The government today (21 March) reiterated its commitment to amending Sri Lanka’s strict abortion laws to permit termination in cases such as rape, incest and severe fetal deformities, with Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara assuring Parliament that steps are being taken to implement the long-delayed reforms.
During the Oral Questions Round in Parliament, SJB MP Ajith P. Perera queried the government on the delay in legalising abortion in specific medical circumstances, highlighting those similar proposals had been included in previous policy statements but never implemented. He urged the government to act decisively, arguing that further delays would only continue the cycle of inaction.
“Every civilised country has taken measures on this issue. It is not something we need to debate indefinitely. Our government and the governments before us have tried and failed, but this is a necessary reform in a society that values medical science and rational decision-making. Instead of seeking more opinions, we must take bold action,” Perera said.
In response, Justice Minister Nanayakkara acknowledged the urgency of the matter and confirmed that the government is following due process to enact the amendments.
“We are not stalling or avoiding this. There is a procedure to be followed, and we are taking the necessary steps. I assure you that we will not need the full four and a half years to implement this reform. We appreciate the Opposition’s support, and I am confident that with their cooperation, we can make progress swiftly,” he stated.
When pressed on the specific measures taken so far, Nanayakkara revealed that over 60 pending legal amendments, including abortion law reforms, are under review. He assured that the groundwork is being laid and that updates will be provided soon.
Sri Lanka currently only permits abortion when the mother’s life is at risk. Attempts to introduce exceptions for cases such as rape, incest, and severe fetal abnormalities have faced resistance from religious and conservative groups.
Under a Sri Lankan law that dates from 1883, anyone deliberately causing a miscarriage, except for the purpose of saving a woman’s life, can be imprisoned for up to three years
