Draft bill to replace PTA criticized in Cabinet

Colombo (News1st): Reports have surfaced there was a strong objection during Tuesday's (September 11) cabinet meeting on the proposed draft bill to replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act. When the draft was presented to cabinet today by Foreign Minister Thilak Marapana, Minister of Higher Education (Dr.) Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe had pointed out certain contradictions. As per the existing law confessions can be accepted, however, according to the draft bill, if a confession is to be accepted - it must be proven first. In addition, the draft bill had vested legal powers of the State Ministry of Defence with the Ministry of Law and Order, and this too had come under strong criticism at today's cabinet meeting. However, it is reported the draft bill was approved by Cabinet amendments. Details from Tuesday's cabinet meeting also revealed that Minister (Dr.) Sarath Amunugama objected when the proposal to cancel the licence of SLIIT higher education institute in Malabe was taken up for consideration. It was reported that a decision was reached to present the proposal to cabinet once again after consulting the Attorney General.