Buddhist Organisations Announce Satyagraha in Mihintale to Protect Rights of Buddhism

The All Ceylon Buddhist Congress has announced plans to hold a satyagraha in front of the Katusaaya in Mihintale on November 11, citing concerns over the current situation facing Buddhism and the need to safeguard the rights of the Buddhist community.

The announcement was made at a media briefing held on November 9, where representatives of Buddhist organisations outlined their plans and expressed concerns over issues affecting Buddhism and the Buddhist community in the country.

Speaking at the briefing, All Ceylon Buddhist Congress President Chandra Nimal Wakishta said the organisation would conduct a programme in Mihintale on November 11.

He explained that the programme would begin with a pledge-taking ceremony at the Mihintale sacred site, followed by a religious appeal near the Katusaaya, calling for appropriate action to address issues affecting the nation and religion.

He added that the organisers also intended to raise awareness about proposed measures and developments concerning the sacred city of Anuradhapura.

Wakishta stressed that the initiative organised by the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress had no political objectives.

Ven. Ulapane Sumangala Thero Raises Concerns

Ven. Ulapane Sumangala Thero said a satyagraha would be held in front of the Katusaaya on November 11, with the blessings of the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress.

He criticised what he described as secular and anti-Buddhist actions by the present Government, arguing that such issues needed to be openly discussed.

He also called on the Mahanayake Theros to take steps towards securing the release of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero.

The monk further expressed opposition to what he described as the actions of secular-minded rulers, maintaining that the protest was intended to defend the Buddhist Sasana rather than serve a political purpose.

He said the organisers intended to continue their opposition until their concerns regarding the proposed Katusaaya initiative were addressed.

Other Organisations to Join the Protest

Kalum Jayasumana, Executive Director of the People's Centre, confirmed that his organisation would also participate in the satyagraha.

He made allegations concerning groups he described as anti-Sinhala Buddhist, claiming that their rise to power was not accidental.

He also referred to an incident in which a group identified as the Helmet Brigade allegedly assaulted Ven. Kashyapa Thero with a helmet.

Jayasumana further criticised the ideological background of those associated with the Government, making remarks about their Marxist political beliefs.

Meanwhile, Roshan Maddumage, Deputy President of the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress, said the organisation was conducting the programme without political discrimination.

Responding to a question from the media, he clarified that the organisation did not accept responsibility for activities conducted independently at various locations by separate groups.

He emphasised that the planned initiative was a one-day programme organised by the Congress.