Ambika Satkunanathan Raises Concerns over Proposed Anti-Terror Law

01-Aug-2025

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Human rights lawyer Ambika Satkunanathan emphasized that the proposed anti-terrorism law must not grant the President powers to impose curfews or restrict movement without judicial or parliamentary oversight. 

She warned that such unchecked powers would pose a serious threat to civil liberties and could be used to suppress lawful dissent.

In her recommendations submitted to the Ministry of Justice, Satkunanathan called for a clear and specific definition of "terrorism" that aligns with international human rights law. 

She cautioned against using vague or overly broad terms such as “national, ethnic, or religious hatred” or “obstruction of essential services,” which could be misused to curtail freedom of expression and assembly.

She further asserted that the military should not be authorized to carry out arrests or engage in law enforcement under the new law, maintaining that such actions should remain strictly under civilian authority. 

Any individual arrested under suspicion of terrorism must be brought before a court within 48 hours, she said, emphasizing the need for due process.

Satkunanathan also underscored the importance of ensuring detainees have access to legal counsel and the ability to communicate with their family members. This, she noted, is vital to prevent abuse and protect the rights of the accused.

Lastly, she recommended that judges be allowed to make unannounced weekly visits to detention centers, to ensure transparency and accountability in custodial settings. 

These safeguards, she argued, are essential to uphold the rule of law and to prevent the misuse of counter-terrorism legislation for political or repressive purposes.