The Justice Ministry is implementing a coordinated mechanism to detect and respond to emerging problems within Sri Lanka's prisons, while focusing on inmate welfare and reducing overcrowding.
The government has announced plans to develop a comprehensive early warning system to identify potential issues within prisons across the country and enhance emergency response capabilities. Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara outlined the initiative during a visit to Kalutara Prison on Wednesday, describing it as a coordinated effort involving multiple state agencies.
The system will operate through committees comprising local government officials who are expected to convene at least monthly to review existing concerns and determine appropriate courses of action. According to Nanayakkara, the mechanism aims to enable prison authorities to detect problems at an early stage before they escalate. The initiative also encompasses efforts to strengthen the protection of inmate rights, improve facilities, and address the needs of prison staff.
As part of the broader reform agenda, the government is working to streamline procedures that allow inmates and their families to lodge complaints about prison conditions. Additionally, measures are being pursued to accelerate Government Analyst reports, a move framed as contributing to efforts aimed at reducing prison overcrowding. During his inspection visit, Nanayakkara observed ongoing construction of a new facility at Kalutara Prison and held discussions with female inmates regarding challenges they encounter within the facility.
Coordinating committees have already been established for four institutions: Kalutara, Galle, Boossa, and Matara prisons, with participation from senior officials representing regional government agencies.
