Inter-University Students’ Federation Opposes Proposed Organised Crime Bill, Warns of Impact on Protests

The Inter-University Students’ Federation has criticised a proposed law aimed at preventing organised crime, alleging that it could grant excessive powers to police and be used to suppress public protests and undermine democratic freedoms.

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, federation convener Madushan Chandrajith said the organisation was concerned about the potential consequences of the proposed legislation for protesters, particularly young people.

Chandrajith said the government had gazetted the proposed legislation on the 6th and argued that, although its stated purpose was to prevent organised crime, certain provisions could have wider implications for civil liberties.

He questioned how offences involving obstruction of police officers carrying out their duties could be interpreted in situations where public demonstrations take place, claiming that such provisions could expose protesters to legal action.

Concerns Over Police Powers and Detention

The student leader alleged that the proposed law would grant police officers excessive powers and could allow authorities to take action against individuals in ways that threaten fundamental democratic rights.

He referred to the detention of activist Wasantha Mudalige during the previous Ranil Wickremesinghe administration, raising concerns about the use of detention orders against individuals involved in protests.

Chandrajith also expressed concern about the legal procedures that could apply to suspects detained under the proposed legislation, including access to bail and judicial oversight.

He disputed assurances that the legislation would not violate human rights, arguing that its provisions required careful scrutiny before implementation.

Federation Warns of Impact on Youth and Protest Movements

Chandrajith cited previous incidents involving arrests connected to protests and alleged damage to public property to illustrate his concerns about the potential application of the law.

He argued that the proposed legislation could discourage young people from participating in demonstrations if they feared arrest or prolonged detention.

The federation maintained that legislation intended to combat organised crime should not be used to restrict peaceful protest or weaken democratic freedoms.

The comments reflect the Inter-University Students’ Federation’s opposition to the proposed legislation. The precise wording of the bill, its current legislative status and the legal implications of its individual provisions should be examined alongside the government’s stated objectives and any official legal assessments.