No special requests, security arrangements for prisoners -JSC tells magistrates

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has issued a new circular instructing magistrates to refrain from making special orders regarding the detention or security arrangements of suspects and prisoners.  
According to the circular, magistrates are advised not to issue directives for suspects or inmates to be held in special prisons or to be provided with special security measures.  
The updated circular signed by the Secretary of the Judicial Service Commission, Prasanna Alwis sets out clear guidelines for magistrates when issuing court orders under special circumstances involving remanded suspects or convicted prisoners. It replaces an earlier circular issued on May 11, 2012.  
The JSC further emphasized that magistrates should not order the transfer of suspects or prisoners to their homes or other locations to attend family events or for any other purpose during their period of imprisonment.  
In cases involving the funerals of close relatives, the circular states that prisoners may be escorted under the supervision of the Prison Superintendent, in accordance with existing regulations of the Prisons Department.  
Additionally, the circular directs that any requests for medical attention by suspects or prisoners should be referred to the prison’s medical officer for appropriate action.