STATEMENT - BIBLE STUDY GROUP!
How much more must women and children endure before just and effective laws are enacted to protect the innocent?
God Hears the Cry of the Vulnerable: Psalm 10:17-18 says,
"O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more." This indicates God's attentiveness to the needs of the vulnerable.
Recent online news reports have highlighted harrowing incidents:
"The suspect in the rape and assault of a female doctor at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital has confessed to the crime during police interrogation, revealing details of his criminal past."
"Tellippalai hospital staff have handed over a minor worker who is alleged to have raped a 35-year-old woman receiving treatment at the Tellippalai hospital."
These reports serve as a painful reminder of the trauma victims face. Despite their physical and emotional injuries, one of the victims responded with remarkable strength and responsibility, in stark contrast to the perpetrator who committed a premeditated, heinous act of violence without an ounce of remorse.
What right did he have to violate this young woman? Her life has been irreversibly scarred, her future forever altered. She was a doctor, walking to her specialist quarters after a day spent saving lives, only to be attacked by a man who disregarded her humanity and dignity.
This brutality is unacceptable. We call on Parliament to urgently review and expedite all pending legislation concerning the protection of women and children. Justice delayed is justice denied — swift action is needed to prevent further tragedies.
Speak Up for the Vulnerable:
Proverbs 31:8-9 advises,
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." This calls for advocacy for those who are defenseless.
Furthermore, we urge an overhaul of the education system to prioritize teaching morals and ethics in every school across the island, whether public or private. This curriculum must be mandatory, starting from Grade 1 and continuing throughout the educational journey, with weekly lessons designed to instill respect, empathy, and discipline in future generations.
We also appeal to religious and community leaders to integrate these teachings into Dhamma schools, Christian Sunday schools, mosques, and Hindu temples. Respect for all human and animal life, the importance of integrity, and the responsibility of good conduct must be foundational principles in every faith and community.
Only through collective effort — strengthening laws, reshaping education, and fostering compassion — can we build a safer, more just Sri Lanka for all.
Signed:
Responsible Citizens of Sri Lanka
Church of the Good Shepherd, Thimbirigasyaya — Bible Study Group
