Bharatha killing:

Govt assures independent, impartial investigation

Nadira GUNATILLEKE

The government yesterday assured that the investigation into the murder of Bharatha Lakshman Premachandra will be independent and impartial.

The government handed over the investigation to the CID because of the reputation it has among the public for conducting unbiased and efficient investigations, Cabinet Spokesperson and Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said.

Addressing the weekly Cabinet press briefing held at the Government Information Department Auditorium yesterday, Minister Rambukwella said the government will not take the sides of any party when it comes to investigations and no officer connected to the investigation had been transferred, he said adding there is nothing the government can do about various rumors spread by different parties and persons.

According to Minister Rambukwella, the family of late Premachandra can hold press conferences and express their views because it is their right to do so.

”About ten persons had been taken into custody in connection with the incident. The government has not received even the initial report on the investigation and therefore, there is no possibility of taking into custody or arresting an injured person who is receiving medical treatment on a hospital bed. An injured person is only capable of going through medical procedures and not capable of going through any other procedures. He cannot be removed from the hospital without the permission of the health authorities,” the minister pointed out.

The minister said it is very unethical and against Sri Lankan culture to arrest and handcuff a patient who is injured lying unconscious and receiving medical treatment on a hospital bed. But the government can assure one thing. It will ensure an impartial and independent investigation, he said.