Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Satyagraha for jailed Buddhist monk temporarily halted
A civil disobedience campaign demanding the release of Venerable Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera has been temporarily suspended following assurances from senior Buddhist clergy. Organisers said the three Nikayas have committed to resolving the matter through dialogue.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The Satyagraha protest, which commenced at Viharamahadevi Park on 16 October, has been put on hold pending developments in negotiations, campaign organisers announced. The decision came after the Mahanayake Theras representing the three principal Buddhist monastic orders pledged to intervene and seek a resolution through discussions.
The protest had been mounted to seek the release of Ven. Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera, whose detention has drawn concern from Buddhist community leaders. By temporarily suspending the campaign, organisers have signalled their willingness to allow the ecclesiastical hierarchy space to pursue alternative approaches to resolving the matter.
The government's position on the case remains unchanged, according to available statements. The move by senior Buddhist clergy to take up the matter reflects the significance the monastic community has attributed to the case.
Organisers have indicated that the Satyagraha could be resumed if negotiations do not yield results. The suspension represents a strategic decision to prioritise dialogue over continued public protest action.