Colombo, Sri Lanka – August 21, 2026 – The Sri Lankan Cabinet of Ministers has approved the submission of the Bill titled ‘Protection of the State from Terrorism’ to Parliament, marking a significant step towards replacing the long-standing Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act, No. 48 of 1979 (PTA).
The decision, officially made on August 17, 2026, paves the way for a new legislative framework aimed at enhancing national security while addressing perceived shortcomings in the existing anti-terrorism law. This move comes after extensive deliberation and the collaborative efforts of legal and technical experts.
Addressing Shortcomings in Existing Legislation
The initiative to introduce a new anti-terrorism law stems from a recognized need to update and refine Sri Lanka’s legal provisions for combating terrorism. The Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act, enacted in 1979, has been a subject of scrutiny and debate for several years, with calls for its reform or replacement to align with contemporary legal standards and human rights considerations.
Recognizing these deficiencies, the government appointed a Technical Expert Committee tasked with preparing a preliminary draft for the new legislation. This committee’s work formed the foundational basis for the proposed ‘Protection of the State from Terrorism’ Bill.
Key Approvals and Path Forward
Following the expert committee’s preliminary draft, the Cabinet granted policy approval for the introduction of the new Act on August 10, 2026. This initial endorsement was a crucial step in formalizing the government’s intent to enact updated anti-terrorism measures.
Subsequently, the Bill, meticulously prepared by the Legal Draftsman, received the necessary clearance from the Attorney General. This clearance confirms that the draft legislation adheres to legal principles and constitutional requirements, preparing it for the legislative process.
The final approval for submission to Parliament came through a proposal made by the Minister of Justice and National Integration. The Cabinet approved this proposal on August 17, 2026, sanctioning the publication of the Bill in the Government Gazette before its formal presentation to Parliament for debate and approval.
Implications for Sri Lankan Law
The introduction of the ‘Protection of the State from Terrorism’ Bill is anticipated to be a landmark development in Sri Lanka’s legal landscape. It signifies a governmental commitment to modernize its approach to national security while aiming to establish a more robust and comprehensive framework to safeguard the state from terrorist threats.
Once published in the Government Gazette, the Bill will be accessible to the public, allowing for greater scrutiny and understanding of its provisions before it undergoes parliamentary review. The parliamentary process will involve detailed discussions, potential amendments, and ultimately, a vote to enact the new law.
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