Protests intensify across the country against PST and OC bills

Several protests began across the country this week against the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Act (PST) and Prevention of Organised Crimes Act (OC) bills. The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP), the People's Struggle Movement (PSM), civil rights activists and trade union members led the protests.

The largest protest began around midday on November 4 near the Parliament Roundabout (Polduwa Junction), led by the FSP and PSM.

The same day, a seminar was held at the Postal Auditorium together with the Alliance of Independent Trade Unions and Mass Organisations, followed by a protest in front of the Lake House roundabout.

On November 6, another protest was held in front of Fort Railway Station together with the National Federation of Trade Unions and Professionals (NFTUP).

As debate over the bills grows, the president has said they will be taken forward only after a full review, and the justice minister has been instructed to hold talks with stakeholders.