29 Jul 2021 | 01:52 PM UTC
Sri Lanka: Teachers’ association calls for protests in multiple cities from July 30; gathering planned in Colombo Aug. 5
Teachers plan protests in several cities in Sri Lanka from July 30. Protest planned in Colombo Aug. 5. Increased security likely.
Event
The Federation of University Teachers’ Associations (FUTA) has called for protests in several cities in Sri Lanka from July 30-Aug. 5. Organizers plan to hold gatherings in Jaffna, Kandy, Kurunegala, and Matara from July 30. Organizers have not announced protest venues, though gatherings are likely at government buildings, public squares, and roundabouts. Protesters will also gather at Parliament Roundabout in Colombo Aug. 5. Participants intend to denounce the controversial General Sir John Kotelawala National Defence University (KNDU) bill; teachers claim the bill would allow greater military interference in education. Participation in protests will likely involve dozens to several dozen people, while the Colombo protest Aug. 5 may involve a few hundred people.
Security personnel will likely monitor protests and may try to disperse especially disruptive protests. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Protesters may march along or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions.
Advice
Avoid protests due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near protests.
