The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has urged the government to halt further action on the proposed constitutional amendment to increase the retirement age of Supreme Court and Court of Appeal judges until consultations are held with key justice sector stakeholders.

In a letter to Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, the BASL said the proposal raises concerns over judicial independence, the administration of justice and the rule of law.

The Association also called for a committee comprising representatives of the Ministry of Justice, Judiciary, BASL and other stakeholders to review the proposal before any decision is made.