HRCSL Raises Alarm Over Deaths in Police Custody and Human Rights Violations in Schools

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Chairman of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL), Nimal Punchihewa, has revealed that 49 individuals have died in police custody between 2020 and March 2025, with an additional 30 deaths occurring during confrontations involving the Police. He described these figures as deeply concerning, especially as the Police are entrusted with the duty of upholding law and order—not violating it.

Punchihewa made these remarks at a human rights awareness programme held at the Kandy District Secretariat, organised by the HRCSL’s Kandy District Coordination Office to strengthen human rights protection mechanisms and reinforce the rule of law among public officials.

Highlighting emerging trends, Punchihewa stated that more complaints of human rights violations are now being reported from within the school system than from law enforcement agencies. “We receive numerous reports of teachers physically punishing students, along with incidents of ragging and other abusive behaviour,” he said. He stressed that teachers have no legal authority to inflict physical or mental harm on children under the guise of discipline, and that ragging constitutes a violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms under Sri Lankan law.

Addressing misconduct by law enforcement, Punchihewa clarified that while only a small number of officers are responsible for such abuses, their actions severely damage the credibility of the entire Police Department. “The erosion of public trust and respect toward the Police is alarming. Only by working closely with the people can the Police truly serve the nation,” he added.

Punchihewa also spoke against the unlawful arrests of women alleged to be involved in prostitution, stating that police officers cannot arrest women merely for being present at massage parlours. “The law allows action only against brothel operators. Women cannot be arrested unless proper investigations are conducted and judicial authorization is obtained,” he explained. He noted that while there is no legal restriction on detaining individuals for social health screenings, arrests must follow due legal process, unless carried out under specific provisions like the Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases Ordinance.

The event was also addressed by Kandy District Secretary Indika Udawatta and HRCSL Kandy District Coordinator Wiranjan Dias Sumanasekara, who emphasized the importance of safeguarding human rights at all levels of governance and public service.

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