The Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana

¶ 01 Hon. Chairman, I am glad to have the opportunity to speak today on the expenditure heads of the Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, and the Ministry of Defence. At the outset, with regard to the Police, I must note that on the 16th there was an unfortunate incident in Trincomalee, reported today in the media: “Buddha statue at Thri’ is reinstalled by the Police,” “Buddha statue in Trincomalee taken by Police for greater protection.”

¶ 02 Hon. Chairman, the Sri Sambuddha Jayanthi Bodhiraja Viharaya was established in 1951 and is registered with the Department of Buddhist Affairs. In 2014, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa granted a deed to this temple. I cite these based on information provided to us.

¶ 03 First, we must view this as Sri Lankans—Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher, Malay and others; Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, Hindus and others live here. The State must safeguard the nation’s responsibility, uniqueness, and the right to practice one’s religion. We respect all religions. I am Sinhala Buddhist and I respect all religions and all ethnicities. But our country is a Sinhala Buddhist country. I say this not to disparage any other community or faith. From birth, we carry our ethnicity and religion in our hands with love. Therefore, we must ensure such incidents do not occur. In history, small incidents like in Beruwala Darga Town have expanded unexpectedly. We must act prudently.

¶ 04 The Minister has clarified that the statue was taken by Police for protection. Even if so, if we proceed this way, will we remove every religious object at all sites claiming lack of security? The remedy is to provide security there, not to remove statues and turn Police into temple custodians. Otherwise, the Police would be compelled to hold all statues for protection. We must focus carefully on preventing communal or religious tensions and think how to act as a Sri Lankan nation.

¶ 05 I also note with concern that yesterday there was another shooting—in Meetiyagoda—where a person was killed. From 2025.01.01 to date: 1,068 shootings, 548 deaths, 53 injured. This is alarming. Public security is a responsibility of the Government, yet shootings keep increasing, though the year is not over. We must focus on public security.

¶ 06 Recently, a Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman was murdered. Hon. Minister, Members of Parliament—both Government and Opposition—must have security. Yesterday, when MPs went to look into the Buddha statue incident, they were assaulted and chased away. Security means creating conditions to de-escalate with the message of protection, not allowing mobs to assault or expel public representatives. We urge greater attention to the security of citizens and public representatives.

¶ 07 Regarding the Police, there are about 82,000 officers. We must safeguard not only senior but also junior ranks. Many stations are in poor condition—temporary fixes for inspections while roofs are collapsing. Improve facilities, maintenance, sanitation and officer welfare. Police officers sacrifice much for public safety. While some may try to please those in power, the majority in lower ranks perform their duties. To do so, they need sound mental well-being; address their needs, particularly promotions. Some have served since 1998 or 2008, and when they retire at 55 or 60, have they received due promotions and recognition? The system must function.

¶ 08 I heard the Minister say “we have not politically interfered with the Police.” If genuinely so, good. Yet we see transfers of OICs and others across stations, often justified as “service needs” and “efficiency.” In Kalutara District, almost all OICs were transferred. Transfers after three years are acceptable, but some under three years were moved. In the past, MPs sought transfers by letter; now it seems to happen by phone calls. This is the prevailing practice. If transfers are by the Police Commission, why previously try to curtail Commission powers? Do not politicize.

¶ 09 On the narcotics eradication programme: it is very good. If a child at home uses ice or other drugs, the whole family is destroyed. We will extend maximum support. But avoid undue media theatrics that may prejudice prosecutions. Those linked to drugs spend fortunes on cases; ensure evidence handling and prosecutions are insulated, discreet, and effective to secure convictions.

¶ 10 On Easter Sunday attacks: You promised to bring the mastermind to justice. It’s been 1 year and 2 months since you took office. Who is the mastermind? Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith still awaits justice. Identify and arrest the mastermind—whoever it is—and ensure maximum punishment. The people expect you to fulfill manifesto pledges, not postpone year after year.

¶ 11 On Batalanda: A commission report was tabled and debated, with promises to act against those responsible for the torture camp—who built, ran, and ordered killings—but to date nothing has happened. As you now demand action, do it.

¶ 12 On bar permits: A list of 306 was presented; when asked to cancel those issued unlawfully, the response was they were lawful. At least disclose if any were recommended in small numbers, and if MPs, Ministers or organizers hold them. Discharge your responsibilities.

¶ 13 Finally, fulfill welfare to the Police—particularly for constables, drivers, sergeants and above—who work long shifts without rest. Recruit to fill vacancies; today one officer does duties of three. Focus on them, secure better service from them. Thank you for the time.