The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has raised alarm over the growing number of child rights violations, particularly incidents involving corporal punishment, warning that such practices cause not only physical harm but also lasting psychological trauma.
In a press statement titled “Building a Safer Future: Strengthening Legal Protection of Children,” the Commission said some cases of corporal punishment have resulted in severe emotional distress and even suicide among affected children.
To address this, the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, gazetted on July 4, 2025, seeks to prohibit all forms of cruel, degrading, and harmful punishment—both physical and non-physical—against anyone under 18 years of age.
The HRCSL noted that existing laws, including the Children and Young Persons Ordinance, already safeguard children’s welfare, while Article 11 of the Constitution guarantees protection from cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Corporal punishment, whether at home, in schools, or care institutions, the Commission said, violates these constitutional and legal protections.
Chairperson Justice L.T.B. Dehideniya emphasized that ending corporal punishment is part of a collective effort to promote positive, non-violent discipline. “Discipline must be based on respect and dignity, not fear or violence,” he stated.
The Commission also urged the public to engage in informed, respectful discussions about the proposed legal reforms, cautioning against misinformation that could weaken child protection efforts.
Reaffirming that abolishing corporal punishment does not undermine parental or teachers’ authority, the HRCSL said it instead ensures that guidance is provided through safe, constructive, and nurturing methods.
“Protecting children from harm is both a legal responsibility and a moral obligation,” the Commission concluded, calling on families, educators, policymakers, and the wider society to work together to eliminate corporal punishment in all settings.
