Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa questioned Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage in Parliament over the delay in paying Rs. 50 million to Sri Lankan javelin thrower Rumesha Tharanga in recognition of his international achievements.
Premadasa said the athlete had brought significant recognition to Sri Lanka through his performances at international competitions and questioned why the promised financial reward had not been paid.
He also claimed that a road leading to the athlete’s residence had not been constructed despite an earlier announcement that Rs. 800,000 would be allocated for the project.
Premadasa further questioned reports suggesting that the government was considering revising the reward scheme to reduce the amount payable to successful athletes.
Responding, Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage rejected the claim that an existing government circular entitled the athlete to Rs. 50 million.
He said an earlier reward arrangement had been approved by the Cabinet for a particular year, based on a recommendation from the Sports Council, and was not a permanent circular applicable to subsequent years.
The minister explained that the government had introduced a new arrangement with Cabinet approval to make payments for achievements in 2024 and 2025.
He said a fresh proposal had also been prepared to obtain Cabinet approval for payments relating to 2026.
The exchange became heated after the minister accused Premadasa of misleading Parliament, prompting the Opposition Leader to object to the allegation. (Newswire)
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