In a statement issued on Wednesday (15), the Commission warned that such practices cause not only physical harm but also lasting emotional trauma — in some cases leading to severe psychological distress and even suicide.
Referring to the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill gazetted on July 4, 2025, the HRCSL noted that the proposed law aims to prohibit all forms of cruel, degrading, and harmful punishment, whether physical or non-physical, against anyone under 18 years of age.
The Commission further observed that Sri Lanka’s current legal framework already provides strong safeguards for children under the Penal Code, the Children and Young Persons Ordinance, and Article 11 of the Constitution, which ensures protection against torture and degrading treatment.
HRCSL Chairperson Justice L.T.B. Dehideniya emphasized that ending corporal punishment should be part of a broader national effort to encourage positive and respectful discipline that fosters children’s dignity and confidence rather than fear or violence.
The Commission also urged the public to engage in informed discussions about the proposed reforms and avoid misrepresentation or politicisation, cautioning that such actions could undermine child protection efforts.
Justice Dehideniya stressed that safeguarding children from harm is both a legal and moral duty shared by families, educators, policymakers, and society as a whole.
