Colombo, January 29 – Dr. Ramanathan Archuna, the newly elected MP from Jaffna, has once again found himself at the center of controversy following his arrest on charges of obstructing police duties. The Anuradhapura Chief Magistrate ordered his release on bail after he was presented before the court late on Monday night.
The MP was granted bail on two surety bonds worth Rs. 200,000 and was instructed to appear before the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court on February 3. His arrest, which took place earlier in the day in Jaffna by a special police team, was related to an incident on January 21 in the Rambewa area of Anuradhapura, where he allegedly obstructed traffic police officers while driving without a valid driver’s license.
Why Was He Arrested?
Initially, there was confusion regarding the identity of the suspect in this case. The Anuradhapura Headquarters Police mistakenly recorded the name “Archuna Lochana” as the accused in their initial B report. However, after further investigations, the police submitted a motion to court on January 29, clarifying that the actual suspect was Dr. Ramanathan Archuna.
Upon reviewing the police’s request, Chief Magistrate Nalaka Sanjeewa Jayasuriya accepted the correction and ordered the case to be taken up again on February 3.
Who is Dr. Ramanathan Archuna?
Dr. Ramanathan Archuna, born on June 28, 1986, in Chavakachcheri, Jaffna, is a medical doctor-turned-politician. He studied in Chavakachcheri and Kodikamam schools before obtaining a medical degree from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo.
His father, a former police officer who served in Jaffna’s Kodikamam Police Station during the war years, played a significant role in shaping his public image. Archuna had often spoken about his father’s service and its impact on his life.
How Did He Enter Politics?
Dr. Archuna entered mainstream politics by contesting as an independent candidate in the Jaffna District under Independent Group No. 17 during the parliamentary elections held on November 21, 2024.
Despite not having the backing of a major political party, he secured a stunning 20,487 preferential votes and became the only independent candidate to win a parliamentary seat from Jaffna in that election. His victory was largely attributed to his anti-corruption stance and his past activism against irregularities in the Northern Health Sector.
What are the Controversies Linked to Him?
1. Exposing Corruption in the Health Sector
Before becoming an MP, Dr. Archuna served as the Director of Chavakachcheri Hospital in Jaffna. He became well-known after exposing several alleged irregularities within the Northern Provincial Health Department. His activism led to attempts to transfer him from the hospital, which sparked public outrage and protests in his support.
Following the outcry, he was transferred to Peradeniya Hospital after ministerial intervention.
2. Confrontation with Mannar Hospital Authorities
Dr. Archuna was arrested after visiting Mannar Hospital to investigate the death of a pregnant woman. The hospital administration lodged a complaint with the Mannar Police, leading to his detention on that occasion as well.
3. Conflicts with the Jaffna Hospital Director
After becoming an MP, Archuna had a falling out with the Director of Jaffna Hospital, which resulted in a formal complaint being filed against him with the Jaffna Police.
4. Controversial Behavior in Parliament
During the inaugural session of Parliament, he unexpectedly sat in the Opposition Leader’s chair, creating political drama. His unconventional behavior at the first session’s banquet also made headlines.
5. Viral Social Media and Public Confrontations
Dr. Archuna’s name frequently surfaces on social media due to his fiery speeches and confrontational style. A video of him scolding a person while driving on Baseline Road recently went viral, further fueling debates about his aggressive political approach.
What Happens Next?
Dr. Archuna will appear before the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court on February 3, where his case will proceed. Given his history of confrontations with law enforcement and political figures, his legal battle is expected to draw widespread public and media attention.
While some view him as a whistleblower exposing corruption, others see him as a political agitator with an unpredictable nature.
One thing is certain—Dr. Ramanathan Archuna’s political journey remains as dramatic as his rise to Parliament.
