Students who were engaged in the protest march organised by the Inter Student Collective for the Protection of Higher National Diploma in Accountancy (HNDA) being brutally attacked by the police near Town Hall yesterday. The students were on their way to the University Grants Commission (UGC) urging the authorities to enhance the HNDA to a degree status again.
Paddy / October 30, 2015
What gives them the right to block public roads and put others to inconvenience. Police brutality is not condoned. Why can’t a few of them submit their written grievances to the UGC and discuss the pros and cons of making a diploma into a degree.
/
Justice & Fairplay / October 30, 2015
Paddy,
” Why can’t a few of them submit their written grievances to the UGC and discuss the pros and cons of making a diploma into a degree” ?
BECAUSE they are QUALIFIED but not EDUCATED, That’s why. They will understand only the Rajapaksian ethos of ruling a nation. They will not understand the inconvenience they cause to the public. They will not understand that with such behavior they damage their own cause for which they are now fighting.
Their intelligence (limited clearly only to studies)and qualification cannot hide the nakedness of the lack of “true education” and a sense of civic consciousness, so necessary in the people of a country looking forward.
/
Thiru / October 31, 2015
This is what is called “appe aanduwa”, Yahapālanaya or not!
Civilized behavior can only be expected from a civilized society.
Are we civilized?
/
Smith / October 31, 2015
“Are we civilized? “
Neither are by language which the other does ignore-
human dignity and common sense?? a long way to go mimicking the west.
But both are biped by design and wriggle their own hands.
/
nic / November 1, 2015
This is the result when you get things free. You do not know the value of it. If you had to pay for your higher education – you would value what you are getting and be more focused on getting yourself educated and qualified.
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Rankoth / October 30, 2015
Padda here must be a paid operative from the Yahapalana gang. Don’t take any notice of him.
Maaru Sira has nothing to say?
Sarath Amunugama, a student leader during Nicholas Attygalle’s time as vice chancellor of Peradeniya tried to resign last week, disgusted by the Yahapalana fraud. What did Maaru Sira do? gave him a minister’s post with no work to do!
This Sira – [Edited out] curse of yahapalanaya should end soon or they will drive this country down the preceipice.
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Bagehot / October 30, 2015
What makes you so sure that Amunugama (a man of dubious ‘cleanliness’ based on his past record) resigned because of his purported indignation at yahapalanaya? That is just a charade and a facade for the old man’s disappointment in having lost the powers he enjoyed for several years, after which he griped about yahapalanaya and then shut up quickly when some powers were restored. If he was that disgusted about it, why didn’t he just follow through with his empty threats?
Like those students, it is amazing how those with eyes refuse to see.
/
Nimal / October 30, 2015
First of all, this has nothing to do with yahapalanaya. The independent police commission is fully functional now. Even the president cannot interfere with the police. The IGP and the Police commission has to look into this and see if the Police has gone beyond the limit.
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Sama / October 31, 2015
You are dead right.
Today or in the past police actions could harm the protesters. What matters is the degree of harm.
I have seen how some radical environmentalists in Europe protest against the actions being taken by some govts. There police become very helpless. No many are being physically attacked by some get injured. That is everywhere. Opportnists of the day is making every effort to hype up the issue to gain their pitty advantages. Those that make every effort to fish in muddy waters cant achieve their aims easily.
At the time, Rathupaswala peace marchers were attacked and controlled by rubber bullets, people stayed as if they are deaf and dumb.
Today, former president to add his thoughts to say that his regime never did so – is so such a lie. There his could damage to all deep levels, how far the man is aimed to add his blant lies – for any price is seen in today s environment.
/
Treehorse / October 30, 2015
@Paddy,
Sadly in our nation, the solution to all problems start with a protest. If one or two student write a UGC, it would certainly end up in the rubbish bin. Will the media highlight their grievance if a few members file their case? taking to the roads has become the norm that is by predecessors and the current generation is following suit.
They should have freedom of expression without disturbing the public. For all protests, Government should designate an area where they can protest without causing inconvenience to the public.
This would be a win – win situation. Get the attention as desired and also not disturbing the public.
/
maali karunaratne / November 1, 2015
Agreed- a place for protests would be fine. They could send a petition and have other means of protest rather than block traffic and cause severe inconvenience to all travellers including the users of public transport- poor men, women and children. Students and those who support them should have a sense of resposibility/
But I disagree with the police brutality
/
Sama / October 30, 2015
Any violent protesters to be controlled by police this way or other.
Lanken students should learn how to go for peaceful protests. If the manner was used in Germany, these students would not have allowed to continue their studies but will be subejct to rehab process.
I really dont think that Police had other alternatives than using minimal controls such as through water throws, and batton.
