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody and the Ministry Secretary are providing “blatant lies” instead of direct answers to questions concerning the scandal highlight the government’s ethical collapse.

Ultimately, the burden of this inefficiency and corruption will fall on the ordinary citizens. Reports suggest the government is preparing to increase electricity tariffs to offset the losses caused by the substandard coal, which would be a severe blow to the national economy. If the government fails to immediately halt these opaque deals and save the country from an energy crisis, an inevitable massive public backlash against the administration cannot be averted.

THE ‘CLEAN POLITICS’ MASK SLIPS: EX-MINISTER’S DEATH EXPOSES ALLEGED JVP ‘KILLING SQUADS’

By
adminsp
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0

The death of former Minister Nandana Gunathilaka has ripped the veneer off the “clean politics” image currently being projected by the present government and the leadership of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), bringing a dark and gruesome reality back into the public discourse. A note left by Mr. Gunathilaka, once a prominent figure and a former presidential candidate for the JVP, claims that his life was being hunted by “Killing Squads” allegedly operated by a group including JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva.

This isn’t merely a political accusation; it is a chilling indictment of the insecurity faced by dissenting voices under the current administration. A serious public debate has erupted over why a leader of Mr. Gunathilaka’s stature, who even ran as the JVP’s presidential candidate, was left to die in utter destitution, unable to pay hospital bills, and why he feared fatal threats from his former comrades until his final moments.

Critics argue that while the government came to power promising a “System Change,” their actions after assuming power are reminiscent of the country’s past eras of terror. Attempts to silence journalists and civil activists using repressive laws such as the Online Safety Act and the ICCPR Act have drawn sharp criticism from international human rights organizations.

Furthermore, the forceful seizure of the Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) office in Yakkala, Gampaha, by groups allegedly loyal to the government—with accusations of state and police support—further confirms that this regime has embraced “political repression” over democracy. While Tilvin Silva and his associates seek public favor by referencing past crimes like “Batalanda,” their silence on the “Killing Squads” allegations leveled against them speaks volumes about their true nature.

The black shadows of terror, reactivated by Nandana Gunathilaka’s death, are now exposing the authoritarian and fiercely repressive face that lies beneath the present government’s democratic façade for the entire world to see.

NPP Government Accused of ‘Witch Hunt’ as Opposition MP Summoned by CID

By
adminsp
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0

The Anura Kumara Dissanayake-led government, reportedly unsettled by the rapidly escalating anarchy and public dissent following its recent ascension to power, has launched a campaign to suppress the rising young voices within the opposition.

The decision to summon Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliament Prasad Siriwardena to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is being condemned by the opposition as a clear act of political victimization and a targeted “Prasad witch hunt.”

Raising the issue in Parliament, MP Kavinda Jayawardena fiercely denounced the government’s repressive actions against MP Siriwardena, making a powerful statement that “shook the House.”

Mr. Jayawardena argued that the government is misusing the CID to cover up its severe failures, such as distributing books with links to obscene websites to Grade 6 students under the guise of educational reform. He asserted that young leaders who pose democratic questions cannot be intimidated by summoning them to the police and the CID, further stating that the entire opposition stands united like a wall in defense of leaders like Prasad Siriwardena.

Political commentators suggest that this incident confirms the Malima government lacks any viable program for national development. Unable to manage the economy, they resort to hunting down dissenting voices. They view the ongoing political persecution of Ranil Wickremesinghe and the summoning of Prasad Siriwardena to the CID as parts of the same overarching conspiracy.

‘Elephant-Telephone’ Youth Alliance Sends Chills Down NPP’s Spine! – Prasad and Pasindu Join Hands Against Failed, Nation-Wrecking Regime

By
adminsp
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0

In a move set to reshape the country’s political landscape, the youth leadership of Sri Lanka’s two main democratic forces is preparing to establish a unified front against the arbitrary rule of the NPP (National People’s Power) government, which they claim is imperiling the nation’s democracy and darkening the future of the younger generation.

