November 15, Colombo (LNW): Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paul Raj has called for greater vigilance in protecting vulnerable children following a disturbing incident in the Knuckles region, where a 15-year-old girl was found with a newborn after an unsafe childbirth.
In a statement released on 14 November, the Minister expressed deep distress over the circumstances surrounding the incident, saying it had affected her profoundly, particularly from a mother’s perspective. She was, however, relieved to learn that both the teenage girl and the newborn had been brought to safety.
The Minister confirmed that relevant government agencies had been directed to take immediate action to provide the necessary assistance to both children. She stressed that their medical treatment, psychological recovery and long-term welfare must receive priority attention.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the incident, Paul Raj pointed to weakening communication and emotional connections within some families, warning that children could increasingly find themselves without the support and protection they need.
She noted that the home, which should be a child’s first place of security, could become an environment of uncertainty when trust and understanding between parents and children are lacking.
The Minister urged parents and guardians to create an atmosphere in which young people feel comfortable discussing their fears, difficulties and personal experiences without worrying about being judged or rejected. She said children must be confident that they can turn to their families for protection and guidance, irrespective of the circumstances.
She also highlighted the responsibility of public institutions, community organisations and individuals who work with vulnerable groups, stressing that they must provide accessible, compassionate and reliable support to children facing difficult situations.
Meanwhile, the Ministry is preparing to introduce a new Alternative Care Policy in 2027, with financial provisions being made to support its implementation. The proposed policy is expected to strengthen arrangements for children who cannot remain in safe or suitable living environments and require alternative forms of care and protection.
Concluding her statement, the Minister emphasised that preventing abuse, neglect and other forms of harm against children cannot be left solely to government authorities. She called on parents, educators, public officials and the wider community to remain alert to warning signs and take a more active role in safeguarding children’s rights and wellbeing.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the importance of early intervention, accessible child protection services and supportive family environments in preventing vulnerable young people from facing dangerous circumstances without assistance.
