COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lanka Navy on Tuesday (22) entered into an agreement with Goa Shipyard Ltd, India for the construction of a Floating Dock.According to Sri Lanka Navy, the Floating Dock is a much-needed requirement for the navy, and it will be delivered to Sri Lanka as a grant from India.Sri Lanka Navy said that the Floating Dock will be established at the Trincomalee Naval Dock Yard within the next 30 months.It is paramount to annually direct the vessels and boats of the Sri Lanka Navy for underwater maintenance and repairs in order to increase their efficiency for service, said Sri Lanka Navy, adding that at present the Navy’s dry docks can only facilitate the underwater repairs and services of vessels and boats that weigh less than 350 tonnes.Sri Lanka Navy said that in order to direct its vessels and boats that are large in size for underwater repairs and services, the Navy has to secure the services of private floating docks, having to wait for a long time in their waiting lists, that cause considerable delays in maintaining the Navy fleet to its maximum standards.Sri Lanka Navy went on to note that in order to address the issue, delegates deliberated with neighboring countries from 2015 to 2017, and it was recommended that the Sri Lanka Navy required its own Floating Dock.The Navy added that further discussions on securing a Floating Dock from India were discussed at Military Staff Level meetings between India and Sri Lanka.Following a lengthy process, the Cabinet of Ministers in 2020 granted approval to obtain a Floating Dock from India as a grant and approved Goa Shipyard Ltd as the supplier.The Sri Lanka Navy in 2017 & 2018 procured two Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessels from Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), and.

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Army Chief briefs Defence Advisers/ Attaches on Status Quo

COLOMBO (News 1st); “The armed forces of Sri Lanka would always comply with the Constitution and the Army is no exception,” Sri Lanka’s Army Commander General Shavendra Silva told Defence Advisers/Attaches of Sri Lanka-based High Commissions and embassies on Monday (4).“The Army as a professional outfit is always prepared to provide security and protection to the State as necessary,” said General Shavendra Silva.The meeting was meant to keep the foreign Defence Advisers /Attaches informed of the current situation.Captain Ian Keith Cain, Defence Adviser (Australia), Commander, M Shafil Bari, Defence Adviser, Bangladesh, Senior Colonel Wan Dong, Military, Naval and Air Attaché (China), Lieutenant Colonel Chang Qianjin, Assistant Military Naval and Air Attache, (China), Captain Vikas Sood, Defence Adviser (India), Lieutenant Colonel Punnet Sushill, Assistant Defence Adviser, (India), Colonel Homayou Ali Yari, Military Attaché, (Iran), Captain Gaku Fukaura, Defence / Security Attaché, (Japan), Colonel Ismail Naseer, Defence Adviser, (Maldives), Colonel Muhammad Safdar Khan, Defence Adviser, (Pakistan), Colonel Aleksey A Bondarev, Military, Naval & Air Attaché, (Russia), Colonel P.J Clayton, Defence Adviser, (United Kingdom) and Lieutenant Commander Richard Lister, Naval Attaché (United States of America) were present at this meeting.

Shavendra Silva China Iran Japan Usa India Sri Lanka Britain Pakistan Australia Russia Maldives Bangladesh information Provident

TISL calls for President & administration to bow to the will of the people

The people’s power can no longer be contained by the chains of corruption(COLOMBO); Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) strongly condemns the attempts of the President and the administration to stifle the constitutionally enshrined freedoms of expression and lawful assembly of the citizens through the use of emergency regulations, curfew and social media blackouts.TISL said that as an independent local organization that has been working in Sri Lanka for the past two decades with the mission to fight corruption, it stands in solidarity with the people across the country who are mobilizing independently against the corrupt in a non-violent manner.TISL notes that the current situation in the country has been caused by decades of misuse and mismanagement of public resources on a large scale, systemic corruption coupled with kleptocracy, and an overall lack of transparency and accountability in both governance as well as in the public service sector.The people have now delivered their message loud and clear. The dormant voices of the people of this country have joined in unison to create a powerful shockwave that might have taken most of those in power by surprise.Sri Lankans should be vigilant at this point as chaos at the highest levels affords the opportunity for political maneuvering and for those with ulterior motives to rise to power.

