Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has questioned whether the death of a young man in police custody in Homagama is another step towards Sri Lanka becoming a police state.
In a special statement, Premadasa expressed serious concern over the death of Ishara Harshana, who died while in the custody of Homagama Police.
He said relatives who visited the police station on October 25 to inquire about Harshana had reportedly observed injuries on his body.
Premadasa called for an independent and transparent investigation into the death, stressing that police have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals in their custody.
He said the death raised serious concerns about constitutional protections and the responsibility of law enforcement authorities to safeguard human life.
The Opposition Leader also linked the incident to two proposed pieces of legislation aimed at combating organised crime and terrorism, warning that certain provisions could undermine fundamental rights and the rule of law.
He alleged that the proposed laws could restrict freedom of expression, political freedom and the right to peaceful assembly, potentially paving the way for authoritarian and one-party rule.
Premadasa said governments have a responsibility to strengthen democracy rather than restrict democratic freedoms.
He stressed that legislation aimed at protecting national security and combating organised crime must comply with international standards and human rights obligations.
The Opposition Leader called for justice for Ishara Harshana and urged the public to oppose any attempt to turn Sri Lanka into a police state.
He also pledged to provide political leadership to efforts aimed at preventing the introduction of laws that could undermine democratic rights and freedoms. (Newswire)