- Debate on who has the authority to make the decision
- Police require formal notification to take action
The Police Department yesterday (5) stated that they have not yet received any formal notice about the reported decision to prohibit local pilgrims and tourists from visiting Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) during the off-season, beginning on Vesak Full Moon Poya day.
The Chief Incumbent of Sri Pada, Ven. Bengamuwe Dhammadinna Thera has reportedly stated recently that local pilgrims and tourists are damaging the ecosystem around Sri Pada, so it has been decided to ban them from visiting Sri Pada during the off season.
Following his statement, there is an ongoing discussion on social media platforms about who has the authority to make such a decision, with many suggesting that Dhammadinna Thera can make decisions about Sri Pada, but he does not have the authority to make decisions concerning the surrounding ecosystem.
The Daily Morning sought clarification regarding this issue from Police Spokesperson and Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Nihal Thalduwa. After consulting with the Nallathanniya Police Station's Officer-in-Charge (OIC), he (DIG Thalduwa) indicated that the matter is still under discussion, and no final decision has been made.
"A meeting has recently been held with relevant Government officials and other stakeholders to discuss the conclusion of the Sri Pada pilgrimage season (the season starts in December and ends in May). During the meeting, this matter has been brought up, and it appears that those in attendance have reached a consensus. However, the Police have not yet received any formal notification on the matter. Without such written notice, the Police cannot prevent anyone from climbing Sri Pada."
When contacted by The Daily Morning, the Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Vidura Wickramanayake said that the Ministry had no involvement in the matter.
Attempts to contact Dhammadinna Thera proved futile.
Sri Pada, a revered religious site for those who believe in several religions including Buddhism, attracts visitors from both local and international backgrounds. For years, there has been ongoing discussion about the environmental impact on the ecosystem surrounding Sri Pada due to large crowds visiting it.