MORATUWA, SRI LANKA – A legal case involving the violent attack on Dehin Wasantha and Lakshman Fernando, members of the Sri Lankan Socialist Equality Party (SEP), was presented to a judge at the Moratuwa Magistrate Court on January 8. The accused, Indika Perera and Suranga Piyawardena, both of whom are on bail, are the president and secretary respectively of the Podujana Pragathishili Sevaka Sangamaya (PPSS) or People’s Progressive Employees Union branch at Moratuwa University.
The assault took place on November 30 when a SEP team, which included Wasantha and Fernando, was campaigning at the rear gate of Moratuwa University. The attack resulted in serious injuries to both individuals, with Wasantha sustaining fractures to two fingers on his left hand and Fernando experiencing a neck injury along with bruises and scratches to the back of his body. This incident led to the arrest of Perera and Piyawardena the next day, after which they were released on bail under strict conditions.
During the court hearing on January 8, police outlined the progress of their investigation into the assault, including their efforts to obtain and produce relevant medical reports from the hospitals where the victims were treated. The case was then referred to a mandatory Mediation Board with a subsequent court date set for May 20.
The SEP and its sister parties in the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) have launched a campaign in defense of Fernando and Wasantha and their democratic right to conduct political campaigns. Members of the workers, young people, academics, and their organizations have also sent protest letters to the Sri Lankan attorney general and the vice chancellor of the University of Moratuwa, demanding maximum legal actions against the accused.
The incident has drawn condemnation from individuals internationally, with members of the SEP in the US and leading figures speaking out against the violent assault and expressing their support for the victims. The call for the authorities to prosecute the assailants and uphold the right of the SEP to engage in political activity has gained traction as defenders of democratic rights continue to register their opposition.
The case highlights the ongoing struggle for democratic rights and freedom of expression, and it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those advocating for political change and social justice. Such incidents reinforce the need for continued efforts to protect the rights of individuals and organizations engaging in political activism. It also underscores the importance of working towards a society where such attacks are not tolerated, and where the rights of all to express their political beliefs are safeguarded.