Here below is the statement made by National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) on the The Online Safety Bill (OSB).
The Online Safety Bill (OSB), which can be a barrier to freedom of expression, should be withdrawn immediately.
We, as the National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) demand the immediate withdrawal of the proposed OSB, which the Government is preparing to enforce with the aim of enacting laws that can be used to prevent the people from exercising their right to express ideas.
The much-disputed OSB creates legal provisions that can have a devastating effect on the right to speech and expression, a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution. It is also extremely serious that a committee which is proposed to be appointed by the Executive President under it may tamper with the judicial power, contrary to the principles of natural justice. This Bill contains a number of provisions that will cause the digital economy that is already growing rapidly day by day, and would be of great benefit for the country.
We also believe that there should be legal provisions to prevent situations that may be a threat to national security, and cause damage to individuals through the use of online platforms, and to prevent crimes that could be committed by misusing social media. There should be provisions to initiate legal action against those who commit such offences. Therefore, we very earnestly and responsibly request the responsible authorities to amend the relevant provisions in the Penal Code and other related ordinances in a timely manner. But, we are deeply concerned and surprised by attempts to suppress democratic rights under the guise of such interests, and we will oppose such attempts without any second thought.
We again request the Government to immediately withdraw the OSB, which can be a deadly attack on the freedom of expression. Instead of proposing such draconian pieces of legislation, steps should be taken to amend the relevant laws including the Penal Code in such a way that legal action can be taken against criminals who misuse social media platforms, and commit acts harmful to the well-being of the citizens.
Sunil Jayasekara
General Secretary
National Movement for Social Justice
