June 09, Colombo (LNW): The Free Lawyers Association has appealed to the authorities to provide immediate and specialised medical treatment to former State Intelligence Service (SIS) Director General Major General Suresh Sallay, while renewing calls for reforms to Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), which it says permits prolonged detention without adequate judicial safeguards.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the organisation expressed concern over Sallay’s physical and psychological condition during his detention, describing the reported circumstances as troubling and warranting urgent intervention. The statement was jointly signed by the Association’s Convener, Maithri Gunaratne, and Chief Executive Officer, Rajith Keerthi Tennekoon.
According to information cited by the Association, Sallay has reportedly experienced a marked deterioration in health in recent weeks. Medical assessments are said to indicate significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, skin-related ailments, elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and the worsening of longstanding migraine conditions.
The statement further referred to psychiatric evaluations which reportedly identified severe anxiety, depressive symptoms and indicators associated with post-traumatic stress disorder. Medical specialists are said to have warned that the condition requires immediate attention and comprehensive treatment, noting concerns regarding his mental wellbeing and vulnerability.
Although assessments reportedly found him medically fit to participate in legal proceedings, the Association stressed that this should not diminish the need for continued physical and psychological care in an appropriate therapeutic setting.
The organisation argued that the case highlights broader concerns surrounding the treatment of individuals held under the PTA. It noted that the legislation allows for extended periods of detention before charges are formally filed or judicial review takes place, creating conditions that may expose detainees to neglect or abuse.
The Association also questioned whether existing detention practices fully align with Sri Lanka’s international obligations relating to the prevention of torture and the protection of detainees, particularly as the country prepares for scrutiny from international monitoring bodies in the coming months.
Among its recommendations, the group called for independent medical evaluations for all PTA detainees, regular access to family members and legal representatives, and the prompt presentation of detainees before competent courts. It further urged authorities either to proceed with legally sustainable charges or release individuals who remain in custody without sufficient grounds.
The Association reiterated its longstanding position that the PTA requires substantial reform, arguing that provisions allowing lengthy detention without timely judicial oversight should be reviewed to strengthen accountability and safeguard fundamental rights.
The group also stated its willingness to engage with the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, relevant state institutions and international observers to support efforts aimed at improving detention standards and preventing ill-treatment within custodial facilities.