Indefinite Curfew: Vulnerable Segments Require More Attention

The world is mourning. Sri Lanka too is in a critical state as two lives were already claimed by the killer coronavirus or COVID-19.

- Kamanthi Wickramasinghe

Although people continue to stay indoors, it may not be a merry-making time for all. A photo portrayed women being admitted to the National Hospital’s Accident Ward as a result of domestic violence, was widely shared on social media at the onset of the curfew. Another Twitter post by Protecting Environment and Children Everywhere (ECPAT) Sri Lanka stated that incidences of child abuse cases have increased by 33% during the curfew period. Several more vulnerable segments such as the special needs population, homeless and the elderly may also need more attention during these trying situations.

An opportunity to strengthen family unity

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the family to bond,” opined Savitri Wijeyesekara, Executive Director at Women-in-Need. “You can spend time with children and learn to understand and respect the family. Women and children are vulnerable in households where the husband/father is an alcoholic or a drug addict. The government is taking various measures to curb COVID-19, and we, as a country, have to support it. The virus is taking away many lives and we need to respect those around us. Our hotlines are working and our mobile counselling centres are also open for those who need support”, she said.

More cases from home

“Before the curfew was imposed, we used to receive around 40 complaints a day,” observed Prof. Muditha Vidanapathirana, Chairman of the National Child Protection Authority. “Out of them, we noticed that around 10% were in the category of domestic violence and cruelty to children. But after the curfew was imposed over the past week, we have received around 111 complaints out of which 36 were related to domestic violence.”