New Bill to Protect State from Terrorism Gets Cabinet Green Light

COLOMBO (News 1st); Cabinet approval has been granted to present the Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill to Parliament, paving the way for the introduction of a new legal framework aimed at addressing terrorism-related threats in Sri Lanka.

The approval was granted in relation to a proposal submitted by Minister of Justice and National Integration, Attorney-at-Law Harshana Nanayakkara.

The Cabinet has also approved the publication of the proposed legislation in the Government Gazette.

The move follows efforts to address shortcomings identified in the existing Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act. A technical experts' committee was previously appointed to prepare a draft framework aimed at overcoming weaknesses in the current law.

Based on the recommendations and draft prepared by the committee, Cabinet approval was granted on the 10th of this month to introduce new legislation dealing with terrorism-related offences and national security matters.

The proposed bill, which was subsequently prepared by the Legal Draftsman's Department, has now received clearance from the Attorney General.