State Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Geetha Kumarasinghe, has announced the introduction of a new bill aimed at preventing domestic violence in Sri Lanka. The proposed legislation includes provisions allowing close relatives to file cases on behalf of women who are victims of domestic abuse. Additionally, the bill outlines the establishment of 11 temporary detention centers across various districts to support abused women.
Furthermore, Minister Kumarasinghe revealed that the Women's Empowerment Bill has been gazetted and submitted to the Cabinet for consideration. This amendment comes following a proposal by the Women Parliamentarians Caucus, with modifications made to existing provisions to enhance effectiveness.If passed in Parliament, the bill will also pave the way for the establishment of a National Women's Commission, underscoring the government's commitment to addressing gender-based violence and promoting women's rights.
Additionally, Minister Kumarasinghe highlighted the submission of a bill on gender equality to the Cabinet, signaling further steps towards legislative reform in support of gender equity in Sri Lanka.