The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has formally demanded an expedited investigation into the assault on Attorney at Law Harshana Jayarathna, which occurred outside the Nugegoda Court Complex on January 30, 2026. In an official letter addressed to Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya, BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura A. emphasized the urgent need for accountability in this serious incident targeting a member of the legal profession.
Details of the Assault Incident
The assault on Attorney Harshana Jayarathna took place in broad daylight outside the Nugegoda Court Complex, raising significant concerns about the safety and security of legal practitioners in Sri Lanka. The incident has sent shockwaves through the legal community, highlighting the vulnerability of lawyers who dedicate their careers to upholding justice and the rule of law.
According to preliminary reports, the attack occurred as Attorney Jayarathna was conducting his professional duties in the vicinity of the court premises. The timing and location of the assault have particularly alarmed legal professionals, as court complexes are traditionally considered secure environments where lawyers should be able to practice without fear of intimidation or violence.
BASL's Official Response and Demands
The Bar Association of Sri Lanka has taken swift action in response to this concerning incident. President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura A. jointly signed the formal letter to the Inspector General of Police, demonstrating the unified stance of the legal fraternity against such attacks on their members.
The BASL's letter specifically calls for expedited investigations to ensure that those responsible for the assault face appropriate legal consequences. The association has emphasized that attacks on legal practitioners constitute not only crimes against individuals but also threats to the broader justice system and democratic institutions of Sri Lanka.
In their communication with the police authorities, BASL officials have stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity and safety of the legal profession. They have highlighted that lawyers must be able to perform their duties without fear of retaliation, intimidation, or physical harm, as their work is fundamental to maintaining the rule of law in society.
Implications for Legal Practice in Sri Lanka
This incident raises broader questions about the security of legal professionals in Sri Lanka and the challenges they face while executing their professional responsibilities. The assault on Attorney Jayarathna is not an isolated incident but part of a concerning pattern that threatens the independence and effectiveness of the legal system.
Legal experts have pointed out that when lawyers face threats or violence, it can have a chilling effect on their ability to represent clients effectively, particularly in sensitive or controversial cases. This undermines the fundamental principle that every individual deserves competent legal representation, regardless of the nature of their case or the potential controversy it may generate.
The location of the assault – outside a court complex – is particularly significant as it suggests that even in areas where legal proceedings take place, attorneys may not be safe from those who wish to intimidate or harm them. This development could potentially impact the willingness of lawyers to take on certain types of cases or to advocate vigorously for their clients.
Call for Enhanced Security Measures
Following this incident, there have been growing calls from within the legal community for enhanced security measures to protect lawyers and other court officials. Many have suggested that court complexes and their immediate surroundings should have increased police presence and surveillance to deter potential attackers.
The BASL has also indicated that they may consider additional measures to protect their members, including the possibility of establishing protocols for reporting threats and coordinating with law enforcement agencies to ensure rapid response to security concerns affecting legal practitioners.
Looking Forward
As the investigation into the assault on Attorney Harshana Jayarathna continues, the legal community remains vigilant and united in their demand for justice. The BASL has made it clear that they will closely monitor the progress of the investigation and will not hesitate to take further action if they believe the case is not being handled with the urgency and thoroughness it deserves.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the legal profession in Sri Lanka and the importance of protecting those who dedicate their lives to upholding justice. The outcome of this investigation will likely set an important precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future and may influence broader discussions about the security and protection of legal professionals in the country.
The Bar Association's swift response demonstrates their commitment to protecting their members and maintaining the integrity of the legal system, while their formal appeal to the Inspector General of Police underscores the seriousness with which they view this attack on one of their own.