Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lankan Buddhist monk sentenced to over 13 years for abusing children in Australia
A Sri Lankan Buddhist monk has been handed a 13-year jail sentence by an Australian court after being convicted of sexually abusing six young girls at his Melbourne temple. The judge condemned his actions as a fundamental breach of the trust placed in him by his religious position.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The monk was sentenced in Melbourne's County Court following his conviction on multiple counts of child sexual abuse. The victims, who attended the sentencing, reportedly reacted with visible distress as the convicted man displayed inappropriate behaviour in court, smiling and waving at supporters shortly after his sentence was handed down.
The judge presiding over the case characterised the crimes as a profound betrayal of the sacred trust inherent in his monastic role. The abuse of the six young girls at the temple represents a serious breach of duty by a religious figure entrusted with the care and spiritual guidance of vulnerable children in the community.
The conviction and sentencing reflect Australian authorities' commitment to prosecuting child sexual abuse cases, regardless of the offender's religious or cultural background. The case has raised questions about safeguarding protocols at religious institutions and the protection of children in community spaces.
The sentence of 13 years and two months includes a non-parole period, meaning the monk must serve a minimum portion of the sentence before becoming eligible for release. The outcome provides some measure of justice for the victims, though legal experts note the long-term psychological impact of such abuse on survivors.