Sri Lanka, Oct. 21 -- The Supreme Court yesterday commenced hearing into 25 Special Determination petitions challenging the constitutionality of the Bill titled "Protection of the State from Terrorism" (PSTA).

The petitions were taken up before a three-judge Bench comprising Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena and Justices Achala Wengappuli and Sampath Abayakoon.

Counsel Hejaaz Hizbullah, appearing for several petitioners submitted that the proposed legislation significantly broadens the powers of officers authorised to search and arrest suspects.

He told court that while the PTA requires an arrest to be made by a police officer above the rank of Sub-Inspector, Clause 19 of the proposed Bill would permit any police officer, members o...