The National Sangha Council has strongly criticised a recent statement by the Excise Commissioner General regarding plans to introduce a low-cost alcohol product to the public.
Describing the announcement as “extremely sad and tragic news,” the Council has decided to formally address the matter in a letter to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
In the letter, the Council expressed serious concerns about the actions of the Excise Commissioner General, suggesting that the move raises doubts about his intentions and compliance with the law. It emphasised that promoting drugs, including alcohol, is prohibited under the National Authority of Tobacco and Alcohol Act.
The letter, signed by General Secretary Kattakaduwe Sumanarathana Thera, also questioned whether the Excise Commissioner General was deliberately violating the law, potentially due to political backing.
The Council has urged the President to take immediate action, highlighting the potential social and ethical consequences of introducing cheap alcohol products to the public.
