Sri Lanka, Oct. 15 -- Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has urged the Government to withdraw the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill 2026, warning that its broad provisions and expanded executive powers could threaten fundamental rights, judicial oversight, and civic freedoms.

In a statement responding to the Bill, gazetted on 22 September 2026 as a proposed replacement for the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), TISL echoed concerns raised by human rights groups over the proposed definition of terrorism, military involvement in law enforcement, administrative detention and restrictions on freedom of association and expression.

While acknowledging the State's responsibility to address legitimate national secur...