A group of students attached to the Inter-University Students’ Council (IUSC) continued occupying the controversial Malwana property on Thursday, insisting their protest over university accommodation issues would continue despite criticism and ongoing debate surrounding the move.
The students had entered the sprawling Malwana property, which had previously drawn controversy after claims it was linked to former Minister Basil Rajapaksa, arguing that unused state assets should be repurposed to address university hostel shortages.
Students remained at the site overnight, with campfires lit as they continued their protest.
The occupation has sparked political debate, with opposing student groups and political figures questioning the legality and purpose of the action.
IUSF student faction aligned with the Frontline Socialist Party claimed the protest involved a group connected to the government and suggested discussions with authorities could have been pursued instead.
Meanwhile, students occupying the property said they had attended discussions at the Education Ministry but were not satisfied with the responses given regarding longstanding issues faced by university students.
“We have decided to continue this action,” student representatives said, adding that the move was intended as a symbolic struggle highlighting broader concerns affecting the university system.
The issue also drew reactions from opposition politicians, with some criticizing the occupation as unlawful and warning it could set a problematic precedent if state property could be occupied in such a manner.
