Sri Lanka, Dec. 27 -- Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has dismissed allegations of media censorship, stating that there is no restriction on media freedom and that criticism is permitted across all media platforms.

The Minister said that while the government respects the right to criticism, the dissemination of false and misleading information cannot be justified. He noted that certain media outlets and social media groups are deliberately circulating distorted reports, which he said are obstructing the country's recovery efforts following recent disasters.

Dr. Jayatissa further warned that some reports have contributed to public distrust in the health sector and could potentially undermine national security.

He...