The UN Human Rights Office recently urged Sri Lanka to initiate a thorough investigation into incidents of violence occurring in its prisons, following clashes that resulted in multiple fatalities and allegations of torture. The call for action comes in the wake of deadly events at Negombo Prison on July 5, where clashes left at least 28 dead, including seven prison officials, and injured over 100 individuals. The facility, intended for around 640 inmates, was reportedly accommodating approximately 2,400 at the time, underscoring chronic overcrowding woes.
In response, Sri Lankan authorities established a committee to delve into the violence. Despite this, concerns intensified as local media detailed the deaths of two inmates transferred after the unrest. One prisoner reportedly succumbed to a “sudden illness” at Boossa High Security Prison, while another also perished after being moved to Agunukolapelessa Prison.
Reports suggest that transferred inmates were subjected to torture, prompting the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka to demand unhampered access to prison facilities for investigation. Amnesty International echoed these concerns, with Babu Ram Pant highlighting the alarming nature of the reports and calling for the immediate protection of detainee rights and unrestricted access for legal and familial visits.
Addressing the issues of overcrowding, the government announced plans to reopen an old prison and increase correctional staff. Sri Lanka’s prisons currently hold approximately 41,000 inmates, a staggering figure that nearly quadruples their designed capacity according to reports.
The country’s burgeoning prison population and inadequate facilities make the need for reform increasingly urgent, with international bodies and human rights organizations pressing for accountability and improved conditions to uphold the fundamental rights of those incarcerated. The situation remains tense as authorities grapple with systemic challenges in ensuring justice and humane treatment within the penal system.