Buddhist Monks’ Protest for Gnanasara Thero’s Release Enters Seventh Day

A group of Buddhist monks staging a Satyagraha at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo is continuing its protest for the seventh consecutive day today (October 22), calling for the release of Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero.

The demonstration commenced on October 16 after the monks sought intervention from the authorities regarding their demand. Despite discussions with officials, the protesters have maintained their position that the campaign will continue until Gnanasara Thero is released.

Before moving to Viharamahadevi Park, the monks assembled outside the Presidential Secretariat and later visited the Ministry of Buddhasasana. They held talks with the Ministry’s Secretary but subsequently expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome of the discussions.

Following the meeting, the group relocated to Viharamahadevi Park, where the monks announced their decision to continue the Satyagraha until their demand was met.

The protest also saw tensions between the demonstrators and police on its opening day, October 16, when an attempt to set up a temporary structure at the site led to a confrontation.

The monks remain at the park as the demonstration enters its seventh day, reiterating their determination to continue the protest until Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero is released.