Minister of Public Security Tiran Allas today presented the Online Safety Bill to Parliament, a piece of legislation that aims to establish an online safety commission and introduce measures to prohibit certain statements from being communicated online, as well as prevent the use of fake and unauthorized accounts for prohibited purposes.
However, the presentation was met with opposition protests. Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella raised concerns about the Minister of Public Security presenting the legislation, arguing that the subject of media falls under the jurisdiction of another Minister.
Kiriella also expressed worries that Sri Lanka may face international resistance due to this legislation, as the country is already facing accusations of human rights violations.
During the parliamentary session, a heated exchange occurred between Deputy Speaker Ajith Rajapaksa and MP G. L. Peiris regarding the starting date of the 14-day period given for filing objections.
Peiris argued that the period should begin from the date the Bill was entered in the order book, which was September 27.
However, Deputy Speaker Rajapaksa cited section 121 of the constitution, stating that the period starts from the day the Bill is presented to the House. Peiris rejected this stance and threatened to take legal action against the Bill by filing a case with the Supreme Court.
Minister of Justice Wijedasa Rajapaksa, who joined in the discussion, mentioned that the Bill was originally proposed back in 2016 during the Yaha Palana government.
