Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Amnesty International calls for complete withdrawal of Organised Crime Bill
Human rights organisation Amnesty International has urged the government to scrap the proposed Organised Crime Bill entirely, citing concerns over its potential impact on civil liberties and fundamental freedoms.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Amnesty International has launched a strong critique of the government's draft Organised Crime Bill, calling for its complete withdrawal rather than amendments. The international human rights organisation has raised alarm over provisions within the legislation, arguing that key elements pose risks to constitutionally protected rights and freedoms.
The organisation's position represents a significant intervention in the legislative debate, signalling deep concerns about the bill's scope and implementation mechanisms. Amnesty International has indicated that the concerns extend beyond specific clauses and encompass the fundamental approach embedded in the proposed legislation.
The call for complete withdrawal underscores disagreements between civil society and government over the balance between security measures and civil liberties protection. The bill, intended to address organised crime, has drawn scrutiny from multiple quarters regarding its potential application and safeguards.
The government has yet to respond formally to Amnesty International's demand, though the intervention adds pressure to ongoing parliamentary discussions surrounding the measure. The debate reflects broader tensions regarding legislative frameworks designed to combat criminal networks while maintaining democratic protections.