The government expects to introduce new prison regulations within two weeks to allow Buddhist monks serving prison sentences to be taken outside prison wearing their robes, subject to recommendations from their respective Nikayas or chapters.
According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), the proposed changes follow discussions between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and senior Buddhist monks representing the three Nikayas on Oct. 8, following the controversy surrounding the removal of Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera’s robes.
During the meeting, the President explained that the existing Prisons Ordinance, dating back to 1877, contains no special provisions for Buddhist monks and that prison officials had acted in accordance with the law.
He stressed that he would not issue personal orders overriding existing laws, saying the appropriate solution was to amend the regulations.
The Maha Sangha proposed that when a Buddhist monk is sentenced to imprisonment for more than three years, the relevant Nikaya or chapter should be informed. They also proposed allowing monks to wear their robes when taken outside prison, based on recommendations from their respective religious authorities.
Following the discussion, the President instructed Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara to complete the necessary legal changes within two weeks.
A five-member committee, chaired by Ministry of Buddhasasana Secretary Prince Senadheera, was appointed on Oct. 8 to review the existing regulations and standing orders.
The committee held its first meeting at the Presidential Secretariat on Oct. 9, with policy guidance provided by the justice minister.
According to the PMD, the committee is expected to present its proposals to the Maha Sangha by the middle of next week to obtain their views and recommendations.
The revised regulations are expected to be adopted within two weeks, allowing Buddhist monks to wear their robes when taken outside prison, subject to recommendations from the relevant Nikaya or chapter. (Newswire)
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