Hemal Ranasinghe Calls for Peaceful Resolution to Ruwanweli Maha Seya Protest

Popular Sri Lankan actor Hemal Ranasinghe has called for a peaceful and lawful resolution to the ongoing fast-unto-death protest near the historic Ruwanweli Maha Seya in Anuradhapura, expressing concern over rising tensions and the potential impact on religious harmony.

Identifying himself as a Sri Lankan Buddhist, Ranasinghe urged all parties to avoid fuelling religious and ethnic divisions and instead seek a resolution through dialogue and the intervention of the judiciary, the government and senior Buddhist monks.

The protest, led by Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thero and several other Buddhist monks, is linked to opposition to the proposed Anuradhapura Sacred City Development Plan, as well as demands concerning the release of Ven. Galagodaatte Gnanasara Thero.

Tensions escalated on November 12 when a confrontation broke out after another group arrived at the protest site. The incident reportedly involved physical clashes, injuries and police intervention, with three monks subsequently taken into police custody.

Amid the developments, Ranasinghe emphasised the importance of safeguarding religious harmony, respecting the dignity of sacred sites and protecting the rights of local residents. He called on everyone involved to uphold peace, coexistence and the rule of law.

The incident has sparked wider public discussion about religious heritage, urban development, freedom of peaceful protest and the importance of resolving sensitive issues without confrontation.

His appeal comes amid growing calls for dialogue and cooperation among all stakeholders to find a peaceful and lasting resolution to the situation.