Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called on the government to respect religious traditions and the dignity of the Buddhist robe following the court appearance of a jailed monk in lay clothing.
The statement follows media reports showing Bodu Bala Sena General Secretary Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera being brought before the Colombo High Court on Tuesday (06) dressed in civilian attire.
The Opposition Leader stated that while judicial authorities operate strictly within a legal framework, the executive branch must demonstrate sensitivity towards social conventions, cultural identities, and religious customs.
He noted that defendants are ordinarily permitted to wear suitable civilian clothes to preserve the dignity of the court.
However, he argued that forcing a Buddhist monk or any spiritual leader to appear in lay clothing without their explicit consent or the knowledge of their governing institution remains entirely inappropriate.
According to the Opposition Leader, determinations regarding the monastic status or official standing of any religious practitioner must remain under the exclusive authority of the relevant religious hierarchy.
He stressed that the government must ensure all such sensitive issues are managed strictly with the prior knowledge and endorsement of the Mahanayake Theras of the three main chapters or corresponding leaders of other faiths.
He added that state authorities must immediately cease actions that undermine established cultural boundaries and religious protocol.
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