The Colombo Fort Magistrate has directed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to conduct an investigation and report to court regarding allegations that Ven. Rajangane Saddharathana Thera issued statements containing obscene language via social media.

The order was issued after the court considered submissions that the Thero had violated bail conditions previously imposed on him.

When granting bail to Saddharathana Thera in July 2023, the court had strongly cautioned him against using abusive or obscene language in public statements. However, it has now been alleged that he continued to publish offensive remarks on social media in disregard of that directive.

Counsel appearing on behalf of the aggrieved party, Ven. Pahiyangala Ananda Sagara Thera, informed court that the suspect Thera had targeted members of the clergy and lawyers in statements containing obscene language.

The Magistrate instructed the aggrieved party to hand over all relevant evidence and information pertaining to the incident to the CID. The CID has been ordered to investigate the matter and submit a progress report to court on 22 April.