The BAR Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has called on the government, Inspector General of Police (IGP), all Police officers, and the armed forces to act with utmost restraint when dealing with public protests.
The BASL made the appeal while issuing a statement on the detention of protesters in front of the Parliament entry road today.
Nearly 12 protesters were arrested by the Police on the charges of blocking the Parliament entry road at the Polduwa Junction by staging a demonstration.
In its statement, the BASL pointed out that those engaged in the lawful exercise of their right to protest cannot be arrested.
“We reiterate once more that the right of the public to protest in a peaceful manner must be respected and upheld. We also stress that such protests must be peaceful at all times,” the BASL added.
Meanwhile, BASL President, Saliya Peiris PC said he has requested the IGP to ensure that immediate access is given to Attorneys-at-Law to visit and communicate with the arrested protesters who have been detained at the Maharagama Police station.
He said access must be granted in terms of Section 15(2) of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances Act No. 5 of 2018. (NewsWire)
