Committee Appointed to Formulate Mechanism to Reduce Prison Sentences: Minister Harshana

23-Jan-2026

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Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara announced that a ten-member committee has been appointed to develop a mechanism to reduce sentences for convicted prisoners in order to alleviate prison overcrowding.

He made these remarks in Parliament on 21 January while responding to a question raised by SJB MP Mujibur Rahman.

The committee, approved by Cabinet on 2 June 2025, includes a Supreme Court Judge, senior legal officials, medical professionals, and senior public servants. It has not yet submitted recommendations.

He also noted delays in granting bail to drug-related suspects due to staff shortages at the Government Analyst’s Department and said steps are being taken to recruit additional personnel.