The parents of Kaveesha Bandara and Varanga Somathilaka, two Sri Lankans participating in the ongoing eighth edition of the World Junior Wushu Championship in Indonesia, have lodged complaints on Wednesday (7) against Sri Lanka Schools’ Wushu Association Secretary Nilmina Sirisena and two other officials, Jagath Caldera and Prabhath Manuranga, alleging that they are behind a social media bullying campaign against the two athletes.

It is reported that both Manuranga and Caldera have been suspended from getting involved in any sports activities. Caldera was handed a seven-year ban after several malpractices with regard to wushu, while Manuranga has been temporarily suspended from all sports activities. 

These officials have allegedly bullied the aforementioned young players via social media platforms. 

The two athletes earned their place to compete at the world championships in accordance with International Wushu Federation rules, with their trip to Indonesia fully funded by the world governing body. 

Bandara won three gold medals and bagged the best player award in the 2018 all-island schools’ tournament; in 2019, he won two gold and two silver medals, while in 2022, he was placed first. Furthermore, he was placed seventh in the ninth Asian Wushu Championship and secured a silver medal in 2021 in a tournament organised by the International Wushu Federation. 

Varanga Somathilaka has also been among the best performers in the all-island tournaments, having represented the country in various international tournaments. 

In response to queries with regard to the recent developments concerning the young athletes, the Sri Lanka Wushu Federation said that they have sought legal advice on the matter and wish to take it to court. They have also complained against the aforementioned Nilmina Sirisena to the Education Ministry.