Crimes against children up by 179%

By Ashwin Hemmathagama Our Lobby Correspondent

Crimes against children have increased by 179% during the two-year period starting 2009, according to UNP MP Sajith Premadasa.

“Although politically-motivated projects are taking place to divert public attention, serious crimes are being committed against women and children in Sri Lanka. These crimes are increasing at an alarming rate, and the Ministry of Child Development and Women’s Affairs has failed to take necessary action to control the situation,” said MP Premadasa, addressing the House during the questions for oral answers.

Responding to MP Premadasa, Deputy Minister of Child Development and Women’s Affairs M.L.A.M. Hizbullah stated that he agreed that there was an increase of 74 per cent in petty crimes and a 27% increase in serious crimes committed against women and children during 2008-2011.

“We are looking at appointing an officer in each Divisional Secretary Office and also societies at the grassroots to get information about such activities and to punish the culprits,” said Deputy Minister Hizbullah.