SC determination on Anti-Terrorism Bill conveyed to Parliament

The Supreme Court has conveyed its determination on the Anti-Terrorism Bill to Parliament. The Court has determined that certain clauses in the Anti-Terrorism Bill are inconsistent with the Constitution, Deputy Speaker Ajith Rajapakshe informed Parliament this morning. 

As per the Supreme Court's determination, certain clauses would need to be passed by a special parliamentary majority in their current form while some others would need to be passed both by a special parliamentary majority and by the people at a referendum, the Deputy Speaker announced. 

However, these inconsistencies will cease and the Bill can be passed by a simple majority if the amendments suggested by the Supreme Court are adopted, it was further announced. 

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court's determination on the Micro Finance and Credit Regulatory Authority Bill has also been conveyed to Parliament. As per the determination, some clauses in the Bill too are inconsistent with the Constitution and would need a special parliamentary majority or both a special parliamentary majority and a referendum if they are to be adopted in their current form. 

However, inconsistencies in the Bill would cease if the amendments suggested by the Supreme Court are adopted, it was announced.