Assault on a Third-Year Student at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura's Faculty of Technology

 

It has been reported that a third-year student at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura’s Faculty of Technology was assaulted in his hostel and is currently receiving treatment at the Weligama Regional Hospital. The incident occurred on April 29, allegedly carried out by a group of third- and fourth-year students, according to the victim.

The student was reportedly attacked for not using a customary student alias within the university and for opposing ragging practices. According to the victim’s statement, about 20 students arrived on motorcycles, entered his hostel, and severely beat him on the head and back with helmets.

“On April 29, a group of third- and fourth-year students at the Faculty of Technology of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura assaulted me at my boarding place because I acted against ragging and did not use a student alias ( nickname or card) within the university,” said the victim.

“Around 20 students came on motorcycles and hit me hard on the head and back using helmets. I am requesting the authorities to ensure justice is served in this matter,” he added.

Following the assault, the student initially received treatment at Homagama Hospital. However, due to his condition worsening, he was transferred to Weligama Regional Hospital. The victim’s uncle stated that the student now suffers from persistent head pain.

“It was my nephew who was assaulted. They hit him on the head. After initially receiving treatment at Homagama Hospital, he was moved to Weligama due to worsening condition. They used helmets and clubs to beat him. Now he constantly complains of head pain. We are asking the authorities to deliver justice,” said the uncle.

This incident has once again brought attention to the ongoing problem of ragging within the university system. Despite ragging being banned in Sri Lankan universities, such incidents continue to surface. The victim’s statement suggests he was targeted for actively resisting these practices.

The victim and his family are appealing for justice. His uncle, in particular, has called on authorities to take appropriate action regarding the incident.

As of now, no official statement has been issued by either the university administration or the police. Nevertheless, education experts emphasise that incidents of this nature must be taken seriously within the university community.