Bar Association raises alarm over new anti-terrorism and organised crime bills

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed significant alarm over the Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill (PSTB) and the Prevention of Organised Crimes Bill (OCB), both of which have been gazetted and placed on Parliament's Order Paper for consideration.

The legal body's concerns centre on provisions within the twin bills, which have raised questions about their potential implications for rights and due process. The BASL's formal objections highlight apprehensions that merit scrutiny during parliamentary review, particularly regarding safeguards and accountability measures embedded in the proposed legislation.

Both bills are now awaiting debate and examination by legislators. The BASL's intervention adds to broader discussions about the balance between national security measures and constitutional protections as Parliament prepares to evaluate the proposed laws.

The timing of both bills—introduced in close succession—has intensified focus on their contents and potential impacts on Sri Lanka's legal framework and civil liberties landscape.