HRCSL aims to strengthen rule of law - HRCSL Chairman

Sarath MALALASEKERA

COLOMBO: The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) aims to strengthen the rule of law through prevention of torture and by protecting human rights to enhance the trust and confidence of the public through developed methods of investigations, said HRCSL Chairman Justice S. Ananda Coomaraswamy in a message to mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture -2007.

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka held a special programme to mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture -2007 at the Kalutara Police Training College recently.

HRCSL Inquiries and Investigations Director Samanthie Jayamanna Paranagama and HRCSL Legal Officer -Education and Special Programmes Shirani Rajapakse delivered welcome addresses at the ceremony.

The HRCSL Chairman’s message was read by HRCSL Commissioner M.T.M. Bafiq. Its stated Section 11 (d) of the Human Rights Act empowers the Commission to monitor the welfare of persons detained either by Judicial Order or otherwise by regular inspection of the places of detentions and to make such recommendations as may be necessary to improve conditions of detention.

In pursuance of this Section the Commission has appointed investigating officers to visit all police stations and other places of detention. In fact monthly reports are furnished by the investigating officers, after perusal of some remedial measures or necessary recommendations are made by the Commission, the message added.

HRCSL Chairman’s message also stated that the Commission always endeavours to prevent violations of human rights and are very vigilant about those who are detained by law enforcing authorities to prevent torture of those in custody.