Opposition, School Principals oppose new law banning corporal punishment

• Critics say the bill lacks clear guidelines on how parents and teachers should discipline children

By Yohan Perera  

The opposition and school principals have voiced strong concerns over the proposed Penal Code Amendment Bill, which seeks to ban both physical and non-physical forms of punishment for children. Critics argue that the bill lacks clear guidelines on how parents and teachers should discipline children when they engage in wrongdoing.  

Highlighting what he described as serious shortcomings in the proposed legislation, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stressed the need for the bill to outline practical alternatives for disciplining children.  

“The Penal Code Amendment Bill only prohibits violent and cruel punishment, but it fails to provide guidance on how parents and teachers should act to correct children and guide them towards becoming responsible citizens,” Premadasa said at a public gathering in Mihintale.  

“Legislation concerning children must be drafted with thoughtful consideration. It’s not just about banning punishment—it’s also about outlining how to help children when they stray,” he added.  

Premadasa pointed out two key perspectives regarding the bill. “There are those with liberal ideologies who argue that children should never be subjected to physical punishment, citing human rights violations. On the other hand, many emphasise the importance of correcting children’s behaviour when they go astray. Remaining silent when a child misbehaves is not an option. Parents and teachers must act responsibly.”  

He called for the legislation to not only ban harmful disciplinary practices but also support educators and parents with constructive methods of discipline.  

His remarks came just a day after the Graded Principals’ Association raised similar concerns. The association called on the Ministry of Education to issue clear guidelines on how schools should handle disciplinary issues—particularly cases involving students with coloured hair or wearing fashionable attire.  

Nimal Mudunkotuwa, Secretary of the Graded Principals’ Association, warned that teachers and principals could face significant challenges if the bill is enacted in its current form.  

“Without clear guidance, school authorities will be left in a difficult position,” Mudunkotuwa said, urging the Education Ministry to take immediate action to clarify disciplinary protocols in line with the proposed legal changes.