2026-02-19 / Debate (Continued): Judicature (Amendment) Bill and Poisons, Opium and Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill - Committee and Third Reading 2026-02-19
## Summary
Hon. Jegatheeswaran spoke in support of the second readings of the Judicial Organization (Amendment) Bill and the Poisons, Opium and Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill, arguing that both pieces of legislation are necessary updates for a developing democracy. On judicial reform, he welcomed provisions to increase the number of higher courts and judges to reduce case backlogs, noting that expedited civil proceedings would also improve investor confidence. On drug control, he cited alarming statistics from the Northern Province — including a reported 25% annual increase in drug-related arrests since 2023, a 35% rise in cardiac events among young males attributed to methamphetamine, and drug users accounting for approximately 65% of thefts — to underscore the urgency of the amendments, which he noted would extend prosecutorial reach to mid-sea trafficking operations. He called for expanded rehabilitation capacity in the North and urged cross-party support for the President's "Whole Country Together" anti-drug programme.
Hon. Deputy Speaker, some in the Opposition misuse parliamentary privilege, neglecting the people’s issues and engaging in personal attacks to paralyze the Government. We should focus on public needs.
I am pleased to speak on the second reading of the Judicial Organization (Amendment) Bill and the Poisons, Opium and Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill. Updating the justice system in line with the times is natural in a developing democracy. Existing laws are inadequate to eradicate drug use and trafficking; hence these amendments.
Justice is delayed in our courts; delayed justice is denied justice. These amendments provide for increasing the number of higher courts and appointing more judges to expedite cases. Accelerating civil cases will also create confidence for investors. Reviewing court jurisdictions to reduce the burden on those in remote areas is welcome.
On drugs, new varieties and trafficking methods are increasing. Many drugs are designed to evade easy detection. Our next generation, especially school and university students, are at risk. Illicit trafficking has reached deep into society and out to the high seas. Large “mother ships” anchor beyond our maritime boundary to coordinate trafficking; drugs enter Sri Lanka mainly by sea. This Bill will help curb such operations. Previously, prosecuting those operating at sea or at the boundary was difficult; the amendment provides for action against those engaged in mid-sea trafficking.
Since 2009, drug trafficking and consumption in the Northern Province have risen. From 2023, arrests in the North have reportedly increased by about 25% year-on-year. Families have suffered economic, cultural, and moral decline. Crimes by drug users have increased; nearly 65% of thefts are committed by drug users. Hospital data, especially in Vavuniya and Jaffna, show a 35% rise in sudden heart attacks among males under 30, mainly due to ‘ice’. This is not confined to the North; it affects the entire country.
In the North, there are only about 15 rehabilitation beds per 1,000 identified addicts in recognized centres; this must be increased, with broader rehabilitation programs. In the Jaffna Teaching Hospital’s psychiatry division, one in four new patients is reportedly linked to drug use.
To rescue our country from drugs, the President has launched the national “Whole Country Together” program to eliminate drug activity from the village level upwards. I call on all to join this effort. Thank you.