The amendments seek to make it obligatory for magistrates to visit police stations and other detention centres and ascertain whether the detainees are properly treated. However, the parliamentary Opposition criticised the motives of the Government, labelling the amendments “window dressing” and claiming the Government has no “genuine” interest in reforming the law. Sumanthiran said his party welcomes all amendments which seek to make it obligatory for magistrates to visit police stations and other detention centres and ascertain whether the detainees are properly treated. However, he questioned as to why the “window dressing” is made at the current time and sought clarifications on a mechanism which would ensure that magistrates would properly inspect prisons. “This rejection shows that the Government is not serious or genuine about making these legal reforms,” said Rahman.

Source: The Nation July 06, 2021 18:11 UTC