Melani Manel Perera

The National Blood Transfusion Service is believed to have used equipment that did not guarantee perfect sterilization, putting the health of patients and donors at risk. Patients' rights activists call for "thorough investigations," and the "denunciation" of any irregularities.

According to a scientist, some species have abandoned the Sumatra seabed, moving toward the coast of Sri Lanka, which could indicate a submarine earthquake. A similar migration was seen in 2004, in the days before the earthquake that caused the rogue wave.

A bomb kills 26 people, including an important opposition leader. UN resumes aid shipment for 1.1 million displaced people, but is concerned about humanitarian workers’ safety.

The island nation today celebrates International Children's Day. A series of concerts by an international award-winning Thai band is scheduled. The Salesian Fathers’ Eththukala Don Bosco Institute is sponsoring the performances.

The commission charges that the refugees of Wanni have been left to themselves, without shelter and with little food. They cannot ask for protection from the rebels, nor from the army. A prayer vigil of solidarity, and the request for immediate intervention, before it is too late.

The episcopal conference decries the sufferings of the displaced, without shelter or food. And it calls upon the army and the Tamil Tigers to "respect the lives of civilians" and guarantee "humanitarian corridors" in order to move them into more secure areas.

Hundreds march and pray for an end to the violence. Bishop of Mannar: the situation is increasingly difficult for 150,000 refugees, without shelter, food, medicine. Children are without milk and in danger of serious illness. "The very survival" of the refugees is in danger.

The Asian Human Rights Commission releases a damning statement about helpless refugees. Army and rebels are told to respect communication lines and allow “neutral areas” where refugees can find shelter and help.

Food, medical treatment and shelter are in short supply. Fighting intensifies, forcing people to flee. United Nations and other aid agencies pull out of war zone after government says it can no longer ensure their safety.

Presided over by Nigerian cardinal Arinze, its theme is "Liturgy as a Glimpse of Heaven on Earth". Archbishop Ranjith: renewing and promoting the Eucharist by recalling the mystery that it contains.

Air force base is attacked by planes and artillery in main war zone. Air force fighters beat back rebels. The government expels humanitarian workers even though they are the main support for thousands of people displaced by an increasingly vicious war.

Monsignor Rayappu levels harsh accusations against both sides involved in the war for depriving people of home and work. Fishermen are in a difficult situation, prevented from going out to the sea at night.