The newly elected Chief Prelate of Asgiriya Chapter of Siyam Nikaya Galagama Aththadassi Thera expressed regret over certain damaging reports on the Diyawadana Nilame following the questioning of him by police.

Aththadassi Thera expressed his regret over the incident when President Maithripala Sirisena called on him this morning.

The Mahanayake Thera said that it is not a mistake to punish someone if he has committed any wrong. However, the police questioning led to some unsavory publicity, which could have been avoided, Aththadassi Thera said.

He also made it clear that the Diyawadana Nilame is not the sole custodian of Sri Dalada Maligawa. Both Mahanayakes of the Asgiriya and Malwatte Chapters are also custodians of the Sacred site, it was reminded to the president.

Police Financial Crimes Investigations Division recently recorded a statement from Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela on alleged financial fraud at Dalada Maligawa.