1,413 Crimes Against Women and Children Reported in Just Four Months.
A deeply disturbing picture of the state of women and child protection in Sri Lanka has emerged following revelations by the Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Savitri Paul Raj.
According to data released by the Minister, 486 girls under the age of 16 were raped between January and April 2026. These cases form part of 1,413 crimes committed against women and children during the same four-month period, highlighting a severe child protection crisis that demands urgent national attention.
A National Emergency in Child Protection
These are not merely statistics; they represent the shattered lives, trauma and lost childhoods of hundreds of young girls. On average, more than four minor girls were subjected to sexual violence every day during this period.
The figures expose serious weaknesses in child protection systems, law enforcement, community vigilance and the timely delivery of justice. Every child has the right to grow up in safety and dignity, free from violence, abuse and exploitation. When these rights are violated on such a scale, it becomes a matter of national concern.
The Numbers Behind the Crisis
The 1,413 reported crimes against women and children included:
- 503 rape cases, of which 486 involved girls under the age of 16
- 211 cases of abuse
- 187 cases of grave sexual abuse
- 26 cases involving grievous bodily harm
These figures were compiled from complaints received by the police between January and April 2026.
Protecting the Rights of the Girl Child
The alarming increase in sexual crimes against girls is also a violation of fundamental child rights guaranteed under international conventions and national laws. Every girl child has the right to:
- Live free from sexual abuse, exploitation and violence.
- Be protected by the State, family and community.
- Access justice without unnecessary delays.
- Receive medical, psychological and social support after abuse.
- Continue her education and development without discrimination or stigma.
- Have her dignity, privacy and best interests safeguarded throughout legal proceedings.
Protecting these rights is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility shared by society as a whole.
Delayed Justice Encourages Criminals
Minister Savitri Paul Raj emphasised that one of the key factors contributing to the persistence of these crimes is the lengthy delay in prosecuting offenders.
Although complaints are reported to the police, court proceedings often take years to conclude. During this time, survivors and their families continue to suffer, while perpetrators may remain at large or avoid timely punishment.
Legal experts argue that justice delayed is justice denied, and that prolonged legal processes can discourage victims from seeking help while emboldening offenders.
Urgent Need for Legal Reform
Experts and child rights advocates are calling on the government to move beyond simply reporting statistics and take immediate action by:
- Establishing specialised fast-track courts for child abuse and rape cases.
- Strengthening penalties for sexual offences against children.
- Expanding victim support and counselling services.
- Improving child protection mechanisms in schools and communities.
- Enhancing police investigations and witness protection measures.
- Raising public awareness on child rights and safeguarding responsibilities.
The safety of children cannot wait. The protection of every girl child must be treated as a national priority, and swift, effective action is needed to ensure that those who commit crimes against children are held accountable without delay.
With the inputs from Aruna.lk