/
Banjiappu / October 30, 2015
We perfectly know if we started graduate studies at lanken unis how the students behave. Late 80ties, I left the country and I cant forget any of the incidents I happened to see at Hilda obeysekara premises then. Many of these students and their so called leaders are being remote conrtolled by political men – in today s case, virulent NFF coudl be the ones. Wimal Buruwanse has become so offended since he was caught by all means not allowing him to leave the country for his sorta agenda tasks. JVP would never do the kind of issues since they now learn there will be no options for a government if protesters would go violent.
/
NAMS / October 30, 2015
All guys will be locked up for ever if they are Tamils but these boys will be out in days without any charges . Tamils boys who protested early part of this year in Jaffan are still in jail. F double standard.
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maalumiris / October 30, 2015
@NAMS
“All guys will be locked up for ever if they are Tamils”
Well then, it’s a good job they are not, isn’t it ?
/
Janamanaya / October 30, 2015
These students are politically motivated by the pertugami party and other bankrupt political parties and wants to create trouble for the government. They are following a diploma course because they are not qualified to enter regular degree programmes. Their demands are most unreasonable and such a bunch of rowdies should not be allowed to disrupt the normal life of people by blocking major roads. I think the police action is fair and unlike in the Rathupaswala incident police did not shoot. Police should round up all these fellows and kick them out of their courses. They are getting free education and do not appreciate how much money the government is spending. Do the students of private universities in Sri Lanka resort to this kind of action? They know that they are paying through their nose and want to get the best out of education.
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DPJ / October 30, 2015
In our country the education is free up to University level. The children who are selected through competitive tests are supposed to be intelligent. Therefore, their task is to reap the benefits they are afforded free of charge instead of disturbing the peace at the instigation of the unruly left politicians who earn their buck from foreign countries. Today’s newspapers have published that even people with PHd’s have applied for peons jobs in India. We are also on the verge of reaching such a situation in the very near future. These student’s agitations should not be supported at all. It is the educationists who decide of the type of education suitable for us not the students.
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Banjiappu / October 30, 2015
We perfectly know if we started graduate studies at lanken unis how the students behave. Late 80ties, I left the country and I cant forget any of the incidents I happened to see at Hilda obeysekara premises then. Many of these students and their so called leaders are being remote conrtolled by political men – in today s case, virulent NFF coudl be the ones. Wimal Buruwanse has become so offended since he was caught by all means not allowing him to leave the country for his sorta agenda tasks. JVP would never do the kind of issues since they now learn there will be no options for a government if protesters would go violent.
/
Native Vedda / October 30, 2015
DPJ, Janamanaya, Paddy, SB and others
who are ever so ready to part with their advice, to the non violent protesters but have no words to condemn the state brutality which is a permanent feature of the state.
You as arm chair critics have said what you heard about the situation mostly ill informed and ever ready to believe the state’s version of events.
People have the right to protest. There are hundreds of legitimate ways in which a non violent protest can be perused.
Here is the list, hope you will read and learn:
198 METHODS OF NONVIOLENT ACTION
Practitioners of nonviolent struggle have an entire arsenal of “nonviolent weapons” at their disposal. Listed below are 198 of them, classified into three broad categories: nonviolent protest and persuasion, noncooperation (social, economic, and political), and nonviolent intervention. A description and historical examples of each can be found in volume two of The Politics of Nonviolent Action, by Gene Sharp.
THE METHODS OF NONVIOLENT PROTEST AND PERSUASION
Formal Statements
1. Public Speeches
2. Letters of opposition or support
3. Declarations by organizations and institutions
4. Signed public statements
5. Declarations of indictment and intention
6. Group or mass petitions
Communications with a Wider Audience
7. Slogans, caricatures, and symbols
8. Banners, posters, and displayed communications
9. Leaflets, pamphlets, and books
10. Newspapers and journals
11. Records, radio, and television
12. Skywriting and earthwriting
Group Representations
13. Deputations
14. Mock awards
15. Group lobbying
16. Picketing
17. Mock elections
Symbolic Public Acts
18. Displays of flags and symbolic colors
19. Wearing of symbols
20. Prayer and worship
21. Delivering symbolic objects
22. Protest disrobings
23. Destruction of own property
24. Symbolic lights
25. Displays of portraits
26. Paint as protest
27. New signs and names
28. Symbolic sounds
29. Symbolic reclamations
30. Rude gestures
Pressures on Individuals
31. “Haunting” officials
32. Taunting officials
33. Fraternization
34. Vigils
Drama and Music
35. Humorous skits and pranks
36. Performances of plays and music
37. Singing
Processions
38. Marches
39. Parades
40. Religious processions
41. Pilgrimages
42. Motorcades
Honoring the Dead
43. Political mourning
44. Mock funerals
45. Demonstrative funerals
46. Homage at burial places
Public Assemblies
47. Assemblies of protest or support
48. Protest meetings
49. Camouflaged meetings of protest
50. Teach-ins
