Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has expressed regret over recent developments in a country where Buddhism is accorded the foremost place under the Constitution.
He stated that the constitutional provision granting Buddhism the foremost place is not being properly implemented at present, stressing that the relevant laws and regulations must be updated immediately to suit current circumstances.
Premadasa made these remarks during a meeting with Venerable Omare Kassapa Thero, Anunayake of the Sri Rohana Chapter of the Siamopali Maha Nikaya and Chief Incumbent of the Sapugoda Ilangamgoda Purana Rajamaha Viharaya and other temples in Kamburupitiya.
The Opposition Leader further stated that due recognition must be given to Buddhism as well as other religions and communities, while the monastic robes worn by Buddhist monks must always be treated with respect.
He stressed that instead of delaying the matter by appointing committees every two weeks, the relevant information should be gathered within 24 hours and regulatory changes introduced without delay to protect the dignity of the monastic robes and avoid interference with the attire and practices of religious leaders.
Premadasa also described the removal of monastic robes from Buddhist monks as an extremely reprehensible act, emphasizing that laypeople have no right to forcibly remove the monastic robes worn by members of the clergy.
He further stated that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) had submitted a proposal on the matter and that the Opposition would exert maximum pressure to bring about the necessary amendments to the relevant laws and regulations.
