Members of the People’s Majlis have expressed their full support for a proposed amendment to the Prevention of Terrorism Act, which seeks to classify the act of vandalizing or damaging mosques as an act of terrorism. The bill, introduced by the Member for Galolhu North constituency, Mohamed Ibrahim, was unanimously accepted by the Parliament for further deliberation.
The primary objective of this amendment is to ensure the sanctity and security of mosques following an increase in reported incidents of vandalism. During the debate, members highlighted that this bill would close existing loopholes where individuals often escape legal accountability by pleading insanity or mental instability. Members of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) also voiced their complete support for the bill, pledging to expedite the legislative process during the committee stage. Under the current Prevention of Terrorism Act, individuals convicted of such crimes could face imprisonment terms ranging from 20 to 25 years.
