The Hon. (Mrs.) Nilanthi Kottahachchi, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, there is a saying: “I may swing my arm as I wish, in any direction, but my freedom ends where another’s nose begins.” This applies to all, and is especially important for those engaged in mass communication.

¶ 02 A free and impartial media is a pillar indicating whether a country walks a democratic path, giving direction and restraint. In a democracy, independent, impartial, and responsible media is vital for public health and safety.

¶ 03 Today in Sri Lanka we face two risks regarding media. First, placing limitless trust in media, even as much of it spreads false or misleading information as truth. Second, placing limitless distrust in media, although we rely on it for information in the modern world. We must engage with media to connect with the world and gain knowledge, yet balance these twin risks.

¶ 04 Recently, two prominent TV channels reported the same government decision in starkly different ways. One sensationally ran: “Soon to give cheap ‘Sunil arrack’—the Government’s newest plan to intoxicate the whole country,” while another accurately reported: “A standardized product from Lanka Sugar Company unveiled by Minister Haluthunnehetti.” This shows how the same event can be framed either irresponsibly or responsibly. The public is not infantile; they can tell the difference between journalism and sensationalism. As a Government, we are not naïve; we can also discern the difference.

¶ 05 We recognize journalists who, at personal risk, bring truth to the people—such as Lasantha Wickrematunge, who wrote shortly before his assassination that fear was not in his vocabulary. Such genuine journalists existed then and exist now; we must honour them. They use their pens, cameras, and notebooks to steer the nation, fix the system, and correct wrongs.

¶ 06 As a Government, we bear a great responsibility to elevate media to a distinguished standard. Journalists exercise constitutional freedoms—speech and expression under Article 14—and the right to information through the RTI Act.