The Ministry of Justice is to investigate allegations on media claiming that Judicial Medical Officers and the Police have been conducting forced examinations on the privates of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) persons.
Issuing a statement, Minister of Justice Ali Sabry said that if this is occurring, it is indeed a disturbing revelation and must be looked into immediately.
“All Sri Lankans have the right to live with dignity and without fear of persecution. I strongly believe that no person should be discriminated against or made to suffer any form of abuse, indignity or injustice on the basis of their gender, sexual preference or identity,” he said.
The Minister said discussions have been held with the relevant authorities on this issue, and in light of the seriousness of these allegations they have been requested to refrain from this practice till these events can be properly inquired into.
“I would like to reiterate once again that we are committed to create an environment which is free, fair and inclusive to all Sri Lankans,” he added.
Human Rights Watch and EQUAL GROUND said that
Sri Lankan authorities have subjected at least seven people to forced physical examinations since 2017 in an attempt to provide proof of homosexual conduct.
(NewsWire)
