Online Safety Act: Amendments still pending with AG

Parliament passed the original Act in January of this year
The bill has faced criticism from rights groups and opposition politicians

By Kelum Bandara

Despite the lapse of nearly five months, the proposed amendments to the Online Safety Act still remain pending with the Attorney General for approval, prompting the Public Security Ministry to seek expedition of the process, an official said.

Parliament passed the bill to regulate online content in January, this year. It sparked criticism from rights groups and opposition politicians that the government is trying to crack down on dissent and stifle freedom of speech ahead of elections this year.

The government promised to incorporate amendments to the new law soon. However, the proposed amendments, endorsed by the Legal Draftsman’s Department, have been sent to the Attorney General.

Ministry Secretary Viyani Gunathilaka told Daily Mirror that his office would seek expedition of the process so that the draft bill could be presented to Cabinet for approval ahead of enactment by Parliament.

The Online Safety Act is aimed at battling cybercrimes, including child abuse, data theft and online fraud, according to the government.

The amendments have been proposed to be incorporated into the Act based on inputs from the industry stakeholders.