Newly elected Jaffna District MP Dr. Archchuna Ramanathan has requested personal security following the backlash he faced due to his actions during the inaugural session of the 10th Parliament of Sri Lanka.
During the first session of Parliament last week, the MP refused to move from the seat traditionally allocated for the Opposition Leader, while he was also reported to have allegedly made racial statements.
Participating in the orientation programme for newly elected Parliamentarians held at the Parliament premises today, MP Archchuna Ramanathan pointed out that he was facing severe threats due to the incident.
“Because of that incident of the Parliament seat, I am unable to even walk on the road. The media took a 45-50 minute interview. They questioned if I had eaten to which I responded yes. Then they questioned if I was part of the LTTE to which I responded no. However, they have omitted my response to the second question, making it impossible for me to step on the road,” he said.
Pointing out the situation, MP Archchuna Ramanathan questioned Parliament officials on how and when he can arrange the necessary security provided to him under parliamentary privileges.
Responding to the MP, the Deputy Secretary General of Parliament Chaminda Kularatne said the MP will be required to make a written request in this regard from the Ministry of Public Security.
Watch : https://shorturl.at/izg6P (Newswire)