Chief Justice assures security for Jaffna judges, lawyers

Chief Justice K. Sripavan accompanied by Inspector General of Police (IGP) N.K. Ilangakoon visited the troubled Tamil dominated Northern Province capital city of Jaffna Friday to observe the situation there following violent protests erupted on Wednesday.

The Chief Justice has met the judges, lawyers and staff attached to the Jaffna Court complex which was damaged by unruly protesters seething over the gang rape and murder of an 18-year-old student, and has assured them security would be provided to work at ease.

He has assured the court staff that steps would be taken to provide them security.

The Chief Justice has also visited the Court complex that came under attack and directed Justice Ministry officials to take immediate steps to repair it, national news agency Lankapuvath reported.

He has also directed the officers to find suitable land to construct official residences to the judges as judges do not have official residences.

The IGP has instructed police to strengthen security for judges, officers of the judicial service and Court Houses.

Following the violent incidents that took place in Jaffna Wednesday, IGP Ilangakoon has ordered the transfers of several senior police officers with immediate effect.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Superintendent of Police (SP) and Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and Officers-In-Charge of Jaffna and Kayts Police have been transferred with immediate effect.

Jaffna High Court Judge Kanaga Sivapadasundaram, High Court Judge (Civil) Mackey Mohammed, Jaffna District Judge Gajanidhi Balan, Magistrate P. Sivakumar and Jaffna Bar Association President Shantha Abhimanasingham, PC also participated in the inspection tour with the Chief Justice.

Meanwhile, Jaffna district lawyers who were on strike on Thursday as a mark of protest called it off yesterday. They have however refused to appear for the 130 suspects who were arrested for attacking the Court House.