The Police attack on a group of people in Mannar, who were protesting against the advancement of the newly recommenced wind power plant citing numerous environmental concerns, went viral on social media and online new sites. The month-long protest has escalated on September 27, as the people plan another protest today (29). This police attack on protestors could be considered as the latest chapter in Sri Lanka that indicate the ‘system changes’ as promised by the present Government have not reached the law enforcement agency.

Ironically, ,On the 3rd of September Sri Lanka Police celebrated the 159th anniversary themed ‘Uphold the law – Value Peace’, opening up an opportunity to review the shaping of its future for the betterment. There is no other appropriate occasion than the anniversary and the appointment of the 37th Police chief, to discuss the future role of the Sri Lanka Police.

Attending the 159th anniversary, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, while delivering mixed comments on crime and punishment in Sri Lanka he pointed out that in most instances, it is not due to the incompetence or the lack of dedication within the Police Department that has caused the inability to resolve crimes and murders. “Rather, behind every unresolved crime, there was political influence that obstructed the process” Dissanayake said. He assured the Police force that such hindrances and the culture of targeting duty-bound Police officers will not happen under the present Government. He informed the Police officers that they should carry out their duties for the country and the people “without fear and move forward confidently.”

In the Policy statement of the JVP-led National People’s Power party, ‘A Thriving Nation – Beautiful Life’, the party points out that they expect to make the Police service an independent, efficient, and friendly service that is closer to the public. Yet, what we observe only proves that Sri Lanka Police is still far from achieving the revolution or the system change as promised by the JVP-led NPP Government in their walk to power..

Yet, by the 159th anniversary of the Police and the appointment of the 37th Inspector General of Police, has the Sri Lanka Police changed? What actions in the recent past have convinced the  public of a changed Police Department? The Government seems to have not officially established such changes into the Police service. Has there been policy decisions taken to empower the Police force with updated technology be it digital crimes or general criminology? Has there been established an updated scheme to provide Police officers with better welfare facilities? Has there been any policy decision to regulate irregular promotions of Police officers? In today’s world where there is free access to technological advancements, social media and numerous online platforms where people can live stream any instance, emergency they face, police actions are more prone to be alleged and accused. Yes, it’s understandable that the Police work is highly stressful as it deals with crime, emergencies, overwhelmed human emotions be it at a traffic offence or an arrest. Yet is it not the Police officers are expected to mentally and physically suitable to handle such situations under proper conduct. Where is the mechanism to provide continuous support to Police officers to maintain a sound mind and a healthy body or any support scheme available has then been updated to suit the modern demands?

Since the day Sir G.R.W. Campbell was appointed as the first Inspector General of Police in Sri Lanka 159 years ago and at the cost of 3050 lives sacrificed by the Sri Lanka Police officers, this system has been the cornerstone in maintaining law enforcement in Sri Lanka. Maintaining law and order in any country evolves with time and social evolution – so does Sri Lanka. Can the Police be flexible to this requirement in an unchanged policing system.

Sri Lanka Police continues to hold on to their missions – “Sri Lanka Police is committed and confident to uphold and enforce the law of the land, to preserve the public order, prevent crime and Terrorism with prejudice to none – equity to all.” Still nothing is spelt out on earning public trust or winning the hearts and minds, particularly of an organisation that is legally bound to deal with the public to maintain law and order.

Therefore it is the time for the Government and the Sri Lanka Police to walk the talk. It is high-time for the Sri Lanka Police to evolve from the baton-wielding force on the streets. As President Anura Kumara Dissanayake anticipated in his speech during the 159th Police anniversary, let us hope to celebrate the 160th anniversary of a Police that embodies respect, trust and public confidence.