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Top stories — November 11, 2026

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Trincomalee court issues arrest warrant for Balangoda Kassapa Thera over beach Buddha statue

November 11·9 sources

The Trincomalee Magistrate’s Court on 11 November 2026 issued an arrest warrant for Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thera after he failed to appear in court. Lankadeepa, however, reported that the court issued notices to him. The case concerns the alleged unauthorised construction and placement of a Buddha statue on the Trincomalee beachfront without a permit. Hiru News and Tamil Mirror reported 14 suspects, with Kassapa Thera listed second, while Lankadeepa reported 15 defendants. Magistrate M.S.M. Samsudeen ordered several suspects to report to the Trincomalee Harbour Police on 12 November to provide statements. Virakesari noted that Kassapa Thera was staging a fast-unto-death protest in Anuradhapura. The court adjourned the case to 6 January 2027.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Sri Lanka conducts first pilotless passenger drone test flight at Colombo Port City

November 11·12 sources

Sri Lanka conducted its first official demonstration flight of an electric, pilotless passenger drone on 11 November 2026 at Colombo Port City. Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilaka flew aboard the aircraft during the inaugural flight. The trial used a Chinese EHang E216 two-seater electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft. Remotely operated from a central station, the drone features 16 propellers, 12 battery packs, and automated safety systems for emergency failures. Testing will continue at Port City across a six-month trial phase. Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku announced that commercial passenger operations are expected within six months, with additional plans to expand into cargo transport. Authorities expect the service to support aerial tourism to destinations like Sigiriya and Pidurangala, as well as emergency services, coordinated by aviation, defence, port city, and tourism agencies.

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

President Dissanayake to present 2027 budget to Parliament on November 12

November 11·9 sources

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, serving as Minister of Finance, will present the 2027 Budget to Parliament on November 12 at 1.30 p.m. Total government expenditure for 2027 is estimated at Rs. 4,992.77 billion. Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced that the budget will provide relief on certain taxes, increase some allowances, and raise public servants' basic salaries. A 26-day debate will run from November 13 to December 14. The Second Reading vote is scheduled for November 20 at 6.00 p.m., although Thinakaran reported November 10. A 19-day Committee Stage debate will follow from November 21, concluding with the final vote on the Appropriation Bill on December 14 at 6.00 p.m.

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Authorities open Kotmale Reservoir spill gates and warn downstream residents

November 11·5 sources

The spill gates of the Kotmale Gamini Dissanayake Reservoir were opened at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday (11), releasing water into the Kotmala Oya at a rate of 150 cubic metres per second. The engineer in charge reported that the reservoir water level stood at 701.3 metres above sea level at 10:15 a.m., which was 1.7 metres below the spill level. Authorities decided to release water to lower the reservoir level and mitigate flood risks in downstream areas, following prevailing rains and weather forecasts predicting continued rainfall in the catchment areas. Officials advised residents living along the Kotmala Oya below the Kotmale Dam and along the Mahaweli River, as well as people travelling through these areas, to remain vigilant and exercise caution.

Environment & WeatherEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

President Dissanayake reviews 2027 budget with Rs. 2,000 billion capital allocation

November 11·9 sources

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reviewed the final draft of the 2027 budget proposals at the Presidential Secretariat on 11 November. Finance Ministry Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma also attended the review. The budget includes Rs. 2,000 billion in capital allocations. It aims to move beyond economic stabilization toward economic expansion and transformative development. A President’s Media Division statement noted that the government achieved progress in key economic sectors through high financial discipline, despite challenges including the Ditwa disaster and the Middle East crisis. President Dissanayake is scheduled to present the budget to Parliament on Thursday (12) afternoon in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development.

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa elected chair of first BIMSTEC Health Ministers' Meeting

November 11·9 sources

Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa was elected Chairman of the first BIMSTEC Health Ministers’ Meeting, which commenced at the Hilton Colombo on Wednesday (11). The summit brings together delegates from all seven member states: Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, and Thailand. India's Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda, arrived in Colombo to attend. Discussions focus on regional public health security, communicable disease control, health emergency preparedness, and technical knowledge exchange. Sri Lanka serves as the lead country for public health cooperation within the regional bloc. Dr. Jayatissa was previously appointed Chair of the World Health Organization's South-East Asia Regional Committee in October 2025 and Vice Chair of the Fifth Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference in October 2026.

