News

Discussion on ‘Controversial Court Judgements that Shook the Nation’ highlights legal and social impact

Published

1 year ago

2025/03/2

From left Senior court journalist A.J.A. Abeynayake, Senior journalist and author Dayasiri Narendra Rajapaksa Professor Rasanji Perera, President’s Counsel and Pincipal of the Sri Lanka Law College Prasantha Lal de Alwis, Additional Solicitor General, President’s Counsel Dileepa Peeris and Sri Lanka Press Commissioner Niroshan Thambawita at the discussion Pic by Nishan S Priyantha

A discussion on the book Rata Hellu Aandolanathmaka Nadu Theendu (Controversial Court Judgements that Shook the Nation) by senior court journalist A.J.A. Abeynayake was held recently at the Sri Lanka Press Council auditorium in Colombo. Organised by the Press Council and moderated by senior journalist Gamini Kandepola, the event featured insights from legal experts and academics.

Professor Rasanji Perera, Head of the Department of Sociology at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, praised the book for presenting high-profile court cases from both legal and social perspectives in an accessible style. She noted that the author had used dialogue and dramatic elements to make legal concepts easier to understand, making it a must-read for all, even those unfamiliar with court proceedings.

She highlighted that the book sheds light on crimes such as child abuse and domestic violence, often perpetrated by close family members. The author, she said, has successfully raised awareness of such issues while also exposing individuals who maintain a respectable public image despite their criminal activities. She commended the book’s ability to illustrate both the failures and successes of the police force and to reinforce the message that all are equal before the law.

Senior President’s Counsel Prasantha Lal de Alwis, Principal of Sri Lanka Law College, described the book as both an academic and artistic work. He noted that transforming a legal text into literature is a rare achievement and commended Abeynayake’s ability to write in a style that engages readers from all backgrounds. The book summarises 30 high-profile court cases, which he said could have been published as separate books, but the author’s concise and structured approach adds academic value. He emphasised that the book is essential reading for law students and professionals.

Additional Solicitor General, President’s Counsel Dileepa Peeris, stated that the book would be invaluable to Sinhala-speaking law students, particularly those from rural areas. While primarily a legal text, it also delves into human psychology and complex behavioural patterns. Dileepa Peerispraised Abeynayake’s journalistic integrity, which has earned him the respect of legal professionals and law enforcement officers.

Senior journalist and author Dayasiri Narendra Rajapaksa remarked that the judiciary’s credibility is fundamental to national stability. He commended Abeynayake’s ability to vividly depict courtroom events, making the book feel like a cinematic experience. He also noted that the book serves as a crucial contribution to public discourse on legal and social justice.

Sri Lanka Press Commissioner Niroshan Thambawita stated that the Press Council organises such discussions to promote literature and journalism. He observed that, while debates at such events often present conflicting views, this discussion was unique in that all participants unanimously praised the book, underscoring its impact and success.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Commissioner Yuroshan Ilanga. Among those in attendance were legal professionals, senior journalists, and media studies students.

All News Advertisement

News

INS Sharda arrives in Colombo

Published

2 hours ago

2026/06/10

Priyan

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sharda arrived at the port of Colombo on 10 Jun 26 for an Operational Turnaround.

In keeping with time-honoured naval customs, the Sri Lanka Navy extended a traditional welcome to the visiting ship upon her arrival.

The Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) is under the command of Commander Kartik Sachdeva.

During the ship’s stay in the island, its crew is scheduled to take part in several programmes organised by the Sri Lanka Navy, aiming to foster camaraderie and professional interaction.

Additionally, the Indian naval personnel will explore several prominent tourist attractions of Sri Lanka.

News

The government is implementing a comprehensive programme to restore the livelihoods of fishermen and businesses affected by Cyclone Ditwah – PM

Published

5 hours ago

2026/06/10

Priyan

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the Government has implemented a comprehensive programme to assist the fishing community and micro, small, medium, and large-scale entrepreneurs affected by Cyclone Ditwah in rebuilding their livelihoods.

The Prime Minister made these remarks while responding to questions in Parliament on Tuesday (09) regarding the relief measures introduced for those affected by the disaster.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated:

“The Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources has initiated a special assistance programme for both marine and inland fishermen affected by Cyclone Ditwah. Under this programme, new fishing vessels will be provided to replace those that were completely destroyed, while partially damaged vessels will be repaired. The distribution of fishing nets to eligible fishermen has also commenced.

To support the recovery of businesses damaged by the cyclone, the Government has introduced a concessional loan scheme carrying an annual interest rate of 3 per cent. The programme, with a total allocation of Rs. 10,000 million, is being implemented through 15 banks. As at 28 April 2026, loans amounting to Rs. 3,812 million had been disbursed to 2,800 entrepreneurs. The scheme offers a repayment period of up to three years, including a six-month grace period, with the objective of enabling businesses to resume operations without delay. Applicants are required to obtain recommendations from the Grama Niladhari and the Divisional Secretary certifying that the business was operational before the cyclone and that it was affected by the disaster.

The Prime Minister further stated that, on the instructions of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, licensed banks have granted a moratorium on loan repayments and waived penalty interest until 31 January 2026. The Prime Minister also emphasized that compensation payments to affected entrepreneurs are continuing in accordance with the relevant ministerial circulars and disaster relief guidelines.

[Prime Minister’s Media Division]

News

Formulation of a Draft Economic Development Bill to expedite the process of Digital Transformation and Digital Economic Development

Published

15 hours ago

2026/06/10

Priyan

It is essential to establish an institutional framework with legal powers to ensure the effective implementation of national digital policy and guidelines.

Quality human capital should be attracted to this institutional framework for the compilation of policies, implementation of policies, regulation, and empowerment of operations. The continuous participation of the private sector should also be considered in establishing a strong institutional framework.

It has been further identified that attention should also be
drawn to new fields of digital innovation, including support for artificial intelligence and related activities.

Taking into consideration the aforementioned matters, a concept paper has been formulated to prepare a Draft Economic Development Bill for the establishment of a new institutional framework.

Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the resolution furnished by the President in his capacity as the Minister of Digital Economy to instruct legal draftsman to formulate a Draft Economic Development Bill based on the aforementioned concept paper.