Quoting the report, Prof. K. Karunatilake of Kelaniya University’s sociology department alleged a delay in correcting the situation as politicians were ignorant of this social issue.

An increase in sexual relations before marriage and girls getting pregnant at a very young age have been the main reasons for increased illegal abortions, he has told BBC Sandeshaya.

Even among the married, inability to bring up children financially, extra-marital affairs too, contribute to the situation, said Prof. Karunatilake.

He said their discussions with MPs, both men and women, in the course of the research proved they were unaware of the gravity of the matter and were ignorant of practical steps to rectify the infatuation.

Clearly a demand for abortion

Responding to calls for legalizing abortion, he said there clearly was a demand for abortion.

Therefore, instead of allowing quacks to carry out abortions illegally, society should allow a control within legal limits, he said, noting such permissions were available in developed countries.

Commenting on sexual education in schools, Prof. Karunatilake said teachers were not carrying out a proper job of it.

A handbook titled ‘Uda Wu Youvanaya’ issued by the health ministry for distribution among schoolchildren remains in cupboards, he added.