Sri Lanka's Supreme Court has determined that the proposed Gender Equality Bill is inconsistent with the nation's Constitution. The court found the bill incompatible with several constitutional articles, particularly Article 12, which ensures equality before the law.

The Speaker of Parliament, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, announced the court's decision on Friday, saying that the bill cannot proceed without significant parliamentary and public support. To become law, it would require a two-thirds majority in Parliament and approval in a national referendum, as per Articles 83, 84, and 80 of the Constitution.

The Supreme Court's determination highlighted inconsistencies in the bill's clauses with various constitutional protections, including Articles 9, 10, 14(1)(e), and 27(1)(g). Specific provisions related to the establishment of a "Gender Focal Point" and the management of a proposed Council were also deemed unconstitutional.