Abstract:
There are numerous explanations on the relationship between public policy and political
behavior. Generally, it is assumed that political behavior shapes the nature of the public
policy. This article studies the impact of public policy in shaping the political behavior
referring to the national poverty alleviation programme in Sri Lanka popularly known as
Samurdhi (Prosperity) Movement. A questionnaire covering 150 respondents forms the main
source of data while formal and informal interviews and information collected as participant
observer by the researcher has been employed in explanation. The study covers the policy
approach, activities and implementing mechanism and an analysis of the impact of public
policy on political behavior. It concludes that the present public policy is not empowering the
people and it has contributed to perpetuate the subordination denying opportunities to air the
voice of the poor.