Sri Lankans Sri Lanka president Government Citizens

(VIDEO) Tear Gas & Water Cannons fired at protest near Carlton House

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan authorities fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse a protest that took place close to the Carlton House in Tangalle.A large crowd gathered at the road leading to Carlton House in Tangalle on Monday (4) morning to protest against the government.Carlton House is considered the private residence of the Rajapaksa Family.The protestors were demanding the government resign and also against the mismanagement of the economy.

Sri Lanka gatherings Government Waters

(VIDEO) Thousands protest in Polonnaruwa and Galle against economic crisis

COLOMBO (News 1st); Several groups banded together on Monday (4) morning to protest against the current economic crisis in Sri Lanka in Galle.According to News 1st correspondents, lawyers and other social groups converged opposite the Galle Bus Station and commenced the protest.At the same time, a massive protest took place in the Polonnaruwa Town calling for the resignation of the government.Protests have increased across Sri Lanka after thousands decided to protest on the road leading to the President’s private residence on the 31st of March 2022.Meanwhile, Sri Lankans also defied the nationwide curfew to protest on Sunday (3).

Sri Lankans Sri Lanka crisis

SC permits to examine FRs filed by BASL against shortages

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court has granted permission to examine two applications that were filed by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka seeking an order be made on the Cabinet, and other responsible officials to take the necessary measures to provide electricity, gas, milk powder, medicines, and food without any shortage.Two Fundamental Rights applications were filed with the Supreme Court on Friday (25th March) by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka over the present economic crisis.The applications were filed by the President of the BASL, Saliya Pieris PC; Deputy President, Anura Meddegoda PC; Secretary, Rajeev Amarasuriya; Treasurer, Rajindh Perera; and the Assistant Secretary, Pasindu Silva.The Petitioners are seeking orders from the Supreme Court to direct the respondents to immediately consult with all therelevant stakeholders and independent experts to formulate and implement policies to provide uninterrupted access and to provide concessions in relation to the prices of essential goods and services to the people including LP gas, fuel, electricity, milk powder, medicines and food.The applications by the BASL note that the failure to provide essentials goods and services to the people of Sri Lanka without any shortage, and at a reasonable price, is a violation of the people’s Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Constitution of Sri Lanka.The Attorney General, the Cabinet of Ministers, the Governor of the Central Bank, the Secretary to the Treasury, Secretaries to several Ministries, the Ceylon Electricity Board, the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, and the State Pharmaceutical Corporation among others were named as Respondents.The Petitioners complain that Sri Lanka is currently facing an unprecedented

Sri Lanka experts medicines Provident

Cabraal steps down as Governor of the Central Bank

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal had tendered in his resignation to the President on Monday (4)In a tweet he said, he decided to resign following the resignation of all the Cabinet Ministers on Sunday (3).සියලු ඇමතිවරු ඉල්ලා අස්වීම් ලිපි බාරදී ඇති මේ අවස්ථාවේදී, මා සේවය කළ ශ්‍රී ලංකා මහ බැංකු අධිපති තනතුරෙන් ඉල්ලා අස්වීමේ ලිපිය මා විසින් අතිගරු ජනාධිපතිතුමාට යොමුකොට ඇත.

Ajith Nivard Cabraal Sri Lanka president

Protests erupt across Sri Lanka; Protestors refuse to accept interim solution

COLOMBO (News 1st); Protests have erupted across Sri Lanka since the weekend against the government’s failure to properly manage the economy and over the shortage of essentials.These protestors have been demanding that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa leave and that his government also resign.On Monday (4), Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had offered to award ministerial positions to all political parties, urging them to come together to solve the crisis that has plagued the nation.His offer came a day after one of his former ministers, Wimal Weerawansa, proposed to form an all-party interim government to solve the crisis.On Sunday (3), one of the main political parties in the ruling coalition, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party warned that if a caretaker government is not appointed, all SLFP MPs would resign from their posts and remain independent in Parliament.However, late Sunday (3) night, Sri Lanka’s cabinet ministers resigned en masse after protests over the government’s handling of the worst economic crisis in decades.Massive nationwide protests were planned via social media with ZERO political affiliation or support, and the government on Saturday (2) imposed a social media blackout that was lifted on Sunday (3) evening.However, the Public Emergency proclamation made by the President is still in effect.President Gotabaya Rajapaksa even issued an extraordinary gazette declaring that no person shall be on any public road, railway, public park, public recreation ground, or other public ground or the seashore in such areas, during the period of the curfew.However, protestors defied the curfew and took the streets on Sunday (3) to voice their anger and frustrations.Sunday (3) saw massive protests in several parts of the

