Former UNP MP Ajith P. Perera said a group of lawyers from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya would appear for individuals who are unjustly arrested on the charges of "spreading false information. "

Perera and Attorney-at-law Gunaratne Wanninayake yesterday appeared on behalf of Swarna Malanthi - a woman who was arrested by the CID for spreading false information on COVID19.

Malkanthi was later released on bail. Perera, in a Facebook post, said they would continue to protect the rights of citizens who exercise their freedom of expression.

The Police yesterday said 19 persons were under arrest for spreading false information on the COVID19 outbreak in Sri Lanka.

The opposition says the government on a mission to curb freedom of expression in the guise of fighting COVID19.

The opposition maintains that the arrests are unconstitutional and has no legal basis.