Withdrawal and Renunciation
51. Walk-outs
52. Silence
53. Renouncing honors
54. Turning one’s back
THE METHODS OF SOCIAL NONCOOPERATION
Ostracism of Persons
55. Social boycott
56. Selective social boycott
57. Lysistratic nonaction
58. Excommunication
59. Interdict
Noncooperation with Social Events, Customs, and Institutions
60. Suspension of social and sports activities
61. Boycott of social affairs
62. Student strike
63. Social disobedience
64. Withdrawal from social institutions
Withdrawal from the Social System
65. Stay-at-home
66. Total personal noncooperation
67. “Flight” of workers
68. Sanctuary
69. Collective disappearance
70. Protest emigration (hijrat)
THE METHODS OF ECONOMIC NONCOOPERATION: ECONOMIC BOYCOTTS
Actions by Consumers
71. Consumers’ boycott
72. Nonconsumption of boycotted goods
73. Policy of austerity
74. Rent withholding
75. Refusal to rent
76. National consumers’ boycott
77. International consumers’ boycott
Action by Workers and Producers
78. Workmen’s boycott
79. Producers’ boycott
Action by Middlemen
80. Suppliers’ and handlers’ boycott
Action by Owners and Management
81. Traders’ boycott
82. Refusal to let or sell property
83. Lockout
84. Refusal of industrial assistance
85. Merchants’ “general strike”
Action by Holders of Financial Resources
86. Withdrawal of bank deposits
87. Refusal to pay fees, dues, and assessments
88. Refusal to pay debts or interest
89. Severance of funds and credit
90. Revenue refusal
91. Refusal of a government’s money
Action by Governments
92. Domestic embargo
93. Blacklisting of traders
94. International sellers’ embargo
95. International buyers’ embargo
96. International trade embargo
THE METHODS OF ECONOMIC NONCOOPERATION: THE STRIKE
Symbolic Strikes
97. Protest strike
98. Quickie walkout (lightning strike)
Agricultural Strikes
99. Peasant strike
100. Farm Workers’ strike
Strikes by Special Groups
101. Refusal of impressed labor
102. Prisoners’ strike
103. Craft strike
104. Professional strike
Ordinary Industrial Strikes
105. Establishment strike
106. Industry strike
107. Sympathetic strike
Restricted Strikes
108. Detailed strike
109. Bumper strike
110. Slowdown strike
111. Working-to-rule strike
112. Reporting “sick” (sick-in)
113. Strike by resignation
114. Limited strike
115. Selective strike
Multi-Industry Strikes
116. Generalized strike
117. General strike
Combination of Strikes and Economic Closures
118. Hartal
119. Economic shutdown
THE METHODS OF POLITICAL NONCOOPERATION
Rejection of Authority
120. Withholding or withdrawal of allegiance
121. Refusal of public support
122. Literature and speeches advocating resistance
Citizens’ Noncooperation with Government
123. Boycott of legislative bodies
124. Boycott of elections
125. Boycott of government employment and positions
126. Boycott of government depts., agencies, and other bodies
127. Withdrawal from government educational institutions
128. Boycott of government-supported organizations
129. Refusal of assistance to enforcement agents
130. Removal of own signs and placemarks
131. Refusal to accept appointed officials
132. Refusal to dissolve existing institutions
Citizens’ Alternatives to Obedience
133. Reluctant and slow compliance
134. Nonobedience in absence of direct supervision
135. Popular nonobedience
136. Disguised disobedience
137. Refusal of an assemblage or meeting to disperse
138. Sitdown
139. Noncooperation with conscription and deportation
140. Hiding, escape, and false identities
141. Civil disobedience of “illegitimate” laws
Action by Government Personnel
142. Selective refusal of assistance by government aides
143. Blocking of lines of command and information
144. Stalling and obstruction
145. General administrative noncooperation
146. Judicial noncooperation
147. Deliberate inefficiency and selective noncooperation by enforcement agents
148. Mutiny
Domestic Governmental Action
149. Quasi-legal evasions and delays
150. Noncooperation by constituent governmental units
International Governmental Action
151. Changes in diplomatic and other representations
152. Delay and cancellation of diplomatic events
153. Withholding of diplomatic recognition
154. Severance of diplomatic relations
155. Withdrawal from international organizations
156. Refusal of membership in international bodies
157. Expulsion from international organizations
THE METHODS OF NONVIOLENT INTERVENTION
Psychological Intervention
158. Self-exposure to the elements
159. The fast
a) Fast of moral pressure
b) Hunger strike
c) Satyagrahic fast
160. Reverse trial
161. Nonviolent harassment
Physical Intervention
162. Sit-in
163. Stand-in
164. Ride-in
165. Wade-in
166. Mill-in
167. Pray-in
168. Nonviolent raids
169. Nonviolent air raids
170. Nonviolent invasion
171. Nonviolent interjection
172. Nonviolent obstruction
173. Nonviolent occupation
Social Intervention
174. Establishing new social patterns
175. Overloading of facilities
176. Stall-in
177. Speak-in
178. Guerrilla theater
179. Alternative social institutions
180. Alternative communication system
Economic Intervention
181. Reverse strike
182. Stay-in strike
183. Nonviolent land seizure
184. Defiance of blockades
185. Politically motivated counterfeiting
186. Preclusive purchasing
187. Seizure of assets
188. Dumping
189. Selective patronage
190. Alternative markets
191. Alternative transportation systems
192. Alternative economic institutions
Political Intervention
193. Overloading of administrative systems
194. Disclosing identities of secret agents
195. Seeking imprisonment
196. Civil disobedience of “neutral” laws
197. Work-on without collaboration
198. Dual sovereignty and parallel government
Without doubt, a large number of additional methods have already been used but have not been classified, and a multitude of additional methods will be invented in the future that have the characteristics of the three classes of methods: nonviolent protest and persuasion, noncooperation and nonviolent intervention.
