Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador has expressed regret over criticisms by lawyers against police action over public gatherings held without adequate notice.

Abdul Hamid said that contrary to claims that police was out to stifle the right to free assembly, permission will be granted to any parties as long as requirements under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 have been fulfilled.

"The lawyers - I'm asking them to understand - they are legal practitioners ....