Former Chief Justice says government cannot file action against Channel 4

Colombo: Former Chief Justice, Sarath N. Silva has said the government cannot file legal action against an overseas television station for telecasting a video that has allegedly tarnished the country’s image.

Silva has observed that the government cannot file action against Britain’s Channel 4 for telecasting the controversial video on alleged war crimes committed in the country.

The former CJ has said that while the government cannot take legal action overseas, an individual who appears in the video could file a case in the British court.

According to the former Chief Justice, only border issues or human rights related matters can be taken to an international court.

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan government last week said that it is looking at avenues to file legal action against Channel 4 over the controversial video and will attempt to either seek an apology or compensation.

Silva has added that if the Sri Lankan government feels it can go to court against the video, countries like Britain and the U.S. could also take Sri Lanka to court for criticising their governments at times.

However, the Sri Lankan government could write to the broadcasting authority in Britain and request for action, he has said. (www.colombopage.com)