2 protesters of Self Employees Association arrested

Traders belonging to the United National Association of Self-Employed Traders in Pettah held a protest in front of the Fort Railway Station demanding government to allow them to open their shops also if the government can give permission to open liquor shops.

Protesters were seen wearing masks as well as protective clothing, maintaining social distance and adhering to health guidelines.

However, with the Fort police officers who arrived at the scene while they were protesting informing them to halt the protest caused a tense situation between the protesters and police officers.

Protesters said if the government can allow opening liquor stores, they also should be allowed to open their businesses. They said a large number of people are affected by the closure of shops in Pettah and called on the government to allow the opening of small businesses as well as sidewalk stalls.

Source: Agencies