Press Conference of SLCAT on Torture, Violence and Extremism
Press Conference of Sri Lankan Civil Society Collective was held on 19 th June 2019 at National Library as a start event of the Anti-Torture Month from June 19 to July 20. The representatives of SLCAT attended the press conference Dr. P. Saravanamuttu, Dr. Jehan Perera, Philip Dissanayake, Prabodha Ratnayake, Dulan Dasanayaka, Chamila Thushari spoke at the Press Conference and Kusum Silva, Inoma Karunathilake, Amitha and Anthony Vinoth represented at the Press Conference.
Let’s Eradicate Torture, Violence and Extremism was the theme spoke at the press conference and the current ICCPR Act, which is being utilized as barriers to people who speak the majority ideology in the country. Writer Shakthika’s issue was highlighted and certain feedback was given at the Press Conference.
Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu said that there may be the reasons for amending the laws but nevertheless we have to apply ourselves whole heartedly and diligently ensuring that the laws that are passed is enough because internationally we have people come and say that torture is the standard procedure of police to get confession. It is happening every day in number of occasions. Therefore, the law and order and the authorities have to take deep concern and act fast. But apart from torture after the April 21 Easter Sunday attack the it is important to speak on reconciliation, co- existence and peace. If the Asgiriya Mahanayaka asks the people to stone at the people and then is that what extremism Islam all about. He is saying the origins of hurt, heart and hate…”
Later at the end of the press conference the proposed plan of the Anti-Torture month is being presented to media