23 Mar 2023 | 05:02 PM UTC
Sri Lanka: Youth activists to rally in Jaffna, Northern Province, March 25
Youth activists to rally in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, March 25. Increased security, localized disruptions likely.
Event
Youth activists affiliated with the Inter-University Students' Federation and related groups will rally in Jaffna, Northern Province, March 25 to demand the government repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Although organizers did not immediately announce a specific assembly point, typical gathering sites include prominent government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares. Previous well-attended demonstrations have attracted hundreds of participants.
Authorities will likely increase security near the gathering site and may forcibly disperse overly disruptive crowds; security personnel has previously used water canons and tear gas. Clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may march along or block nearby roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions.
Advice
Avoid the demonstration as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near the gathering site. Heed all official transport and security advisories.