• Nat. List MP raises concerns over livelihoods of certain professionals such as docs

The Opposition Party, the Illankai Thamil Arasu Kadchi (ITAK), is still deliberating its position on the Parliamentary Pensions (Repeal) Bill, with its Parliamentarians divided ahead of the second reading scheduled for 17 February 2026, The Daily Morning learnt.

Speaking to The Daily Morning , ITAK MP Dr. Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam stated yesterday (12) that the Party has not arrived at a unified stance yet. “At the moment, we have MPs that hold both the stances - that we should support the Bill or go against it. Everyone is presenting their suggestions and concerns. As a Party, we will be coming to a uniform stance before the vote. But at the moment, we are yet to decide,” he said.

Dr. Sathiyalingam also shared his personal concerns regarding the Bill, which seeks to abolish the pension scheme currently provided to former MPs. “I was a medical practitioner and I came from the National List and now I don’t receive my pension as I no longer practise. There are certain occupations that you could be doing while you are an MP. But, most of us, especially those who are practising medicine, dentistry and all, they can’t proceed with their occupations together with politics. Hence, we have a grave issue about our livelihood if we are not going to receive our pension,” he explained.

He however affirmed that he would abide by the Party’s final decision. “I would be with the stance of the Party. But, I’m willing to present these concerns in the Parliament on 17 February,” he added.

The Bill was presented to the Parliament on 7 January 2026 by Justice Minister, attorney Harshana Nanayakkara. The Supreme Court has since determined that a simple majority would suffice to enact the Bill.