brand logo

Government plans special welfare programme for cops

26 Apr 2022

Public Security Minister Prasanna Ranatunga has instructed the relevant authorities to expedite the implementation of a special welfare programme for police officers and to take immediate action to address issues related to their allowances and facilities. While addressing Public Security Ministry Secretary (Retd.) Maj. Gen. Jagath Alwis, Inspector General of Police Chandana D. Wickramaratne, and senior Police officials during a meeting held on 25 April, he said that the assistance provided by the Police for the public to maintain a normal life at critical times could never be underestimated.  Speaking further, the Minister said: “The Police Department is working in the midst of many difficulties. Therefore, the problems faced by junior and senior police officers should be identified and resolved expeditiously. I have paid special attention to that. I look forward to further expanding and streamlining the existing welfare programmes. Steps will be taken to address issues related to allowances and facilities, especially of junior officers. “The Police should never be an institution that oppresses the people. The Police service is a respectable service. There are various misconceptions about the Police in society today. We will work to eradicate those misconceptions in the future. As the Minister, I am involved in policy matters. The Police should always act on the side of the public. The Police should act in accordance with the powers vested in them by the Police Ordinance and per Police orders. Under no circumstances should those powers be violated. “In order to make it a people-friendly institution, various programmes will be implemented in the future to enhance the friendship between the Police and the people. Regarding the current situation in the country, the Police is the main group. The Police is tasked with maintaining law and order. Therefore, in some cases, various problems can arise. Take action to minimise the disruption to the lives of the people during the protests held these days. Especially ambulances, school vans, public transport, and tourist vehicles should be allowed to travel without hindrance. Talk to the protesters and work towards this,” Ranatunga urged.


More News..