NPP will back bill to decriminalize same-sex relationships - Harini Amarasuriya

NPP will back bill to decriminalize same-sex relationships - Harini Amarasuriya

June 25, 2024   07:01 pm

National People’s Power (NPP) Parliamentarian Dr. Harini Amarasuriya states that their party will support the private member’s bill tabled by SLPP MP Premnath C. Dolawaththa to decriminalize same-sex relationships under the penal code. 

Joining the ‘Derana 360’ programme, Dr. Amarasuriya explained their party’s stance regarding the LGBTQ+ community.

“We have been advocating for this community for a while. They are also a part of this society. Gender identities are diverse, including those of the same-sex community. From the beginning, we are of the stance that individuals should not be discriminated based on their gender”, she said.

“Specifically, these same-sex relationships have been criminalized in our penal code. This is not a law which was originated in our country; it was introduced during the Victorian era by the British. Therefore, we believe it should be amended,” Dr. Amarasuriya expressed.

“MP Premnath C. Dolawaththa, a government representative, has tabled a private member’s bill in the Parliament to amend the penal code…”

Commenting further, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said: “Our party believes that decisions regarding the relationships of two adults should be made by the individuals involved, not dictated by law. However, a law should remain in place to protect children and minimize potential harm.”

“…Only the sexual relationships with animals are a crime…So, the NPP will back this during its third reading,” she assured.

Disclaimer: All the comments will be moderated by the AD editorial. Abstain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or slanderous. Please avoid outside hyperlinks inside the comment and avoid typing all capitalized comments. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by flagging them(mouse over a comment and click the flag icon on the right side). Do use these forums to voice your opinions and create healthy discourse.

Most Viewed Video Stories

School development officers demand permanent positions in teaching service (English)

School development officers demand permanent positions in teaching service (English)

Cabinet Spokesman claims some are attempting to incite racial conflicts in the country (English)

Govt. to award procurement of over 300 medicine types to local manufacturers (English)

Cabinet of Ministers grants approval to allow rice imports without permits (English)

LIVE🔴 Ada Derana Prime Time News Bulletin 6.55 pm

Suspect arrested for disturbing public peace by promoting LTTE 'Mahaviru' celebrations granted bail (English)

Tense situation near Education Ministr (English)

Committee report on privileges of MPs and ex-Presidents presented to President (English)