The Lawyers , a consortium of legal professionals, have voiced concerns over the conduct of the anti-narcotics operation dubbed “Yukthiya".

In a letter addressed to Minister of Public Security, Tiran Alles, the Lawyers’ Collective highlighted what they perceive as troubling actions and statements made by the Minister in carrying out the allayed crackdown.

The letter emphasises the importance of conducting the anti-drug campaign within the framework of the Rule of Law.

Members of the Lawyers Collective assert that while addressing the drug problem is crucial, it must not be pursued through means that bypass legal procedures or curtail fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and dissent.

Of particular concern are statements attributed to the Minister indicating a disregard for laws that may limit his authority, labeling critics as drug dealers and addicts, and dismissing international norms and standards of human rights as "foreign influences."

The letter also questions the Minister's appointment of Deshabandu Tennekoon as Acting IGP for the campaign, citing a recent Supreme Court (SC) ruling implicating Tennekoon in acts of torture.

The Lawyers Collective underscores the obligation of the Minister to uphold the Constitution and respect the rights of citizens, including those of lawyers to fulfill their professional responsibilities without fear of reprisal.

They call upon the President and other senior government officials, who are also members of the legal profession, to intervene and ensure that the anti-drug campaign proceeds in accordance with the rule of law and with due regard for human rights.