Sri Lanka passes bill allowing government to remove online posts and legally pursue internet users

By BHARATHA MALLAWARACHI
Associated Press

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — Sri Lanka’s parliament has overwhelmingly approved an internet regulation bill being criticized as a move to stifle speech in an election year. The bill would allow the government to set up a commission with a wide range of powers, which includes ordering people and internet service providers to remove online posts deemed “prohibited statements.” It can also legally pursue people who publish such posts. Opposition lawmakers criticized the bill for creating “a very oppressive environment.” Human Rights Watch said the bill would create a repressive law with vague offenses punishable by lengthy prison terms. The Asia Internet Coalition said the bill would undermine foreign investment. Sri Lanka is still coping with an economic crisis that required an international bailout last year.