The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has voiced serious concern over an incident in which its officers were denied access to Welikada Prison on July 7, stating that the action was inconsistent with the powers granted to the Commission under the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka Act, No. 21 of 1996.
The matter was discussed at a meeting held on July 14, chaired by HRCSL Chairman Justice L.T.B. Dehideniya, during which prison officials explained that access had been restricted due to a security situation within the prison.
Although prison authorities expressed regret over failing to inform HRCSL officers of the circumstances and assured that such incidents would not recur, the Commission said it was not satisfied with the explanation provided.
The HRCSL also raised concerns over allegations involving inmates transferred from Negombo Prison, including claims of torture, ill-treatment, denial of medical care, delays in informing families of prisoners’ locations, and the continued detention of inmates who had already completed their prison terms.
The Commission has instructed Welikada Prison authorities to extend full cooperation with its ongoing investigation into allegations of torture, ill-treatment and deaths in custody linked to the recent violence at Negombo Prison.
In addition, the HRCSL recommended that prison authorities ensure unrestricted access for Commission officials to places of detention as provided by law, prevent any reprisals against transferred inmates, promptly notify families about the whereabouts of prisoners, and facilitate the immediate release of inmates who have completed their sentences.