Gotabaya Rajapaksa Wimal Weerawansa Sri Lanka president Government Party

GL, Ali Sabry, Johnston, & Dinesh form new 4-member Cabinet

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has appointed a new Cabinet of Ministers following the resignation of the Cabinet of Ministers on Sunday (3) night.Minister of External Affairs : Professor G. L.

Sri Lanka Government Highways

GL, Ali Sabry, Johnston, & Dinesh form new 4-member Cabinet appointed

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has appointed a new Cabinet of Ministers following the resignation of the Cabinet of Ministers on Sunday (3) night.Minister of External Affairs : Professor G. L.

Sri Lanka Government Highways

Satellite images show 45-foot-long trench at grave site in Bucha after Russia’s attack

Bucha show an approximately 45-foot-long trench dug into the grounds of a church where a mass grave has been identified, a private U.S. company said on Sunday.

Canada Russia

Sri Lankan Cabinet decides to resign; Mahinda Rajapaksa to remain as PM

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lankan Cabinet of Ministers have decided to resign and have submitted their letters of resignation to Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. However, Rajapaksa will continue to function as the Prime Minister, said Dinesh Gunwardena who was the Minister of Education until today (3). The Cabinet of Ministers can be viewed here : https://www.presidentsoffice.gov.lk/index.php/cabinet-ministers/

Mahinda Rajapaksa Sri Lanka

NCAA: North Carolina upsets rival Duke, joins Kansas for title game

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 02: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Duke Blue Devils drives against Brady Manek #45 of the North Carolina Tar Heels in the second half of the game during the 2022 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Final Four semifinal at Caesar NEW ORLEANS (AP) - The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will join Kansas for the NCAA Championship game after defeating its biggest rival Duke in the Final Four Saturday night.Kansas and Villanova waged a memorable 3-point shooting contest at the Final Four, one of them racing out to a big lead in the opening minutes and the other spending the rest of the night trying in vain to catch up.Probably sounds a little familiar.But in a rematch of a rout by the Wildcats four years ago in San Antonio, it was the Jayhawks joyously walking off the court at the final buzzer Saturday night. David McCormack muscled his way for 25 points, Ochai Agbaji was nearly perfect from the field and finished with 21, and the lone No.

David Maccormack state North Carolina state Louisiana city New Orleans, state Louisiana parish Orleans state South Carolina county Hill city San Antonio state Kansas Racing Beyond Duke

Can finger's length indicate if you'll catch long Covid? Scientists answer

Covid virus.

India symptoms infection Coronavirus

(PICTURES) Massive protest in Wijerama; Students & local defy curfew order

COLOMBO (News 1st); A massive protest took place on Sunday (3) evening at the Wijerama Junction close to the Sri Jayawardenapura University.University Students were joined by local residents in this protest, and when they reached the Wijerama Junction they were met with a heavy security forces presence.Sri Lanka Police, The three-armed Force, and the Police Riot Police were seen stationed on the path of the protestors who defied the curfew and stepped out onto the streets to voice their anger over the present situation in the country.As they were not allowed to proceed, they positioned themselves opposite the barricade and carried out a protest, with songs and chants.At the same time, well-known lecturer Upul Shantha Sannasgala, also known as ‘Sannasgala Sir’ visited the Wijerama Junction and condemned the actions of the government.

