Sinhala Protection Alliance, Lakjana Peramuna Raise Concerns Over Anuradhapura Sacred Area

The Sinhala Protection Alliance and Lakjana Peramuna have raised concerns over what they describe as threats to Buddhist religious interests in the Anuradhapura sacred area, warning that they may organise protests if their concerns are not addressed.

The groups expressed their views at a media briefing held under the theme of protecting the Anuradhapura sacred area, alleging that Buddhist religious sites and traditions were facing unfair treatment.

Shalika Perera of the Lanka Janatha Party criticised the government, claiming that its actions were not supportive of Buddhism. He urged the authorities to avoid measures that could affect Buddhist religious institutions and specifically warned against interfering with the Ruwanwelisaya.

Perera said a large-scale protest could be organised if the groups believed that Buddhist religious sites were being threatened.

Lakjana Peramuna Leader Voices Opposition

Ruwan Ratnayake, leader of the Lakjana Peramuna, also raised concerns about what he described as growing challenges facing the Sinhala Buddhist community.

He criticised certain government representatives and questioned decisions relating to religious and cultural practices, including the handling of traditional auspicious-times committees.

Ratnayake further expressed opposition to the establishment of places of worship belonging to other religions in areas he considers significant to Buddhist religious interests. His remarks reflected the groups’ concerns about religious sites and the protection of Buddhist heritage.

The speakers called on the government to take their concerns seriously and avoid decisions that could lead to further tensions over religious and cultural matters.

K. P. D. Ajith Nishantha, identified as the organisation’s treasurer, was also listed among the participants at the media briefing. However, details of his remarks were not included in the information provided.

The statements represent the views of the groups participating in the briefing. The specific allegations concerning government actions, religious sites and proposed developments were not independently verified in the material supplied.