It must be clearly understood that the greatest effectiveness is possible when individual methods to be used are selected to implement the previously adopted strategy. It is necessary to know what kind of pressures are to be used before one chooses the precise forms of action that will best apply those pressures.
[1] Boston: Porter Sargent, 1973 and later editions.
aeinstein.org
Albert Einstein Institution
The Institution is committed to:
· defending democratic freedoms and institutions;
· opposing oppression, dictatorship, and genocide; and
· reducing the reliance on violence as an instrument of policy.
This mission is pursued in three ways, by:
· encouraging research and policy studies on the methods of nonviolent action and their past use in diverse conflicts;
· sharing the results of this research with the public through publications, conferences, and the media; and
· consulting with groups in conflict about the strategic potential of nonviolent action.
PS
DPJ, Janamanaya, Paddy, SB,…………
Could you pass this comment to the police, armed forces, rulers, …… politicians, ….. Dayan, Nalin, Gnanasara (the saffron clad thug) ….
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Truthspeaker / October 30, 2015
“DPJ, Janamanaya, Paddy, SB and others who are ever so ready to part with their advice, to the non violent protesters but have no words to condemn the state brutality which is a permanent feature of the state. You as arm chair critics have said what you heard about the situation mostly ill informed and ever ready to believe the state’s version of events. People have the right to protest.”
Well said NV. It was worth repeating. Mahadenamutta Vibhushana should have been included by name.
Men and women of the Armed Forces who animalate the Armed Forces (humans populate) should be kept on a tight leash. Unfortunately the politicians, their handlers, also happen to be animals.
Sirisenaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa? apologies to Booruwanse.
/
The Professional / October 31, 2015
Dear NV,
I find your comment vey informative. In order to understand what the action listed in respect of 57. Lysistratic Non-action means, I browsed the Internet and what I found interesting is quoted below.
So apparently Lysistrata is one of the few surviving plays written by Aristophanes. In the play, a goddess (also named Lysistrata) persuades women of of Greece to withhold sex from their husbands so that they would end the Peloponnesian war.
The meaning of Lysistratic non-action is to withhold sex from someone in order to achieve something. More recent examples of Lysistratic non-action include a sex strike in Togo in 2003. The aim of this was to put pressure on men to force the president of Togo to resign (http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/explainer/2012/08/sex_strike_in_togo_do_sex_strikes_ever_work_.html).
/
Native Vedda / November 1, 2015
The Professional
This form of non violent protest is the tried and tested most effective form of weapon available to women, non cooperation and non penet****on.
I am sure your partner would have sanctioned 57 against you from time to time.
Don’t you agree sanction 57 is the most effective form of protest?
/
The Professional / November 1, 2015
“I am sure your partner would have sanctioned 57 against you from time to time.”
It is women’s lib NV. In a country with liberal views, there are options for men under such circumstances. Now there is talk in town that Long John has resorted to taking selfies.
/
srilal / October 30, 2015
Absolutely appalling , is this the reason why we brought MY3 to power ? brutal assault on students reminds us that donkey SB’s governance style , SL police needs to be taught a lesson , they always getaway with any crime , where are those police offices who escorted the suspects to find hidden weapons now ? police force needs urgent reforms , they must be taught to respect the ordinary citizens first , those who assaulting unarmed students must be brought to justice Mr President !
/
Appuhamy / October 30, 2015
Srilal,
why you say absolutely appalling ?
Do you know how the chinese and Americans control the kind of violent student protests ?
In such batton beatings, things like getting injured could result, but to behonest, what is the other options before the police ? Please dont compare it with those barabaric acts of previous govt. Need of the hour is to show these students how the west and other civilized cutlures do peaceful protests.
These students have no knowledge on anything but very naive and easily manipulative by Wimal Buruwanse et al.
/
srilal / October 30, 2015
Appuhamy ,
“why you say absolutely appalling ?”
because it’s appalling , police brutal behaviour on unarmed students must be condemned in the strongest language .
“Do you know how the chinese and Americans control the kind of violent student protests ?”