Sri Lanka Government Action

SLFP tells President to appoint caretaker government

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lanka Freedom Party in a letter to the President has called for a caretaker government to be appointed to address the crises that have plagued the country.The Sri Lanka Freedom Party has informed the President that if the necessary steps are not taken to appoint a caretaker government, all 14 SLFP MPs in government will resign from their positions and remain independent in Parliament.SLFPs Chandima Weerakkody told reporters on Sunday (3) that the Sri Lanka Freedom Party does NOT agree with imposing a Public Emergency.The country is not facing a terror threat, therefore imposing a public emergency for the sole protection of public representatives from the people cannot be accepted, he said.

Sri Lanka president Government Party

Imposing Social Media Ban a violation of Human Rights – SL Human Rights Chief

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s Human Rights Commission has noted that imposing a social media ban is a violation of Human Rights.The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka has stressed that imposing Public Emergency without proper assessment of a threat to national security, is a violation of Human Rights.Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka retired Supreme Court Judge Rohini Marasinghe told News 1st that this decision was reached at a special meeting held on Sunday (4).The HRCSL Chairperson also said that it is unjust and unfair for the TRC to impose a Blanket Closure of social media upon being requested to do so by the Ministry of Defence.The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka views such actions as a violation of Human Rights.The Human Rights Commission noted that it would inform the TRC to immediately lift the ban on social media.It added that if a person is attempting to mislead the public via social media, the law needs to be enforced against the said individual and that banning social media used by the community at large is a violation of human rights.In addition, the Human Rights Commission has condemned the attacks on journalists during a protest in Mirihana, Nugeogda on the 31st of March.Chairperson of the HRCSL said the Inspector General of Police will be summoned to the Commission for an explanation on Tuesday (5).Further, the HRCSL is also looking into an attack on protestors by a Senior Cop at a protest in Anuradhapura.That senior police officer too will be summoned to the HRCSL on Tuesday (5) for an explanation.

Rohini Marasinghe Sri Lanka information Action rights

Public Emergency & Curfew imposed for Public Security – Govt Info Dept

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Government states that the Public Emergency & the Curfew were declared to ensure that the peace, normal way of life, as well as public & property, is protected.A statement from the Department of Government Information noted that the Sri Lankan Government is bound to protect public peace, as well as public and private property, whilst ensuring the right to speech, expression, and protest peacefully.It added that the government had pledged to protect and promote all democratic rights including the Right to Freedom of Expression, Speech, and Protest Peacefully.It went on to note that after the incumbent President was elected to power, water cannons, tear gas, and baton charges were not enforced on any peaceful protest or demonstration.It added that on some occasions the representatives of protestors were allowed to enter the President’s Office for talks and solutions were provided to the issues.The Department of Government Information said that on the 31st of March 2022, a group acted in an unruly manner during a protest and cause serious damage to public and private property, while some were also injured.It stressed that Public Emergency and Curfew were imposed in accordance with the accepted legal provisions, and to protect the lives of the people, public peace, as well as public and private property.

Sri Lanka information Government Department

Tear Gas & Water Cannons to disperse student protest in Peradeniya

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan authorities used tear gas and water cannons during a protest on Sunday (3) morning by students attached to the University of Peradeniya.The University students were protesting against the present state of affairs in the country and were demanding solutions to the issues faced by fellow students.The protest march by the university students was scheduled to commence from the University of Peradeniya premises and proceed towards Kandy town.However, Sri Lanka Police had installed barricades at the Galaha Junction not far from the university, and a heavy police presence was also witnessed in the area along with the water cannons.Police Special Task Force personnel were also called in for security.University Students accompanied by their lecturers proceeded towards the Galaha Junction, and tensions boiled over when they attempted to remove the barricades set up by the police.Scuffles were also reported during the attempt made by the students to move forward.The protest was organized by the main student body of the University of Peradeniya, and staff from the Peradeniya Teaching Hospital also supported it.Sri Lanka Police and Riot Police decided to use water cannons to disperse the crowd and thereafter fired tear gas.Following the tense situation, the protesting university students decided to sit down on the road as a mark of protest.Once again a tense situation arose, and police fired tear gas at the students for the second time.Despite not being allowed to move ahead to the Kandy town, the university students and their support groups protested at Galaha Town until 3 PM.

