High Security Zones illegal under Official Secrets Act - CPA

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Center for Policy Alternatives (CPA) says that it is gravely concerned with regard to the Gazette published by President Ranil Wickremesinghe designating several areas in Colombo as High Security Zones.

The CPA points out that a close examination of the Official Secrets Act No. 32 of 1955 shows that the regulations are not within the scope of the act, which has as its primary objective the protection of confidential  information for the defence of the country.

Therefore, the CPA notes at the outset that the substance of the orders /regulations and their  purpose are clearly illegal and contrary to the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.  Furthermore, these fundamental rights cannot be restricted merely by regulations promulgated  under the Official Secrets Act, CPA adds.