The Human Rights Commission has informed the Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga, to present his case before the Commission, in connection with the incident where he verbally assaulted a journalist last month.
Following a protest conducted by residents opposing the disposal of garbage collected from Colombo in areas such as Wattala, Kerawalapitiya and Muthurajawela, a discussion was held at the Minister’s office in Kandana, on July 08.
After the discussion, a journalist proceeded to inquire from him about the protests launched against the disposing of garbage in Bopitiya as well, whereupon he retaliated with harsh language.
The journalist had consequently complained to the Human Rights Commission, stating that the Minister had also made death threats on the very occasion.
The Commission has launched an investigation in connection with the incident. Statements from the complainer have also reportedly been obtained.
Accordingly, Amaratunga has been notified that he must present his case to the Human Rights Commission under oath before August 10.
