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CPA challenges constitutionality of controversial “Online Safety” Bill in SC
The Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA) last Wednesday filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the contentious “Online Safety” Bill. Led by its Executive Director, Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, CPA expressed deep concerns over this Bill, which was gazetted on September 15, 2023, and subsequently presented in Parliament for its first reading on October 3.
In its Petition, CPA argues that the Bill, in its entirety, contravenes multiple articles of the Constitution, including entrenched provisions. As a result, CPA contends that the Bill should not only secure the approval of two-thirds of Members of Parliament but also be subjected to a referendum to be approved by the people.
One of the primary concerns raised by CPA pertains to the vague and overly broad offenses outlined in the Bill, as well as the extensive powers bestowed upon the “Online Safety Commission.” CPA fears that these provisions could significantly curtail the exercise of Fundamental Rights by the citizens of Sri Lanka.
The Petition specifically challenges various aspects of the Online Safety Bill that are perceived to violate Constitutional articles, including but not limited to:The ambiguity surrounding the Bill’s objectives, particularly the Online Safety Commission’s authority to “protect” individuals against the harm caused by “alarming or distressing statements.”
The overly broad and unconstitutional nature of the enumerated “prohibited statements” in the Bill.
The arbitrary and unreasonable powers granted to the Online Safety Commission, including the exercise of judicial authority, which conflicts with Constitutional principles.
The discretionary authority granted to the Minister to appoint private individuals as “experts,” who are subsequently endowed with extensive powers impacting citizens’ liberties, with no oversight or accountability.
The questionable ability of the Online Safety Commission and the Minister to establish rules and regulations on ‘Online Safety,’ due to the imprecise and inadequate criteria within the relevant clauses.
CPA and its Executive Director assert that the Online Safety Bill’s provisions are inconsistent with various key articles of the 1978 Constitution of Sri Lanka, including Articles 3, 4(c), 10, 12, 14(1)(a),(b),(c),(e),(f), and (g), as well as 14A(2). Therefore, they maintain that the Bill cannot become law without the approval of both a referendum and a two-thirds vote of all Members of Parliament. The legal challenge to the Bill sets the stage for a critical debate over its constitutionality and potential impact on fundamental rights in Sri Lanka.
Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi departed today (06) from Air Force Base Anuradhapura concluding his State visit to Sri Lanka. The Indian Premier embarked on a tour to Sri Lanka at the invitation from President Anura Kumara Disanayake.
This visit underscores the enduring relationship encapsulated by the theme “Friendship of Centuries, Commitment to a Prosperous Future,” further solidifying the bonds between India and Sri Lanka.
This marks Prime Minister Modi’s fourth visit to Sri Lanka, which has further enhanced the economic, cultural, and historical relations between the two nations, while also reinforcing their multifaceted partnership. This visit by the Indian Prime Minister reinforces Sri Lanka’s important role in India’s “Neighbourhood First Policy” and ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision concerning diplomatic relations.
This state visit is anticipated to yield significant results on various collaborative initiatives, fostering a path towards mutual growth and development. The citizens of Sri Lanka will soon be able to witness the fruitful outcomes of these partnerships, and Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit will mark a significant milestone in the government’s pursuit of sustainable development focused on the needs of the people.
Accompanying Indian Prime Minister Modi were Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and a delegation of senior officials from the Indian government.
[PMD]
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President Dissanayake and Indian PM Modi jointly commission upgraded Maho-Omanthai railway line & Maho-Anuradhapura railway signalling system
The upgraded Maho–Omanthai railway line and the newly installed Maho–Anuradhapura railway signalling system were officially commissioned by Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Anura Kumara Disanayake today (06)
The Prime Minister of India is currently visiting Sri Lanka at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Disanayake, reinforcing the longstanding bond encapsulated in the theme “Friendship of Centuries Commitment to a Prosperous Future” between the two nations.
Highlighting one of the key aspects of this visit, the two leaders participated in these inaugural ceremonies. The President and the Prime Minister of India jointly unveiled the commemorative plaque and commissioned the railway line and signalling system.
The upgraded Maho-Omanthai Railway Line project was carried out with funding through the Indian Credit Line, totalling an investment of US$ 91.27 million. The Maho–Anuradhapura railway signalling system, established as a result of President Disanayake’s recent visit to India, was funded by the Indian Government at a cost of USD 14.89 million.
[PMD]
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Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake pay homage to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, currently on a State visit to Sri Lanka, along with President Anura Kumara Disanayake paid homage to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura this morning (06) and received blessings.
Following his visit to the sacred site, Prime Minister Modi proceeded to the Udamaluwa, where he met with the Chief Incumbent of the Atamasthanadhipathi and Chief Sanghanayake of Nuwarakalaviya, Most Venerable Dr. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayaka Thera, for a cordial discussion.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister shared that relics of the Buddha were discovered in excavations conducted in his home state of Gujarat during the 1960s. He further stated that he would discuss with the President of Sri Lanka the possibility of exhibiting these sacred relics in Sri Lanka.
Responding to a request made by the Atamasthanadhipathi to develop Bodh Gaya as a spiritual city, Prime Minister Modi assured that he would take the necessary steps after discussions with President Disanayake and work towards making it a reality.
The Maha Sangha, led by the Atamasthanadhipathi, chanted Seth Pirith and invoked blessings on the Indian Prime Minister.
The Indian Prime Minister also left a commemorative note in the special guest book at the site. In addition, he formally declared open the newly constructed ‘Makara Thorana’ within the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi premises.
The occasion was also attended by Chief Incumbent of the Ruwanweli Maha Seya Temple Ven. Ethalawetunawewe Gnanathilaka Thera and other Atamasthana Viharadhipathi Theras, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath, Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe, Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, North Central Province Governor Wasantha Jinadasa, Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha and others.
[PMD]
Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi concludes State Visit to Sri Lanka
President Dissanayake and Indian PM Modi jointly commission upgraded Maho-Omanthai railway line & Maho-Anuradhapura railway signalling system
Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake pay homage to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
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