BASL condemns brutal ragging incident, demands justice for Sabaragamuwa University tragedy

Wednesday, 7 May 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has voiced strong condemnation over the tragic suicide of a Sabaragamuwa University student, allegedly driven by a brutal act of ragging—calling it an ‘inhuman and unlawful’ violation of both legal standards and fundamental human decency.

“The BASL strongly condemns any form of ragging, bullying or violence directed at any student at any educational institution which is not only violative of the law but also in violation of basic human values and conduct,” the association noted issuing a statement, urging immediate and decisive action to ensure justice and protect students across the country. It is also the belief of BASL that some of the recent incidents of ragging have been caused due to the dereliction of duty on the part of the relevant institution, and these authorities must be held accountable for the same.

BASL noted that it is deeply concerned about the inadequate implementation of the provisions of the ‘Prohibition of Ragging and Other Forms of Violence in Educational Institutions Act No. 20 of 1998’, by law enforcement authorities, against perpetrators of ragging and violence in these institutions.

“The BASL is also mindful of the applicability of the provisions of the ‘Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment Act No. 22 of 1994’ and the relevant provisions of the Penal Code,” it reads. BASL urged all responsible authorities in universities and other high educational institutions to take necessary preemptive action and incorporate a zero-tolerance policy on unlawful ragging.

“The BASL will closely monitor the case filed by the Samanalawewa Police in the Magistrate’s Court of Balangoda and urges the authorities to take all necessary legal measures to ensure the rule of law and the due enforcement of the law,” it added.

BASL noted that it is also considering seeking intervention of the Courts of Law to ensure better implementation and enforcement of the applicable law.

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