They are frustrated over it. In Jaffna town, the people are provided with special identity cards. According to a circular sent by the security forces, a new procedure has come into force, whereby people in the Jaffna, will be provided with special identity cards. All members of the public beyond the age of 10 are required to obtain the said passes.

The circular also states that the relevant forms are obtainable from the nearest army camps. The applicants for the special identity cards are required to bring two stamp size color photographs.

A question arises as to whether there is a necessity for special identity cards in Jaffna, when a national identity card system is in force. It is also questioned as to what extent the special identity cards can be superior to the national identity cards, which is recognizes all over the country.

There is a also a question of the feasibility of this scheme. How practical will it be for ordinary citizens to go to the army camp and collect the application forms?. How can people who have no source of employment, who are unable to get a square meal a day, procure color photos?.

Imagine the inconvenience caused to the members of the public in having to queue up at the Thuraiappa stadium to obtain posses.

While children between the ages of 10 and 15 in other parts of the country roam about freely without any such restrictions, only the children living in Jaffna town are required to get such passes. Isn’t it discrimination? This can affect the morale of the children.Therefore the other options must be considered.

If such special identity cards are absolutely essential then they can be issued through the officers in the civil services without engaging the military officers. The government must reconsider this proposal.

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