The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President’s Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a “serious situation.” Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens’ rights and demanded immediate action.
Responding to these concerns, Minister of Justice Harsha Nanayakkara announced the appointment of a committee to discuss the existing issues within the Contempt of Court Act. He assured that legal professionals would be allowed to present their views. Furthermore, the Minister stated that discussions regarding the challenges of the Act would be held with the Bar Association of Sri Lanka and the Judicial Service Commission.
This incident underscores the delicate balance between maintaining discipline within the judiciary and safeguarding citizens’ rights. The correct implementation of the Contempt of Court Act and its shortcomings’ identification and amendment have become critical matters.
