Asia Internet Coalition calls govt.’s Online Safety Bill ‘draconian’

The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC) has expressed its concerns about the Online Safety Bill, which was gazette recently, calling it “draconian” and a blow to Sri Lankans’ “rights to expression.”
AIC said it is concerned that the Sri Lanka government is moving the Online Safety Bill without undertaking any stakeholder consultation. 

“The Bill provides for a draconian system to stifle dissent and Sri Lankans’ rights to expression,” AIC Managing Director Jeff Paine said.
“While our member companies take seriously the online safety of those who use their services, legislation should not dampen innovation by restricting public debate and the exchange of ideas that can consequently impact the digital economy.