Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has criticised the Government’s proposed 185A clause, claiming it could unfairly criminalise ordinary citizens and small business owners over administrative tax-related mistakes.

In a statement, Premadasa said the public was “not angry about paying taxes” but was frustrated by what he described as unfair treatment under the proposed law.

He alleged that delays in filing tax returns or registration issues could become criminal offences under the clause, warning that struggling small business owners may be treated the same way as individuals deliberately evading millions in taxes.

“That is wrong,” Premadasa said.

The Opposition Leader further accused the Government of taking “the shortcut of criminalising ordinary people” instead of reforming and modernising the Inland Revenue Department and simplifying tax compliance procedures.

Premadasa also questioned the Government’s commitment to tackling corruption and financial crimes, asking why stronger action had not been taken against money laundering, financial fraud, and individuals accused of misusing public funds.

“Go after the corrupt. Punish real fraudsters hard. But do not weaponise the law against the common man,” he said.

He added that the Opposition would continue to oppose laws it believes undermine “fairness, proportionality, and the constitutional rights of the people.”