Whilst keeping in mind that the police and armed forces are acting under very trying circumstances, nevertheless it is necessary to give strict instructions to the police and the forces to desist from violence in dealing with the public and to act with utmost restraint, said the BASL in a statement.

“We also call upon you to ensure that steps be taken under the law to deal with errant officers who have subjected civilians to such violence,” it added.

The BASL is of the view that it is not appropriate for service personnel to be deployed in the present manner in matters which essentially should be managed by the Sri Lanka Police.