Family members of police personnel gathered outside the Presidential Secretariat, seeking a meeting with officials regarding the planned eviction from official police quarters. They handed over a letter outlining their concerns.
A lawyer representing the group said a circular had been issued instructing families currently occupying police quarters to vacate their residences by December 30.
“We are not challenging the directive itself,” the lawyer said. “But these families are facing serious difficulties. Their children are in school, and with the recent disaster and limited income, finding alternative housing on short notice is nearly impossible.”
He added that average rental costs in Colombo range from Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 45,000, making it unaffordable for most of the families, who are requesting only a time extension. “They’ve explored every option and have come to the President’s Office as a last resort,” he said, noting that between 375 to 400 families are affected by this decision.
Speaking to media, one family member said, “We are asking to remain in the quarters until the youngest children of these families complete their A/L exams. Many police officers’ wives do part-time work, and this situation would make it difficult to ensure the safety of our children at home.”
She added that current rental prices are around Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 70,000, well beyond their salaries. (Newswire)
