A writ petition has been filed before the Court of Appeal challenging the decision by prison authorities to remove the monastic robes of Venerable Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thero, who is serving a prison sentence.

The petition was filed by Venerable Thiniyawala Palitha Thero, who argues that the decision violates prison regulations and Buddhist disciplinary rules.

The petitioner has requested an order invalidating the decision, as well as any prison regulation or circular requiring such action. An interim injunction has also been sought to prevent the removal of Gnanasara Thero’s robes.