2026-02-06 / Debate: Extension of Emergency Regulations under Public Security Ordinance 2026-02-06
## Summary
Deputy Minister Sundaralingam Pradeep spoke in support of extending Emergency Regulations, arguing that the current emergency — declared 53 days prior in response to Cyclone "Dithwa" — was imposed on humanitarian grounds and differs fundamentally from historical abuses of emergency powers used against minorities and dissidents. He contended that the emergency enabled officials to cross administrative boundaries in difficult hill-country terrain to deliver relief, and challenged the Opposition to cite a single concrete example of misuse during the current period. The Deputy Minister also addressed broader government accountability efforts, estate housing improvements, and salary increases for plantation workers, while condemning the verbal abuse of women Members of Parliament and criticising large estate owners for what he characterised as insincere concern for affected communities.
Hon. Presiding Member, I wish to highlight a few important points in today’s debate on extending the Emergency Regulations.
In the past, Emergency Regulations were used to crush struggles—people agitating for water were shot; media that spoke truth were silenced; arson and shootings took place—all in the name of “protecting democracy,” while carrying out anti-democratic acts. Because of that history, minorities in this country have always feared that emergency powers could be used against them.
But we must consider why our Hon. President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, imposed the Emergency 53 days ago: out of humanitarian necessity during Cyclone “Dithwa” to protect lives and property and to rapidly deliver essentials—food, clothing, medical services—to affected people. On that very day, it was the Opposition that requested emergency be declared. Today, they speak differently.
Those who erred in the past—who committed murders, corruption and anti-people acts—now fear accountability. Today, what we are doing is justice: under the law, all are equal—former rulers, officials or ordinary citizens. Those who looted in the past will face justice. Some cannot stomach this and criticize us.
In the hill country—mountainous regions, valleys, steep slopes—Cyclone Dithwa caused heavy damage. The Emergency greatly helped rescue and relief. Geography often prevented quick access across divisional and secretariat boundaries; emergency enabled officials to cross those lines, mobilize support from neighboring divisions, and serve affected people swiftly. It also helped provide land, remove dangerous trees, and deliver essential services to the hill-country people.
If the Opposition alleges misuse, let them give even one concrete example from the past 53 days. Emergency has been used solely for the people—not for anti-democratic acts.
We must also protect the dignity of women Members in this House. Some hurl abuse and demean women; we strongly condemn that.
Long-standing housing issues in the estates are being addressed. Houses built from 2025 budget allocations are being handed over; salaries have been increased.
Finally, to those who own vast estates and acres in the hills and weep crocodile tears about estate people: will you part with even a plot of land for the affected? Stop posturing and truly serve the people. Thank you.