The National Shoora Council (NSC) wishes to draw your kind attention to the continuing detention of a number of Muslim individuals under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), many of whom have remained in custody for prolonged periods without charge or trial.
The NSC is deeply concerned that, despite the Government’s declared commitment to legal reform, reconciliation, and the protection of fundamental rights, several detainees continue to be held under the PTA on the basis of uncorroborated and unsubstantiated allegations. Many of these cases, upon legal scrutiny, reveal no credible evidence linking the individuals to any terrorist activity or national security threat.
The prolonged and indefinite detention of such individuals, mostly from poor families, causes untold hardship to their families and undermines public confidence in the justice system. It also runs contrary to the principles of fairness, equality before the law, and due process guaranteed under the Constitution of Sri Lanka, as well as the country’s international human rights obligations.
The PTA, which was introduced as a temporary emergency measure in 1979, contributed substantially to multiplying terrorism in the country instead of helping to end terrorism. After 30 years of war, the country ended up in bankruptcy while arms supplying western countries including Israel benefitted.
PTA has long been recognized as draconian and as a terrible weapon of oppression mostly against minorities. The election manifesto of the current ruling party had promised the nation to abolish PTA. It did not disclose to the people that a new law would be enacted to replace the PTA. It is distressing to perceive that the government is seeking to empower the forces to continue the oppression under a new brand name to please the arms exporting countries instead of giving leadership to unite the people without discrimination and unitedly develop the economically suffering country.
With Sri Lanka now focusing on national integration, coexistence, and reconciliation, it is imperative that the continued detention of individuals under this draconian legislation be reviewed with compassion and fairness.
In this context, the National Shoora Council respectfully urges the Hon.Minister to:
- Initiate an immediate review of all ongoing PTA detentions, in coordination with the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka.
- Release, without delay, those found to be unjustly or unnecessarily held, ensuring that justice is served and public trust is restored.
- Provide legal assistance, medical counseling, and employment opportunities for affected individuals and their families.
- Ensure that future actions on national security matters are consistent with constitutional safeguards and Sri Lanka’s obligations under international human rights conventions.
The National Shoora Council remains ready to extend its fullest cooperation in facilitating dialogue and coordination to support a fair and transparent review process.
Thank you for your kind attention and consideration.
