Thushara Upuldeniya, a Sydney University Human Rights graduate and Commissioner General of Prisons in Sri Lanka, has been kept behind bars for weeks by rulers of Sri Lanka under false accusations.

Known for his relentless dedication towards promoting human rights for prisoners, Thushara has been unjustly arrested on the 9th of June, 2025, under false accusations of unlawfully pardoning a prisoner. This accusation not only hampers his freedom but risks derailing his invaluable work in reforming Sri Lanka's penal system.

Dedicated to his theme, 'Prisoners are also Human Beings,' Thushara has fueled numerous significant reforms aimed at reshaping the treatment of prisoners in Sri Lanka. His years of relentless efforts resulted in ensuring those incarcerated are treated with dignity and respect, and combating the pervasive corruption within the prison system.

His initiatives brought global attention to human rights and gave hope to those who were voiceless within the walls of these institutions. Thushara raised a global voice for Prison System Reforms and Human Rights for Prisoners.

Keeping Thushara behind bars was not only an injustice to him but a blow to the ongoing fight for prisoners' rights world-wide. The arrest appears to be a part of a broader pattern of targeting human rights defenders who challenge the status quo and dare to dream of a transformative system. Thushara’s arrest sends a chilling message to anyone advocating for change and justice.

We urge the Sri Lankan government to take immediate action to release and reinstate Thushara Upuldeniya. His detention under such pretenses stands against the principles of justice and human rights. The global community, especially the supporters of human rights, must stand in solidarity with Thushara. His work should continue, unimpeded, and his voice should remain a beacon of hope for those striving for justice.

Let us come together to call for justice and defend the rights of a man whose mission was to bring compassion and reform to a system in dire need of change. Your signature will amplify this call for justice and help free a brave advocate for human rights and reinstate him in his position. Sign the petition to urge the Sri Lankan government to act justly and release and reinstate Thushara Upuldeniya.

Note: On 9th July Colombo Magistrate Courts released Thushara on bail against the wishes of prosecutors but the Sri Lanka prosecutors have not withdrawn their false allegations. They haven't so far demonstrated any intention to reinstate Thushara in his position as the Commissioner General of Prisons - Sri Lanka.