The Equal Rights Movement held a symbolic signature campaign in Jaffna today, demanding the immediate repeal of Sri Lanka’s draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), as protests against the law continue across the Tamil North-East.
The demonstration took place in front of the Jaffna Central Bus Stand, drawing attention from passers-by and local residents. Campaigners displayed placards and banners bearing key demands, including: “No to another draconian law,” “Repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act,” “Deliver justice, at least now, for the disappeared,” and “Let us struggle for a new constitution that guarantees equal rights for all national communities.”
The PTA, introduced in 1979 as a temporary measure, has remained in force for over four decades and has long been condemned by Tamil political groups, international rights organisations and UN bodies. It grants sweeping powers to Sri Lankan security forces, including prolonged detention without charge, and has disproportionately targeted Tamils.
Though successive Sri Lankan governments including the current regime have pledged to repeal the legislation, concrete action remains elusive. The law continues to be used to detain individuals without trial and to suppress dissent.
