Three-member committee to probe into Sabaragamuwa Uni student’s death

• Police reiterate that ragging is a criminal offence in Sri Lanka

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

A three-member committee has been appointed to investigate  the sudden death of a second-year student at the Sabaragamuwa  University, who reportedly committed suicide following an alleged  incident of ragging.   

Vice-Chancellor of Sabaragamuwa University, Professor Sunil  Shantha said the committee has been appointed under the chairmanship of  Senior Professor A.A.Y. Amarasinghe.   

Professor Kapila Ratnayake and Attorney-at-Law Y.S. Chandrasekara have been appointed as other members of the committee.   

The Vice-Chancellor said that the committee has been  instructed to investigate the facts regarding the death of the student  and provide relevant observations and conclusions promptly.   

Meanwhile, the Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF)  called for an impartial investigation into the death of the student.   

Police have launched an investigation based on a complaint  lodged with the Samanalawewa Police by a fellow student, who claimed the  death was linked to ragging.   

Authorities are currently working to determine whether the  deceased had been subjected to ragging and to identify any individuals  responsible. Ragging is a criminal offence in Sri Lanka, police  emphasised, stating that anyone found guilty will be prosecuted under  the law.   

Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, IUSF Convenor  Madushan Chandrajith urged authorities to ensure a fair and impartial  inquiry.   

He said the IUSF will fully support efforts to hold those responsible accountable, if the allegations are proven.   

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Higher Education announced that a  special team has been appointed to investigate into the incident. The  Ministry said it is coordinating with the University Grants Commission  and the university administration to assist with the probe.