Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Buddhist monks establish protest camp at Colombo park
A group of Buddhist monks have set up camp at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo, pressing demands for the release of Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera. The monks previously staged demonstrations outside the Presidential Secretariat before relocating to the Ministry of Buddha Sasana.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The monks, who had maintained a presence outside the Presidential Secretariat throughout the day, shifted their protest location to Viharamahadevi Park on Wednesday afternoon. Their primary demand centers on the release of Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera, a senior member of the Buddhist clergy.
Delegates from the monastic group held discussions with officials at the Ministry of Buddha Sasana during the afternoon, though the nature and outcome of those talks remain unclear. The monks have chosen to establish a camp at the city park as they continue their advocacy efforts.
The protest reflects growing concern within Buddhist monastic circles regarding Venerable Gnanasara Thera's detention. The demonstration underscores the involvement of the sangha in pressing civil and legal matters affecting senior clergy members.
Authorities have not issued any immediate statement regarding the monks' encampment or their demands. The situation remains fluid as the monastic community maintains its presence in central Colombo.