Mid-level police officers have expressed concern over alleged attempts by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) to politicise the network of Public Safety Committees (PSCs) being established in every Grama Niladhari (GN) division across the country.
According to police headquarters sources, concerns have intensified following reports that individuals affiliated to the JVP—distinct even from the broader National People’s Power (NPP) alliance—are being positioned on these grassroots committees under political pressure, in certain districts.
Each police station has been tasked with setting up PSCs for the GN divisions under its purview. This system dates back to war years, but the structure of the committees has undergone periodic revisions under various Inspectors General of Police (IGPs). The latest update was introduced in March by Acting IGP Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasuriya, replacing a previous directive issued by former IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon.
A circular issued by the Ministry of Public Security, dated April 8, mandates the formation of 14,022 Public Safety Committees before June 20. Each committee must include at least 25 members, with a chairperson and vice-chairperson elected from among them. The Grama Niladhari of the area serves as the committee secretary. Representatives from local religious institutions, sports clubs, trade associations, and civil society organisations also have representation.
“Traditionally, applications are invited from residents and displayed for public scrutiny before vetting by police,” a senior officer explained. “But now, a new directive says two members from the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ project should be included on each committee. These appointees have turned out to be JVP members in almost all areas.”
Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala last week confirmed that
Acting IGP Weerasuriya had already relayed the directive to all senior officers, stressing the committees’ role in fostering community-police relations, reducing crime, combating narcotics, and promoting interfaith harmony.
Each PSC includes retired public servants, former police and military officers, youth representatives, and a police officer. Members will serve a three-year term, with regular reviews by the Officer-in-Charge of each station and bi-monthly assessments by Assistant Superintendents of Police.
Despite its intentions, the rollout has sparked internal tensions, with one senior police source warning, “Any attempt to politicize these bodies risks undermining their credibility and the community’s trust in law enforcement.”
by Saman Indrajith and Norman Palihawadane 