Minister CB Ratnayake has emphasized the importance of amending the country’s laws to prevent incidents of child molestation, human trafficking and child labour.
Speaking to media today, Minister Ranayake said the death of a 16-year-old girl who was employed as a domestic worker at the residence of Parliamentarian Rishad Bathiudeen should be another reminder to the entire country that the existing laws must be changed.
The Minister said however he is pleased that the law has been enforced without delay, irrespective of his position.
He said medical examinations have confirmed that the girl has been sexully abused before her death and relatives of MP Bathiudeen have been arrested.
Minister CB Ratnayake noted that attention must also be given to brokers who provide domestic workers from families residing in plantation areas.
He said labour laws must be strengthened to prevent children from being employed as domestic workers and also to avoid powerful persons from escaping after committing heinous crimes.
