UN Human Rights Committee Raises Concerns Over Blocking Colombo Telegraph

October 8, 2014

Concerns have been raised at the ongoing review of Sri Lanka’s human rights record about blocking news websites including Colombo Telegraph, Sri Lanka Mirror and Lankaenews.

Dr. Anja Seibert-Fohr

UN Human Rights Committee member Dr. Anja Seibert-Fohr had addressed concerns over the blocking of news websites that carry dissenting views and sensitive information and had inquired about the legal framework that has been used to enforce the blocking of websites.

The reviewing of Sri Lanka’s human rights record before the 18-member independent expert committee commenced yesterday and is ongoing today as well.

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History of Colombo Telegraph blocking

First -December 26, 2011 - We are blocked but we will not be stopped

Second - May 8, 2012 - Colombo Telegraph Blocked Again

Third - March 29, 2013  - Sri Lanka Blocks Colombo Telegraph and Selected Tweets: Colombo Telegraph Unblocked

Fourth - August 23, 2013 - Colombo Telegraph Blocked, How To Reach Us Now: Sri Lanka Telecom And Mobitel Joins The DPI Club!

Other attempts 

President Rajapaksa Phoned TRC Palpita To Ask Colombo Telegraph Blockade

October 26, 2012 - Colombo Telegraph Was Hacked

August 9, 2012 ColomboTelegraph Password Cracking Attempt Blocked

Freedom House Report: Freedom On The Net 2012, Sri Lanka Is A Country At Risk