The Tigers want ban lifted before talks start The peace process is stalled over the Tigers' demand that the ban on their organisation be lifted before talks start. If the Sri Lankan Government legalises the Tigers, there is the possibility of a backlash from hardline nationalists who oppose peace talks and favour a military solution to the protracted civil war, in which more than 65,000 people have been killed. Tiger ban Press reports say the government is divided on lifting the ban to ease the way for talks, but a government statement last month categorically ruled it out as an option. There are now suspicions the government might be considering a change of policy because it invited journalists to a news conference where 30 non-governmental organisations called for the ban on the Tigers to be lifted. But without a change, there is considerable pessimism about Norway's peace mission in Sri Lanka.
Reports say the military on both sides are preparing for battle with renewed intensity.
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