Yes i know how Chinese control the student protests ,in fact i vividly remember how Chinese cracked down student protest in Tiananmen Square in 1989 , it was a Massacre , an unarmed student was to run over by a tank . Then you go on to American police , well i remember how they beat Rodney king and the countless brutal attacks on countless innocent civilians .you conveniently brought two worst police names to justify our SL police brutal attack !
“In such batton beatings, things like getting injured could result, but to behonest, what is the other options before the police ? “
other option is , let the students go to UGC and hand over their letters or let them talk to some one responsible at UGC , is that too much to ask from a democratic government ? beating the hell out of the students was the first option which Mafia king had adapted , frankly . we don’t want another Mafia state in SL .
“Please dont compare it with those barabaric acts of previous govt. “
Why not , it is exactly the same behaviour which Mafia king used to control student’s unrest.
” Need of the hour is to show these students how the west and other civilized cutlures do peaceful protests. “
You mean London student protest ? South Korean student protests ?
“These students have no knowledge on anything but very naive and easily manipulative by Wimal Buruwanse et al. “
it’s who you sound naive at this particular point , please check what their genuine grievances are , then we can talk about the rest.
/
maalumiris / October 30, 2015
@Srilal
Fully agree !
/
srilal / October 30, 2015
see Malumiris , we can agree on certain things , that’s the way to go mate!
/
Sena / October 31, 2015
“”Absolutely appalling , is this the reason why we brought MY3 to power ? “2
Ha ha sinhala buddhist Sobitha must be laughing all the way to the bank.
IT’s the special task force (police wing) that saw to it that My3 became the new president on that fateful day. Of course guided by US state department and external affairs RAW.
My3 can’t be that stupid to kill the golden goose.
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Banjiappu / October 30, 2015
please dont take the site of the students int his case, they are not peaceful protetsters – they have become the caricatures of peratugami remote controlled by NFF.
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srilal / October 30, 2015
Banjiappu ,
Don’t look at every thing through your political prism , who cares whether they belong to Peratugami or not , fact of the matter is , police brutality on unarmed students , police kosso who beat these unarmed students must pay the price for their short sighted action , period !
We the public demands from MY3 and Ranil to do the right thing , if not their popularity will be further dwindled .
/
Ben Hurling / October 30, 2015
Indeed. Reform of the Sri Lankan state should start from the Police, Military, Prisons and Judiciary etc.
Police is under-funded, under-trained & over-worked. Fully misused by politicians on top.
This is not the way to deal with a student protest. May I remind all, including the Police these could be your sons, daughters, family members or friends. If not today, tomorrow.
Total reform of Police is urgent. Change everything.
Start from the Police uniform itself. Symbol of brutality, criminality, corruption and injustice. Offer them better training. Give them better salaries. Build their stature in the eye of the public. Whom they are supposed to protect.
Above all, clean up the corrupt Police top brass. Hold them fully transparent & accountable. Failing which kick them out at once.
Nothing less will do.
Cheers!
PS: Sri Lankan public, specially students must learn to demonstrate & protest within the limits of law and peacefully. In a democracy, it is an art, all must master.
/
Native Vedda / October 30, 2015
Ben Hurling
“Sri Lankan public, specially students must learn to demonstrate & protest within the limits of law and peacefully. In a democracy, it is an art, all must master”
Can you point out a rolemodel for the students to follow? None I can think of.
The whole country rages all the time. People are angry with each other and with themselves.
What do you do?
/
Samare / October 31, 2015
Having read abuot all the comment, I can only agree with you since the entire lanken society should be restructured. That inlcudes police, courts, all lawful bodies, universities and almost everything.
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Sena / October 31, 2015
it wont happen and even if it does under anglo american it would be a farce like the January election.- that is democracy in practice- keep them divided under duress and rule is ongoing even in the west.
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Leelagemalli / October 31, 2015
You may be right, but our people easily forget the past. They are memory losers. They want all at once as DDR germans expected that side to be alike with former west German provinces. Sure, any brutalities by police or Rajapakshe thugs should be investigated. But is that all that huge attacks the police have excercised this time ? NO… not at all. At the time, Aluthgama srilankens were attacked by thugs supportive to BBS and the others were more brutal, to that time, police was helpless since Rajapakshes were behind them not allowing self function.
See alone the wrong doings of CIDs or others have been counter investigated today in the country, at least few of the levels have been becoming clear today than had been in the past. People cant expect everything to turn utopic levels at once. Pleae give more time to those virulent society to turn towards good… this will take its time. But we need to achieve all these by introduction proper systems.
/
Samare / October 31, 2015
Srilal, I have no idea about your Uni education or others on this forum. But having had the chance to go to a lanken uni before I left the country for abroad decades ago, I am telling you – most of the students become helpless at lanken universities because there are student thugs that work on the agendas of the political parties. Besides, the issues that have lot to do with UGC should be solved through discussions.
