CHAPTER 07 STATES OF HUMAN RIGHTS The year 2014, when considering the human rights record of the country, did not lead to a pleasant environment in view of certain incidents which occurred. It has been revealed that those incidents led to a weakening of the human situation. In a healthy democratic society the most important feature is supremacy of the law. Enforcement of the law fairly, equally, efficiently and correctly is essential to achieve it. The occurrence of several incidents revealed that this was not given due respect. The inquiry into the incident of abuse of a foreign woman and the murder of her lover by a group including the Chairman of a Pradeshiya Sabha took place and action filed. It was observed that the enforcement of the law in respect of political authorities was very weak and unsatisfactory. There was considerable delay before action was filed in courts. The law was not enforced in respect of those who were responsible for the assault and obstruction of some UNP MPs who went on an inspection of the Mattala airport and the Hambantota port. The police too were silent. When a certain Buddhist religious organization went on to inspect certain places by force taking the law into their own hands, the relevant institutional authority failed to ensure due respect for the law by not arresting the culprits. Naturally the faith placed in the law was eroded. The culmination of this situation was the Aluthgama - Beruwala incident when Muslims in the areas were assaulted and property damaged by organized forces. Allegations were made that the security forces, especially the police failed to carry out their responsibilities and duties. Although the relevant DIG of Police was removed, it was not an adequate or permanent solution. Although the damaged buildings and houses were rebuilt, these steps could not mend the broken hearts. This incident and the manner in which the law was enforced led to mistrust and the widening of the distance between races. The government failed to give a guarantee with regard to their security. 56