Tensions between the National Police Commission (NPC) and the Acting Inspector General of Police have intensified, with both parties now publicly expressing differing views over the direction and management of the police force.
The NPC, tasked with overseeing the recruitment, promotion, and discipline within the police force, has increasingly found itself at odds with the Acting IGP over a series of key decisions, including the handling of internal promotions and disciplinary measures.
Issuing a special statement on Tuesday (04), the NPC rejected the remarks made by Acting IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya of interfering in the Police Department’s internal affairs.
The disagreement between the NPC and the Acting IGP became public last week when Weerasooriya accused the NPC of overstepping by interfering with the department’s operations. He argued that, due to lacking the authority to make transfers, his position as IGP was merely titular.
In its response, the NPC sought to clarify its stance on the matter. The Commission explained that, out of the roughly 80,000 officers in the Sri Lanka Police, it is only responsible for handling the appointments, promotions, transfers, and disciplinary actions of a specific group—607 HQIs/OICs and 813 State Notified Officers (including the Special Task Force), which totals about 1,420 officers.
The NPC further clarified that the appointment, promotion, and disciplinary control of the remaining officers has been formally delegated to the Inspector General of Police, in accordance with the Constitution. These officers, along with the IGP, are authorized to act within the framework of established rules, regulations, circulars, and procedures, without interference from the NPC.
Rejecting the Acting IGP’s accusations, the NPC emphasized that it does not interfere in the internal matters of the Police Department nor obstruct the IGP’s role. The Commission stated that it carries out its duties in line with the Constitution and other relevant laws and regulations.
The NPC also noted that, while many transfers were approved in line with the Acting IGP’s requests, they have not yet been implemented. The Commission said it has taken steps to follow up with the Acting IGP regarding this delay.
Additionally, the NPC pointed out that despite the Acting IGP’s claim of consulting the Attorney General about the appointment and transfer of Police OICs, the NPC had not received any official notification of such consultations.
Since the NPC holds authority over the appointment, transfer, and disciplinary control of Police OICs, the Commission argued that it would have been inappropriate for the Acting IGP to consult the Attorney General without informing the NPC.
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