All most all the investigation officers in the Human Rights Commission ( HRC ) have gone to attend and enjoy the carnival, ‘Deyata Kirulla’, a publicity programme organized by the Government to celebrate the 64th Independence Day. But, what a pity! No one is on duty to assist the helpless-complainant approaching to the HRC for justice.
This was revealed when we requested the HRC to visit the ‘Torture Chamber’ at the Theeniyawela Police Station coming under the control of Kalutara Police Division, where two young persons were detained illegally and tortured.
Mrs. Thanuj Sandamali, who is living in the Theeniyawela Police area, complained that her husband was arrested on January 31, 2012 when he went to the said Police Station on a request made by them.
Laksith Hemantha, husband of Thanuj Sandamali, 26 years old father of a child, is a Physical Training Instructor attached to the Sri Lanka Army. On February 02, 2012 after 7 days’ arrest and detention by the said police, she made a written complaint to the HRC about the illegal arrest and detention of her husband.
In another case, Mrs. Agnus Gunawardena, mother of 24year old Sampath Deshapriya complained that her son was illegally arrested on January 21, 2012 and till date detained in custody and tortured continuously by the same police. Mrs. Gunawardena reported the matter to the HRC on February12, 2012.
The Theeniyawela Police did not stop torturing these two young persons or did not produce them within 24 hours before a competent Court as requested by the Law.
The most unfortunate thing here is that no officer is available in the Colombo Human Rights Office to attend to this unforeseen situation and facilitate the process of justice. They all have gone to attend and celebrate ‘Deyata Kirulla’ a pageant bragging the Government, which never assists to promote Human Rights or never suppresses Human Rights violations prevailing in this country.
Listen to Thanuj Sandamali:-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ay4y5g8m04
