Acting IGP asked to revoke directive warning of legal action against criticising public officials

• Activists say directive hinders freedom of expression, concerned by equating criticism of State officials with obstruction of duties, spreading disinformation

A group of activists and organisations yesterday wrote to Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) C. D. Wickremaratne to revoke the directive issued warning of strict legal action against those who spread or

Acting IGP C. D. Wickremaratne

share false or malicious messages, news or information, stating it adversely impacts the freedom of expression.

 “The notice that strict action will be taken against those who ‘criticise’, point out ‘minor shortcomings/failures’ or ‘scold/chastise’ State officials performing their duties adversely impacts the freedom of expression and the expression of dissent. This constitutionally guaranteed freedom is key to holding the State to account for its actions and questioning the action or inaction of State officials is the civic duty of every citizen and is fundamental to ensuring a healthy and functioning democracy. Hence, it should not be interpreted as obstructing the performance of the duties of public officials,” the letter addressed to the Acting IGP said.

On 1 April, the Media Division of the Sri Lanka Police, upon the instructions of the Acting IGP, issued a notice addressed to all media organisations that strict legal action will be taken against those who spread or share false or malicious messages, news or information.

The activists and organisations said that they recognise the need to counter the circulation of false or malicious information and to take action against those that hinder public officials from performing their duties or threaten them, but pointed out that the notice treats criticism of State officials as amounting to obstruction of their duties and spreading disinformation.