COLOMBO, Sept. 14 – Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya announced that the Government’s vision is to build a disciplined, independent, efficient, and people-oriented Police Service, free from political interference and aligned with the needs of the public.
The Prime Minister made this declaration at the closing ceremony of the 84th Police Inter-Divisional Athletics Meet, held at the Field Force Headquarters, Colombo.
Sports as a Pillar of Discipline
Highlighting the connection between sports and policing, Dr. Amarasuriya emphasized that athletic participation fosters discipline, unity, integrity, and resilience, qualities vital to law enforcement.
“For a service like the police, which works closely with the public, maintaining discipline, integrity, and a positive mindset is extremely important,” she said.
She noted that while sports bring prestige and victory, their deeper role lies in building a healthy, disciplined, and intelligent society.
Recognizing Police Athletic Excellence
At the meet, Sachithra Jayakanthan of the Criminal Investigation Division was named Best Female Athlete, while T.G.S. Wijethunga, A.M.N. Perera, and Hemantha won honors as Best Male Athletes.
- The Prime Minister’s Challenge Trophy for Overall Runner-Up was awarded to the Criminal Investigation Department.
- The President’s Challenge Trophy for Overall Championship went to the Special Task Force (STF).
Reforming Public Perception of the Police
Dr. Amarasuriya acknowledged longstanding public concerns, noting that the police are often viewed as an institution where services depend on connections or financial contributions.
“It is of utmost importance to change this perception through your discipline, adherence to the law, and fair discharge of duties,” she urged officers.
She assured that the present Government will not exert undue influence on police operations, giving officers a “historic opportunity” to build trust through impartial law enforcement.
National Sports and Well-Being Policy
The Prime Minister also stressed the need for a national sports and physical well-being policy, aimed at elevating Sri Lanka’s international presence while fostering a healthy and disciplined citizenry. Referring to the decline in cricket and other sports, she underscored the Government’s commitment to restoring national pride through athletic and physical development.
Distinguished Attendance
The event brought together top leaders, including Minister of Public Defense and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijayapala, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage, Deputy Ministers Sunil Watagala and Sugath Thilakaratne, senior government secretaries, IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya, senior police officers, athletes, and participants from across the island.
