Digital Journalists Association Urges Media Minister to Address Use of PTA Against Journalists

Colombo, Sri Lanka - The Digital Journalists Association of Sri Lanka (DJASL) has written to the Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, urging him to intervene following the recent questioning of journalist Kanapathipillai Kumanan under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).

In a letter signed by its President, Manjula Basnayake, and Secretary, Thushara Sewwandi, the DJASL stated its firm objection to the use of the PTA against journalists, describing the law as "suppressive and disputed."

The association noted that while journalists are willing to cooperate with law enforcement, any questioning or statement recording should be done under "existing and applicable laws other than the PTA."

The DJASL’s letter highlighted a historical pattern, stating that successive governments have used the PTA to "suppress freedom of expression to suit the petty political agendas of the powers that be." It further pointed out that the law has "most often been used on ethnic minorities as well as those who have raised a voice for minority rights."

The association's communication to Minister Jayatissa concluded with a direct call for action, asking him and the President to "immediately look into the matter and to ensure journalists are not subjected to further probes under suppressive laws." (NewsCenter)