New tax bill faces criticism as Sajith Premadasa warns late filing and registration delays could become criminal offences.
New tax bill concerns have been raised by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, who warned that several clauses in the government’s proposed legislation could unfairly target ordinary citizens.
Speaking in a media statement, Premadasa said the public is not opposed to paying taxes, but is opposed to being treated unfairly within the tax system.
According to him, the proposed Section 185A would criminalize administrative offences such as late filing of tax returns or delays in tax registration.
He warned that this could result in small-scale business owners struggling to survive being treated in the same manner as individuals who deliberately evade millions in taxes.
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Premadasa described the situation as fundamentally flawed.
He further stated that instead of reforming the tax system, modernizing the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), and improving tax compliance support, the government appears to be choosing the easier path of criminalizing ordinary citizens.
The Opposition Leader also questioned the government’s priorities.
He asked that if the government has the ability to pass laws so quickly, what has happened to stronger anti-corruption legislation and measures targeting financial fraud, money laundering, and the misuse of public property.
Premadasa urged authorities to act against corrupt individuals and impose strict penalties on major financial offenders.
However, he cautioned against using the law as a weapon against ordinary citizens.
He added that they will not remain silent when legislation undermines fairness, proportionality, and the constitutional rights of the people.
