COLOMBO, Oct. 22 -- Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara on Thursday (22) sought to allay public concerns over Sri Lanka's proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill, insisting that it would not restrict freedom of expression or the right to participate in protests.

Responding to questions during a special interview on the proposed legislation, Nanayakkara said public fears were unwarranted and stemmed largely from a failure to read and understand the Bill.

He said the government was committed to repealing the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA), which has been in force since 1979, citing concerns over its impact on human rights.

"A responsible government's primary duty is not me...