Foreign AffairsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Authorities reopen one lane of Colombo-Kandy road at Kadugannawa after landslide assessment

November 11·11 sources

Authorities reopened one lane of the Colombo-Kandy main road between Kadugannawa and Ganethenna at 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday (11), following a temporary closure caused by rockfalls and landslide risks. The stretch between Dawson Tower and Ganethenna junction was closed on Tuesday (10) after heavy rain triggered earth slips, damaging a parked motorcycle. While Ada Derana reported the closure began Tuesday afternoon, Virakesari stated it began at 7:15 p.m. Kandy District Secretary Indika Udawatta said the decision to allow restricted traffic followed recommendations by an inspection team comprising the National Building Research Organisation, Road Development Authority, police, Disaster Management Centre, and Yatinuwara Divisional Secretariat. Udawatta urged motorists to use alternative routes to avoid congestion and warned that authorities will close the road at night if heavy rain continues.

Environment & WeatherEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Five-year-old girl dies after mother uses pesticide for head lice in Brazil

November 11·1 source

A five-year-old girl has died and her two-year-old brother is in critical condition after their mother applied an agricultural pesticide to their heads to treat lice in southeastern Brazil. Ashly Sophia dos Reis Sousa died shortly after her mother applied Diazinon 40 PM on Sunday (08) in Matutina. Her brother was admitted to the intensive care unit at Patos de Minas Hospital. Police arrested the 30-year-old mother, who admitted she had used the pesticide before, and later released her on bail. The Minas Gerais Civil Police registered a case, sent the remaining pesticide for forensic analysis, and ordered an autopsy on the girl's body as investigations continue.

Healthதமிழ்

Colombian twin sisters die after consuming suspected toxic homemade soap

November 11·1 source

Two 33-year-old twin sisters have died mysteriously in Medellin, Colombia, after eating a piece of homemade soap on Saturday (07). The deceased were identified as Linda Rosa and Laura Maria. Both were rushed to hospital for emergency treatment but died within minutes of being admitted to the intensive care unit. Police have registered a case and seized a partially eaten soap bar from the sisters' home. Investigators suspect the soap contained toxic substances and are conducting further inquiries.

Otherதமிழ்

Cabinet approves five-year MoU between University of Jaffna and Southern Illinois University

November 10·5 sources

The Cabinet has approved a proposal to sign a five-year Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Jaffna and the Board of Trustees of Southern Illinois University in the United States. The proposal was submitted by the Prime Minister as the Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education to strengthen bilateral academic cooperation and research ties. Under the agreement, effective for five years from signing, the two institutions will pursue joint research, academic programmes, and faculty exchanges. They will also exchange undergraduate and postgraduate students for learning, research, and internships. The partnership further provides for joint conferences and workshops, the sharing of academic resources, and the linking of the universities' websites to facilitate information sharing.

EducationEnglishதமிழ்

CID probes 39 drones imported from Singapore by SJB MP Nalin Bandara

November 10·5 sources

Customs officials seized 39 drones and 16 microphones brought from Singapore by Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Nalin Bandara on 8 November. Following instructions from IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya, the matter was handed to the Criminal Investigation Department on 9 November. Daily News reported that the Defence Ministry would assess the equipment. However, Ministry Spokesperson Brigadier Franklin Joseph told The Morning the ministry would not conduct an investigation, leaving action to Customs. Bandara said the commercial camera drones were declared for a family business, adding that only the Defence Ministry permit had lapsed. Meanwhile, Combined Opposition co-convener Nirukshan Kumara urged the SJB to suspend Bandara, alleging illegal importation and tax fraud.

PoliticsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Colombo-Kandy main road closed at Kadugannawa after rock and earth slides

November 10·10 sources

Traffic along the Kadugannawa–Ganetenna stretch of the Colombo–Kandy main road was suspended on 10 November 2026 following earth and rock slides. Falling debris damaged a motorcycle parked beside the road. Hiru News initially reported that traffic was restricted to one lane, but later stated the road would remain closed until 6.00 a.m. on 11 November. Rainfall continued to affect the area following the collapse. The Kandy District Secretary urged motorists to avoid the section and use alternative routes.

Environment & WeatherEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Three buses collide on A9 road in Rambewa, leaving multiple dead and injured

November 10·22 sources

Three passenger buses collided near the Rambewa–Weli Oya junction on the A9 road in Anuradhapura on the morning of 10 November. Police said two Sri Lanka Transport Board buses collided head-on before a private bus travelling behind crashed into them. Lankadeepa reported that over 100 passengers were travelling in the three buses. Thamilan, Ada Derana, Dinamina and the Daily Mirror reported that five people died. Hiru News and Lankadeepa placed the death toll at four, with Hiru News identifying the deceased as an SLTB driver and three passengers. Most reports stated that about 50 people were injured, while Hiru News reported 76 hospitalised across Anuradhapura, Medawachchiya and Mihintale hospitals. Mihintale Police are investigating the crash.

OtherEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Sri Lanka reaches 114 for 3 after Pakistan declares on 434 in Rawalpindi

November 10·8 sources

Sri Lanka reached 114 for three at stumps on the second day of the first Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, trailing by 320 runs. Pakistan declared their first innings at 434 for nine after being sent in to bat. Saud Shakeel top-scored with 93 runs, while Tayyab Arif made 57 and Arafat Minhas scored 52. Mohammad Taha scored 51 runs according to most reports, though Virakesari recorded 57. Sri Lanka's Asitha Fernando took three wickets for 107 runs, and Dilshan Madushanka claimed three for 108. In reply, Sri Lanka lost two early wickets before Lahiru Udara made 42. Kamindu Mendis remained unbeaten on 40 alongside Dhananjaya de Silva on 22, while debutant Saqib Khan took two wickets for 54 runs.

Sportsසිංහලதமிழ்

Mahanayake requests date for Gnanasara Thera’s re-robing at Welikada Prison

November 10·3 sources

The Mahanayake of the Kotte Chapter of the Siam Maha Nikaya, Most Ven. Dr. Ittapana Dhammalankara Thera, has requested the Commissioner General of Prisons to set a date and time for the re-robing ceremony of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera. In a letter dated October 30, 2026, the Mahanayake said the ceremony must be conducted in accordance with Buddhist teachings and disciplinary rules. He asked prison authorities to provide a suitable date and time as soon as possible. A delegation of 10 members of the Kotte Chapter’s Sangha Sabha, including the Mahanayake, will visit the prison for the event. A copy of the request was also sent to the Superintendent of Welikada Prison.

Crime & CourtsEnglishதமிழ்

Indian actress Pooja Hegde arrives in Sri Lanka for Colombo opening event

November 10·5 sources

Indian actress Pooja Hegde arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake on Monday (10) afternoon aboard IndiGo flight 6E-1181 from Hyderabad. While other outlets reported her arrival on 10 November, Daily Mirror stated she arrived on 11 October. Hegde is visiting Sri Lanka to attend a shop opening ceremony in Colombo. Her tour organisers have arranged a meet-and-greet session on 11 November, allowing registered fans who pre-booked to meet Hegde in person and take photographs with her.

Entertainment & CultureEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Batticaloa court extends remand of Pillayan and two others until 23 November

November 10·6 sources

The Batticaloa Magistrate's Court on Tuesday extended the remand of former State Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, known as Pillayan, and two military intelligence informants until 23 November. The case involves the 2008 killings of five people in Batticaloa with a T-56 rifle, including a police officer in Kallady, a TMVP member in Kattankudy, and an abducted businessman. Informants Mohamed Sifan and Mohamed Saheed appeared in person. Most outlets reported Pillayan appeared via video link, though Tamil Mirror stated prison authorities reported a technical fault prevented his virtual appearance. The court also issued an arrest warrant for a fourth suspect residing in London, named Mohamed Pais, also referred to as Police Pais or Police Boys.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Supreme Court concludes review of Organized Crime Prevention Bill as state pledges amendments

November 10·4 sources

On 9 November 2026, a three-judge Supreme Court bench concluded oral hearings on petitions challenging the government's Organized Crime Prevention Bill. The bench comprised Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena—named Priyasad by Divaina—Achala Wengappuli, and Sampath Abeykoon. The court announced that its confidential determination will be sent to the President and the Speaker of Parliament. Petitioners were directed to file written submissions regarding proposed amendments before 11 November. Appearing for the Attorney General, Solicitor General Viraj Dayaratne announced that the government will present committee-stage amendments. These include reducing the suspect detention period from 72 to 48 hours and withdrawing provisions concerning tattoos and markings. The state also agreed to remove clauses requiring court permission to publish information on serious crime cases, all Excise Ordinance offenses, and copyright-related intellectual property offenses.

