The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL), Kalmunai Regional Office, organised an awareness programme to mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture 2026 on 16 July 2026 at the SLR Hotel, Kalmunai. The programme focused particularly on the role and functions of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) in preventing torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment in places of detention, custody and institutional care.

The programme brought together public officers, officers-in-charge of children’s and women’s homes, disability care institutions, police officers and representatives of relevant government and other organisations. Participants were provided with an understanding of the preventive approach to torture and the importance of establishing effective safeguards to protect persons deprived of their liberty and other vulnerable persons.

Particular attention was given to the mandate of the National Preventive Mechanism of the HRCSL, including monitoring places of detention and other places where persons may be deprived of their liberty, identifying conditions and practices that may create risks of torture or ill-treatment, engaging with relevant authorities, and making recommendations aimed at improving conditions and strengthening safeguards for persons in custody or institutional care.

The programme also highlighted the importance of regular monitoring, independent observation, documentation, dialogue with authorities and follow-up of recommendations as key components of an effective preventive mechanism. Participants were sensitised to their responsibilities in preventing torture and ensuring that all persons under their care or custody are treated with dignity and respect.

Special emphasis was placed on the protection of children, women and persons with disabilities, who may be particularly vulnerable to abuse, neglect and ill-treatment in institutional settings. The programme stressed that prevention of torture is not limited to responding to allegations after violations occur, but requires continuous attention to institutional practices, safeguards, conditions of detention and the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty.

The programme further emphasised the shared responsibility of public authorities and institutions in creating a culture of prevention, accountability and respect for human dignity. The HRCSL Kalmunai Regional Office reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening awareness of the NPM mandate and promoting effective preventive measures to ensure humane and rights-based treatment in all places of detention, custody and institutional care.