President of the Methodist Church of Sri Lanka Rev. Asiri Perera yesterday (14) criticized the decision to block social media during times of uncertainty in the country.
“This has disappointed many people, not only young people. I don’t know whether the blocking of social media will solve the problem and prevent various people from spreading rumours. When you block Whatsapp, there are text messages and people can make phone calls as well. My appeal to the authorities is when somebody posts things on social media which has a negative influence on society, they should be immediately arrested. Without arresting them and resorting to blocking social media only goes to put a lot of pressure on the people. When people’s feelings and thoughts are suppressed, it can have various repercussions and disastrous consequences on the country. I am appealing to the people, please don’t misuse social media, don’t use it for spreading rumours and for hate speeches. The authorities that are regulating these social media networks should get their act together and don’t block this platform. As this is the only way people can express their thoughts, when this platform is blocked, there is bound to be a negative response from the people.
He further added, social media helps people in expressing themselves, especially when there is a lot of anger and frustration. But if certain posts are detrimental, that issue should be addressed and solved immediately. Simple blocking of social media won’t help. This has now become a joke, and there are ways which people can connect to social media. Let people express themselves and the authorities should regulate it properly.
Rev. Perera speaking on the issues of weapons and swords being found in various parts of the country, said “ In recent weeks there were swords, knives and other types of weapons being discovered at homes and mosques. The question is being asked as to why so many swords and weapons were found. One of the things we must understand is that those who hold on to these weapons make an excuse, saying that they are for self-defence. That is debatable. Others will say why do people need such a large number of weapons for self-defence. Why are the people of this nation pushed to a situation where they feel they should defend themselves when there is violence against them?
Add new comment