Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for a new legal framework to protect the dignity of religious leaders rather than relying on colonial era laws, stressing that preserving social harmony must remain a national priority.
Addressing a meeting of the Samagi Vanitha Balawegaya in Moratuwa yesterday (13), the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) leader said that any responsible government must actively prevent religious and national divisions across the country, adding that Sri Lanka requires sensitive leadership capable of treating all communities and faiths equally.
His remarks were made in response to the public controversy following the removal of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera's robes and his subsequent court appearance in lay attire after his imprisonment.
The Opposition Leader clarified that he does not question judicial rulings or the legal process, but noted that disrobing a Buddhist monk remains a disciplinary matter strictly reserved for the Maha Sangha and relevant monastic chapters rather than state officials.
He emphasised that such reverence is paid to the religious symbol rather than the individual, asserting that equal respect must be extended to leaders of all faiths.
Premadasa urged immediate reforms to outdated colonial prison regulations and circulars to bring them into alignment with contemporary values.
He criticised the government for establishing a committee with a two week delay, saying that sensitive issues affecting national security and communal harmony require urgent executive action.
Political and legal commentators have similarly emphasised that all such disputes should be resolved within the existing constitutional framework, which accords Buddhism the foremost place while safeguarding the fundamental right to practice all religions.
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