HRCSL concerned over health and threats to Shani’s life

‘Law mandates us to ensure welfare of those deprived of liberty’

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has written to Commissioner General of Prisons, Thushara Upuldeniya, expressing surprise over former CID director Shani Abeysekara being transferred to the Treatment Centre for prisoners at Gallella despite his multiple health issues.

In a letter to the Commissioner General, Ramani Muttettuwegama, HRCSL’s Commissioner in charge of Investigations and Inquiries, refers to its November 25, 2020 letter drawing attention to the concerns regarding health and threats to life of Abeysekara who has apparently contracted the COVID-19 virus while at the Mahara Prison.

“We have been made to understand that better treatment is available at the Welikanda Treatment Hospital. As you are aware the health and security of all prisoners including remandees, remain the responsibility of the Commissioner General of Prisons. Given the concerns already conveyed to you regarding security issues, we ask you to take immediate steps secure Abeysekara and ensure the best possible treatment”, the letter said.

“It may be best to transfer Abeyskera to the Welikanda Treatment Hospital. Further, his family has informed us that they have no information regarding his health situation or his whereabouts. We urge you to immediately keep families of all prisoners infected by the COVID-19 virus informed of their whereabouts and provide them with the results of their PCR Test”, the HRCSL further said.

It added: “We are also receiving many complaints from family members desperate for information regarding their loved ones in custody. Therefore, we suggest that you provide us with an updated list of all prisoners affected by the virus and their current location and treatment. We would welcome the appointment of a contact person in each treatment in case further information is required by family members”.

HRCSL clarified that the letter was sent under powers vested in itunder the HRCSL Act, No. 21 of 1996 10 (b), 11 (d), 28(2) where the Commission is specially mandated to ensure the welfare of those deprived of liberty.