Sri Lanka reports Waters Kandi

Human Rights Commission to meet on Monday (4)

COLOMBO (News 1st); A special meeting of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanlka is scheduled to be held on Monday (4).The Chairperson of the Human Right Commission, Supreme Court Judge (Rtd) Rohini Marasinghe, said the special meeting is aimed at discussing several issues, including examining the legitimacy of imposing a public emergency to control public protests.The HRC emphasized that it will alway be present to protect the Human Rights of the citizens as enshrined in the constitution of Sri Lanka.The commission said it is closely monitoring the human rights records of those arrested on suspicion of their involvement the protests that took place on Thursday (31) night in Mirihana, Nugegoda.The Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka further stated that necessary action to be taken in this regard will be discussed at the special meeting which is to be held on Monday (4).

Rohini Marasinghe Sri Lanka Action Citizens rights

SLFP to submit a request letter to President on crises

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) stated that a letter will be handed over to the President on Saturday (2) requesting immediate solutions to the major problems faced by the people.The Propaganda Secretary to the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, Shantha Bandara said that this action will be taken as per the decision of the party central committee which met on Friday (1) night.

Sri Lanka president Action Party

‘Blanket closure of social media is NOT permissible’ – SL Human Rights Chief

COLOMBO (News 1st); A blanket closure of social media is NOT permissible under any circumstances, because it is not inciting the people, but the people are expressing their legitimate right, said the Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka.Sri Lanka has blocked access to Social Media following a request by the Ministry of Defense. This was confirmed by the Secretary to the Ministry of Technology.The move comes after the government decided to impose an nationwide curfew that came into effect from 6 PM on Saturday (2) to 6 AM on Monday (4).

Sri Lanka Government BLOCK rights

Sri Lankan PMs son Namal disagrees with Social Media Ban

COLOMBO (News 1st); State Minister of Digital Technology and Enterprise Development, Namal Rajapaksa has said that he NEVER condones the blocking of Social Media.“I will never condone the blocking of social media. The availability of VPN, just like I’m using now, makes such bans completely useless.

Namal Rajapaksa Sri Lanka Digital BLOCK Enterprise

Sunday’s (3) power cuts reduced to 1 hour & 40 minutes

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka announced that the scheduled power cut duration has been reduced from 6 hours to 1 hour & 40 minutes for tomorrow (3rd April ) as CEB started receiving stocks of fuel.Groups ABCDEFGHIJKLPQRSTUVW will experience power cuts for 1 hour and 40 minutes from 5.30pm to 10.30pm.

Sri Lanka

PUCSL wants Social Media ban lifted immediately

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka has requested the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka and all Mobile Service Providers to activate/restore all social media platforms immediately.The PUCSL said it is unable to inform the consumers of electricity, which is an essential service, about impending power cuts.

Sri Lanka county Mobile platform Mobile Provident

Facebook, Whatsapp, YouTube etc, blocked in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has blocked access to Social Media following a request by the Ministry of Defense. This was confirmed by the Secretary to the Ministry of Technology.The move comes after the government decided to impose an nation-wide curfew that came into effect from 6 PM on Saturday (2) to 6 AM on Monday (4).Nation-wide Protests :Nation-wide ‘Peoples Protests’, were planned for Sunday (3), most publicly affirming zero political affiliation.

Sri Lanka Government WhatsApp BLOCK

Essential Services can use OFFICIAL ID to report to work during curfew

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police said that personnel attached to essential services, and staff attached to Foreign Missions can report to work during the curfew period by producing their official ID or an e-mail certification.

Sri Lanka reports

BASL calls for Emergency proclamation be revoked

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Bar Association of Sri Lanka states that it is of the view that a declaration of a state of emergency is not the answer to the present situation in the country, and had called upon the President to revoke the Emergency proclamation.In a statement, the BASL states that unfortunately, those in authority have until very recently failed to understand the gravity of the situation and the grave impact the crisis has on the life of the people and the community.

