In a significant move, fourteen Muslim civil society organizations in Sri Lanka have raised concerns about the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Act (PSTA), claiming It’s more severe than the existing Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA). This draft legislation comes at a time when Sri Lanka is striving to recover from economic challenges, climate-related issues, and rising ethnic tensions. The organizations have urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to reconsider the introduction of such laws, which they fear could tarnish the country’s international reputation.
In a letter dated February 28, 2026, directed to President Dissanayake and shared with Justice and National Integration Minister Harsha Nanayakkara, the organizations expressed that the PSTA contradicts the National People’s Power (NPP) party’s electoral promise to abolish the PTA without a replacement. The letter asserts, “In a country striving to promote self-sufficiency while attracting foreign investment, tourism and export growth, and fostering national unity, the proposed anti-terror law will project a frightening image of Sri Lanka internationally and should therefore be abandoned in the national interest.”
The National Shoora Council, leading the coalition of organizations, highlighted several provisions within the PSTA that they deem problematic. They noted that while national security is essential, existing laws already provide sufficient measures to address terrorism.
Key Concerns About the Proposed Legislation
The organizations outlined nine provisions in the PSTA that they argue are more draconian than the PTA. Here are some of the key issues raised:
- Restrictions on Protests: The PSTA aims to protect not just the Sri Lankan government but similarly foreign governments and international organizations, potentially criminalizing protests against environmental pollution or unfair tariffs imposed by other nations.
- Extended Detention Periods: The minimum remand period under the PSTA has been extended from one year to two years, severely limiting judicial oversight and the rights of detainees.
- Media Restrictions: The proposed law places media under stringent controls, labeling certain publications as “terrorist publications” with severe penalties for violations.
- Executive Power Over Judiciary: The PSTA allows the Defense Secretary to issue detention orders without judicial review, undermining the independence of the judiciary.
- Banning of Organizations: The President can proscribe organizations without due process, raising concerns about freedom of association and expression.
Implications for Sri Lanka
The civil society organizations emphasized that the introduction of the PSTA could lead to a perception of Sri Lanka as a police state. They urged the government to avoid compromising national interests in favor of foreign powers or external entities. The letter not only critiques the PSTA but also calls for the outright repeal of the PTA, advocating for laws that adequately address security concerns without infringing on civil liberties.
The proposed legislation has sparked a broader debate on human rights and governance in Sri Lanka. As the country navigates the aftermath of previous governance failures, the call for a balance between security and civil liberties has become increasingly pertinent.
What’s Next?
As the government reviews the PSTA, civil society groups are likely to continue their advocacy for a legal framework that respects human rights while ensuring national security. The impact of this proposed legislation will be closely monitored, particularly as Sri Lanka seeks to rebuild its image and attract foreign investment.
Comments and perspectives on this issue are encouraged, as the discussion around the balance between security and civil rights remains crucial for the country’s future.
