Colombo, Oct. 14 (Daily Mirror) -The Department of Prisons has denied allegations that the robes of Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera was improperly removed inside prison facilities, saying no such incidents or violations of prison regulations have been reported or observed.
Prisons Spokesman and Commissioner of Prisons Senaka Pallewatta made the clarification at a media briefing, stating that prison authorities operate within the legal framework governing correctional institutions and have no legal provision to take arbitrary action against members of the clergy in custody.
Addressing a press conference in Colombo on October 12, Udaya Gammanpila alleged that Gnanasara Thera had been forcibly made to wear a prison uniform despite objections from the monk and prison officers.
Addressing questions about the allegations, Pallewatta said the department had not received any formal complaints substantiating claims that the robes of incarcerated clergy members had been removed improperly.
He also said prison officials had not observed any such irregularities within the prison system.
Commenting on the appointment of a special committee to examine matters concerning incarcerated members of the clergy, Pallewatta confirmed that a committee had been established to investigate the relevant issues.
The committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations shortly. Further administrative decisions will be made transparently based on the findings of the report, he said.