A crucial discussion recently held between Prasad Siriwardhana, MP and Chairman of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Youth Wing, and Pasindu Gunaratne, Chairman of the United National Party (UNP) National Youth Front, has ignited a new beacon of hope in the political arena. The participation of Charitha Abeysinghe, SJB Horana Electorate Organizer, and Vinsad Pathiraja, a member of the UNP National Youth Front’s Executive Committee, underscores the fact that formerly separate sister forces have now united against a common enemy.

The ‘Beautiful Life’ Promised Before Power is Now Just a Dream!

The government, led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, which came to power promising “A Prosperous Country – A Beautiful Life,” has plunged the nation into severe anarchy. The NPP, which pledged to slash electricity tariffs by 33%, is now reportedly attempting to increase the bill by 11.57%, leaving the public financially strained. Faced with this incompetent regime, which is focused on burdening the public with billions of rupees, even those battered by the Ditwa cyclone, instead of offering relief, the youth believe the only viable alternative is the unification of the experienced forces of the UNP and the SJB.

Youth Leaders Deliver a Deadly Blow to the ‘Cultural Revolution’, Wrecking the Younger Generation!

The NPP’s attempt to destroy the country’s morality by distributing school textbooks containing links to obscene websites for Grade 6 students has drawn sharp condemnation from these youth leaders. The understanding reached between Mr. Siriwardhana and Mr. Gunaratne is not merely a political meeting, but a deadly strike against the “immoral and incompetent” governance launched by the NPP regime. The ruling party is now gravely fearful of this Opposition youth alliance because their sole weapon, “youth attraction,” is rapidly slipping away.

“The youth leaders emphasize that by combining the economic vision of Ranil Wickremesinghe, who rescued the country from bankruptcy, with the people-centric program of Sajith Premadasa, the nation can be saved from the NPP’s dark rule,” the statement concluded.

The battle to send home the NPP government, which is eyeing the sale of the Kataragama Deity’s gold, maintaining secret ties with drug traffickers, and playing games with the people’s tax money, has now begun. This youth alliance plans to launch a series of massive protests nationwide in the coming days, which will undoubtedly mark the beginning of the end for the NPP regime.

Anura’s Regime Stumbles: Political Witch Hunt Against Ranil Backfires Amid Economic Crisis

By
adminsp
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0

Political analysts suggest that the Malimawa government, led by a seemingly bewildered Anura Kumara Dissanayake with no clear plan to revive the nation’s economy, is engaged in a shameless attempt to politically persecute former President Ranil Wickremesinghe to cover up its own failures. Specifically, the accusations leveled against Mr. Wickremesinghe regarding his visit to the UK are being viewed as nothing more than political vendetta, with his lawyers having already confirmed the diplomatic nature of the trip via an official invitation letter from the University of Wolverhampton.

The true motive behind this “Ranil hunt” is the abyss the Malimawa government is facing, unable to deliver on the promises made during the election. The government is struggling and clearly stressed by mounting international pressure concerning its secret ties with Venezuela’s alleged drug terrorist, Maduro, the distribution of books containing links to obscene websites to Grade 6 students, and a failed promise to reduce the electricity tariff by 33%, which has now turned into a planned increase of 11.57%. It is evident that the government is promoting a narrative of “imprisoning Ranil” across social media to divert public attention from these serious issues.

However, the government’s repressive approach is proving to be a political boomerang. The persecution targeting Ranil Wickremesinghe has begun to unite previously fragmented opposition groups. Notably, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, led by Sajith Premadasa, is now standing in support of Mr. Wickremesinghe, generating massive public opinion against the government’s political revenge tactics. The move to target Mr. Wickremesinghe, who rescued the country from bankruptcy, while taking no action against the Rajapaksas, indicates that Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s administration is “crossing the Rubicon,” heading toward irreversible political self-destruction.

It is predicted that this unsuccessful “witch hunt,” which is being carried out to appease hardliners within the party while simultaneously maintaining the neo-liberal economic policies introduced by Mr. Wickremesinghe, will ultimately pave the way for the Malimawa government’s downfall.

