Opposition warns proposed crime bills risk authoritarian overreach

Opposition lawmakers have voiced alarm over Sri Lanka's proposed crime and counter-terrorism legislation, warning that the measures could be weaponized to expand state authority beyond constitutional limits. The concern centers on provisions that critics argue are broadly drafted and lack sufficient parliamentary oversight or judicial checks.

Opposition representatives have contended that the bills, as currently structured, do not contain adequate protections against misuse by authorities. They argue that vague definitions of terrorism-related offenses and expanded investigative powers could enable the targeting of political opponents, journalists, and civil society activists under the guise of national security.

The debate reflects broader tensions in Sri Lankan politics regarding the balance between security imperatives and individual liberties. Proponents of the legislation have argued that stronger measures are necessary to address genuine security threats, while critics maintain that robust safeguards are essential to prevent authoritarian drift.

The proposals are expected to undergo parliamentary scrutiny in coming weeks, with opposition parties indicating they will seek amendments to strengthen judicial oversight, narrow definitional scope, and establish accountability mechanisms to prevent potential abuse of the expanded powers.