UN expresses concern over appointment of new IGP in Sri Lanka

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has expressed deep concern over the recent confirmation of a new Inspector General of Police (IGP) in Sri Lanka. Türk's statement, delivered at the 55th Session of the Human Rights Council, highlights apprehensions regarding the appointment of the new IGP amidst ongoing human rights challenges in the country.

Türk emphasized the need for comprehensive security sector reform in Sri Lanka, particularly in light of recurring reports of human rights abuses, including abductions, unlawful detention, and torture allegedly carried out by the Sri Lankan police and security forces. Of particular concern is the appointment of the new IGP, despite the Supreme Court's findings linking him to a torture case in 2010. This development underscores the urgency of addressing systemic issues within Sri Lanka's security apparatus.

The concerns raised by Türk coincide with broader apprehensions regarding democratic governance and fundamental rights in Sri Lanka. Proposed laws such as the Online Safety Act, Anti-Terrorism Bill, Electronic Media Broadcasting Authority Bill, and NGO Supervision and Registration Bill have drawn criticism for their potential impact on civil liberties and democratic principles.

As Sri Lanka grapples with economic challenges and unresolved human rights violations, Türk urged the government to undertake credible accountability measures and reverse regressive trends in governance. He emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict and economic crisis to achieve genuine reconciliation and sustainable peace in the country.