Here, it is true that police batton may have hurt the students physically. Is this not common to anywhere else violent protest are being held ?Those marches could hold peacefully learning it from the west. But most of the students become so violent in our countries. But do you think that average student would behave normal at the lanken unis ? Do they have such freedom to do so there ? Alone the ragging and their behaviours are beyond all ethics and morals. I have not heard the kind of ragging from anywhere on this earth. Most of them are brutal.
Alone 4th year Engineer student behaved swollen as if they completed a doctorate – this was late 80ties at lanken universiities. They had no clue about other Universities work – Nor had they obtained collected any kind of acdemic exp
/
srilal / October 31, 2015
Samare ,
it looks like You are carrying a huge log on your shoulder about SL uni students as whole ! ragging , swollen headed all these are secondary matters at this particular point , perhaps this is not the ideal time to debate about age old issues , right now we are discussing as to how a democratically elected government unleash a lethal force on unarmed students . your argument is similar to a suspect being severely beaten in a police cell , just because he had been accused by so and so.
the crux of the matter is police behaviour ,how had they been abusing their power over the years without getting caught , what are the constitutional rights of a citizen of this country , who is going to take the ultimate responsibility in the end ? is it PM , relevant Minister , IGP or the specific DIG ? Uni students mentality or their ragging behaviour is the least concern , in fact they are utterly irrelevant here.
“Here, it is true that police batton may have hurt the students physically. Is this not common to anywhere else violent protest are being held ?”
your justification of brutal police attack on unarmed students is pathetic ,my suggestion is an immediate jail sentence for all those who attacked students.
“Those marches could hold peacefully learning it from the west.”
you mean from London ? i remember how London students protested in 2010 , do you ?
/
Treehorse / October 30, 2015
Over to you Police commission. Lets see whether you guys would investigate and respect the constitution.
/
sukry / October 30, 2015
this is not a secret sri lanka police brutality internationally known. certainly a minor protest should’t be crack down brutally. this is the similar police brutality that took place in Madison WM 1, in US one can imagine how the will react to dispute in Sri lanka, sometime the verbally abuse people no manner or the respect given to it’s citizen. government must bring some reform in order to fix up police brutality in sri lanka. the sri lankan police still in the feudal age they treat it’s citizen as their slaves.
/
Pasuwardana / October 30, 2015
Everything is not honky donky just because of January 8.
/
SB / October 30, 2015
1. Why can’t the students union get an appointment to see the Minister rather than waste their time on protest marches.There must be a limit to the disruption they cause to the public .
2. why can’t the powers that be hold one or two meetings with these students and give them a yes or no answer. our bloody politicians too have such a big chip on their shoulders that they think all and sundry have to follow their ruling.
3. there are times when even if the students are right it cannot given due say lack of funds ect. This happens every where in the world and it is must be discussed and a reasonable alternative be found .
/
Polished / October 30, 2015
These so called students are the lower rung of the ladder and absolute fools, no blocking roads and putting all people into inconvienience.
Well done the police
/
baludeen / October 30, 2015
yama-palanaya at work and they got their “apamana agaya”
/
Navin / October 30, 2015
It is natural that only those with a diseased mind and a propensity to derive pleasure from causing pain to other humans will be drawn to join the Armed Forces. It is therefore fair to think that over 90% of those in the Armed Forces (called “services” to insult the intelligence of the masses) are sadists.
This is why politically and socially civilized countries enforce strict discipline on those in the Armed Forces who wield the baton and the gun. Exceed authority – they face serious punishment without exception. Of course Sri Lanka does not belong to that category of countries.
What action will be taken against those goons in police uniform. Don’t hold your breath – none.
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arjun aruliah / October 30, 2015
Violence never Solves Issues.
Its time the Students and the Politicians had honest Dialog instead of violence from both sides.
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Vibhushana / October 30, 2015
Well, it was a nonsensical protest anyway. The reason its called a Diploma is because its not a Degree!
In Sri Lanka the student unions always pick a fight over nothing. They want a good biff up. The police also enjoy giving one.
Its like a scene from Asterix and Obelix of Gaul. Once in a while the whole village have a good fist fight. The next day they enjoy a banquet together as if nothing has happened.
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Truthspeaker / October 30, 2015
Grotesque comment, as usual.
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shankar / October 30, 2015
the govt has changed but the polce has not.What is the use of a diff govt when the institutions are having the same people under mahinda?Why is the police not being cleaned up?Is it because tilak marapone who is the brother of gamini marapone,a staunch mahinda supporter now defending mahinda against ITN charges?
Also wasn’t tilak marapone the cause of ranil govt down fall in 2002 when some decision he made as a minister triggered a response form chandrika to hold elections.Will never ranil learn from past experiences in having the wrong people around him.
