TISL tells govt. to withdraw Protection of State from Terrorism Bill, citing its draconian provisions

Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has asked the government to abandon the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill 2026. The Island reports that the measure was gazetted on September 22, 2026, and would replace the existing Prevention of Terrorism Act.

TISL says the bill’s definition of terrorism could extend to conduct involving damage to property, the environment, cultural property or electronic systems. It warns that this might place matters ordinarily handled under criminal law within counter-terrorism rules, with potential consequences for freedom of expression and association and for legitimate civic activity. Newswire’s headline identifies public demonstrations and expression as particular areas of concern.

The organisation also objects to proposed arrest, search, seizure and questioning powers for the armed forces and Coast Guard. According to The Island, TISL says weak safeguards could reduce accountability and raise the risk of arbitrary action.

On detention, The Island reports that the bill would permit the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence to make an initial order for two months, while curtailing a Magistrate’s independent review of whether detention remains necessary. TISL warns that this could place too much authority with the executive and diminish judicial oversight. It also objects to presidential powers to proscribe organisations, saying the absence of defined deadlines and sufficient safeguards could allow restrictions to be imposed arbitrarily.

Written automatically by AI from the outlets’ own reports, and not reviewed by an editor. It can be wrong — the original report is the authority.