War victory, collective effort of Three Forces, Police -Premier

The credit for the war victory over the three-decade-old terrorism goes to the Three Forces and the Police. However, certain elements close to the LTTE are averse to pass that credit to the security forces and the police, Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka said.

The Prime Minister was speaking as chief guest at the Awards Presentation Ceremony of the Defence Services Command and Staff College held at Sapugaskanda on Tuesday. He said that the people who valued democracy and fair play had always appreciated the services rendered by the Three Forces and the police in eliminating terrorism. He added that the collective efforts of all these security forces led to the historic victory.

Every member of the security force receives the respect of the people whether they are in uniform or without. The people have a high regard for you. You have the bounden duty to protect the freedom and independence of the country. You have to devote yourself to the cause of your motherland.

You have a responsibility to discharge your duties while being loyal to the leadership. You can't shirk your duties under any circumstances. You cannot wash your hands off any responsibility thrusted upon you.

You all belong to the nation. You have no right whatsoever to work against the nation and the people. Please discharge your duties properly, so that the security and integrity of the country is preserved, the Prime Minister said.

Commanders of Three Forces, Defence Ministry Additional Secretary T. M. S. Ratnayake and family members of the graduates who passed out at the ceremony were also present. Altogether 54 Sri Lankans and four foreigners each from Bangladesh, India, Maldive Islands and Nepal received their degrees at the ceremony.