COLOMBO (News 1st): The general public cannot be permitted to attend the 73rd Independence Day celebrations on 4th February this year, the Secretary of Defence said on Monday (Feb. 01).

“Given COVID-19 pandemic situation, the public cannot be allowed to attend the Independence Day celebrations in person,” General (Rtd.) Kamal Gunaratne, the Defence Secretary told reporters.

Thereby, the Defence Secretary requested all media channels to telecast the 73rd Independence Day celebrations so that the people could watch it at home.

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