In a media release, the organisation says "In established democracies, State armed forces have strictly defined roles that relate to national security and no more."

"Allowing armed forces to engage in business brings about two serious and dangerous aberrations in daily life. First is the fact, economic activity in a democratic society is defined as civilian activity. Economic space should remain that of citizens to engage in livelihood and entrepreneurial activities. Bringing in security forces into business restricts such space for citizens and deforms competition in markets while also negating employment generation," the media release adds.

Can security forces do business?

"One wonders here in Sri Lanka what legal status these commercial ventures have, for them to be called "army", "navy" or "air force" owned. Can security forces legally own and manage business enterprises? Who appoints "Director Boards" of these companies? From where did the investments come and who approved such investments? What happens to profits if any and where does that money go?," the collective questions.

"However profitable the business would be, this is one area Sri Lanka should not get into until this corrupt and inefficient State that still behaves as it was with the previous regime is completely reformed. For now, this hybrid government lacks a political will to rein in authority to have the house in order. We therefore cannot risk getting into a 'Pakistani Syndrome'," they add.

The complete media release is as follows :