Special Evacuation Procedures and high security measures to be put in place around Court premises across the country

Special Evacuation Procedures and high security measures will be placed in and around Court premises across the country, President of the Bar Association, PC Kalinga Indatissa said. 

By Joshua Surendraraj
Speaking at a media briefing PC Indatissa on behalf of the BASL, unreservedly condemned the attacks that were carried out on Sunday (21).  He also called upon the members of the BASL and the general public to act in a calm manner. "As a country, we have faced similar issues such as this and we cannot afford to go through issues of a similar nature again," he said. 

On behalf of the BASL PC Indatissa made several requests from all legal professionals. These included 

1. Cooperating with the Police and the three forces who will be providing security to the court complexes and the country whenever personal checks are being done. 

He added that the BASL is also concerned with the safety of the public coming to court for  litigation purposes. Thereby he urged Lawyers to inform their clients not to bring other people to court, unless they  are necessary for the case.

2. As per the security plan, there will be an action plan to search all vehicles coming into court premises, including the lawyers vehicles. Thereby he urged all lawyers to bear with the officers as they carry out the checks and give them the necessary assistance. 

3. The BASL will also be providing its members with a new car pass which will have to be produced by the members when entering court complexes. 

4. Carrying the BASL identity card at all times. 

5. Refrain from advising clients to bring parcels into court complexes. Litigants are also advised to be present in court early.

Finally PC Indatissa urged everyone to be vigilant of those entering the court premises and movements in the vicinity.  He also added the courts would go back to functioning  as usual.