By Newswire Editorial
Informing the Supreme Court of key amendments to the proposed Prevention of Organised Crimes Bill, the Government today (09) said it intends to completely remove provisions relating to offences under the Excise Ordinance, amend copyright-related provisions under the Intellectual Property Act, and consider further changes to provisions relating to detention orders and the Bail Act.
Solicitor General President’s Counsel Viraj Dayaratne, appearing on behalf of the Attorney General, informed the court that amendments to the provisions relating to detention orders and the Bail Act would be considered following further discussions with policymakers.
He stated that the Government intends to introduce the proposed amendments during the Committee Stage in Parliament.
The Solicitor General said the proposed changes were decided upon following discussions with policymakers, while copies of the amendments were submitted to the Supreme Court and lawyers representing the petitioners.
The details were presented during the hearing of 26 petitions challenging the constitutionality of the Bill before a three-member Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena and Justices Achala Wengappuli and Sampath Abeykoon.
During the proceedings, the Solicitor General apologised for the delay in providing copies of the proposed amendments.
President’s Counsel Romesh de Silva subsequently requested one hour to examine the proposed changes, to which the Solicitor General raised no objection.
The Supreme Court accordingly adjourned proceedings for one hour to allow the petitioners’ lawyers to review the amendments. (Newswire)