The Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) opposed the Protection of the State from Terrorism Act (PSTA) Bill, stating that it is more dangerous than the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA), said the General Secretary of the SLMC, President’s Counsel and Opposition Parliamentarian Nizam Kariapper yesterday (9).

Commenting on the PSTA Bill and its potential consequences for the country, Kariapper stated that the said Bill, being lined up for enacting in Parliament, contains provisions that compromise the democratic norms and values upheld in Sri Lanka under the country's Constitution. He also expressed concern that the Bill could undermine the democratic principles and Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Constitution. He further stated that the proposed PSTA Bill contains clauses and provisions similar to those in the PTA. He also noted that the proposed PSTA Bill does not contain any acceptable principles other than provisions that ensure the prevention of terrorism and safeguarding of the State from terrorist activities. He also stated that the SLMC maintains its position that the PTA should not remain in force, as its provisions are unlawful and contrary to the principles of the rule of law and democracy. He also highlighted that, “The same principle was accepted by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) at that time when we protested. It is very sad to see the same Government formed by the JVP, the same Party is trying to enact the PSTA, which is equivalent to the earlier proposed Bill, two years ago. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe had previously petitioned the Supreme Court against the said Bill. Having once opposed the Bill through legal action, the current Government is now attempting to reintroduce similar laws,” Kariapper alleged. He also emphasised that such a move is unacceptable, while urging the Government not to proceed with the proposed PSTA Bill.