The United National Party (UNP) has raised concerns over the decision to make Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera wear prison attire instead of his traditional saffron robes, arguing that the move raises issues concerning religious freedom and the protection afforded to Buddhism under the Constitution.
UNP Chairman Wajira Abeywardena said matters concerning the robes of a Buddhist monk should be handled with consideration for the authority of the relevant Buddhist Nikaya and questioned whether the appropriate procedures had been followed.
The UNP also referred to the previous pardon granted to Gnanasara Thera during the Yahapalana administration, noting that the Chief Prelates had intervened in that matter. The party questioned how the current situation could be treated differently and called for greater consultation with Buddhist religious leaders.
The statement further said the government should have considered alternative approaches through Parliament rather than treating the matter solely as an ordinary legal issue. Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe is also expected to make a detailed statement on the matter, including its legal implications.
