May 17, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Police has raised concern over an increase in teenage pregnancy cases reported across the country, calling on parents, schools and communities to play a more active role in safeguarding children and supporting their emotional wellbeing.
In a public awareness notice issued by the Police Media Division, authorities stressed that weakening family relationships and limited communication at home are among the social factors contributing to the issue.
Officials noted that many parents, often occupied with demanding work schedules and financial pressures, may struggle to spend meaningful time with their children, particularly teenage daughters.
Police observations suggest that some adolescents who feel emotionally neglected at home may become vulnerable to outside influences while searching for affection, understanding or reassurance elsewhere. According to the statement, this can expose young girls to risky relationships, manipulation and situations that may ultimately result in early or unwanted pregnancies.
Authorities warned that teenage pregnancies frequently lead to serious long-term consequences, including disruption to education, emotional trauma, social stigma and reduced future opportunities. The statement further highlighted growing concerns surrounding excessive mobile phone usage and unsupervised social media interactions among teenagers.
Officials pointed out that many young people increasingly rely on digital platforms for emotional connection when communication within the family breaks down. As a result, parents have been encouraged to maintain open conversations with their children and stay aware of their online activities without creating fear or mistrust.
The police advised families to create a home environment where children feel safe discussing personal problems, uncomfortable experiences or inappropriate behaviour they may encounter. Parents were also urged to observe sudden behavioural changes such as withdrawal from family activities, secrecy, declining school performance or excessive internet use, as these may indicate emotional distress or external influence.
Teenagers themselves were encouraged to use social media responsibly and avoid trusting strangers encountered online. Authorities cautioned against sharing personal photographs, videos or sensitive information with unknown individuals, warning that online exploitation and manipulation remain serious threats.
The statement also encouraged children facing fear, pressure or abuse to seek immediate help from trusted adults including parents, teachers or school principals rather than remaining silent.
Sri Lanka Police further reminded the public that incidents involving abuse, exploitation or threats against children should be reported without delay to the nearest police station or through emergency assistance hotlines including 119, 118, 109 and 107.