Sri Lanka Moves to Strengthen Drug Rehabilitation Programmes to Reduce Prison Overcrowding

Extensive discussions have been held at the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Governance, Justice and Civil Protection on strengthening rehabilitation programmes for individuals convicted of drug-related offences, with the aim of reducing overcrowding in Sri Lankan prisons.

The discussions took place when the committee convened under the chairmanship of Member of Parliament Dr. Najith Indika.

During the meeting, officials revealed that rehabilitation programmes are currently being provided to 1,506 of the 4,962 inmates convicted by courts for drug-related offences.

The committee was informed that further measures are being planned to expand rehabilitation opportunities and reduce the number of drug-related offenders serving time in overcrowded correctional facilities.

Plans have also been prepared to recruit the officers required to strengthen rehabilitation programmes.

In addition, authorities are considering expanding rehabilitation services to the Divisional Secretariat level across the country, allowing drug-dependent individuals to receive support closer to their communities.

The move comes amid continuing concerns over severe overcrowding within Sri Lanka’s prison system, where a significant proportion of inmates are connected to drug-related offences.

Strengthening rehabilitation programmes is expected to provide an alternative pathway for eligible offenders while supporting efforts to address drug addiction and reduce pressure on the country’s correctional facilities.