The government has blocked the websites since Saturday, accusing them of committing character assassination and insulting people, including key political leaders.

On Tuesday, the EU Heads of Mission in Colombo said “they view with concern” the blocking of the websites.

Sri Lankan laws do not restrict the press from criticizing leaders, but media can be charged for defamation.

The government did not say what content it opposed, but the five websites have published material critical of the authorities and have raised allegations of corruption and malfeasance against politicians.