Ministers complain to Chief Prelates on extremist Buddhist group
Thursday, 14 August 2014 01:19
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A group of ministers and parliamentarians yesterday met with the Chief Prelates of the Malwatta and Asgiri Chapters to discuss the threats and allegations levelled against Fisheries Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne by the extremist Buddhist organisation Bodu Bala Sena (BBS).
The group of ministers and MPs including Rajitha Senaratne, Janaka Bandara Tennakoon, Mervyn Silva, Salinda Dissanayake, Duminda Dissanayake and MP Thilanga Sumathipala briefed the Chief Prelates on the harm to the country and the people from the actions of the militant monk leading the organisation Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thero. The group has explained the Minister Senaratne’s recent spat with the militant monk and the Minister’s righteousness on the issue.
The Chief Prelates have assured to take action against any monk who violates the Buddhist principles and given their approval for the Government to take action against any monk who violates the law of the land.
The Government has come under criticism for ignoring the BBS Secretary’s actions and allowing the group to continue to threaten and intimidate religious minorities and those who support them.
Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thero last week accused Minister Senaratne of having links with the Tamil terrorist group, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
Minister Senaratne had spoken strongly against the BBS for inciting recent religious violence against the Muslims in Aluthgama and in his electorate Beruwala.