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bo / October 30, 2015
No different to Yatapaswala job. Peaceful demo of students suppressed by brutal (GESTAPO) police. Only bloody MPs and politicians have rights and privileges in this cursed country; every one else is a SLAVE to the lazy but evil sods at the top. Old hen Ranil is still scratching in the backgarden pretending to bury his Batalanda File and to find his Uncle’s Dharmista Samajaya inside the mantle of Yahapalanaya. We can change pillows but the headache and cruelty and inequality in society does not fade away. We don’t have a homegrown solution to HR in this country!
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Stanly / October 30, 2015
Yes, you should deal firmly with these unruly elements. They have gone to study, not to make trouble. Here there is a good message for all of them. No where in the world you see students behaving like this, and causing pain to the public. It’s all because of free education, if you pay you know the pain and behave accordingly. Stop giving free, charge them and then they would come to their senses.
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Point of View / October 31, 2015
Totally agree. They don’t value it because it is free.
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maalumiris / November 2, 2015
@Stanly
While condemning the utter brutality of the Police response, I can’t help feeling there is more than a grain of truth in your last couple of sentences.
I am all for free primary and secondary education but free tertiary education in Sri Lanka should be curtailed. Some level of financial contribution from the student should be required. It can be a nominal amount but not insignificant
With the balance of monies that does not go to bolstering the Free System, perhaps a set of grants for needy students can be setup
Anything that comes for free is usually not appreciated and that is what I have seen in Sri Lankan universities over time.
That being said, student protest can never (and should not) be eliminated,. it happens everywhere and sadly, police response is usually brutal, regardless of whether it is us 3rd world savages or the wondrous enlightened beings of the West.
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Sapumal / October 30, 2015
I strongly condemn the brutal actions taken against the protesters by the Police. But everyone must remember this has nothing to do with “Yahapanalaya” or Good Governance Govt. They have done what they have to be done. Now its all under Police Commission and IGP. I am totally against the propaganda by MR-Weerawansa coalition.
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justice / October 30, 2015
Whoever ordered these attacks is a monster, especially even on female undergrads.
Don’t these policemen have daughters ?
I thought that military/police brutality was over at least in the south on January 8th with the old military regime defeated – though it occurs occasionally in the north and east.
A few of these politicians who are mostly idle, could have met the leaders of the protest and told them to hand over their demands in writing, and go home.
This is what most of them would have wanted – a token gesture of concern.
It is only a small minority who start such protest, and others who are peaceful, dare not refuse to join.
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EDWIN RODRIGO / October 30, 2015
“I thought that military/police brutality was over at least in the south on January 8th with the old military regime defeated – though it occurs occasionally in the north and east. “
Herein lies the problem. If this happened in the North it would be separatism raising its head and it is justifiable.
When it happens in the South it is Police brutality and against Y-palanaya.
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Upul / October 30, 2015
Who gave the order to the cops to attack?
Its a simple question and demands a simple answer.
In civilised countries the media would have found the answer within 24 hours, no matter who wanted to hide the facts.
In Sri Lanka we do not have a qualified media and therefore, what is being reported is pure heresay.
Looking at the photos it is quite clear who is to be blamed. Blocking major roads is unacceptable and the cops should have devised a plan to control the flow of traffic. To blame the students for the traffic jams is quite stupid but then, in Sri Lanka it works!
To watch the Police spokesman pretend minimum force was used is a comedy by itself. Then, he is doing his job or protecting his job.
How a Diploma can be upgraded to Degree status is a laughable demand in itself. That appears to be the trend in Sri Lankan education when one can get an overseas MBA without even 4 A/L passes. How on earth can that be allowed to happen. Don’t we have standards anymore? So sorry I asked.
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punchinilame / October 30, 2015
It is the P O L I C E again. In the North the Head of Police was involved in the
conduct of action against a Rapist – a political-side taking matter.
In the South, the Minister is yet to come out with a Statement – which he must, even
before Commissions issues any. The history leading to this protest is not known?
Who directed the Police, if any, from above or was it an act of the authority on the
ground? Can he justify his action and be supported by the IGP?
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thondamanny / October 30, 2015
What is it??
Is it a Police baton Charge OR a Police Baton Dance????
If it is a Police baton Charge, it can not be the Yahapalanaya, but it must be either GORA or MARA.
WHO DIRECTED THE POLICE???????
It should be either Gothabaya, Mahinda or Kiriella.
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Douglas / October 30, 2015
Native Vedda: Those “198 Methods Of Nonviolent Action” are certainly good and will work only “IF” those in Authority are equally “Civilized”, “Men and Women of Honour and Integrity”. You would have very probably heard a Sinhala saying (I always used such) “Beeri Alinta Veena Gayanawa Karanawa Wagai” – (Just like playing a string musical instrument to a “Deaf Elephant”) Over the last so many years, we have seen and experienced the EROSION of QUALITY people handling these important functions of Governing the countries affairs. Those appointed to handle those functions, no doubt, are “HIGHLY QUALIFIED ACADEMICIANS; but do they or have they displayed any MATURITY, HONESTY and INTEGRITY. All those people have stooped to the lowest levels of “Bootlicks” and have and are engaged in a “Game of Survival” and often than not being “accomplices” of all the crimes and wrong doings. So do you think with such people at the helm any one of those 198 methods would work? But please note, I do not any in any way condemn those methods; but my opinion is that it will work fine with a “Decent” set of people only. Of course, “Both Parties” have to display responsibility and integrity and those will work miracles.
