Colombo

The Indian High Commission on Wednesday "categorically" denied media reports about New Delhi sending its troops to Colombo and said the country is fully supportive of Sri Lanka's democracy, stability and economic recovery.

"The High Commission would like to categorically deny speculative reports in sections of media & social media about India sending her troops to Sri Lanka. These reports and such views are also not in keeping with the position of the Govt of India," the Indian mission said in a Tweet.

"The Spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs of India clearly stated yesterday that #India is fully supportive of Sri Lanka's democracy, stability and economic recovery," it said in another tweet.

The High Commission would like to categorically deny speculative reports in sections of media and social media about #India sending her troops to Sri Lanka. These reports and such views are also not in keeping with the position of
the Government of #India. (1/2)

— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) May 11, 2022

Violent protests in the past two days have rocked Sri Lanka which is   struggling with acute food and electricity shortages amid a crippling economic crisis. Protesters had been demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The Prime Minister eventually resigned on Monday and was airlifted to a naval base on Tuesday for shelter.

On Tuesday, India denied rumours circulating in sections of media and social media that certain Sri Lankan political persons and their families have fled to India.

Amid deteriorating law and order situation, the Sri Lankan government on Tuesday ordered the armed forces to open fire on anyone looting public property or causing harm to others.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa also urged people to remain calm, and refrain from violence and acts of revenge against others.

A number of violent incidents have been reported in the country after pro-government groups clashed with anti-government protesters on Monday, leaving eight people dead and over 200 injured.

A nationwide curfew was imposed from Monday until Wednesday and the military was deployed to maintain law and order.