Ulapane Sumanagala Thera Criticises Government’s “Ratama Ekata” Programme

Ulapane Sumanagala Thera has accused the government of using police officers to pressure Buddhist monks into attending its “Ratama Ekata” national programme, while also criticising the government’s approach to Buddhist religious affairs.

Speaking at a media briefing, the Thera alleged that local police station officers were visiting temples and collecting lists of monks to be invited to the programme. He claimed that monks were being encouraged to attend through police involvement rather than through voluntary invitations.

He advised monks to participate only if they had received formal invitations. He also urged those attending to raise the issue of securing the release of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera directly with the President.

Ulapane Sumanagala Thera said the campaign seeking Gnanasara Thera’s release had been temporarily suspended out of respect for the Mahanayake Theras.

He also criticised Minister Sunil Senevi, questioning his public statements and commitment to Buddhism. Referring to the minister, the Thera described him as a “modern-day Devadatta” and argued that Buddhist conduct was more important than simply using the Buddhist name.

He further claimed that the government had initially stated that there was no separate Ministry of Buddha Sasana, but was now placing greater emphasis on religious education and Dhamma schools.

The Thera also dismissed other groups organising protest marches from Kandy, saying their activities, including the use of snake imagery, were not connected to his campaign.