The release signed by its Chairman Geoffrey Alagaratnam PC states that such publicity causes immense prejudice to the defence and also have an adverse effect on successful investigation and prosecution of cases.,  Such concern is against the background of the law generally prohibiting the use of such confessions against the interests of the accused barring very exceptional circumstances, it added.

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has noted with concern the reports of widespread child abuse and violence against women.

Therefore, the BASL has called upon the relevant authorities including the Police and statutory authorities to take immediate and necessary action towards preventing such incidents apart from bringing the perpetrators to speedy and effective justice. The BASL notes that creating greater awareness among all sections of the community including schoolchildren and paying attention to the root causes of crime are essential in preventing such offences.