November 09, Colombo (LNW): The Government is preparing to revise several provisions of the proposed Prevention of Organised Crimes Bill, with the Attorney General informing the Supreme Court today (09) that amendments will be put forward when the legislation reaches the Committee Stage in Parliament.
A document outlining the proposed changes was also handed over to the Court during proceedings, as judges began examining a series of legal challenges to the controversial legislation.
The Supreme Court commenced hearings today on petitions arguing that certain sections of the Bill are inconsistent with constitutional provisions. The case is being considered by a three-member bench comprising Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena and Justices Achala Wengappuli and Sampath Abeykoon.
The latest development follows an earlier direction by the Court requiring those challenging the legislation to submit their recommendations for amendments in writing. Legal representatives appearing on behalf of the petitioners subsequently complied with that directive, submitting their observations last Thursday (05).
The proposed legislation has attracted considerable legal scrutiny, with a total of 26 petitions now before the Supreme Court questioning the constitutionality of its provisions.
The Government’s indication that revisions are forthcoming is expected to form an important part of the ongoing proceedings, as the Court considers the objections raised against the Bill and the proposed legislative changes.