Harin Fernando Spearheads Massive Educational Initiative in Uva Province; 500,000 Books to be Distributed

By
adminsp
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0

In a major relief effort for parents and children struggling with educational challenges and the current economic pressure, a massive educational service initiative is being implemented, centered in the Badulla District under the leadership of United National Party Deputy Secretary and former Minister Harin Fernando. Under the first phase of this grand project, the distribution of “Five Hundred Thousand Books,” exercise books, and school supplies was handed over to schoolchildren in the Haputale and Koslanda areas yesterday with great ceremony.

Political analysts point out that this move is a timely step, as leaders like Harin Fernando are offering genuine literacy endowments for the future of children, at a time when books containing links to obscene websites are reaching the hands of youngsters.

The program reaffirms the United National Party’s consistent prioritization of education and human resource development. Guided by former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, these social welfare projects, which aim to improve the lives of children while strengthening the country’s economy, have already benefited hundreds of thousands of children across the island. While the Malima government is burdening the public with various acts and taxes, Harin Fernando and his team are recognizing the pulse of the people and providing such relief.

This initiative is not merely limited to distributing books; it has succeeded in instilling new hope for education among children in estate and village communities living in challenging areas, such as Haputale. The people gratefully recalled the service Harin Fernando previously rendered as a minister regarding the country’s educational reforms and digitalization efforts.

Grace Island Officially Debuts in Sri Lanka: A New Paradigm of Compassionate, Community-Led Development

By
adminsp
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0

Amidst a landscape often dominated by traditional top-down aid models, Grace Island, a people-centric development initiative, was officially launched in Colombo on December 13, 2025. Inspired by the decade-long success of the Kolkata Society for Cultural Heritage (KSCH) in India, the organization enters the Sri Lankan development sector with a distinct philosophy: “Grace” as empathy in motion. Operating with functional autonomy, Grace Island aims to bridge the gap between abstract compassion and measurable, dignified impact through local leadership and ethical stewardship.

Proving Impact Before Inauguration: The Cyclone Ditwah Response

While many organizations wait for formal ceremonies to begin operations, Grace Island demonstrated its “people-first” commitment weeks before its official launch. In the immediate wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which devastated Sri Lanka on November 27–28, 2024, the organization bypassed ceremonial formalities to mobilize rapid relief. Under the leadership of Devduni Lanza, and supported by a robust network of youth volunteers, Grace Island successfully reached nearly 800 families affected by the catastrophic flooding and displacement. This early intervention set the tone for the launch, proving that the organization’s core values of accountability and urgency are already embedded in its DNA.

Strategic Leadership and Cross-Border Collaboration

The launch event drew a distinguished gathering of administrators, professionals, and community leaders, highlighting the organization’s focus on regional solidarity. Sourav Mukherjee, Founder of KSCH and Executive Director of Grace Island, emphasized that this is not merely a geographic expansion but a “deepening of shared values built on trust.”

The leadership team reflects a diverse blend of financial expertise and public advocacy:

  • Mark Perera (Founder & Executive Finance Director): Stated that ethical stewardship and transparency are central to every intervention to ensure sustainable social value.
  • Devduni Lanza (Founder & Executive Director): Envisioned the platform as a way to create solutions that endure by listening to and partnering with local communities.
  • Nayanathara Hettiarachchi (Founder & Executive Director – Public Communication): Aims to elevate community voices and inspire collective participation through honest communication.

A Vision for Systemic Change

Moving beyond emergency relief, Grace Island has outlined a comprehensive long-term roadmap designed to tackle systemic issues within Sri Lanka. Key focus areas include:

  • Environmental Restoration: Implementing large-scale mangrove restoration and conservation projects.
  • Economic Empowerment: Enhancing rural livelihoods and promoting women’s empowerment through inclusive financial models.
  • Education & Innovation: Building community resilience through education-driven development and fostering youth-led leadership.

