The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition

¶ 01 Mr. Speaker, thank you for granting time under Standing Order 27(2).

¶ 02 Under the policy theme “Rule of Law – Inclusive Justice System” in “Prosperous Country – Beautiful Life,” the Government pledged to act based on: 1. Equal and fair protection of the law 2. Transparency and efficiency 3. Independence and public trust

¶ 03 However, with organised crime rearing its head, a murder inside court premises, and with the public feeling insecure—with 17 shootings recorded in just the first two months of 2025—people are alarmed. Against this backdrop, I pose:

¶ 04 1) Does the Government accept that continued shootings and homicides have unsettled public life? What is the Government’s position? What progress in measures taken so far?

¶ 05 2) There is a public perception that suspects taken out from police stations for inquiries are killed to eliminate evidence. Your policy (p. 205) promises a formal procedure ensuring suspects’ safety when taken out from stations. Is it implemented now? If not, when? Will guidelines be tabled? What other directions, circulars or judgments guide the police? Will they be tabled?

¶ 06 3) What are the new Government determinations regarding dramatic media parades during arrests and subsequent coverage? Will guidelines be tabled? Do you accept that recent coverage sometimes glorified criminals and stirred public hatred against arresting officers? What is the Government’s position?

¶ 07 4) Beyond post-murder pursuit and arrests, does the Government have a concrete crime prevention plan?

¶ 08 Also: Are reports of a clash between the IGP and the Police Commission true? Is there any issue for the Government in continuing an independent commission over the police?

¶ 09 5) Under “Enhanced National Security – a Safe State” (p. 225), what steps have been taken to strengthen the National Security Council ensuring responsibility and accountability? Who are its members now? Are you satisfied with its functioning? If not, why?

¶ 10 Additionally, a 15% SVAT on services has dealt a severe blow to digitalization and the digital economy. I ask the Hon. Prime Minister to answer as well.