Sunday Dec 15, 2024
Sunday Dec 15, 2024
Saturday, 12 June 2021 00:47 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Government is to amend the Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment Act, No. 22 of 1994 to increase the fine imposed on those found guilty of the offence of torture.
The Bill which was presented to Parliament this week by Justice Minister Ali Sabry will increase the fine to between Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 200,000 on those convicted by Court for the offence of torture. At present the fine is between Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000.
The Act provides for imprisonment of offenders with prison terms between seven to 10 years on conviction after trial by the High Court.
The amendment to the Act comes at a time when there is an increase in the number of persons killed in police custody, with at least three persons who were in Police custody dying under questionable circumstances in the past three weeks.
