Reports suggest that a proper investigation has yet to be initiated into allegations that a doctor at the prison hospital is demanding bribes from prisoners to provide treatment. Senior prison officials are allegedly delaying the matter, sparking public outrage.
Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa, Chairman of the Civil Rights Doctors’ Trade Union Organization, has called for an immediate inquiry into the accused doctor.
The Prisoners’ Welfare Association has also brought these allegations to light, accusing the doctor of charging bribes to admit sick prisoners to the hospital. Civil rights groups have urged the Minister of Health to intervene and take swift action.
Further allegations have linked this doctor to a controversial incident during the Covid-19 period, where prisoners reportedly died under suspicious circumstances.
Civil organizations have criticized Director General of Health Services, Asela Gunawardena, for keeping the doctor at the prison hospital, where he is reportedly acting as the director. The organizations stress that urgent measures must be taken to address the alleged misconduct and ensure justice for the affected prisoners.
