Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayathissa stated that the government has a responsibility to protect citizens whose rights are violated by harmful media content.
Speaking at a certificate awarding ceremony for graduates of the Sri Lanka Press Council’s “Diploma in Media Studies and Journalism,” he announced that new legislation is being drafted to address the impact of harmful content spread through social and digital media.
“The focus now must also be on protecting citizens whose rights are harmed by media,” Dr. Jayathissa said, adding that it is the state’s duty to implement laws that shield the public from such harm.
The event, held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall, celebrated the graduation of the 10th batch of diploma holders, bringing the total to 315 graduates.
Addressing the gathering, media professional Pathirana noted that the media environment has changed dramatically since the introduction of the Press Council’s media code of ethics in 1981.
He criticized modern media outlets for failing to correct false or misleading reports, despite the damage they can inflict on individuals and public trust.
Pathirana emphasized that shaping a responsible media sector is not only the government’s duty but a shared responsibility of all citizens.
He urged the public to engage with media content critically and act with awareness and accountability in the digital age.
