Ramanathan Archchuna Accuses SJB MP of Physical Assault in Parliament

December 03, 2024

Independent Group MP Ramanathan Archchuna today (3 December) accused Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Sujith Sanjaya Perera of physically assaulting him inside the Opposition Leader’s Office in Parliament.

Speaking in the Chamber, Archchuna recounted the alleged incident:

"This happened to me today. I came to Parliament for the first time and went to the Opposition Leader's Office to speak. I was checking the time allotted for my speech when Sujith suddenly assaulted me. If this can happen inside Parliament, how can we feel safe outside?"

Deputy Committee Chairperson Hemali Weerasekera, presiding over the session, advised Archchuna to lodge a formal complaint with the Speaker.

In response, Sujith Sanjaya Perera denied the allegations, saying:

"This is a serious claim that I attacked him. Nothing of the sort happened. I completely deny it. In fact, he threatened me."

Adding to the controversy, SJB MP Nalin Bandara supported Perera’s stance and alleged misconduct by Archchuna:

"This independent member from Jaffna came to the Opposition Leader's Office and behaved very rudely. He used inappropriate language and vulgarities. We have already complained to the Speaker about this. Some may be educated, but that does not necessarily make them intelligent."