Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga has called for urgent reforms to safeguard Buddhism in Sri Lanka, warning that repeated allegations of misconduct involving members of the clergy are eroding public trust, particularly among young people.
In a special video statement, Kumaratunga said many people who love the country are deeply concerned by recent incidents involving Buddhist monks. She referred to reports of monks being arrested over alleged drug-related offences and allegations that a chief incumbent of eight prominent Buddhist temples had sexually abused a young girl over a period of two years.
She said such incidents have shaken the confidence of many Buddhists and warned that the loss of faith in religious institutions could have serious consequences for society, particularly among the younger generation.
Kumaratunga also expressed disappointment that, according to her, political leaders had largely remained silent on the issues despite its significance.
She said she had written to senior Buddhist prelates urging them to take the lead in introducing reforms within the Buddhist clergy. According to Kumaratunga, the proposal was received positively, and she suggested forming a committee comprising senior monks, civil society representatives and other religious leaders to recommend reforms.
The former President also called on the government to enact the necessary legal framework to implement the proposed recommendations, saying stronger mechanisms are needed to protect the Buddha Sasana and restore public confidence.
She urged the public not to remain silent in the face of wrongdoing, stressing that safeguarding religious institutions is a shared responsibility of both leaders and citizens. (Newswire)