Commenting on the controversy on the illegal clearing of Madhu Sanctuary, Sinhala Ravaya Organization inquired if the sanctuary was a gift handed over to Minister Rishad Bathiudeen. It also called for swift action to stop the destruction of the sanctuary.

Speaking to a local media channel, Sinhala Ravaya Convener Magalkande Sudatta Thera said that the former government was silent on the Wilpattu issue and this government is silent on the Madhu issue.

President Maithripala Sirisena should intervene into this matter and take swift action, Sudatta Thera further stated. If not, one can assume that Minister Rishad Bathiudeen has been gifted Madhu Sanctuary for supporting Sirisena during the presidential election, he added.

The controversy broke out recently with media reports claiming Rishad Bathiudeen was responsible for the illegal clearing of the forest and building settlements. In response, Bathiudeen recently called for a presidential commission to investigate the ‘illegal settlements in Mannar.’