National Prisoners’ Day in Colombo

National Prisoners’ Day function was held in Colombo Monday (18) jointly organised by Prisoners’ Welfare Association, Prison Department and Foundation Institute on a multi-religious theme. On an invitation of Chairman Milinda Moragoda the event took place under the patronage of the Most Ven. Ithepana Dhammalankara Maha Nayake Thero of Kotte Sri Kalayani Samagri Dharma Maha Sangha Sabhawa. Special sermons were also delivered by leaders from the Hindu, Islamic, and Christian clergy. Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs D.M. Swaminathan also addressed the gathering as Chief Guest. 

Members of the prison community gave dance performances and special stalls showing some of the members’ handcrafts that were also set up at the event. Special scholarships were donated to the students who were children affected by their parents being in prison. 

The Prisoners’ Welfare Association celebrated its 100th anniversary this year and is one of the oldest charities in Sri Lanka.