The Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka’s main Buddhist Chapters have issued a joint statement urging the Maha Sangha to safeguard monastic discipline and uphold the dignity and respect accorded to Buddhist monks amid protests demanding a presidential pardon for Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera.
The statement, dated October 25, was issued under the signatures of the Chief Prelates of the Malwathu and Asgiriya Chapters, the Amarapura Maha Nikaya and the Ramanna Maha Nikaya.
The senior Buddhist leaders emphasised the importance of maintaining the dignity of the Buddhist Sasana and protecting the respect traditionally accorded to members of the Maha Sangha.
They also stressed the need to maintain discipline and act in accordance with Buddhist monastic traditions during protests and other activities.
Following the statement, Buddhist monks conducting a satyagraha at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo decided to temporarily suspend their protest, which had continued for the past 10 days.
Ven. Ulapane Sumangala Thera said the decision was taken after the Chief Prelates informed the protesting monks in writing that steps were being taken to secure Ven. Gnanasara Thera’s release through discussions with the government. (Newswire)
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