TISL urges government to scrap proposed anti-terrorism legislation

Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has urged the government to abandon the Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill 2026, arguing that the legislation contains provisions that pose significant risks to fundamental rights and democratic governance.

The organisation raised its concerns in a statement following the gazetting of the bill on September 22, 2026. TISL warned that the proposed measure could weaken judicial independence and restrict freedoms central to democratic functioning, describing several provisions as draconian.

The call represents growing civil society apprehension regarding the scope and safeguards contained within the legislation. TISL's position reflects broader concerns about balancing national security imperatives with the protection of civil liberties and constitutional protections.

The proposed bill is expected to undergo parliamentary scrutiny in the coming weeks, with civil society organisations indicating they will continue to engage with lawmakers on its provisions during the legislative process.