TRC Refuses to Release Information On Lanka E News Ban Stating it Was A Threat To National Security?

Following directives from the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, the Sri Lankan mobile service providers blocked access to Lanka E News. The Website reported to have come under scrutiny after it ran a series of articles criticising President Maithripala Sirisena over a Russian warship deal.

Sampath Samarakoon, of Colombo 03 has made an application seeking information regarding the ban on Lanka E news under the right to Information Act. The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission in response has turned down an RTI request regarding the ban on Lanka E News, stating that the revelation of information regarding the ban was a threat to national security. TRC’s response came under criticism by many media activists.