Speaking to media, commission Secretary Ariyadasa Cooray has said an independent investigator would be appointed after having discussions with senior police officers with regard to the investigations.

Meanwhile, the Universities and Highways Minister Lakshman Kiriella had said the protest by HNDA students was absolutely unnecessary because the government had already decided to award degree status to the diploma.

Noting that he had met with student unions on Thursday morning and assured them that the course would have its degree status restored, the minister added that they have advised the relevant institutions to restore the degree status which was removed by the previous regime.

The minister further said that he would issue a media statement soon, giving all the details.

Earlier, the Prime minister had called for a report on the clash where students were severely assaulted by police, sparking widespread social criticism.