• The Magistrate ordered the case to be called up again on September 23rd

By Kurulu Koojana Kariyakarawana   

The 28 members of the Inter University Student Union (IUSF) who were arrested in connection with Tuesday’s protest march held on Deans Road, Maradana were released on bail by the Maligakanda Magistrate yesterday.   

 Pettah Police produced the arrested suspects before the Maligakanda Magistrate Thanuja Jayatunga, who ordered the latter to be released on personal bail after considering the arguments brought forward by the defendants’ solicitors.   
Presidents’ Counsel Saliya Pieris and M. A. Sumanthiran who appeared for the suspects told the court that dissent and protest is a right provided in the constitution, which every citizen is entitled to and not a crime.   
The Magistrate ordered the case to be called up again on September 23rd.   
Police riot controlling units launched a heavy water cannon and tear gas attack on an IUSF protest march progressing towards Town Hall on Tuesday afternoon demanding the immediate release of three of its members detained under the PTA.