|PIC1|Franciscans International has denounced the rising ethnic violence in Sri Lanka and urged the government to ensure security to civilians who have been trapped in the battle between the The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the government.

"The ongoing conflict between Sri Lankan Armed Forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in Northern Sri Lanka has pushed civilians into a very small area surrounded by fighting," FI said in a statement.

"Many civilians are victims of artillery shelling, aerial bombings and Claymore mine attacks from governmental and LTTE forces. Heavy bombardments in the area have made the delivery of food supplies, as well as of emergency medical supplies, almost impossible due to the ongoing fighting. This has caused acute food shortages in the region."

Over 70,000 people have been officially listed as killed in the war since 1983. The militant LTTE has been demanding an independent state named Tamil Eelam.

Furthermore, the human rights organisation has asked the government authorities to permit relief agencies and non-governmental groups to provide "humanitarian relief for vulnerable civilians".

In September last year, UN agencies and several other aid groups were denied entry. The government, however, granted permission to the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Meanwhile, the Bishop of Jaffna and several other church leaders have gone on hunger strike to bring about the release of thousands of civilians trapped in Vanni, north eastern Sri Lanka.

"My priests and sisters have told me that they will not abandon the people but move with them wherever they are going", said Bishop Thomas of Jaffna.

"Having lived with them always they will not leave them at this time of crisis."

Expressing hope, Thomas said, "I am a Christian and God has taught us that not through violence, but through love we can bring about peace."

UN chief Ban Ki-moon has joined others to appeal for peace and safe passage of civilians in the island nation.

He called on both Colombo and the LTTE "to do all in their power to make this safe passage a reality, and to ensure the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law".