Colombo school abuse allegations raised in Parliament

Allegations concerning the sexual abuse of three students at a prominent boys' school in Colombo were brought before Parliament today by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa.

The most serious accusations involve a security officer from the school who allegedly assaulted the boys on October 4.

Addressing the house, Premadasa claimed that two teachers who tried to alert the principal to the matter were subsequently threatened by the principal.

He voiced concerns over the alleged inaction taken since the incident.

"Per information received as of now, the school principal and teachers have not taken any measures concerning the affected children.

The victims have not been subjected to a medical examination.

No action has been taken against the security firm or the security officer in question.

Premadasa further alleged that parents attempting to report the abuse were discouraged, being told the legal process would be long and involve court appearances for the children.

He called on the government to conduct a comprehensive probe into the case, noting that a protest is planned outside the school.

In response, Government Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa confirmed that both the Education Ministry and the Police have already launched investigations.

Minister Jayatissa stressed the government's commitment to child protection.

"The government will take stringent measures against any incident causing bodily or mental abuse to children. Not only through legal means, but inter-ministerial measures are also being implemented for the protection of children. Only through a severe response from the authorities could such incidents be prevented in the future."

The Minister concluded by affirming that the authorities will take robust action against any individual found responsible for harming children.