Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called on the public to decide whether they would remain passive or respond firmly at a time when challenges were being directed at the Buddha Sasana.

He stated that Buddhism and religious values were currently facing various forms of challenges from multiple directions.

Premadasa further said that the Constitution had granted Buddhism a foremost place, and stressed that it was the responsibility of everyone to ensure that this was reflected not only in words and declarations, but also as a reality in practice.

The Opposition Leader made these remarks while addressing a ceremony held to welcome Ven. Nikapotha Chandrajothi Thera, who was recently conferred the title of Mahanayake of the Udarata Amarapura Maha Nikaya.

The event was held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall.