The proposed legislation to protect the State from terrorism is primarily aimed at safeguarding the country against terrorism and combating organised crime, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated.

Minister Jayatissa made these remarks today (27) while responding to questions from journalists at the weekly Cabinet media briefing regarding the proposed legislation.

The Cabinet Spokesman explained that provisions referring to physical characteristics such as long hair and tattoos were not intended to target ordinary citizens, but were aimed at helping authorities identify individuals linked to organised criminal groups.
He said the proposed legislation would also enable stricter legal action against individuals who knowingly assist, support, finance or facilitate organised criminal activities.

According to the Minister, the legislation is specifically intended to address organised crime networks and those who actively contribute to their operations, adding that ordinary citizens with no involvement in such activities need not be concerned.

He further stated that the proposed law was necessary to protect the State against terrorism and would provide the authorities with the powers required to produce suspects arrested under terrorism-related provisions before the courts.

The Minister recalled that the present government had pledged to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). He said the proposed legislation, alongside measures to combat organised crime, was intended to replace the existing framework while addressing security concerns.

Minister Jayatissa also acknowledged that questions could arise over whether the proposed laws were consistent with human rights standards. He said the government was prepared to act in accordance with any determination made by the courts on the matter.

He added that, without the proposed legislation, the government would have to rely on the existing Prevention of Terrorism Act.