Heated arguments erupted in Parliament following a statement by SJB MP Dayasiri Jayasekara, who reported that legal actions have been initiated against recent LTTE commemorations under different laws in the North and South.
During the session, MP Jayasekara highlighted that cases filed in the South were initiated under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), while those in the North fell under the Penal Code. In response, Public Security Minister Wijepala affirmed that the Police Department operates independently from political influence, and it is the responsibility of law enforcement to determine the appropriate legislation for filing cases post-investigation.
“The Police Department has been given the freedom to act independently without political interferences. It is up to the police to decide under which Acts the cases must be filed after investigations. It is the duty of the police and not the duty of the Minister,” Minister Wijepala stated.
MP Jayasekara stressed the importance of seeking guidance from the Attorney General’s Department before filing any cases. Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara remarked that the police typically seek legal counsel only when there is confusion or necessity.
Minister Wijepala clarified that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) had informed him that cases in both the North and South were filed under the PTA, accusing MP Jayasekara of making statements that incite racism by implying the existence of separate laws for the two regions.
In defense, MP Jayasekara asserted that he does not support racist perspectives, emphasizing the need for the police to consult the Attorney General’s Department to ensure just decisions are made regarding potential racial implications. He demanded that Minister Wijepala retract his accusation of racism.
Leader of the House Bimal Ratnayake joined the debate, asserting that MP Jayasekara had indeed made racially charged comments and urged him to withdraw his statement, insisting that the Minister’s comments should remain unwithdrawn.
