Police security to be restored at Kurundi Rajamaha Viharaya

Police security at the historic Kurundi Rajamaha Viharaya archaeological site in Mullaitivu is to be restored, the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs has decided.

The decision follows a request by the temple’s chief incumbent, Ven. Galgamuwe Santhabodhi Thero, who wrote to the Ministry seeking the reinstatement of the police presence at the site.

Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi has informed the chief incumbent that immediate steps will be taken to provide the required police security, according to ministry sources.

Police officers had been deployed at the site since archaeological excavations and conservation work began. The chief incumbent said the officers had also taken action against individuals who entered the archaeological reserve without authorization and engaged in illegal activities.

In his letter, Ven. Santhabodhi Thera warned that the withdrawal of police personnel had placed the archaeological site, its antiquities and the adjoining forest reserve at risk.

The Thero further said various groups had periodically visited the site to stage protests and other activities, adding that police were empowered to take necessary action to maintain civil order.

The Chief Incumbent had therefore urged the ministry to reinstate the police security at the site.

The ministry has now agreed to take steps to restore the police presence at the historic temple premises.