Sri Lanka to Repeal Criminal Defamation Law

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Friday, April 26, 2002

Sri Lanka to Repeal Criminal Defamation Law

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The Sri Lankan government has decided to repeal the criminal defamation law which provides for a two year jail term and fine for media personnel in the first week of May, local media reported on Friday.

Justice Minister W.J.M. Lokubandara said that the cabinet gave its approval to repeal the criminal defamation law on Wednesday.

A person subject to defamation may file a civil action for damages since the civil law of defamation will continue to remain.

"Those who feel that they have been defamed could continue to seek damages under the civil laws of this country," Lokubandara said.

The criminal defamation law has been in place since the Britishcolonial rule in the country which won its independence in 1948.

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