The Supreme Court says that the Speaker will be informed regarding the decision taken on the motions submitted challenging the 20th Amendment to the Constitution, which was presented to the Parliament by the JVP.

The motions were taken up for hearing today (17) before a three-judge bench comprising Justices Sisira de Abrew, Prasanna Jayawardena and Murdu Fernando.

Submitting a motion for intervention on behalf of the JVP, Parliamentarian Vijitha Herath has stated that the 20th Amendment presented by his party does not violate the Constitution by any means.

Hence, MP Vijitha Herath sought the issuance of an order stating that a referendum is not required to pass the Bill.

Appearing on behalf of the Attorney General, Additional Solicitor General informed the court that a two-third majority of the Parliament, as well as a referendum, is required to pass the Bill.

The Supreme Court, concluding the three-day hearing, announced that it will be informing the Speaker of the decision taken on the motions challenging the 20th Amendment to the Constitution.

The motions had been filed by 16 persons including JO MP Udaya Gammanpila, National Organizer of Ravana Balaya Ven. Ittekande Saddhatissa Thero, Dr. Gunadasa Amarasekara and Attroeny-at-Law Palitha Senadheera, claiming that the 20th Amendment presented by the JVP is against the Constitution.

They sought an order from the court stating that a majority of two-third in the parliament and a referendum is required to pass the Bill, as it violates the Constitution.

Presenting submissions before the court, several parties including the JVP and the Center for Policy Alternatives have stated that a referendum is not required as the 20th Amendment does not violate the Constitution.