Anti Terrorism Bill delayed; Wijeyadasa says will give more time to address concerns

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Justice Minister Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe told Parliament on Friday (28) that the tabling of the Anti-Terrorism Bill be delayed further.

He said the indefinite delay would pave the way for various factions to present their concerns and recommendations.

The Minister said that the Anti-Terrorism Bill will be tabled in Parliament only after obtaining the views of all concerned factions and by making the necessary amendments.

"There is public opinion that the Anti-Terrorism Bill is being introduced to suppress the people as they could oppose the implementation of the IMF proposals," he said.

The Minister said the government would never introduce any legislation that would inconvenience the public, and legislation needs to be prepared for the requirements of the masses.