Army took control over Mullaittivu in 1996 , established a military garrison there . Military made significant progress to recapture rebel strongholds . Earlier this month troops regained control of key northern town of Elephant Pass . Tamils ' independent state , war since 1983 has left more than 65,000 dead .
Rebels gained control over Mullaittivu in 1996 , established a military garrison there . Military making significant progress to recapture rebel strongholds . Earlier this month troops regained control of key northern town of Elephant Pass . Tamils want independent homeland , war since 1983 has left more than 65,000 dead .