The BMICH which was ordered by the Colombo District Court to pay Rs. 187 million as compensation to Dr. Samitha Samanmali, said that it would pay the amount despite its financial problems.

BMICH director general Mallika Karunaratne said the funds would be collected by any possible means – such as loans or in rent though they were not capable of paying the amount at the moment.

She said that with the annual turnover of the BMICH it would be difficult to pay the Rs. 187 million compensation but that they would abide by the court verdict.

"We are going to discuss this matter during our next meeting with our managing board. At the moment, we are undecided as how and when the compensation would be paid," Ms. Karunaratne said.

Dr. Samitha Samanmali was paralysed in 2008 when a shelter put up for the MED-EX exhibition collapsed on her and, after seven years, the Colombo District Court ordered that a sum of Rs. 187 million be paid as compensation to her. (Piyumi Fonseka)