Crime & Courtsසිංහලதமிழ்

Judicial Service Commission shortlists over 900 candidates for Grade III court clerk interviews

November 10·4 sources

Results for the 2026 Open Competitive Examination for Grade III Court Clerk in the Court Management Assistants’ Service, held on October 17, have been published on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) website, www.jsc.gov.lk. JSC Secretary Prasanna Alwis stated that more than 900 candidates have been called for interviews. While other outlets credited the JSC, Virakesari attributed the announcement to the Ministry of Justice. Interviews are scheduled for Sunday, November 22, 2026, starting at 9:00 a.m. at the Colombo 12 High Court complex. Virakesari noted the interviews were rescheduled from Saturday, November 21. Successful candidates have been instructed to attend the interview with their relevant documents.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

TamilMirror wins best website award at 27th Journalism Awards

November 10·1 source

TamilMirror, operating under Wijeya Newspapers Ltd., won the award for Best Website for the year 2025 at the 27th Journalism Awards on Tuesday night. The ceremony, jointly organised by the Sri Lanka Press Institute and the Editors’ Guild of Sri Lanka, took place at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo.

Otherதமிழ்

Scottish bodybuilder Alix Small dies at age 26

November 10·1 source

Scottish bodybuilder Alix Small died at the age of 26 on Sunday, 8 November. Her mother confirmed her death. Small was a two-time IFBB Pro League champion who competed on the Olympia stage, achieving success in bodybuilding despite battling severe anorexia. Fellow athlete Phoebe Goodwin and others in the global bodybuilding community paid tribute to her on social media. An official cause of death has not yet been released.

Sportsதமிழ்

Delivery worker escapes crocodile attack in flooded street in Rio de Janeiro

November 10·1 source

A delivery worker escaped unharmed after a giant crocodile lunged at his motorcycle in floodwaters on Autodromo Santo Road in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, following heavy rains last Saturday. The worker noticed the crocodile hidden in the water as he attempted to cross the road and immediately fled the scene. Firefighters arrived shortly after, safely rescued the uninjured crocodile, and released it into its natural habitat. The incident in the Taguara area was recorded on a surveillance camera and circulated widely online.

Environment & Weatherதமிழ்

Three suspects remanded over Rs 1.68 million Kattankudy gold jewelry robbery

November 10·1 source

Kattankudy Police arrested three suspects aged 17, 56, and 17 for allegedly stealing 4.5 sovereigns of gold jewelry from a New Kattankudy house on 5 November 2026. One of the suspects is a relative of the homeowner. Batticaloa Magistrate A. Tharshini ordered the suspects remanded until 20 November 2026. Police valued the stolen jewelry at approximately Rs. 1.685 million. Officers recovered jewelry worth Rs. 1.385 million sold to a Beach Road store and seized Rs. 685,000 in cash from two suspects. Police stated that the third suspect had already spent his share. The operation was conducted under Acting OIC M. Nandana and led by Acting Crime Prevention OIC A.M.S.A. Raheem.

Crime & Courtsதமிழ்

Lindula police seek public help following series of shop robberies across Talawakelle

November 10·1 source

A rise in thefts across the Talawakelle Divisional Secretariat division has sparked widespread fear among the public. Last week, shops in Manrasi and Dayagama were broken into, with money and goods stolen. Additionally, gold jewelry worth 5 lakh rupees was looted from a shop in Talawakelle town. On Monday (09) night, another robbery occurred at a shop in Nagasena town within the Lindula Police Division. The Lindula Police are investigating the incidents and have asked the public for assistance in identifying the suspects.

Crime & Courtsதமிழ்

Office of the Leader of the Opposition wins National Productivity Award

November 10·1 source

The Office of the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament secured third place in the micro-level category of the National Productivity Awards for 2025–2026. This marks the first time in the history of the Sri Lankan Parliament that this award has been won. The awards ceremony was held on 8 November 2026 at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall premises. Organised by the National Productivity Secretariat of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, the event was led by Minister Sunil Handunnetti and attended by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Politicsதமிழ்

Heavy rain floods Hatton Zonal Education Office, damaging documents and equipment

November 10·1 source

Heavy rain in the Hatton area on 9 November caused floodwaters to enter a section of the Hatton Zonal Education Office. An employee stated that the flooding damaged several electrical appliances and various important document files in the office's accounts division.

Educationதமிழ்

Lightning strike damages house and injures occupants in Lindula on Monday

November 10·1 source

A lightning strike severely damaged a house in the Holreem Konan estate area in Lindula around 5:40 p.m. on Monday (9 November). The strike set the house's electrical connection box on fire and blew off its roof. Falling debris from the roof caused minor injuries to the occupants inside. Household items were damaged, and electrical appliances worth several lakhs of rupees were destroyed or burnt. Following the incident, the division's Grama Niladhari visited the affected house to inspect the damage and record the losses.

Environment & Weatherதமிழ்