Former Minister Mahinda Wijesekara passed away yesterday at the age of 83. Wijesekara, father of former Minister Kanchana Wijesekera, served as a Member of Parliament for the Matara District from 1989 to 2010 and held several ministerial portfolios during his political career.

In 2009, he was seriously injured in an LTTE suicide bomb attack that targeted a religious event in Akuressa. Although he survived the blast, he suffered long-term health complications following the incident.

Regarded as a veteran politician from the Southern Province, Wijesekara played a significant role in both local and national politics for over two decades. His funeral is scheduled to be held on Saturday (4).

The Education Ministry yesterday issued a directive to all schools prohibiting corporal punishment. The move follows recent court observations emphasising the need for clearer guidance for teachers and school administrators on maintaining discipline without causing harm.

In a circular issued to education authorities, the Ministry has stated that no student should be subjected to punishment for disciplinary or any other reasons. The directive warned that there would be zero tolerance for corporal punishment, and those found responsible could face legal action.

The circular references Circular No. 12/2016 issued on April 29, 2016, and instructs school authorities to take disciplinary measures under Establishments Code 461/2012, which governs public officials.

School principals and education officials have been instructed to maintain discipline while safeguarding students’ rights and wellbeing. The directive has been dispatched to provincial education authorities, school principals, education directors, and other relevant officials for immediate implementation across all schools.

Seven books authored by Ven. Dr. Boralesgamuwe Pemaratna Thera, Viharadhikari of the Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya, including his doctoral dissertation titled “Buddhist Greeting Practices, Offerings and Rituals on the Basis of the Dharma,” will be launched at a ceremony on Monday (6).

The event is scheduled to be held at the auditorium of the National Library and Documentation Services Board in Colombo 7.

Six other books authored by Ven. Dr. Pemaratna Thera—Sithata Denea Budubana, Vas Viseema and Katina Pinkama, Vruksha Vandanaven Bodhi Vandanawata, Pirith saha Sathi Piritha, Pudapoojawala Abhichaeawidiwala Dharamaya ha Manochikithsamaya Padanama, and Daham Lipi Saranaiya—will also be released at the same ceremony.