Shakthika's FR petition was challenging about his arrest and detention

The Fundamental Rights petition filed by award-winning writer Shakthika Sathkumara challenging his arrest and detention over an allegation that he propagated religious hatred through a short story titled "Ardha" (Half) has been fixed for argument by Supreme Court.

 

On April 1, 2019, Sathkumara was arrested by Polgahawela police for allegedly propagating religious hatred through his literary work over offences under Penal Code and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights Act.

 

The Supreme Court had granted leave to proceed with this Fundamental Rights petition filed challenging his arbitrary arrest and detention.

 

On February 25, 2019, a Buddhist organization had lodged a complaint with the Inspector-General of Police  regarding the short story.