Sri Lanka’s National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) has launched legal action against a tuition teacher following a disturbing video that surfaced on social media, exposing his violent disciplinary methods. The footage, which went viral, shows the teacher not only using corporal punishment on students but also instructing a female student to beat a male student with a cane.
According to reports, the accused, identified as Yoshitha Hettiarachchi, was summoned by the NCPA for questioning regarding the incident. However, he failed to appear, prompting authorities to escalate the matter legally.
Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, when questioned about the case during a press briefing, confirmed that the NCPA was actively handling the matter.
Adding another layer of controversy, several complainants have alleged that Hettiarachchi leveraged political connections for personal gain. He has reportedly been seen in photographs with government ministers, including the Prime Minister, raising questions about his influence and potential protection from authorities.
Child rights activists are calling for stronger enforcement of laws to prevent such incidents from recurring. "No child should endure violence in the name of education. We need urgent reforms and strict action against those who violate children’s rights," stated an NCPA spokesperson.
What’s Next?
As investigations continue, the public is closely watching whether authorities will take decisive action against Hettiarachchi. The NCPA has assured that justice will be served, while legal experts emphasize the need for swift prosecution to set a precedent against child abuse in educational settings.
With growing pressure from parents, educators, and activists, Sri Lanka’s education system faces a crucial moment—will it uphold its commitment to protecting students, or will this case become another forgotten controversy
According to reports, the accused, identified as Yoshitha Hettiarachchi, was summoned by the NCPA for questioning regarding the incident. However, he failed to appear, prompting authorities to escalate the matter legally.
Legal Action Initiated Amid Mounting Public Pressure
As outrage spread across the country, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) received multiple complaints demanding justice for the students subjected to physical abuse. Hettiarachchi, who has been known for teaching Advanced Level Economics, has now come under intense scrutiny for his controversial disciplinary methods.Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, when questioned about the case during a press briefing, confirmed that the NCPA was actively handling the matter.
Allegations of Fraudulent Credentials and Political Ties
Further investigations have revealed allegations regarding Hettiarachchi’s academic qualifications. According to Sri Jayewardenepura University, where he claimed to have obtained his degree, he had not completed his undergraduate studies. This revelation has raised concerns about the legitimacy of his role as an educator.Adding another layer of controversy, several complainants have alleged that Hettiarachchi leveraged political connections for personal gain. He has reportedly been seen in photographs with government ministers, including the Prime Minister, raising questions about his influence and potential protection from authorities.
Corporal Punishment in Sri Lankan Education System
The incident has reignited debates about the prevalence of corporal punishment in Sri Lankan classrooms. Despite strict regulations prohibiting physical discipline, many educators continue to employ outdated and abusive methods to control students.Child rights activists are calling for stronger enforcement of laws to prevent such incidents from recurring. "No child should endure violence in the name of education. We need urgent reforms and strict action against those who violate children’s rights," stated an NCPA spokesperson.
What’s Next?
As investigations continue, the public is closely watching whether authorities will take decisive action against Hettiarachchi. The NCPA has assured that justice will be served, while legal experts emphasize the need for swift prosecution to set a precedent against child abuse in educational settings.With growing pressure from parents, educators, and activists, Sri Lanka’s education system faces a crucial moment—will it uphold its commitment to protecting students, or will this case become another forgotten controversy
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