The Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights has recommended the complete removal of Clause 73 on corporal punishment from the Education Bill (Bill No. 34 of 2025), despite strong public support for its return.
In its report to Parliament, the Committee said there was “no justification” for including provisions on corporal punishment, citing constitutional protections for children under Section 41(d), which guarantees the right “to be protected from abuse, neglect, harmful cultural practices, any form of violence, inhumane treatment and punishment, and hazardous or exploitative labour.”
The Committee acknowledged that public submissions revealed mixed but significant support for corporal punishment. Of those who responded, 60 per cent agreed that school heads should be allowed to administer it.
However, the Committee’s own consultations at community-level meetings found even stronger sentiment, with more than 90 per cent of participants supporting the return of corporal punishment in schools and at home.
Despite this, the Committee maintained that the Constitution provides clear guidance on the issue, reinforcing the need to prioritise child protection over public opinion.
The report has now been tabled in Parliament for consideration as debate on the Education Bill continues.
