HRCSL reports an increase in child rights violations, particularly cases involving corporal punishment

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has raised concerns over an increase in reports of child rights violations, particularly cases involving corporal punishment.

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In a statement issued on Wednesday (15), the Commission said such practices caused not only physical injury but also lasting emotional harm, which in some cases had led to trauma and even suicide.

Referring to the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill gazetted on 4 July 2025, the HRCSL said the proposed legislation sought to prohibit all forms of cruel, degrading and harmful punishments both physical and nonphysical against anyone under 18 years of age.

The text of the statement signed by HRCSL Chairman Justice L. T. B Dehideniya:

"The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) observes an increase in reports of child rights violations, particularly cases involving corporal punishment. These practices not only cause physical injury but also create lasting emotional harm, which in some instances has led to severe trauma and even suicide.