Substantial Amendment to the Online Safety Act Soon – Minister Ananda

27-Sep-2025

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Special attention has been directed towards hate speech and statements inciting ethnic tensions on social media. The Online Safety Act will be substantially amended to ensure proper monitoring of social media platforms. 

This amendment will be introduced very soon, Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala stated.

Speaking in Parliament on September 26 during the oral question session in response to questions raised by ruling party MP Rajeevan, the Minister explained that measures have been taken under Section 6 of the Computer Crimes Act No. 24 of 2007 to monitor and control the spread of false information and hate speech on social media, particularly those inciting ethnic tension or mob violence in Sri Lanka.

In order to prevent the spread of such harmful content, steps have been taken under Section 6 of Penal Code Amendment Act 20(120) to engage in discussions with social media companies, telecommunication service providers, and other relevant stakeholders.

A special committee chaired by Solicitor General Viraj Jayaratne has been appointed to amend the Online Safety Act No. 09 of 2024. 

This committee consists of representatives from the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Digital Development, and other key ministries working jointly.

Minister Wijepala further said that special focus has been placed on the divisive messages and comments being circulated on social media, and discussions are being held with the respective companies to address this issue.