Pachaipalli Pradeshiya Sabha Passes Resolution Calling for Repeal of PTA and Protection of Freedom of Expression
Kilinochchi, June 12
The Pachaipalli Pradeshiya Sabha has passed a resolution calling for the immediate repeal of Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the protection of freedom of expression, following a motion presented by Democratic Tamil National Alliance member Eswaran Dayalini.
The motion was tabled during the council meeting held on Friday (June 12). Of the three members representing the National People’s Power (NPP), one strongly opposed the proposal while the other two remained neutral.
The resolution was ultimately passed with the support of members from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), the Democratic Tamil National Alliance (DTNA), and the Tamil National People’s Front (TNPF).
Concerns Over Human Rights and Democratic Freedoms
The motion stated that the PTA, originally introduced as a temporary measure in 1979 and later made permanent, has severely affected democratic values and fundamental human rights in Sri Lanka over the past several decades.
It further noted that a significant number of individuals arrested and detained for prolonged periods without trial under the PTA have been members of the Tamil community. The resolution argued that the law has been disproportionately used against Tamil people and has created the perception of being a tool of repression against minorities.
Call to Protect Freedom of Expression
According to the motion, the PTA has also been used to suppress the voices of writers, journalists, artists, and civil society activists, limiting their democratic right to express opinions freely.
The resolution highlighted concerns that the law facilitates arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention, and alleged mistreatment of detainees, making it inconsistent with constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards.
Key Demands of the Resolution
The Pachaipalli Pradeshiya Sabha called on the government to:
- Immediately and completely repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).
- Safeguard the right of writers, journalists, artists, and citizens to express their views freely.
- Ensure that restrictive laws are not used to suppress freedom of expression and democratic dissent.
The resolution reflects ongoing debates in Sri Lanka regarding national security legislation, human rights protections, and the balance between security concerns and civil liberties.
