Prisons Department denies force used on detained Buddhist monk

The Department of Prisons issued a statement dismissing allegations that the senior Buddhist monk was compelled to don prison attire against his wishes during his incarceration at the facility. The denial came in response to claims made by Gammanpila at a press conference in Colombo on October 12, where he asserted that Ven. Gnanasara Thera had objected to wearing standard prison garments.

Gamemanpila had contended that the monk's refusal to accept prison clothing was ignored by authorities, raising concerns about the treatment of detainees at the correctional facility. The former government minister's comments drew attention to conditions and procedures governing inmates at one of Sri Lanka's largest prisons.

The prisons department's response represents an official rebuttal to the allegations, though no additional details regarding the circumstances of the monk's detention or dress protocols have been disclosed. The statement underscores differing accounts regarding procedures at Welikada Prison and how authorities manage the accommodation of religious figures in custody.