The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) held a National Consultation on the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) on torture on 30 November 2023, from 9.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. at the Galadari Hotel, Colombo. The HRCSL consulted participants representing various state institutions at the national level and held discussions on the inspections carried out by the NPM to monitor the detention conditions of persons deprived of their liberty and the challenges they face.

Sri Lanka became party to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment on 4 January 2018. Thereafter, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the HRCSL that the Commission has been designated as the NPM. The purpose of the National Consultation was to raise awareness about the NPM and to present the ongoing process of the NPM.

The welcome address and the introduction at the National Consultation was delivered by Justice L.T.B. Dehideniya, Chairman of the HRCSL. Dr. Gehan Gunatilleke – Commissioner, HRCSL conducted two presentations on the importance of torture prevention and on the findings and recommendations of the NPM. Mr. Nimal G. Punchihewa, Commissioner, HRCSL, Mr. Ranjith Uyangoda, the Secretary of the HRCSL, and all Directors and Regional Coordinators of the HRCSL participated in the consultation.

The HRCSL plans to continue its work as the NPM and will inspect places of detention, inquire about the conditions of detention, and issue necessary recommendations to prevent the occurrence of torture in Sri Lanka.