Sujeewa files FR case against Police Sergeant 

Deputy Minister of Justice seeks Rs. 5 million compensation from police

Deputy Minister of Justice Sujeewa Senasinghe yesterday filed a fundamental rights case against a police sergeant who has accused him of violating election laws.

In his petition, Senasinghe claims the officer had obstructed legitimate election propaganda  activities in the Habarakada area on 23 July.

Senasinghe, who was summoned before court on charges filed by the police sergeant, said in his petition to Supreme Court that his fundamental rights had been violated and demanded compensation of Rs. 5 million.

OIC of the Athurugiriya police, Mahanama, Police Sergeants Gaminiwansha, SSP Mahen Gunasekera, DIG Kapila Jayasekera, the IGP and the Attorney General have been cited as respondents in the petition.

Senasinghe and one other were noticed to appear before the Homagama Magistrate’s Court on August 5 for allegedly violating election laws and obstructing a police officer from carrying out his duties and threatening him.

Senasinghe was absent from court on 5 August.

Police said in its complaint that the deputy minister was being charged with conducting an illegal campaign procession and using loud-speakers without the necessary licence.

The Deputy Minister of Justice has called for the IGP’s resignation over the incident. (DB)