The need to protect our children

On Tuesday, two children from Badulla succumbed to injuries after inhaling smoke from a fire that broke out in a hotel room in Batticaloa. It was reported that the mother of the two children was diagnosed with cancer and was receiving treatment at the Batticaloa hospital. They had come along with their father to see the mother. When the accident happened the two children were locked inside the room. Children are now being treated as an after-thought and many of these innocent lives are being neglected. It is quite unfortunate to see children being thrown to the receiving end of bullying, sexual abuse and all forms of harassment. Media reports indicate harrowing realities faced by children in impoverished segments of society. Another news item read that around 5000 children in Anuradhapura remain unprotected. According to the DIG of North Central Province T. G Sugathapala, sexual violence has increased in alarming proportions, and 36 rape cases were reported last year. Such incidents contribute to childhood trauma and, as a result, children carry these wounds throughout their lives. They will express jealousy and hatred towards other children brought up with much love and care. Therefore, a child’s upbringing matters in their journey of life and parents play a fundamental role in their upbringing.

Kishani Silva Battaramulla