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Native Vedda / November 1, 2015
Douglas
Thank you for pointing out the catch 22 situation.
However children and youth should be heard not hurt.
They are the future of this island.
If the state is going to use violence as the only means to deal with youth, then the state doesn’t know what is in store for them, 3rd uprising in the South and another 30 years of carnage in the North East.
Remember both started with youth issues. When youth die the country dies with it.
What sort of future leadership is the country going to throw up when youth are being subjected to violence and despair?
This is huge subject and we will discuss it some other time.
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thrishu / October 31, 2015
Is it one of MR’s agents who is dishing out this brutal baton charge against a weak and unarmed female student? For the camers and to be used as propaganda?
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thrishu / October 31, 2015
This kind of Police Brutality is NOT ACCEPTABLE in any society. It is a peaceful demo by the students. The photos speak for themselves; there has been no misbehavior by students, and what I see throughout is police brutality and suppression of a peaceful demo.
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appubaba / October 31, 2015
no it was not a peaceful demo – all the relevant pics are not added here.
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thrishu / October 31, 2015
Are you the policeman dishing out the brutal baton blows!
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appubaba / October 31, 2015
be honest looking back your days at Moratuwa, were you always agreeing with your batchas and their moves against anything ? NO… you perfectly know even if we have to stand against police batton blows, but lanken kind of Uni students are mostly not peaceful marchers- basta
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bo / November 1, 2015
Students are young and immature, they argue and try to push their viewpoint. Authorities must accept it with tolerance, just like fathers have to accept their rebellious children arguing back. Not just Lankan students, all students in the world are like that. If you were not around then, students all over the world were agitated in 1968, the year of the student uprisings throughout the world. In this specific demo, we can see clearly the series of photos taken, in a chronological order, there was no violence from students, yet unprovoked, the Police had initiated a violent baton charge, not all, but the brutes shown in the photos were behaving worse than thugs. Undisciplined and a disgrace to the Force, and I just hope that they would be made to pay back for their crime . When quelling demonstrations, force should be used sparingly, and in equal measure. Assaulting unarmed and fallen woman by a policeman wielding batons and guns is a criminal act, and supports the international charge that police in Sri Lanka are brutal and undisciplined.
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janaka / October 31, 2015
This has the hallmark of helping Hambantota thugs written all over it?
Remove the top cops?
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Sandy / October 31, 2015
Anything free means no value. This is the result of free education.
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Smith / October 31, 2015
protest and contention is free thinking.
human dignity commences at home and therein lies the lack.
kissing the feet of pedophiles from birth is only the beginning.
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thrishu / November 1, 2015
Don’t be so stupid. Did nt you have free education at least until you were 16
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Douglas / November 1, 2015
This assault reminded me to go through some of the pictures in my possession of such assaults that took place during the past regime. Comparatively this looks a much “improved” (not at all valuing it high) assault than those that I saw in the pictures. Most of those “ASSAULTS” were carried out by “sarong clad” thugs with “4×2” long poles and I could clearly see some of the then “prominent” politicians mingling among them and some “leading” them too. What was most noticeable then was to see the POLICE were either giving “cover” to the thugs or stand as “on lookers” till the completion of the assault and the protesters were chased away. I hope those who took part in those “Protests” would remember and bring to their mind those “Pictures”. When I say “those protesters”, that included, students, ordinary citizens and some of the members of the “Professional Grades”. Such were the days we had.
Now in this incidence, there was a clearly marked difference, in that, I could not see any of those “Sarong Clad” THUGS carrying long wooden sticks and no “politicians” among them. Only the Police personnel carried it out. In that respect this assault looks a “much improved” one. So we have “improved” comparing to the past. What we now NEED is to take a step FORWARD and get the POLICE , TRAINED and if needed throw away some of the “BAD EGGS”; in handling situations like this in the future. I hope the newly appointed Independent Police Commission will take a serious look at the NEED of the hour and move into get a hang of the subject matter without any delay. Just FORGET this YAHAPALANAYA STICKER and do what is NEEDED to be done to SERVE AND PROTECT the PEOPLE.
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gamini / November 1, 2015
There is evidence just surfacing that the students have been instigated by forces loyal to MR. Furthe some of the Cops Loyal to MR have openlly baton charged the student to bring disrepute to the Yahapalanaya in power. The Police Commission should look into this and take to task all the Police and deal with the Police, who used undue force to quell what?
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Suffian / November 2, 2015
How can we expect good governence from double and triple crossers
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