The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) expresses deep concern over the growing number of complaints of child rights violations, particularly cases involving corporal punishment. Such practices cause both physical harm and lasting emotional trauma, which in some cases have led to severe distress and even suicide.

In response, the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill—to amend Chapter 19—was gazetted on 4 July 2025. The Bill seeks to prohibit all cruel, degrading, and harmful punishments, both physical and non-physical, against anyone under 18 years of age. The HRCSL welcomes this important initiative to strengthen the protection and dignity of children in Sri Lanka.

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HRCSL Press Statement on Building a Safer Future_Strengthening Legal Protection of Children 15-10-2025