Death of Ruhunu University student:

Magisterial inquiry still on

Sandasen MARASINGHE

Mass Media and Communication Minister and Defence Spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella yesterday stated that the magisterial inquiry is proceeding on the death of the Ruhuna University Third Year student Susantha Aruna Bandara and anybody can give evidence at the inquest.

The Minister making this observation at a press conference held at the Media Centre for National Security said that many opinions were expressed by several groups although the JMO's report is issued and the police investigations are in progress under proper legal procedures.

He said that an incident took place on June 17. On the request of the Vice Chancellor of the Ruhuna University the Police mediated to send away the students from university premises after its temporary closure. The Minister further said that there are reports to the effect that the student had taken treatment from time to time from hospital. The student was admitted to the Badulla Hospital on July 7 and died on July 22. The JMO has issued the post mortem report on the death and the Magistrate is conducting the inquest. For anybody who wishes to give evidence the inquest is open.

Media Centre For National Security Director General Lakshman Hulugalle, Air Force Spokesman Group Captain Janaka Nanayakkara, Navy Spokesman Captain Athula Senarath, Military Spokesman Brigadier Ubaya Medawala Police Spokesman SP Prishantha Jayakody, also were present at the occasion.