World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Senior Buddhist chapters seek prison privileges for convicted monks
Sri Lanka's two principal Buddhist hierarchies have appealed to authorities for special consideration regarding monks serving prison sentences. The request follows the disrobing of a convicted monk in accordance with established ecclesiastical procedures.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The Malwatte and Asgiriya chapters, the two most senior Buddhist institutions in Sri Lanka, have formally requested that the Prisons Commissioner grant special concessions for ordained members serving custodial sentences.
Most Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana, chief prelate of the Asgiriya chapter, presented the petition to Prisons Commissioner Senaka Palletenna. The appeal comes in the wake of the disrobing of Ven. Galagodaatte Gnanasara, a monk who was defrocked following his conviction, a step consistent with long-standing Buddhist ecclesiastical protocols.
The nature of the specific concessions sought by the Buddhist hierarchies was not immediately detailed. However, such requests typically relate to matters including dietary arrangements, prayer facilities, and considerations regarding monastic dress and religious observance within correctional facilities.
The move reflects ongoing discussions between Sri Lanka's religious establishments and the prison system regarding the treatment of incarcerated clergy members. The appeal underscores the complex intersection of religious authority, criminal justice, and institutional procedures in the country.