The Ministry of Justice and National Integration has called for submissions from the public for the new Anti-Terrorism Bill to replace the controversial Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act No.48 of 1979 (PTA).

“The introduction of a new bill aims to address the challenges of modern global terrorism, to comply with human rights of individuals both domestically and abroad, and to comply with internationally-accepted standards,” the ministry said in a statement to the media.

Accordingly, public comments, recommendations, and suggestions are invited to be directed to the Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and National Integration within 14 days from 16 May, mentioning ‘Suggestions for the Anti-Terrorism Bill’ on the left corner of the envelope.

The Ministry of Justice and National Integration requests that all correspondence be directed to No. 19, Sri Sangaraja Mawatha, Colombo 10 or to the email address legal@moj.gov.lk.

Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara told The Sunday Morning earlier that the new law was being introduced for the purpose of repealing the controversial piece of legislation. He said that the PTA would not be repealed until the new law was introduced.

A committee of 17 headed by Rienzie Arsecularatne, PC was appointed on 19 February to review the to-be-revoked PTA and bring in a new law.