New prison rules proposed to allow Buddhist monks to wear robes outside prison

Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara has announced proposed amendments to prison regulations that would allow imprisoned Buddhist monks to wear their robes when leaving prison for court appearances or other purposes.

The proposals follow discussions between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and representatives of the three Buddhist Nikayas over concerns surrounding the removal of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera’s robes following his imprisonment.

Speaking at the Justice Ministry today (14), Minister Nanayakkara said a committee appointed by the President had submitted its interim report recommending amendments to existing prison standing orders.

Under the proposed amendments, Buddhist monks serving prison sentences would be permitted to wear their robes when leaving prison unless the relevant Buddhist chapter or Nikaya directs otherwise.

The committee has also recommended amending Standing Order 356 to introduce a procedure requiring prison authorities to notify the Department of Buddhist Affairs regarding the removal of a monk’s robes upon imprisonment.

The Commissioner of Prisons would be given 10 days to take the necessary action in consultation with the department.

The minister said similar provisions would apply, with appropriate modifications, to clergy of other faiths.

He said the interim report had already been forwarded to the acting Commissioner General of Prisons, with instructions to amend the relevant standing orders in accordance with the committee’s recommendations.

The proposed changes follow concerns raised by senior Buddhist monks over the treatment of imprisoned clergy.

The minister said the President had promised to address the issue within two weeks during discussions with Buddhist religious leaders.

The amendments have been recommended but have not yet been confirmed as implemented. (Newswire)

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