With public anger mounting over a controversial Grade 6 English module, the government has ordered a full-scale CID probe into who cleared the content, raising fresh questions about accountability, oversight, and possible external interference in Sri Lanka’s education reforms.
Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala has confirmed that the Criminal Investigation Department has launched an independent investigation into the inclusion of the name of an inappropriate website in the Grade 6 English subject module. The move follows growing public concern over curriculum oversight and child protection within the new education reforms.
The Minister stated that the Secretary to the Ministry of Education has formally lodged a complaint with the CID, prompting investigators to begin recording statements from all parties who raised objections and concerns about the incident. These statements will be obtained in the coming days as part of a structured and evidence-based inquiry.
Wijepala emphasized that while allegations are currently circulating against multiple individuals and institutions, no conclusions will be drawn until the investigation establishes verified facts. He cautioned against speculation, noting that premature accusations could undermine the integrity of the investigative process.
Special attention, he said, will be directed toward the team responsible for proofreading and approving the Grade 6 English module, as this stage is critical in preventing errors and inappropriate references from reaching classrooms.
Meanwhile, Education Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa has indicated in his complaint that the Ministry holds reasonable suspicion about whether external influence or a deliberate conspiracy played a role in inserting the incorrect website name. The CID investigation is expected to determine whether the lapse was due to negligence, procedural failure, or intentional interference.
