Colombo: Sri Lankan President Gorbaya Rajapaksa has once again declared a state of emergency in the country, which has been in effect since midnight. This information was given through the media of the President’s Office. A state of emergency has been declared for the second time in just a month amid protests across the country over the unprecedented economic crisis. Earlier, the Rajapaksas had declared a state of emergency on April 1, following violent protests outside their private homes. However, it was withdrawn on April 5. Amid the economic crisis, the people of Sri Lanka have decided to re-impose the crisis amid demands for the resignation of the President and the government over the past few weeks. However, despite mounting pressure to resign, President Gorbaya Rajapaksa and his brother Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa have refused to step down. Under the emergency, police and security forces are allowed to arrest and detain anyone on their own. According to the media department, the decision of the Rajapaksa is to maintain the security of the people and essential services, so that the smooth running of the country can be ensured.