BASL calls to close courts for four days

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has called the Governent to close down courts for the next four days as a precaution to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The BASL in a statement said the request was being made to prevent the spread of the virus and the with the objective of protecting the public and members of the legal profession. 

The BASL statement said;

The BASL said it had received a few complaints from the provincial Bars of suspected cases of certain incidents and individuals which may add to the existing health condition.

‘We are also mindful of the closure of schools and several other institutions which was done with the view of preventing the spread of the Virus.’

‘The Court houses in this country are public places where a considerable number of people gather on a daily basis. The hygienic conditions in most Court houses are highly questionable and unless closely monitored the Court houses could become a breeding ground for this pandemic. The conditions under which remand prisoners are kept when they are brought to courts also carries high risk of spreading the virus.’

‘We have sought medical advice and according to experts the best period to take precautionary measures to prevent the spreading of the virus is now. This probably may have been a reason why some of the state institutions including schools were closed.’

The BASL said that the request should not be in anyway construed as disrespecting the system.

The Association said the final decision should be taken in consultation with the Chief Justice and the Judicial Services Commission.