Sri Lanka, Feb. 13 -- The Sri Lankan government's proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill has come under heavy fire for its "draconian" provisions, with critics warning it signifies the end of democratic freedom in the country.

Former Minister Professor G.L. Peiris dissected the legislation, arguing that the bill grants the state sweeping powers to suppress public liberties through arbitrary detentions and the prohibition of institutions. He warned that the enactment of the law could lead to the immediate cancellation of the GSP Plus trade concession, as the bill reportedly breaches the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

"This is one of the most dangerous pieces of legislation which have been int...