Editor Picks

Corporal Punishment for Children is Wrong – An Analysis of the New Penal Code Amendments

Asian TribuneFebruary 28, 2026

In Sri Lanka, recent amendments to the Penal Code have officially prohibited corporal punishment in schools. These amendments have sparked widespread debate among different sectors of society. While professional unions, some principals, and teachers have expressed concerns about maintaining discipline, religious leaders such as the Venerable Trinikaikaya Mahānāyaka Thero have voiced opposition. Legal Perspective: Adults...

New Anti-Terrorism Bill (PSTA) Violates International Standards: Strong Warning to Government from UN Special Rapporteurs

Asian TribuneFebruary 26, 2026

A group of Special Rapporteurs from the United Nations has issued a strong warning to the Government of Sri Lanka regarding the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill (PSTA). In a letter dated February 9, 2026, the experts acknowledged the government’s initiative to review the existing Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). However, they...

Solar Companies Accused of Bribery and Destroying Elephant Habitats in Hambantota

Asian TribuneFebruary 26, 2026

An Investigative Report Serious allegations have emerged that several solar power companies have resumed previously suspended projects in the Hambantota District by offering indirect bribes, resulting in large-scale destruction of elephant habitats bordering the Hambantota Wild Elephant Management Reserve. National People’s Power (NPP) Member of Parliament Nihal Galappaththi stated at the Hambantota District Development Committee...

Guardians of the Law or Political Instruments?

Asian TribuneFebruary 26, 2026

A Comprehensive Investigative Report on the Arrest of Natasha Edirisuriya The arrest and remand imprisonment of Sri Lankan comedian Natasha Edirisuriya triggered a profound national debate on freedom of expression, rule of law, and the scope of police power in Sri Lanka. Although the controversy appeared to reach a legal turning point on February 19,...

Jaffna Wetland Under Threat: Controversial Cricket Stadium Project Raises Legal and Environmental Concerns

Asian TribuneFebruary 26, 2026

The proposed construction of an international cricket stadium and sports city in Mandaitivu Island, Jaffna, has triggered serious environmental, legal, and social concerns, as large-scale land filling operations have reportedly begun without mandatory environmental approvals. The project, for which the foundation stone was laid on September 1, 2025, by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, upon the...

IMF Targets May Be Adjusted Following Dithwa Cyclone: Central Bank Governor

Asian TribuneJanuary 13, 2026

Sri Lanka’s Central Bank Governor, Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, has indicated that the targets agreed upon with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) may need to be revised due to the economic impact of the recent Dithwa cyclone. Speaking on Derana TV’s 360 program on Monday evening (12), Dr. Weerasinghe said that the government and the IMF...

NMRA Strengthens Regulations to Combat Illegal Pharmacy Practices in Sri Lanka

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) has reaffirmed and strengthened existing rules requiring the full-time presence of qualified pharmacists at all registered pharmacies across Sri Lanka, in a bid to curb illegal practices and improve public safety in medication dispensing. Under the NMRA Act No. 5 of 2015, pharmacies must employ at least one licensed...