Calls for the repeal of the PTA
According to Amnesty International, three Sri Lankan students have been detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). According to the human rights group, the three were arrested on August 18 and 19 at Colombo’s Kelaniya University.
The weaponization of an already heavily criticised law, which should be repealed immediately, demonstrates the authorities’ unwillingness to face any form of criticism.
This is a violation of Sri Lanka’s international human rights obligations, particularly the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. This is a violation of Sri Lanka’s international human rights obligations, particularly the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.”
According to Amnesty International, the PTA allows for the detention of suspects for up to a year without charge, which is a violation of international law “The PTA has a long history of abuse in Sri Lanka, and this development demonstrates why both domestic and international actors have called for its repeal.
The worsening economic crisis in Sri Lanka has resulted in violations of the people’s civil, political, economic, and social rights. Following public protests, the President, Prime Minister, and cabinet of ministers have all had to resign in recent months. The government used excessive and unnecessary force and emergency laws in response to mostly peaceful protests.
The Human Rights Watch organisation has documented the Sri Lankan government’s use of the draconian PTA to target and harass minorities, activists, journalists, and critical voices. Amnesty International and others have urged the Sri Lankan government to end its crackdown on peaceful anti-corruption demonstrations.
