October 13, Colombo (LNW): Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for immediate legal and regulatory reforms to safeguard the dignity of Buddhist monks, arguing that constitutional provisions recognising Buddhism’s foremost place must be properly upheld.
Premadasa expressed concern over recent developments concerning Buddhist religious practices, saying existing laws and regulations needed to be reviewed and updated to address present-day circumstances.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Venerable Omare Kassapa Thera, Anunayake of the Sri Rohana Chapter of the Siamopali Maha Nikaya and Chief Incumbent of the Sapugoda Ilangamgoda Purana Rajamaha Viharaya and other temples in Kamburupitiya.
The Opposition Leader stressed that Buddhism should receive the recognition provided for under the Constitution, while the rights and religious practices of other faiths and communities should also be respected. He particularly emphasised the importance of treating the robes worn by Buddhist monks with dignity.
Criticising what he described as delays in addressing the issue through repeated committee appointments, Premadasa argued that the necessary information could be gathered within 24 hours, allowing the relevant authorities to move swiftly towards regulatory changes.
He also condemned the forced removal of robes from Buddhist monks, describing such conduct as unacceptable and maintaining that members of the public had no right to strip clergy of their religious attire by force.
Premadasa further disclosed that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) had already submitted a proposal addressing the matter. He pledged that the Opposition would continue to press the authorities to introduce the necessary amendments without unnecessary delay.
