Sri Lanka’s proposed Anti-Terror Law has been the subject of widespread criticism from various sources due to its potential human rights violations. In this article, we will explore what the proposed law is, why it has been criticized, and its implications for India.
Background of Sri Lanka’s Anti-Terror Law
The Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), which has been in existence since 1978, allows security officials to imprison terror suspects without trial for up to 90 days and can extend the detention period indefinitely. The PTA has been criticized by human rights groups for its potential for abuse, particularly during the three-decade-long civil conflict, resulting in the disappearance and death of Tamil and Sinhala adolescents in captivity. The international community, including the UN Human Rights Council and the European Union, has exerted pressure on Sri Lanka to revoke the PTA.
To replace the PTA, the Sri Lankan government proposed the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) in 2021, which has also drawn significant criticism.
Criticism of the proposed Anti-Terror Law
The primary criticism of the ATA is its vague definition of a terrorist act, which broadens the concept of what constitutes terrorism. The bill gives the government extensive powers to routinely violate basic human rights and curtails individual liberties. It has also drawn criticism for its potential to put down dissent and protests. Additionally, hate speech has been changed from a common criminal offense to terrorism under the ATA.
Another contentious aspect of the bill is its provision for the death penalty as a response to terrorist attacks. Sri Lanka has had an official moratorium on executions since 1976, and the inclusion of the death penalty in the ATA has drawn significant opposition.
Concerns for India
As Sri Lanka’s only direct neighbor, India is in a position of responsibility to respond to any potential major humanitarian disaster. India has seen significant influxes of ethnic Tamil migrants through the Palk Strait and the Gulf of Munnar during times of political or social upheaval in Sri Lanka. Therefore, India needs to have a strong policy in place to manage any potential influx of refugees.
Why In News
The Sri Lankan government’s proposed Anti-Terrorism Act has come under fire from various groups and individuals who are concerned about the law’s broad definition of terrorism and potential for abuse. Critics argue that the law could lead to the violation of basic human rights and the suppression of dissent and protests. Despite these criticisms, the government has pushed forward with the legislation, raising concerns about its potential impact on civil liberties and the rule of law.
MCQs about Sri Lanka’s Proposed Anti-Terror Law
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What is the proposed law in Sri Lanka that is facing criticism?
A. Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA)
B. Anti-Defamation Act (ADA)
C. Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA)
D. Counterterrorism Act (CTA)
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What is the primary criticism of the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act in Sri Lanka?
A. Its vague definition of a terrorist act
B. Its focus on protecting individual liberties
C. Its strict adherence to global standards of terrorism
D. Its alignment with human rights principles
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What is the most contentious aspect of the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act in Sri Lanka?
A. The possibility of the death penalty as a response to terrorist attacks
B. The lack of provisions for organization bans
C. The emphasis on protecting individual liberties
D. The alignment with human rights principles
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What are the concerns for India with regards to the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act in Sri Lanka?
A. The potential influx of ethnic Tamil migrants
B. The increased terrorist activities and political unrest
C. The possibility of a major humanitarian disaster
D. All of the above
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