Kottahena Schoolgirl’s Tragic Death Sparks Heated Debate in Parliament

A tragic incident involving the suicide of a schoolgirl in Kottahena became a flashpoint of intense debate in Parliament today, with opposition MPs raising serious questions over delays and alleged political interference in the investigation.

MP Mujibur Rahman, speaking during the session, criticized the Education Ministry and the government for what he described as a “delayed and inadequate response” to the case. He pointed out that although the incident occurred in October 2024 and police statements were recorded by December, the teacher in question—arrested in January 2025 on allegations of child abuse—was released on bail within two days. Despite the severity of the accusations, the teacher was transferred to another post only on May 8th, raising concerns over procedural lapses and accountability.

“Had the authorities acted faster, that girl's life could have been saved,” Rahman said, adding that the victim’s parents had directly accused a politically affiliated individual of humiliating the student in front of others. He alleged that this person is not only an organizer for the ruling party but also a former election candidate who received over 35,000 votes in the last parliamentary election. “Would this kind of police protection be given if he were from the opposition?” Rahman asked, noting that seven officers have been stationed outside the suspect’s residence.

Responding to these claims, ruling party MP Lakshman Nipunarachchi denied that the accused organizer had any direct involvement in the school incident. “He is not a teacher—he’s merely the owner of the institution,” Nipunarachchi stated. He accused the opposition of politicizing the tragedy and distorting facts, asserting that the matter is under investigation and that appropriate action will be taken against any official found guilty of wrongdoing.

The incident has provoked widespread public anger and protests, with many accusing the government of protecting individuals close to political power. Calls for a transparent and swift investigation continue to mount, as the education sector and law enforcement agencies face scrutiny for their handling of the matter.