Sri Lanka president crisis

'Wear mask as long as…': What Maharashtra CM said post lifting the Covid mandate

MUMBAI :

Uddhav Thackeray Ajit Pawar Devendra Fadnavis Aaditya Thackeray India city Mumbai Government mask Metro

21 Mirihana Protestors granted bail; 6 others remanded to 4th April for identification parade

COLOMBO (News 1st); 21 people who were arrested for protesting in Mirihana, Nugegoda on Thursday (31) night were released by the Gangogdawila Magistrate on personal bail of Rs. 100,000/- each.Six others were remanded until the 4th of April 2022, and will be produced in an identification parade.Gangodawila Magistrate had noted that the protestors were released as individual offenses were not included in the B report by Sri Lanka Police.The Magistrate also ordered for the remaining 26 arrested protestors (three at the Colombo National Hospital & twenty three at the Kalubowila Hospital) to be directed to the Maligakanda and Mount Lavinia Magistrates.

Sri Lanka hospital reports

Former Sri Lankan Ambassador to the US pleads guilty for defrauding Lankan government

WASHINGTON — An investigation led by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Washington, D.C. field office led to a guilty plea by a former Sri Lankan ambassador to the U.S. today for diverting and attempting to embezzle funds from the government of Sri Lanka.

Usa Sri Lanka Washington city Washington, area District Of Columbia area District Of Columbia state Virginia Mexico county Arlington Government Department travelers

Booster dose of Covid vaccine needed to fight against Omicron variant: NIV

Covid vaccines showed a very good neutralising antibody response against Delta and other Variants of Concern.

India vaccine Coronavirus Fighting

Navy identifies victim killed in aircraft crash in Virginia waters

Virginia and Maryland on Wednesday evening, killing one, authorities said.Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and WeatherLt. Cmdr.

county Island state Virginia state Maryland reports Waters

Dress rehearsal: NASA moon rocket's last test before launch

The sunrise casts a golden glow on the Artemis I Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion spacecraft at Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on March 23, 2022. (NASA/Ben Smegelsky) CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA kicked off a critical countdown test Friday for its new moon rocket, a 30-story behemoth that could make its first lunar test flight by summer.The two-day demonstration — the final major milestone before liftoff to the moon — will culminate Sunday as teams load nearly 1 million gallons of super-cold fuel into the rocket on the pad.

Artemis I (I) state Florida testing Government Mobile

Sri Lankan President declares Public Emergency with effect from 1st April

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has declared a Public Emergency in Sri Lanka with effect from the 1st of April 2022.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa Sri Lanka president

USNS Ruth Bader Ginsburg: Navy to name future ship after late Supreme Court justice

Usa state Virginia Turkey city Istanbul, Turkey 2020 reports

President used minimum force on Mirihana Protest – Prasanna

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa used minimum force to disperse the protest that took place at Pengiriwatte Road, Mirihana on Thursday (31) night.He said the protestors caused serious damage to public and private property, until the early hours of Friday (1).The Minister said that after the President ordered the use of minimum force the crowds dispersed within half an hour., adding that the President was very patient on the matter.Sri Lanka Police fired tear gas and water cannons to control the protests that took place on the road leading to the President’s Mirihana residence on Thursday (31) night, where people voiced their anger over a mismanaged economy.The people of Sri Lanka have a right to protest, said Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga on Friday (1) adding that the right is to protest for the betterment of the country not to lead the country into a state of anarchy.There are some things that are beyond the government’s control, and incidents that were witnessed on Thursday (31) would lead to a state of anarchy, he said.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa Prasanna Ranatunga Sri Lanka president patient Waters

