By The Pulseline News Desk
The Supreme Court today (4) has reportedly commenced hearings into 26 petitions filed challenging the constitutionality of the proposed Prevention of Organised Crimes Bill, which has been presented to Parliament by the government.
The petitions are being considered by a three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena and Justices Achala Wengappuli and Sampath Abeykoon.
According to Supreme Court records, a total of 26 petitions have been filed challenging various provisions of the proposed legislation, with the petitioners arguing that certain clauses violate fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.
Among the petitioners is the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), alongside several other parties who have raised concerns over the constitutional implications of the proposed law.
The petitioners have requested the Supreme Court to determine that the disputed provisions, if retained in the Bill, would require approval by a two-thirds majority in Parliament as well as endorsement through a national referendum before they could be enacted into law.
The legal challenge comes amid growing scrutiny of the proposed legislation, particularly its provisions relating to the prevention and investigation of organised crime and the powers granted to law enforcement authorities.
The Supreme Court’s determination will establish whether the Bill, in its present form, can be enacted through the ordinary legislative process or whether constitutional requirements necessitate additional parliamentary and public approval.
The proceedings are being closely watched by legal professionals and civil society groups, given the potential implications of the proposed legislation for fundamental rights and law enforcement powers in Sri Lanka.
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