A harthal was launched today in the northern province to urge the release of the 'political prisoners' held in prisons across the country.

Shops were closed across the province and buses and three wheelers also joined the harthal, bringing public transport to a standstill.

A similar harthal was also launched in Batticaloa.

This comes one day after Northern Province Chief Minister and other ministers held discussions with President Maithripala Sirisena. The PResident told the NPC ministers that the release of the political prisoners must be conducted according to the legal procedure.

(Pic: Romesh Madushanka)