DIG Paranathala retires

Elmo Rodrigopulle

Sportsman and Deputy Inspector General of Police Jayantha Paranathala retired after an unblemished record serving for 40 years. At the time of retirement, he had served as DIG Logistics, Public Grievances and police headquarters.

Parnathala an old isipathinian led the school cricket team in 1970 and was also a good hockey and ruby player.

He was the first cricketer form the school to sport national colours.

After an illustrious school career where he was also its head cop, he joined the police force as a sub inspector in 1971.

His exemplary behaviour and penchant for hard and honest work saw him rise in the force.

Starting as a Sub Inspector he rose up the ladder with promotions coming naturally.

He served in many parts of the island and his most cherished moments were where he had to quell the 1983 riots and the 1988/99 insurgency.

His other achievements are too numerous to mention but suffice to say as DIG/Ombudsman, he handled public grievances at Police Headquarters on behalf of IG in the years 2009 to 2011.

This as a new concept of IGP Dr Mahinda Balasuriya where for the first time in the history of the Police, the public was permitted to place their grievances to the IG or him as DIG/Ombudsman on behalf of the IG Here are DIG Paranathala’s sporting achievements in the Police - Captained the Police team and won colours. Represented police at hockey, Served as cricket secretary.

Represented Sri Lanka at cricket after T.B. Kehelgamuwa.

Served as vice president Sri Lanka Cricket, Was a national selector.

Chairman Umpires Committee, Secretary National Development Committee and first to present a comprehensive report on national cricket development in 1988.

Managed the Sri Lanka cricket team abroad on many occasions.

He is the President of the Burgher Recreation Club since 1988 and is responsible for large scale development work at the club including three and four storey sports complexes. President Sri Lanka Hockey Federation and President Sri Lanka State Services Cricket Association.