'Protection of Occupants Bill' Sent Back for Revisions

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Attorney General today informed the Supreme Court that the government is reconsidering the 'Protection of Occupants Bill' that was presented to Parliament.

The Attorney General further stated that the government intends to introduce an amended version of the Bill after incorporating necessary revisions.

This position was conveyed by Additional Solicitor General Sumathi Dharmawardena, appearing on behalf of the Attorney General, when six petitions filed challenging the 'Protection of Occupants Bill' were taken up for consideration today.

He also informed the Court that the Minister of Justice has allowed a one-month period starting from February 3rd for the public to submit comments and proposals regarding the Bill.

Accordingly, a committee comprising experts, including representatives from the Attorney General’s Department, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, and the Ministry of Justice, will review the public’s comments and proposals.

The Additional Solicitor General added that the concerns raised by the petitioners will also be examined during this process.

After considering all submissions, the expert committee is expected to present a report to the Minister of Justice outlining the recommended amendments to the Bill.

A letter containing these details, sent by the Secretary to the Ministry of Justice to the Attorney General, was also submitted to the Court by the Additional Solicitor General.

At that point, President’s Counsel Faiszer Musthapha, along with other attorneys appearing for the petitioners, informed the Court that there is no longer a need to proceed with the petitions.

Accordingly, the Supreme Court granted permission for the petitions to be withdrawn.