The Police stated emergency regulations are intended only to curb the spread of false information and will not be used to restrict fundamental rights.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, Police Spokesperson and Assistant Superintendent of Police, attorney F.U. Wootler said that action would be taken against anyone who uses media platforms to create fear by spreading misinformation that disrupts public welfare efforts and ongoing relief operations. “These regulations are specifically aimed at those who misuse communication platforms to spread panic.”  

The regulations were issued by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake under the Public Security Ordinance (Chapter 40), as amended by Act No. 8 of 1959, granting temporary powers to strengthen disaster response, public safety, and national stability.

However, responding to concerns of potential misuse, the President told Parliament last week that emergency regulations would not be used to suppress freedom of expression or criticism of the Government. He added that neither he nor his administration was troubled by critical or unfavourable comments.

Meanwhile, observing that certain provisions of the recently-issued emergency regulations are not in line with the Constitution, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) stated that it would submit its observations to President Dissanayake this week. HRCSL Member/Commissioner, attorney Nimal G. Punchihewa said that some clauses in the regulations appear problematic at first reading and stressed that emergency powers must be exercised within the limits of the Constitution.