Ready to Challenge Proposed “Protection of the State from Terrorism” Bill: M.A. Sumanthiran

29-Dec-2025

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Sri Lanka Tamil National Alliance General Secretary and President’s Counsel M.A. Sumanthiran warned that the proposed “Protection of the State from Terrorism” Bill would pose a serious threat to freedom of expression, particularly discourse on social media, if enacted.

He stated that the government should completely repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), as promised in its election manifesto, rather than replacing it with another law. He added that continued pressure would be applied on the government, and that he is prepared to challenge the draft in the Supreme Court if it proceeds further.

The draft bill, intended to replace the PTA No. 48 of 1979, has been published on the official website of the Ministry of Justice. Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara has called for public comments to be submitted by Feb 28, 2026.

Sumanthiran, who previously led nationwide signature campaigns against the PTA, has already pointed out that the new draft contains provisions worse than both the existing PTA and the previously proposed Counter-Terrorism Bill.

He emphasized that no special law is required to address terrorism, noting that the President has the authority to declare a state of emergency and enact necessary regulations when required.

He also pointed out that the National People’s Power election manifesto promised the complete repeal of the PTA, not its replacement through another law.

While clarifying that the current draft poses a severe threat to freedom of expression, especially online speech, Sumanthiran stated that legal action is premature at this stage since it remains a draft. However, he reaffirmed that if the bill advances, it will be challenged in court.