Judicial Service Commission Issues Directive on Prisoner Handling

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has directed all magistrates not to order that any suspect or prisoner be detained in a special prison.

The directive was issued through a circular signed by the Secretary of the Commission, Prasanna Alwis, and sent to all judicial officers.

The move follows complaints that certain magistrates had previously ordered suspects or prisoners be held in special facilities.

The JSC further emphasized that magistrates should not direct that any suspect or prisoner be provided with special security. Any such requests made in open court should instead be referred to the relevant prison superintendent.

The circular also stated that magistrates must refrain from directing that prisoners be taken to their homes or other locations during their imprisonment for family-related events or special occasions.

In instances where a prisoner is taken out of custody for any reason, the prison superintendent is required to notify the respective magistrate and provide a detailed explanation.

The JSC also emphasized that all requests made by suspects or prisoners regarding medical treatment must be referred to both the magistrate and the prison’s medical officer.