News
Liberal Youth Movement says Anti-Terrorism Bill paves way for state abuse and human rights violations
The Liberal Youth Movement has expressed deep concern over the potential for state abuse and human rights violations that could be resultant from the newly proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill.
The movement has in a statement said: It is essential that any legislation enacted to protect citizens from terrorism is designed with robust human rights protections to prevent misuse and uphold fundamental freedoms.
While the Bill does incorporate some positive elements, such as basic due process rights, we are concerned that these safeguards may not be sufficient to protect constitutionally guaranteed rights or prevent a continuation of abuse by successive governments under the guise of countering terrorism.
Of particular concern is the Bill’s definition of terrorism, which deviates from internationally accepted standards and introduces broad and undefined elements. This could lead to the criminalization of activities and opinions that do not constitute terrorism under international law.
Additionally, the Bill grants excessive powers to members of the armed forces, leading to the further militarisation of law enforcement and increasing the risk of human rights violations. This includes the power to arrest without evidence or due process, search without authorisation, and issue detention orders without oversight.
Moreover, the proposed legislation undermines the role of magistrates, granting the police more power over detention decisions and limiting the ability of magistrates to act as a check on police actions. This further erodes the separation of powers and weakens the oversight mechanisms necessary to prevent abuse.
The establishment of a parallel institution to the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, the Independent Review Panel (IRP), raises questions about its function and transparency. The IRP’s powers, remedies, and relationship with the Human Rights Commission are unclear, and its confidentiality requirement appears to be more focused on protecting perpetrators than safeguarding complainants.
The Bill’s provisions also concentrate power in the hands of the President, allowing for the proscription of organisations and the declaration of “prohibited places” without transparent processes or objective criteria. This creates a situation ripe for arbitrary decision-making and unchecked executive power.
In conclusion, the Liberal Youth Movement urges a thorough review of the proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill to ensure that it meets international human rights standards, prevents abuse, and upholds the fundamental rights and freedoms of the people of Sri Lanka. We call for increased transparency, oversight, and the implementation of safeguards that protect citizens from potential state abuse.”
High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Sri Lanka Major General (Retd) Nayyar Naseer met with the Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya at Temple Trees on 30th April
Welcoming the High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Sri Lanka, the Prime Minister expressed sincere appreciation for the continued support and cooperation extended by the Government of Pakistan to Sri Lanka, particularly the assistance provided following the Ditwah Cyclone.
Both sides reaffirmed the longstanding and cordial relations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, which are founded on mutual respect, friendship, and shared interests.
The meeting also focused on the importance of further strengthening collaboration in key sectors such as education, tourism, and sports, with a view to enhancing people-to-people ties and creating new opportunities for cooperation reiterating Sri Lanka’s commitment to deepening bilateral engagement.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan to Sri Lanka Ms. Zunaira Latif, Secretary to the Prime Minister, Pradeep Saputhanthri, Additional Secretary Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism.
(Prime Minister’s Media Division)
The Ambassador of Nepal to SriLanka, Dr. Purna Bahadurn Nepali paid a farewell courtesy call on Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya on Thursday (30th of April) at Temple Trees.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister conveyed sincere appreciation for the dedicated service and valuable contributions towards strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Nepal during the tenure of Dr. Purna Bahadurn Nepali.
Both parties reaffirmed the longstanding bilateral relations between the two countries, which are based on shared cultural, religious, and historical linkages. The Prime Minister also reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to further deepening bilateral relations with Nepal and enhancing cooperation for the mutual benefit of both nations.
The meeting was attended by the Secretary to the Prime Minister, Pradeep Saputhanthri, Additional Secretary Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism.
(Prime Minister’s Media Division)
Latest News
Heat Index at Caution Level in the Northern, North-central, Eastern, Sabaragamuwa, North-western provinces and in Monaragala district during the day time
Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre
Issued at 3.30 p.m. on 01 May 2026, valid for 02 May 2026.
The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, Eastern, Sabaragamuwa, North-western provinces and in Monaragala district during the day time.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on the human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
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