Legal Community calls for independent probe over Mullaitivu judge resignation

Mullaitivu District Judge T. Saravanaraja 

• Stresses importance of conducting a thorough investigation into resignation of judge 
• Says it is important to ensure independence and impartiality in the investigation process
• Asks authorities to keep public informed on steps taken and results of the inquiry 

The legal fraternity has called the authorities to conduct an independent investigation into the sudden resignation of Mullaitivu District Judge T. Saravanaraja citing threats to his life over the orders issued in connection to the contentious Kurunthamalai case. 

In a statement released over the weekend, the Lawyer's Collective emphasised the importance of conducting a thorough investigation into the matter. They said, “Given the significant implications this has for issues related to the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law, it is imperative that a comprehensive investigation be carried out, ensuring independence and impartiality in the process.”

Last week Saravanaraja hastily left the island. In his resignation, he claimed his decision was prompted by threats to his life, pressures and harassment faced. He has since alleged his security was reduced and he was also trailed by intelligence officials. The judge also accused the Attorney General of attempting to force him to reverse several of his orders over the case. 

Accordingly the Collective emphasised the significance of transparency in the proceedings and stressed that the general public should be kept informed about the steps taken and the results of the inquiry.

The statement was signed by several senior counsels including Rienzie Arsecularatne PC, Upul Jayasuriya PC, Dr Jayampathy Wickramaratne PC, Saliya Peiris PC, Geoffrey Alagaratnam PC, Dinal Phillips PC, K.W. Janaranjana, and Upul Kumarapperuma on behalf of all members of the organisation. 

Meanwhile, the Young Lawyers Association (YLA) also joined the seniors in calling for an independent probe in connection to the matter. The YLA said the Judge’s resignation has now raised serious concerns regarding the executive’s interference in independent judicial functions after MP Sarath Weerasekara had slammed the judge on several occasions. 

“These concerns become further acute in jurisdictions such as the North and the East parts of the island where judges in addition to other political tensions affecting the Island also have to deal with sensitive racial tensions affecting minorities,” it said. 

The Association in its statement called on the Judicial Services Commission to conduct an impartial inquiry into Saravanaraja’s allegations against the Government and the Attorney General which has gained traction in the media.