By integrating the proven methodologies of KSCH—recognized for its work in women’s empowerment and cultural heritage preservation in India—with a deep understanding of local Sri Lankan realities, Grace Island seeks to foster a more resilient and equitable future. The organization has extended an open invitation to institutions and individuals committed to ethical change to join its mission of turning compassion into purposeful, lasting action.

Ruling JVP Regime Under Scrutiny Over ‘Narco-Terrorism’ Links with Maduro’s Venezuela

By
adminsp
-
0

A grave complaint has been lodged with US President Donald Trump regarding what is described as “extremely dangerous and secret relations” between Sri Lanka’s current Malima government and the regime of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who is indicted by an American court on charges of narco-terrorism.

The confidential report, submitted by “Concerned Citizens of Sri Lanka and the Global Sri Lankan Diaspora,” alleges that the “fraternal ties” between the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)—the key power within the Malima coalition—and the Venezuelan “Mafia State” pose a serious threat to the security of the Indian Ocean and US interests.

Did Maduro’s Money Fund Anura’s Presidency?

The report’s most serious claim is the information received that the Venezuelan Communist Party (PCV) heavily funded the Malima election campaign during the 2024 Presidential Election. This allegation—that drug money was used to shape the country’s politics—completely rips off the mask of Malima’s “clean politics” facade.

The petition urges the Trump administration to immediately investigate secret discussions held in Caracas between JVP UK Secretary Darshana Hettiarchchi, Dr. Janitha Gamanayake (daughter of former secretary Upathissa Gamanayake), and close associates of Maduro.

Venezuelan ‘Dust’ Settles in Sri Lanka?

The Malima regime’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement today (05), issued after the US Special Forces apprehended Nicolás Maduro and brought him to New York, is seen as laughable. The Malima government, acting as Maduro’s apparent saviors, is attempting to cover up his crimes by invoking “the sovereignty of states.”

Political analysts suggest that the reason for Malima’s intense interest in protecting a leader of an international drug network is the fear that their secret financial and political dealings will be exposed.

Sri Lanka Risks Becoming a ‘Narco-State’

Sri Lanka’s location on critical sea lanes in the Indian Ocean makes its potential entanglement with Maduro’s narco-terrorist network a terrifying prospect for global maritime security. The petitioners have urged the Trump administration to monitor financial transfers between Colombo and Caracas, which violate US sanctions, and to suspend security and economic partnerships with Sri Lanka based on these alleged drug ties.

PETITIONDownload

TRUMP ORDERS SUDDEN RECALL OF CONTROVERSIAL US ENVOY JULIE CHUNG AMID “HAWAII PLOT” EXPOSED; JVP-LED GOVERNMENT FACES CRISIS

By
adminsp
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0

The controversial tenure of US Ambassador Julie Chung, widely seen as the “unseen hand” behind the rise of the Jathika Jana Balawegaya (NPP) in Sri Lanka, has been abruptly ended, with the Donald Trump administration ordering her immediate return to Washington. This sudden exit of Ambassador Chung—who advocated for “system change,” championed the protest movement, and even visited the JVP headquarters to pave the way for Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s success—has reportedly thrown the JJB-led government into a state of severe disquiet and difficulty.

“HAWAII” PLOT TO PROTECT FAILING JJB GOVERNMENT UNRAVELS

It has now been revealed that Julie Chung had launched a secret plan to extend her stay and protect the failing JJB administration in Sri Lanka. She was reportedly preparing to argue at the upcoming Indo-Pacific regional ambassadors’ conference in Hawaii that the island nation was at risk of a renewed economic crisis, and that her continued presence was vital for managing the situation. “State Secrets” reports that over the past few weeks, she held discreet talks with opposition leaders, NGO heads, and businessmen. Their collective aim was to keep Chung in Sri Lanka to mask the failures of the JJB government.

TRUMP’S DECISION SENDS JJB’S “ALLY” PACKING

However, all hopes of the JJB government were dashed when US President Donald Trump unexpectedly canceled the Hawaii summit and ordered 30 officials on extended service, including Julie Chung, to return to the US before January 16. Chung was a key figure under the Biden administration who directly intervened in Sri Lankan politics. The “love” she tried to demonstrate—even reportedly tattooing a map of Sri Lanka on her foot—is now clearly understood as a geopolitical strategy aimed at bringing forces like the JJB/NPP to power.

