Deputy Minister of Public Security, Sunil Watagala, has instructed the Police to take action against those spreading defamatory statements about the President on social media during the prevailing disaster situation.
During a meeting with Police officials, Sunil Watagala ordered the Police to initiate action under the provisions of emergency law.
“Spreading false and defamatory statements during a disaster situation is a punishable offence. The President is being badly slandered on social media. Arrest those responsible under the emergency law and initiate legal action against them,” the Deputy Minister said, issuing the directive.
However, in his recent state address, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake had emphasized that emergency regulations are intended only for disaster situations and will not extend to other concerns. (Newswire)