Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana yesterday conveyed the Supreme Court’s determination on the controversial Inland Revenue Amendment Bill. 

Accordingly, the Supreme Court has decreed that the Bill can be passed by a simple majority vote in the Parliament.

The court’s ruling brings clarity to a hotly debated legislative issue that sparked widespread public interest. The decision is significant, as it paves the way for the Bill’s potential enactment into law. 

In addition to allowing for a straightforward majority vote, the Supreme Court’s ruling also addressed concerns raised by petitioners. 

The Speaker emphasised that the Court found neither the challenged bill nor any of its provisions to be inconsistent with Article 12 or any other constitutional provisions. This judgment offers reassurance regarding the Bill’s constitutional compatibility, a matter that had been a subject of contention. 

The recent deliberations at the Supreme Court concluded a series of petitions filed by individuals, including activist Chaturanga Abeysinghe from the National People’s Power (NPP). These petitions expressed apprehensions that, if passed, the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Draft Bill could result in revisions to numerous levies and significantly empower the Inland Revenue Department as the primary agency responsible for tax collection and management on behalf of the Government.

The Inland Revenue Amendment Bill has been a topic of intense discussion both within and outside the Parliament. Proponents argue that the amendments are essential to modernise tax collection processes and promote revenue growth for the Government. 

Opponents, on the other hand, have raised concerns about potential consequences for taxpayers and the extent of the Inland Revenue Department’s powers. 

This development marks a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to shape Sri Lanka’s tax landscape and financial policies.

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