Chaotic Situation Prevails in Sri Lanka's Prisons: G. L. Peiris

04-Aug-2026

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Former Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris has alleged that Sri Lanka's prison system is in a state of complete disorder due to the Government's failure to appoint a Commissioner General of Prisons.

He made these remarks while addressing a media briefing organised by the Joint Opposition at the political office of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Colombo.

Prof. Peiris said the country's prison administration is facing a serious crisis, pointing out that two major incidents had occurred at the Negombo and Mahara Prisons within the past two months.

He noted that the position of Commissioner General of Prisons, which oversees the administration of all prisons in the country, has remained vacant for one year and two months, with only acting appointments being made.

Describing the situation, he remarked, "The body exists, but there is no head."

He recalled that former Commissioner General Thushara Upuldeniya had challenged his removal before the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL), arguing that there were no justifiable grounds for his dismissal.

Following an inquiry, the HRCSL had directed the Secretary to the relevant Ministry to reinstate Upuldeniya. However, Prof. Peiris alleged that the order had been completely disregarded.

Questioning the relevance of the Human Rights Commission if its directives are ignored, he criticised the Government for undermining independent institutions.

He further pointed out that nearly 41,500 inmates are currently housed in prisons designed to accommodate only 11,000 prisoners, resulting in severe overcrowding and increasing operational challenges.

Prof. Peiris urged the Government to appoint a permanent Commissioner General of Prisons without further delay and to respect the decisions of the Human Rights Commission.