BASL calls for investigation on Kandy tragedy

Kandy Tragedy : BASL calls on Sri Lanka Police to conduct proper investigation

by Zulfick Farzan 21-09-2020 | 4:37 PM

Colombo (News 1st); The Bar Association of Sri Lanka raised concerns over the tragic incident in Kandy drawing comparisons with a building that collapsed in Wellawatte a few years ago.

The BASL in a letter to Acting Inspector General of Police Chandana Wickramaratne with regard to the tragic death of a family of three when a building collapsed in Buwelikada, Kandy on Sunday (20) called for an investigation into the incident and to ensure all aspects of the circumstances are properly and adequately investigated.

The letter stated quote "Unfortunately and strangely there appears to be a trend that no further action is taken by the state bodies after the initial investigations are done. The matter appears to be forgotten until another incident takes place" unquote.

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka said it is concerned about the incident for a number of reasons.

"We are naturally concerned about the death of our member (Mrs. Achala Ekanayake AAL) in these circumstances and we are equally concerned that this sort of incident cannot affect another human being irrespective of the standing of such person," said the statement.

The statement said in the past when incidents of this nature take place there have been instances where it is alleged the investigations are not properly or adequately conducted.

Adding the BASL will definitely be involved in any pending proceedings, the statement said it is the duty of the police to conduct a proper and adequate investigation to the question as to whether there is a criminal offense committed.

It noted, if there is gross negligence on the part of any person responsible for the construction or maintenance of this building, all aspects need to be investigated.

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka said whether the construction had taken place in accordance with the law and the relevant regulations, whether the necessary approvals were obtained are some of the matters which require immediate intervention by Sri Lanka Police.

In the event of any criminal offense being disclosed, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka requested the IGP to take appropriate action immediately to ensure public confidence is not affected.