In a move aimed at bolstering national security and addressing concerns related to the existing Prevention of Terrorism Act PTA, Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe has tabled a comprehensive Anti-Terrorism Bill in Parliament. The legislation, meticulously crafted after studying international laws, seeks to safeguard the lives and property of the citizens while addressing perceived shortcomings in the current legal framework.
The proposed bill marks a significant shift by transferring the authority to issue detention orders from the President to law enforcement agencies. This strategic adjustment aims to streamline the process and enhance the efficiency of counter-terrorism efforts while ensuring strict adherence to legal standards.
The much-disputed PTA is set to be replaced by Sri Lanka’s new Anti-Terrorism Bill, after the PTA came under fire for being repeatedly abused and violating several fundamental rights.
