• Kotte Chief Prelate seeks arrangements for re-robing ceremony

A Fundamental Rights (FR) petition has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking an order directing the prison authorities to produce the Bodu Bala Sena organisation’s General Secretary Venerable Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera, who is currently serving a prison sentence, before Court while dressed in his monastic robes. 

The petition was filed by Dr B A Rathnapala. It further seeks an order restraining the authorities from presenting Gnanasara to the media or the public in civilian attire or prison clothing, or while handcuffed, until the petition is taken up for hearing and a final determination is made. 

Additionally, the petition seeks an interim order prohibiting the photographing or video recording of Gnanasara, as well as the circulation or distribution of such images or footage, or granting permission for such activities, beyond the limits permitted under Section 156(2) of the Prison Rules.

Meanwhile, Chief Prelate of the Kotte Chapter of the Siyam Sect, Ven. Dr Ittepane Dhammalankara Thera, has written to the Commissioner General of Prisons seeking arrangements to re-robe Gnanasara Thera.

In his letter, the Chief Prelate has said that the process of allowing Gnanasara Thera to wear robes again must be carried out in accordance with the Dhamma and Vinaya (Buddhist teachings and monastic discipline).

He has informed the Commissioner General that a delegation of 10 Buddhist monks, including himself, is expected to visit the prison to carry out the necessary religious proceedings.

Accordingly, he has requested that the necessary facilities be arranged for the visit and that he be informed once the arrangements have been made.

He has also asked the Prisons Department to provide a suitable date and time for the proceedings.