Colombo, Sri Lanka – National People’s Power (NPP) MP Nilanthi Kottachchi has stated that the government intends to introduce media regulations to control the spread of false news and ensure responsible journalism.
Speaking during the budget debate in Parliament, Kottachchi emphasized that the government has a duty to regulate the media to maintain professionalism and prevent misinformation and hate speech. She pointed out that while the Constitution defines limits for journalists, these boundaries are often overlooked.
She further noted that although the Penal Code prohibits obscene statements, violations continue to occur, and certain media reports incite public hatred. Given these concerns, the government is considering necessary regulations to address these issues.
Her remarks reflect growing discussions on press freedom and media accountability in Sri Lanka, as the government explores ways to balance journalistic independence with regulatory oversight.
Should such a policy change/initiative be seriously considered, this person is the very worst imaginable to be cast as a spokesperson on behalf of promoting such a policy initiative. There have been innumerable recent instances when this person’s brain and mouth have been nowhere near in synchronisation. The Government and ruling part needs to give her some media education – possibly ironic that!