State Minster Ajith P Perera said 81 drunk protesters, who were "knocked out" on the streets, have been taken to hospitals. 

Perera made this remark addressing a press conference at the Government Information Department auditorium, a short while ago. 

"They were picked up from the streets and taken to hospitals in 1990 ambulances," Perera said. 

He also reminded that the same group protested the 1990 ambulance service supported by India, not too long ago.

The State Minister said the protest in Colombo was an utter failure and the expected crowd did not take part in the campaign. 

They also described the protest as a campaign to position Namal Rajapaksa, the son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, as a leading figure in the Joint Opposition.

The government ministers also questioned as to why former Minister Basil Rajapaksa, a Convener of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna,  'ducked' the protest rally.

However, the protest rally organized by the Joint Opposition is still underway near the Lake House roundabout. The protesters have now launched a sathyagraha campaign and a candlelight vigil, blocking the road.