The United National Party (UNP) accused the National People's Power (NPP) Government for its alleged double standards regarding the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA), claiming that the Legislation is being used to silence social activists.

Addressing a press conference held yesterday (2), former UNP Parliamentarian Saman Rathnapriya criticised the NPP for employing the very law it had previously rejected. "The PTA, which the NPP once condemned as oppressive, has now become a tool for controlling the people's voice. The Government must clarify its stance on this Legislation," he stated. 

Ratnapriya expressed concern over recent arrests made by the Police under the PTA, targeting individuals suspected of promoting the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) under the guise of commemorating the war dead. He highlighted the inconsistency in the Government's actions, noting that those who merely shared such content were arrested, while individuals who allegedly organised events where LTTE symbols, such as emblems and flags, were displayed, remain unpunished. "The organisers of these commemorations, including some former MPs, are still free, despite their clear misuse of the opportunity to honour the dead for promoting the LTTE. Instead, the Government is targeting those who shared these materials. This selective approach is deeply troubling," Ratnapriya said. 

Hence, he urged the Government to act decisively against those who exploit commemorations to promote the LTTE, rather than targeting citizens for sharing-related content. "If the Government is serious about addressing this issue, it should take steps against those responsible for such misuse, not the ordinary people," he added.