. English, ENGLISH, What is the best argument for the prosecution of a defendant in a criminal trial?.The religious freedom act of 2014 (REFA) amended the Constitution to enshrine the status of church and state in Sri Lanka. It also defined freedom of religion and expression.
The first amendment to the Constitution in the history of the country is a historic moment. It represents an agreement between political parties to protect minority religions in the country.
The first amendment was passed in 2015. However, it was a controversial one. Opposition parties such as the SLFP and UNP had reservations about the effects of the proposed amendments to the Constitution.
These amendments were finalized by the Constitutional Council in a joint sitting on July 17, 2015. It was then passed by the Parliament, after ratification by the President. The amendments entered into force on April 5, 2016.
It is now clear that the first amendment is a landmark amendment. It comes as a monumental shift in the country's constitutional history. The public and the media alike have widely hailed this major change.
One of the first amendments states that, "No religious or denominational authority or institution whatsoever shall be granted or recognized by law."
The definition of an official religion was also amended. The amendment also states that, "The State shall preserve the public order and protect the right and freedom of each individual to profess his or her religion or belief."
Also read: In New York, US religious freedom bill wins plenary endorsement
The amendment also states, "The State shall guarantee the equality before the law and the equality of all persons before the law of the enjoyment of civil and political rights and freedoms."
The amendment also points out the right of "each individual to profess his or her religion or belief" under Article 30.
An official status of religion is also granted to Buddhism under Article 30(2).
Articles 30 and 32 were also amended. Article 30 now states that "The State shall protect the right of the individual to profess his religion or belief in public or in private."
Article 32 states that "No act shall be deemed to be against public order or morality or an offense against the State or national or religious interests by reason of his or her belief or religious activity."
The amendment was passed with five votes in favor and none against it. It was opposed by two members of the Constitutional Council.
The amendment by its passage comes as a complete rejection of the ac619d1d87
Related links:
Comments