An analytical case study on child rights, accountability of religious institutions, and the prevention of sexual abuse, based on the Court of Appeal judgment affirmed on 14 May 2026.
Religious institutions and educational environments are expected to provide children with safety, care, and moral guidance. However, this case study focuses on a landmark decision of the Sri Lankan Court of Appeal concerning the grave sexual abuse of a 9-year-old novice monk, where the trust placed in a religious setting was tragically violated. By completely dismissing the offender’s appeal and affirming both the prison sentence and compensation order imposed by the High Court, the Court of Appeal delivered a powerful message regarding the protection of children’s rights and the enforcement of justice against sexual offenders. This report provides an in-depth analysis of child protection, the accountability of religious institutions, and emerging developments in the law of evidence.
