The United Nations has stated that the new Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill, which the government is preparing to introduce, must be amended in line with international human rights law. Issuing a special statement, the experts noted that proposing the repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act No. 48 of 1979 is seen as a welcome step.

They also pointed out that the old Act had led to various forms of harassment targeting minority communities, human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society.

Key Points

  • UN welcomes the proposal to repeal the old Prevention of Terrorism Act.
  • Points out that detention orders must be subject to judicial control and independent committees must be genuinely independent.
  • Experts emphasize that the definition of terrorism should be limited only to death or serious injury.
  • SJB says amendments brought by the government are insufficient.

Key issues to be addressed

Although a positive trend is visible in the new bill, UN experts pointed out that there are several critical issues that still need to be addressed.

They stated that detention orders must be subject to prompt and effective judicial control and oversight. They also pointed out that the Independent Review Committee hearing appeals must be a genuinely independent body, and that the definition of terrorism should be restricted to intentional killing or serious bodily harm, and should not include damage to property.

SJB's stance

Meanwhile, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) stated that the amendments proposed by the government to the Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill and the Prevention of Organised Crime Bill are insufficient.

Participating in the '360' current affairs programme broadcast on TV Derana, Member of Parliament Ajith P. Perera said that although the government claimed it would introduce amendments, they are by no means adequate.

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