Project විසඳමු - Phase 02

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    Justice Beyond the Cell : Providing Legal Aid to Inmates in Need


On the 26th of March, our team of 20 dedicated members participated in Phase 2 of the "WISADAMU" project at the Welikada Prison complex, providing free legal consultation to remand prisoners. The group was divided into two teams: Group 01 visited the New Magazine Prison, where we interacted with 22 female prisoners, while Group 02 went to Colombo Remand Prison, offering legal advice to 20 male prisoners.


The most pressing issue faced by many of the prisoners was their inability to obtain bail due to various legal challenges. A significant number of them were unable to afford bail due to their economic circumstances, while others had no relatives or legal representation to assist them in securing their release. Our lawyers worked diligently to offer practical advice and solutions, helping prisoners understand their rights and potential legal avenues. Three dedicated lawyers from the Legal Aid Commission—Mr. Lahiru AAL, Mr. Danushka AAL, and Mr. Keheliya Koralage AAL—joined us in this effort. Mr. Lahiru and Mr. Danushka, along with ten law students, provided legal consultations at the New Magazine Prison, while Mr. Keheliya Koralage, accompanied by another group of ten law students, assisted male remand prisoners at Colombo Remand Prison.


Our sessions began at 10 a.m. and concluded at 3 p.m., during which we closely engaged with prisoners to understand their struggles. Many prisoners were trapped in a cycle of uncertainty and hardship due to the lack of legal support and financial resources. Some prisoners had been detained for extended periods simply because they had no one to post bail on their behalf.


Through this experience, we not only provided essential legal guidance but also gained deeper insights into the challenges faced by prisoners within the justice system. Our work reaffirmed the importance of accessible legal aid in creating positive change for the most vulnerable members of society. This initiative has strengthened our commitment to ensuring justice and equal legal representation for all, regardless of their economic or social status.


   - By Leo Chamoda Sachini - 

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