Mirihana Protestors will not be charged under PTA – Police

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police said that those arrested during Mirihana Protest will be prosecuted under the Penal Code and Public Property Act, and NOT under the PTA.Senior DIG & Senior Police Spokesperson Ajith Rohana speaking to reporters at the Department of Government Information on the Mirihana Protests said that Sri Lanka Police did not use any force on the peaceful protest that commenced at 6 PM until around 10:30 PM when certain groups started acting in a violent manner.“Sri Lanka Police ensured the right to freedom of speech and freedom of expression,” he said adding that by around 10:30 a group resorted to violent conduct and obstructed traffic, and thereafter caused damage to the tune of Rs. 39 Million.The Senior Police Officer said the Sri Lanka Police used force as per the provisions of the law, where at first a warning was given, and when the protestors did not comply water cannons were used, and thereafter tear gas was used, and eventually Sri Lanka Police had to use force to control the situation.Commenting on the damages caused to Sri Lanka Police he said three buses were damaged, 1 Police Bus was set on fire, 1 Sri Lanka Army Bus was badly damaged, 1 Police bike was destroyed, 1 Police jeep was also destroyed.He went on to note that 2 Police Special Task Force buses and a water cannot truck were also damaged.The Senior Cop also went on to note that 53 people were arrested for their involvement in the Mirihana Protest.The Senior Police Spokesperson added that 24 Police Officers including an ASP were injured during the Mirihana Protest, and 18 among them were members of the Police Special Task Force.

Ajith Rohana Sri Lanka Department reports Waters

Ontario monitoring long-term care situation as COVID-19 cases rise, minister says

long-term care homes as COVID-19 cases rise and 10 per cent of homes report outbreaks.Paul Calandra says the province expected cases to increase when Ontario lifted most public health measures, but noted that rules like mandatory masks still remain in long-term care. Ontario ‘staying the course’ on lifting COVID-19 mask mandate, health minister says He says people in Ontario had to move on and live with COVID-19, including residents in long-term care who last month saw restrictions on visits and other social activities loosen.The province also recently removed virtually all general public health measures like mandatory masks in most public spaces, crowd capacity limits and proof-of-vaccination rules.

Paul Calandra county Ontario covid-19 mask Health

Sri Lanka launches probe into extremist links on Mirihana Protest

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Ministry of Public Security said that investigations are underway to identify the members of the organized extremist group that was involved in the Mirihana protest on Thursday (31) night.Public Security Minister Rear Admiral (Retd) Dr. Sarath Weerasekara told News 1st that protesting is a democratic right of the people, however, that does not mean that one can set vehicles on fire and cause damage to property.He said that those responsible for such incidents will be identified and will be brought before the law.“We are aware that the people are facing a crisis with regard to gas, fuel, electricity etc.

Sri Lanka president crisis Citi

54 people arrested for Nugegoda protest

COLOMBO (News 1st); 54 persons who were engaged in the protest on Thursday (31) night at Mirihana, Nugegoda have been arrested by Sri Lanka Police.Police stated that a woman was among them.Two Police & army buses, a jeep, a three-wheeler, and two motorcycles were damaged, during the protest.Police said that five officers were injured in the protest.Meanwhile, the Nugegoda-Maharagama 119 road has been closed.The Police further stated only the residents can travel on the relevant road until further notice.

Sri Lanka travelers

37 people injured in Mirihana Protest

COLOMBO (News 1st); 37 people were injured during the protest that took place in Pengiriwatte Road, Mirihana on Thursday (31) night.They are currently being treated at the Colombo National Hospital.Among the injured are 24 members of the Sri Lanka Police Special Task Force, 3 members from Sri Lanka Police, 3 Journalists, and 7 civilians.54 persons who were engaged in the protest on Thursday (31) night at Mirihana, Nugegoda have been arrested by Sri Lanka Police. Police stated that a woman was among them.Two Police & army buses, a jeep, a three-wheeler, and two motorcycles were damaged, during the protest.

Sri Lanka president economy Citi

Those who incited violence during Mirihana Protests are political extremists – Govt Min.

