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| The University of Jaffna |
The University of Jaffna Teachers’ Association (JUTA) strongly condemned the recent sexual violence
against the female doctor in Anuradhapura saying that sexual assault has been used
as a recognized tool of dominance in ethnic conflicts, causing immense suffering to Tamil women.
"The stories that have surfaced are only a fraction of the many incidents hidden behind the iron doors
of societal and cultural restrictions," the university teachers body said stressing the timing of the incident where the news of a female doctor being subjected to sexual violence came as internationally and nationally, numerous initiatives are being undertaken in connection with International Women's Day.
"For generations, women in Sri Lanka have faced various forms of sexual violence. During legitimate uprisings against the government and the struggle for ethnic liberation, hundreds of women were subjected to sexual violence. Even today, the incident in Anuradhapura, where a female doctor has had to endure sexual violence, is deeply distressing. This act is utterly condemnable. Reports indicate that the suspect involved in this crime is either a deserter from the military or a former soldier. His background serves as a painful reminder of past atrocities committed by the Sri Lankan military against women,"
During the war, sexual violence was used as a weapon, and there was a deliberate neglect of justice. Although organizations such as Amnesty International and Channel 4 have strongly highlighted these issues, they have not been taken into consideration. This negligence has fostered an environment where
violence against women continues without fear of accountability. The Anuradhapura incident must be understood in this context, the statement said.
"Women constitute a significant percentage of the country’s workforce. As they are often compelled to migrate internally for work, their safety must be given paramount importance. Additionally, crimes committed by former military personnel, who were hastily recruited and inadequately regulated during the civil war, have been increasing across the country. Immediate attention must be given to addressing this issue, as it will help prevent future atrocities,"
"The Anuradhapura incident serves as a stark reminder to the authorities and the security forces of the urgent responsibilities before them. As the Jaffna University Teachers’ Association (JUTA), we strongly condemn the sexual assault on a female doctor. Our association stands in solidarity with the victim. We urge the legal and judicial authorities to not only take serious action regarding this incident but also to give due attention to similar past cases. Instead of merely enacting new laws, there must be strong mechanisms to ensure the proper enforcement of existing ones. A nation can progress only when its people can live without fear. We trust that the relevant authorities will take this matter seriously,"
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