SriLanka, Nov. 8 -- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake yesterday assured that the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Act (PSTA) and Prevention of Organised Crimes Act (POCA) would not be passed by Parliament without broad consultation and consensus among relevant stakeholders, including civil society groups.

Addressing the National People's Power (NPP) Trade Union National Convention at the P. D. Sirisena Grounds in Maligawatte, Colombo, the President said the Government was in no hurry to secure Parliamentary approval for the two Bills and will address concerns raised over their provisions before proceeding further.

He said the Government was prepared to listen to genuine concerns relating to civil liberties, human rights ...