Sri Lanka is witnessing a troubling increase in teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse, with 28 cases reported in the first half of this year, according to the latest data from the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA).
The NCPA reports that teenage pregnancy, often a direct consequence of sexual abuse, has surged significantly, with 28 cases reported in the first half of 2024 compared to 18 during the same period in 2023—a concerning rise of 55.5%.
In addition, reports of rape and grave sexual abuse have remained persistently high. In 2024 alone, 23 cases of rape have been reported so far, nearly half of the total 50 cases recorded in 2023, indicating the possibility of an even higher figure by the year’s end. Furthermore, 157 cases of grave sexual abuse were documented in the first six months of 2024, continuing a disturbing trend from previous years, according to the NCPA.
These statistics from the NCPA highlight an increasingly dire situation. The rise in reported cases of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse underscores the vulnerability of Sri Lankan youth, particularly girls, who are disproportionately affected by these crimes.
Source – dailymirror.lk
