PTA has been brought into the statute of this country once again in order to curb violence. PTA was originally introduced in 1979 as temporary measure but it came to stay permanently since 1982.

But the PTA lapsed following the signing of the CFA between the government and the LTTE in 2002.

The PTA has been activated once again under this act. A person or group of persons can be sentenced to a period between 10years and 20 years if found guilty. It also deals with a set of offences.

This move to implement the PTA once again has caused a sense of fear among the Tamil people. It was under this act that several people were detained for years without any inquiry. Offences under this act are non-bailable.

In any event, the government has not banned the LTTE. This was perhaps because the government feels that it could continue the peace talks through this.

Meanwhile, President Rajapakse has stated that the PTA will not be an obstacle to find a political settlement. He has assured the Tamil people that they need not entertain any fears.

The SLMM has sought clarification from the government over the PTA. They have expressed concern over the future of CFA in view of the provisions of the PTA. They seek clarification in particular about provisions 2.1.2 of the CFA.

An English translation of the Editorial in Virakesari, a Tamil daily, based in Colombo

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