A new draft bill has been published via Gazette notification, proposing the complete repeal of the Online Safety Act No. 9 of 2024, which was passed by Parliament on January 24, 2024. If approved, this new bill would render all regulations made under the existing law legally void.
Background and Public Controversy
The existing law, commonly referred to as the “Online Safety Act”, was introduced amidst intense public opposition, especially in the wake of the 2022 people’s uprising against the Rajapaksa administration. Critics argued that the law was used not to protect the public, but to shield pro-Rajapaksa allies and suppress dissent on social media platforms during politically sensitive periods, such as elections.
Despite widespread criticism from civil society and digital rights groups, the government proceeded with the bill, claiming it aimed to curb online harm. However, major global tech companies—including Facebook, Google, and Apple—voiced concern over the law’s broad and vague provisions, warning of its potential to infringe upon freedom of expression and privacy.
Lack of Clarity in the Repeal Announcement
While the Gazette confirms the intent to repeal the 2024 Online Safety Act and all associated regulations, it does not specify the reasons behind this move. It also remains unclear whether the government plans to introduce a new legal framework to ensure online safety or if this signals a complete policy shift in how internet regulation is approached in Sri Lanka.
What Comes Next?
The proposed bill must still be debated and approved by Parliament before it becomes law. Experts in information technology and cybersecurity are expected to share their insights and assessments in the coming days as the country watches for developments.
The repeal of the Online Safety Act could mark a significant turning point in Sri Lanka’s approach to digital governance, raising crucial questions about the balance between safety, free speech, and government accountability in the digital age.