Leader of the House, Minister Bimal Ratnayake, stated in Parliament that while the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) is not aligned with the current government’s ambitions or policies, it will be used cautiously until a replacement law is enacted.
“The Prevention of Terrorism Act is not part of our vision or policy. However, until we draft new laws, we must use the existing legislation with caution. This is necessary to maintain order until the government enacts suitable alternatives,” the minister said.
The statement was made in response to a query from Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Rauff Hakeem about the alleged misuse of the PTA concerning Tamil National Alliance MP S. Sridharan. MP Hakeem highlighted an incident where Immigration and Emigration officials had barred MP Sridharan from traveling to India due to a purported travel ban, which he argued lacked a valid court order.
Hakeem noted that after explaining the situation, MP Sridharan was eventually allowed to travel, but he questioned the misuse of the PTA in such cases.
Minister Ratnayake assured Parliament that the Immigration and Emigration Department has been instructed to investigate the incident and submit a report. He further stated that the Deputy Minister of Defense has been informed to examine the matter thoroughly.
Expressing regret for the inconvenience caused to MP Sridharan, Minister Ratnayake reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting parliamentary privileges.
“This incident does not reflect an abuse of the PTA based on a government decision or policy. We remain committed to safeguarding the rights of all MPs and ensuring fair treatment,” he concluded.
