Deputy Minister of Vocational Education Nalin Hewage has called for legal action against MPs and ministers who received compensation for properties damaged during the Galle Face struggle, stating that they should be required to repay double or triple the amount received.
Speaking to the media, Hewage emphasized that the peaceful nature of the Galle Face protest had been recognized globally as an example of nonviolent resistance. He accused certain politicians of provoking violence by orchestrating attacks on protesters, which ultimately led to the destruction of their own properties.
He pointed out that if those responsible had not gathered at Temple Trees that morning and engaged in wrongful actions, the ensuing events that evening would not have unfolded. He specifically referenced Sanath Nishantha and two DIGs, who allegedly incited violence against demonstrators at the protest site.
Hewage noted that former minister Keheliya Rambukwella was one of the biggest compensation recipients, claiming losses of approximately Rs. 90 million. He asserted that those responsible for inciting violence should bear the financial consequences, stressing that a proper legal process should be conducted in the future to reclaim the compensation funds from those who received them unjustly.
His remarks reflect growing public and political pressure for greater accountability regarding how state funds were allocated for compensation and whether certain political figures exploited the system for personal gain.
