Sri Lanka's Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, D M Swaminathan introduced new regulations on Friday tightening inmates' access to medical services in hospital.
Inmates requiring medical treatment will need the approval of three doctors in order to be admitted to the prison's hospital. Previously the recommendation of one doctor was sufficient.
Adaderana reported that "the relevant medical reports should be submitted to the Ministry of Prison Reforms which will carry out necessary further consideration". It remains unclear what role the Ministry of Prison Reforms has in assessing inmates' medical reports.
"The decision was taken after considering the complaints and requests from various sections with regard to alleged irregularities when admitting inmates to the Prison Hospital," Mr Swaminathan reportedly said.
