Ban on rallies that spread hatred: Police

Monday, 23 June 2014 00:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

No more permits for meetings held that could create problems between communities, says Police Spokesman

In the wake of recent ethno-religious clashes in Aluthgama and Beruwela, the Police have decided to ban rallies and meetings that promote ethnic or religious hatred between communities.

Police Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana told a press briefing yesterday that while the right of assembly was guaranteed under the constitution, meetings or rallies that seek to spread hatred between communities and religions will not be permitted to gather. “Permits will not be issued for such rallies,” the Spokesman said. He also urged people not to participate in a Muslim agitation campaign organised today, since it could cause further issues between communities. The announcement comes hours President Mahinda Rajapaksa issued a special statement to the nation on Saturday night, condemning hate speech and promising firm action against it. President Rajapaksa met with several Muslim MPs in his Government in Badulla on Saturday, where the Parliamentarians had appealed to have action taken against hate speech and instigators to violence, and the enactment of hate speech legislation as soon as possible. A few Sri Lanka Muslim Congress MPs boycotted the meeting, to which Parliamentarians were flown by helicopter. (DB)