Srilanka, May 18 -- Bullying, often normalised as part of the university subculture, has long been entrenched in Sri Lanka's public universities. However, this deeply rooted practice has led to devastating consequences for students including psychological trauma, physical injury, and even death. Although strict laws exist to curb bullying, questions persist about their effectiveness and the continued reluctance of victims to speak out.

Legal framework

Prof. Nirmal Ranjith DewasiriProf. Nirmal Ranjith Dewasiri In response to the rising number of bullying incidents, the Government enacted the Prohibition of Bullying and Other Forms of Violence in Educational Institutions Act No. 20 of 1998. This law criminalises freshman harassment, defi...