Govt. distances itself from PTA; promises to use it cautiously till new law is introduced

Leader of the House, Minister Bimal Ratnayake told Parliament yesterday that the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) was not part of the government’s policy or aspirations, but it would be used cautiously until a new law is introduced.

He said that the PTA needs to be used carefully until a new Act is enacted.

“What is to be said about the PTA is that it is neither our aspiration nor policy. However, until a new law is drafted, the existing legislation must be used with extreme care. This is necessary until the government enacts new laws,” Ratnayake said.

He was responding to concerns raised by SJB MP Rauff Hakeem about the alleged misuse of the PTA, particularly regarding an incident involving TNA MP S. Sritharan.

Hakeem said that MP Sritharan was prevented from travelling to India recently, with Immigration and Emigration Department officers citing a travel ban. Hakeem argued that such a ban requires a court order, which was not in place. Following clarification, Sritharan was allowed to proceed with his journey, Hakeem said.

Responding to the concern, Ratnayake said that Immigration and Emigration officials have been instructed to investigate the matter and submit a report. The Deputy Minister of Defence has also been informed to look into the issue, the Leader of the House said.

Ratnayake expressing his regret for the inconvenience caused to MP Sritharan, said that the government was committed to ensure the privileges of MPs. “It is clear that this was not a misuse of the PTA in this instance. This is not what was communicated by him. So this is not an incident that was caused by a government decision or policy,” Ratnayake said.