MR To Set Up A "Special Police Unit" To Prevent Religious Incidents

A day after a group of Bodu Bala Sena monks stormed the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, President Mahinda Rajapaka today said a special Police Unit to investigate into matters involving religions. 

He made this revelation at a meeting with media heads and newspaper editors which took place at Temple Trees this morning. However, the exact mandate of the 'Police Unit' is not yet clear. However, the President made it clear that it would be akin to tourism and environmental police units that are presently functioning.

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The Police unit, the President said, will operate under the Religious Affairs Ministry. Commenting further on the matter, President Rajapaksa said he would not allow any party to take law into their hands. 

The government is now at the receiving end of severe criticism for not taking action against Bodu Bala Sena monks who operate with great impunity. 

Meanwhile, National Languages and Social Integration Minister Vasudeva Nanaykkara said the cabinet was yet to approve anti-hate speech laws which he has already presented. Addressing a press conference in Colombo yesterday, the Minister said there was a serious question on the arbitrary nature wedded to the interventions of the Bodu Bala Sena.