Approval must be obtained from the Sri Lanka Police six hours prior to conducting any protest or demonstration, Acting Defence Minister Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon said on Monday.
Addressing the media, he said there will be no obstruction towards holding peaceful protests, adding that the government accepts and respects the people’s right to protest.
He said, however, prior approval according to the stipulated time must be obtained from the Police.
“As per the law of the country, prior approval must be obtained from the security establishment a few hours prior to a protest march or demonstration. None of the protests currently being held is in accordance with that law,” Acting Minister Tennakoon said.
The Acting Defence Minister added that illegal demonstrations or protests that affect law and order and inconvenience and obstruct public activities will not be allowed and the government will take necessary legal action in this regard.
He made the statement in response to questions raised on the President’s recent declaration of several areas as high-security zones. (NewsWire)