The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) has strongly criticised the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill, claiming the legislation could be used to restrict trade union activity, protests and other forms of political activism.
Addressing a media briefing in Nugegoda on Friday, FSP Education Secretary Pubudu Jayagoda said the Bill, gazetted on Sept. 22, was presented as legislation aimed at protecting the state from terrorism but contained provisions that his party believes could significantly expand state powers.
“Although its name says it is to protect the state from terrorism, the real purpose is to protect the state from the political activism of the people,” Jayagoda claimed.
He argued that the proposed definition of terrorism was significantly broader than offences traditionally associated with armed violence and killings.
According to Jayagoda, the Bill could cover actions carried out with a political or ideological objective to compel a government or international organisation to act, or refrain from acting, in a particular manner.
“That means space has been left to call someone a terrorist even if they demand higher wages or say that a defence agreement should not be signed with India,” he claimed.
Jayagoda said the FSP feared that the practical impact of such provisions could extend beyond individuals involved in violent activity.
“The targets are not terrorists. They are trade union leaders, farmers’ leaders, student leaders, youth, social activists and community leaders,” he said.
He also raised concerns about proposed detention powers, claiming the legislation would allow the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence to issue detention orders for periods of two months at a time, potentially allowing a person to be detained for up to one year without a court order.
“The power to detain individuals belongs to the judiciary. If this Bill is passed, the Defence Ministry Secretary will be able to issue detention orders every two months and keep a person detained for a year without a judicial order,” Jayagoda said.
He further criticised provisions relating to the role of the armed forces. Referring to Section 19 of the proposed legislation, Jayagoda claimed powers relating to searches, arrests and detention would be extended to military personnel.
“Why are they giving police powers to the military? Is it because they want to use armed force when dealing with civilians?” he questioned.
Jayagoda linked the proposed legislation to broader economic and social pressures facing the country, arguing that the government anticipated increased public opposition over employment, wages and living costs.
Jayagoda claimed the legislation was part of an attempt by the state and political establishment to prepare for potential social unrest.
“The government and the ruling class are sharpening their weapons for that struggle,” he said.
“There is no point continuing to just talk about this Bill. We should take to the streets and defeat it,” he said. (Newswire)
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