The Free Media Movement (FMM) has strongly condemned recent violent attacks targeting journalists and has urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take immediate action to bring the perpetrators to justice. In a formal letter addressed to the IGP on January 4, 2025, the FMM expressed its concerns regarding the attacks on journalist Tamil Chelvam from Kilinochchi and the President of the Ampara District Journalists Association, Achala Upendra. The letter was signed by the FMM Convener, Hana Ibrahim, and Secretary, Lasantha de Silva.
According to the FMM, journalist Tamil Chelvam was physically assaulted, and an attempt was made to kidnap him. In a separate incident, sand smugglers attacked journalist Achala Upendra and caused significant damage to his camera equipment. The organization emphasized that these incidents represent a grave threat to freedom of speech and expression in Sri Lanka, particularly within a democratic framework.
The FMM noted that such attacks not only endanger the lives of journalists but also hinder their ability to perform their professional duties. The press release expressed particular concern over the lack of justice for crimes committed against media personnel in previous regimes, which it said contributes to a culture of impunity that cannot be accepted in a civilized society.
The Free Media Movement has called on the Sri Lanka Police to immediately investigate these incidents, identify the culprits, and initiate appropriate legal action. The FMM has also requested updates on any steps already taken by the authorities and has stated that it will closely monitor the progress of investigations.
The press release issued by the Free Media Movement reads as follows:
“It has been reported to us that freelance journalist Tamil Chelvam, who is engaged in media reporting from Kilinochchi, and the President of the Ampara District Journalists Association, Achala Upendra, have been attacked by thugs in the past few days.
Journalist Tamil Selvam has been attacked and an attempt has been made to kidnap him. He states that a group of sand smugglers have attacked journalist Achala Upendra and damaged his camera equipment.
We, the Free Media Movement, condemn both these incidents with utmost disgust and see such incidents as a serious threat to freedom of speech and expression in a democratic space.
Also, such attacks and threats have a detrimental effect on the professional activities of journalists.
In a context where the process of justice for the crimes committed against media institutions and journalists during the previous regimes has not been completed, such crimes cannot be tolerated as a civilized society.
Therefore, we request that investigations be launched immediately and those responsible for these attacks identified and appropriate legal action be taken. If the Sri Lanka Police has already taken steps in this regard, we would like to inform them of it. We would also like to inform them that we are closely monitoring the police’s future actions.”
The Free Media Movement’s statement underlines the urgent need for protecting media personnel and ensuring a safe environment for journalists to carry out their vital work without fear of violence or intimidation.
