Hon. (Major General (Rtd.)) Aruna Jayasekera - Deputy Minister of Defence

¶ 01 Hon. Member, as I noted earlier, we cannot decide a general amnesty at once. If we do, those currently in service might treat it as a habit, which sets a wrong precedent. Previous amnesties were given in the context of a wartime environment and manpower needs. Considering recent criminal incidents involving a small number who left with weapons, munitions, or funds in their charge, any such decision must be weighed carefully. The President grants commissioning authority and must also revoke it where necessary. While we are mindful and will look at a humane, lawful path for discharges, an immediate blanket amnesty is not feasible.