Sri Lanka, Jan. 20 -- Several government buildings will be acquired to house inmates as a solution to prison congestion levels currently exceeding 300%. Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara announced this initiative in Parliament today.

The Minister pointed out that approximately 27,000 out of the 37,000 current inmates face drug-related charges. This statement came in response to inquiries from Samagi Jana Balawegaya Kandy District MP Chamindrani Kiriella, who noted that overcrowding in certain facilities, such as the Dumbara prison, surpassed 500%.

The MP highlighted that many individuals remain incarcerated simply because they cannot afford bail or fines. She suggested that implementing a release mechanism ...