Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka mulls changes to prison rules governing Buddhist monks
The government is considering revisions to prison regulations affecting Buddhist monks serving sentences, including provisions for wearing monastic robes outside detention facilities. The Justice Ministry's announcement follows submission of an interim committee report on the matter.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara announced yesterday that the government is reviewing prison regulations to address the treatment of Buddhist monks in custody. Proposed changes include allowing monks to wear their traditional robes when taken outside prison premises, according to the minister's statement.
The review follows an interim report submitted by a specially appointed committee tasked with examining prison policies affecting members of the Buddhist sangha. The committee's findings have prompted the government to consider broader amendments to existing detention facility regulations.
However, opposition lawmakers have questioned the effectiveness of the committee's work. The United National Party (UNP) characterized the appointment of the review committee as mere "eyewash," suggesting the government lacks genuine commitment to meaningful reform of prison conditions for Buddhist inmates.
The proposed regulatory changes would represent a significant shift in prison administration, potentially granting Buddhist monks greater freedom to maintain religious observance and monastic identity while serving sentences. Details regarding the full scope of proposed amendments remain to be clarified by the Justice Ministry.