News
Fatal assault of teen puts spotlight on teacher violence
View(s):By Hiran Priyankara Jayasinghe and Nathara Abeywickrema
The death of 16-year-old Ramisha Dinithi Thamel, a Grade 10 student at Martin and Forest College, Wennappuwa, has sparked serious debate over the role of teachers and their disciplinary methods.
Tragic death: Ramisha Dinithi Thamel
After allegedly being brutally assaulted by her class teacher and music teacher for leaving class without permission and lying about it, Ms Ramisha fainted and became gravely ill. The teachers reportedly dismissed her condition as a trick and failed to provide timely medical assistance. She had been unconscious for nearly an hour before her parents were called.
The girl was rushed to hospital but died three months later, following multiple surgeries and complications from excessive bleeding caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain.
The school serves children from low-income families, and while teachers
are praised for accommodating these students, the incident highlights the grave consequences of excessive punishment.
It underscores the failure of some teachers to recognise the mental and physical impact of their actions on vulnerable children. The teachers involved were arrested and remanded, with one teacher agreeing to contribute Rs. 300,000 toward medical expenses. However, the tragic loss of a young life has led to calls for reforms in how disciplinary actions are handled in schools.
Ramisha’s mother expressed her grief and frustration over the teachers’ neglect and inhuman behaviour, questioning why her daughter’s condition was not taken seriously. The case has raised broader concerns about the need for clear guidelines and accountability over student discipline.
Ramisha’s mother
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical responsibility of teachers over student well-being.
Education Ministry’s secretary, Nalaka Kaluwewa, said that the ministry does not support or condone the use of punishments at a policy level. He assured that appropriate action will be taken.
Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa added that, the final postmortem report is expected.
The assault on August 9 led to the student being admitted to Marawila Hospital, where she underwent surgery to the head. She was later transferred to Colombo National Hospital for specialised treatment.
Despite police efforts to record her statement on three occasions, her critical condition in the ICU made this impossible. She was later moved to Ragama Hospital for physiotherapy, but she died on November 13.
He added that teachers are entrusted not only with imparting knowledge but also with fostering a safe, supportive environment for students to thrive. Physical punishment, even in response to misconduct, is neither effective nor justified, as it can lead to devastating consequences. Instead, teachers are urged to employ positive disciplinary methods that guide and educate students without inflicting harm.
Understanding the diverse backgrounds and emotional needs of students is essential in addressing behavioural issues with empathy and professionalism. Above all, teachers must prioritise the well-being
of their students, ensuring that every action taken reflects their role as mentors and protectors.
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