May 28, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has announced plans to strengthen legal mechanisms governing Buddhist institutions, stating that the government is prepared to act firmly against any attempts to undermine Buddhism, including misconduct originating from within the clergy itself.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the National Vesak Festival in Matara, the President revealed that amendments to key sections of the Buddhist Temporalities Ordinance are nearing completion, paving the way for the establishment of a formal Buddhist Council aimed at improving accountability and discipline within the Sangha.
According to the President, revisions to Sections 41 and 42 of the ordinance have already been drafted following discussions with the Attorney General, senior representatives of the Mahanayaka Theras of all Buddhist chapters and the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs. He noted that broad agreement had been reached regarding the proposed reforms and indicated that the amendments would be introduced in the near future.
President Dissanayake stressed that generations of Buddhist monks had made immense sacrifices to preserve and transmit the teachings of the Buddha, and said it was now the responsibility of both religious leaders and the State to ensure that the integrity of Buddhism remains protected.
He observed that certain groups and individuals have attempted to distort Buddhist teachings while acting under the guise of religion, creating concern among both clergy and the public. The President said the government would not hesitate to intervene where necessary, adding that the support of educated and disciplined monks would be essential in maintaining the dignity and credibility of the Buddhist order.
The Head of State further emphasised that measures taken to preserve Buddhism should not be viewed through a political lens, but rather as efforts intended to safeguard the future of the religion and its values within society.
Addressing the broader national outlook, President Dissanayake said the country’s long-term economic recovery should go hand in hand with moral and spiritual renewal. He stated that sustainable development could not be achieved without strengthening ethical and cultural foundations within society.
Meanwhile, Venerable Omalpe Sobitha Thera, addressing the gathering, expressed concern over what he described as growing threats to Buddhist institutions and discipline. The Thera alleged that certain individuals wearing robes had contributed to the erosion of religious standards and called on the President to take decisive action, similar to the role played by ancient rulers in protecting Buddhism.
He also stressed the importance of amending the existing legal framework and establishing a Sangha Council to oversee disciplinary matters within the clergy. The Thera further claimed that both local and international forces, operating openly and covertly, were attempting to weaken Buddhism and its institutions.