Sri Lanka Police urge public discipline for “Walk for Peace” journey

Sri Lanka Police have requested the public to maintain strict discipline and restraint to ensure the success of the internationally acclaimed “Ehipassiko – Walk for Peace.”

Authorities emphasized that individuals gathering along the route to pay their respects should refrain from any behaviour that may obstruct or cause distress to the venerable monks and the visiting delegation. 

The Police further stressed the importance of public cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of all participants.

The march, led by Vietnamese monk Venerable Pannakara Thero, along with a group of foreign monks and delegates, commenced on April 21 following blessings at the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura.

After its commencement, the procession proceeded through the sacred city of Dambulla and is scheduled to pass through Naula, Matale, Kandy, Kadugannawa, Kegalle, Tholangamuwa, Kajugama, Yakkala, Mahara, and Kelaniya, before reaching Independence Square in Colombo on April 28.

The globally known dog “Aloka” is also participating in this international peace march, which has attracted large crowds along the roadside to pay their respects. 

However, police noted that incidents of pushing, shoving, unnecessary photography and videography, and attempts to touch the dog have been reported in certain areas.

Police reiterated that such behaviour may hinder the progress of the peace march and therefore urged the public to demonstrate disciplined and orderly conduct throughout the event.