Tigers raise fresh doubts over talks

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in a message posted on their website accused Colombo of going back on a pledge to neutralise the units in line with an agreement reached last month.

"Ground realities dictate that the government's obligations in this matter yet remain on paper," the LTTE's official website said. "Intentions that remain as promises in paper do not count when it comes to building confidence."

The rebels said the failure to disarm the units could imperil a second round of talks planned for April 19.

For its part, the Sri Lankan government Sunday accused Tiger rebels of conscripting more child soldiers in violation of a fragile truce in place since February 2002.

The defence ministry in a statement said two more children were recruited a week ago in the restive eastern district of Batticaloa but the parents did not come forward until the weekend for fear of guerrilla reprisals.