ARRIVAL OF ERIC MAYER: A MORTAL BLOW TO THE JJB?

The new ambassador replacing Julie Chung, Eric Mayer, is a prominent figure in Trump’s Republican party. He is an experienced official with previous engagement in the Central and South Asian regions. Political analysts suggest that he will view the Biden-friendly JJB administration with a highly critical eye. With the era of ambassadors like Julie Chung—who remained silent while the country was devastated by the ‘Ditta’ cyclone and educational standards plummeted to a level where explicit material was allegedly shown to 6th graders—now over, the JJB government is expected to face severe international pressure.

For the JJB administration, which relied on foreign influence and alleged plots to retain power, Julie Chung’s departure is the loss of their “protector.” Political commentators believe that under the new Trump representative, Eric Mayer, the “true nature” of the JJB government will be exposed to the world.

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Latest Articles

Knowledge Battle Heats Up: SL Mindhunt 1.0 Set for January 29th

Local 0
The competitive spirit of Sri Lanka's brightest minds is set to be tested as the inaugural SL Mindhunt 1.0 - Corporate & Open Quiz Competition fast approaches. Organized by the SL Trivia Society in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Gampaha, the event promises an evening of intense intellectual challenge, networking, and strategy.

COAL SCAM PLUNGES NATION INTO DARKNESS: Arbitrary Tendering Process Sparks Rs. 10 Billion Loss and Looming Power Cuts

Local 0
The country faces a severe risk of a massive power crisis and widespread electricity cuts in the coming months, a direct consequence of the current government's inefficiency and lack of transparency in the coal procurement process. Political groups, including the 'Winning South Collective' and opposition parties, warn that failure to secure the necessary coal stocks before April could cripple the Norochcholai Power Plant, making a return to nationwide darkness inevitable.

THE ‘CLEAN POLITICS’ MASK SLIPS: EX-MINISTER’S DEATH EXPOSES ALLEGED JVP ‘KILLING SQUADS’

Politics 0
The death of former Minister Nandana Gunathilaka has ripped the veneer off the "clean politics" image currently being projected by the present government and the leadership of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), bringing a dark and gruesome reality back into the public discourse. A note left by Mr. Gunathilaka, once a prominent figure and a former presidential candidate for the JVP, claims that his life was being hunted by "Killing Squads" allegedly operated by a group including JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva.

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THE ‘CLEAN POLITICS’ MASK SLIPS: EX-MINISTER’S DEATH EXPOSES ALLEGED JVP ‘KILLING SQUADS’

Politics 0
The death of former Minister Nandana Gunathilaka has ripped the veneer off the "clean politics" image currently being projected by the present government and the leadership of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), bringing a dark and gruesome reality back into the public discourse. A note left by Mr. Gunathilaka, once a prominent figure and a former presidential candidate for the JVP, claims that his life was being hunted by "Killing Squads" allegedly operated by a group including JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva.

Knowledge Battle Heats Up: SL Mindhunt 1.0 Set for January 29th

Local 0
The competitive spirit of Sri Lanka's brightest minds is set to be tested as the inaugural SL Mindhunt 1.0 - Corporate & Open Quiz Competition fast approaches. Organized by the SL Trivia Society in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Gampaha, the event promises an evening of intense intellectual challenge, networking, and strategy.

COAL SCAM PLUNGES NATION INTO DARKNESS: Arbitrary Tendering Process Sparks Rs. 10 Billion Loss and Looming Power Cuts

Local 0
The country faces a severe risk of a massive power crisis and widespread electricity cuts in the coming months, a direct consequence of the current government's inefficiency and lack of transparency in the coal procurement process. Political groups, including the 'Winning South Collective' and opposition parties, warn that failure to secure the necessary coal stocks before April could cripple the Norochcholai Power Plant, making a return to nationwide darkness inevitable.

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