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan Government Ministers have referred to those who incited violence during the Mirihana Protests as political extremists and not religious extremists.Ministers Prasanna Ranatunga, Dilum Amunugama, and Keheliya Rambukwella spoke to the media on Friday (1) to respond to concerns over the public protest that was held opposite the Mirihana residence of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday (31).The President’s Media Division announced on Friday (1) that an organized group of extremists were among those who were protesting at Jubilee Post, Nugegoda.The statement noted that the group acted in an unruly manner, and noted that this group armed with iron clubs, machetes, and sticks, had provoked the protesters and marched towards the President’s residence in Pengiriwatte, Mirihana.The President’s Media Division in a statement noted that most of those who acted in a violent manner were arrested, and it was identified that a majority of them were an organized group of extremists.They have spearheaded the campaign calling for an Arab Spring in Sri Lanka, it added.The President’s Media Division also said that those who were arrested revealed that this unruly situation was created with the intention of enraging the public via planned anonymous social media gatherings.Referring to the word ‘Extremist’, Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said that the Government had not referred to religious extremists.Sri Lankan Health Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella also echoed the same clarification noting that the Government referred to political extremists and not religious extremists.However, Minister of Transport Dilum Amunugama also said that the word “Extremist’ may have been wrongly used and said, instead, that

Gotabaya Rajapaksa Prasanna Ranatunga Sri Lanka president Government Health

Sri Lanka : Police Curfew in Colombo lifted after a night of protests

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka lifted a police curfew imposed on multiple police sectors in the Capital City of Colombo at 5 AM on Friday (1)Authorities were compelled to impose a curfew after tensions were witnessed on Thursday (31) night during protests against a mismanaged economy and rising cost of living.Scuffles broke out between protestors and security forces on Thursday (31) night when a peaceful protest proceeded towards Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s residence on the outskirts of the city, in Mirihana.Heavy police presence was witnessed in the area at first, and thereafter the Riot Police, Police Special Task Force, Sri Lanka Army, and Sri Lanka Navy personnel were called in to control the situation and prevent the protestors from proceeding towards the President’s house.It is still unclear if the President was at home at the time of the protest.The people involved in the protest were from all corners of Colombo, and expressed anger over the government’s handling of the economy.The country has been plagued by a shortage of reserves that led to a shortage of essentials such as Kerosene, Diesel, Petrol, Gas, and even medicines.While the protest was taking place the supply of electricity for the entire Mirihana area was shut down, the first time since the power cuts came into effect, as Sri Lanka also struggles to import fuel to keep its power plant running.Further, internet connectivity in some areas also was disrupted, for reasons unknown.Another protest took place in Kelaniya as the road between Kelaniya and Dalugama was obstructed by protestors who burn tires and chanted slogans for the government to resign over their mishandling of the country’s economy.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa Sri Lanka president economy Citi

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01.04.2022 / 13:01

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Mirihana protestors cannot be charged under PTA – Human Rights Commission

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka says that those arrested for protesting in Nugegoda CANNOT be charged under the PTA.54 persons who were engaged in the protest on Thursday (31) night at Mirihana, Nugegoda have been arrested by Sri Lanka Police. Police stated that a woman was among them.Two Police & army buses, a jeep, a three-wheeler, and two motorcycles were damaged, during the protest. Police said that five officers were injured in the protest.

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CID takes over Mirihana protest investigation

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Criminal Investigations Department has taken over the investigations on the Mirihana Protests, that took place on Thursday (31) night.Injuries :37 people were injured during the protest that took place in Pengiriwatte Road, Mirihana on Thursday (31) night.They are currently being treated at the Colombo National Hospital.Among the injured are 24 members of the Sri Lanka Police Special Task Force, 3 members from Sri Lanka Police, 3 Journalists, and 7 civilians.Arrests :53 persons who were engaged in the protest on Thursday (31) night at Mirihana, Nugegoda have been arrested by Sri Lanka Police. Police stated that a woman was among them.Two Police & army buses, a jeep, a three-wheeler, and two motorcycles were damaged, during the protest.

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Mirihana protestors cannot be charged under PTA – HRCSL

Gotabaya Rajapaksa Sri Lanka president economy Citi

United States	Cases: 46 252 513 Deaths: 750 423 Recovered: 0
India	Cases: 34 321 025 Deaths: 459 652 Recovered: 0
Brazil	Cases: 21 835 785 Deaths: 608 235 Recovered: 0
United Kingdom	Cases: 9 215 683 Deaths: 141 607 Recovered: 0
Russia	Cases: 8 494 589 Deaths: 237 619 Recovered: 0

Sri Lanka’s Navy inks agreement with Goa Shipyard Ltd for Floating Dock.

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