Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thero has responded to criticism over his visit to a five-star hotel in Colombo and his meeting with former Minister Sarath Weerasekara, saying he had sought accommodation and medical treatment after becoming seriously ill during the protest demanding the release of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero.
Addressing allegations circulating on social media, the monk said he developed a high fever while participating in the protest and was advised by devotees to move to a suitable location for treatment.
He said several devotees had previously offered him accommodation, but he had declined their invitations until his condition worsened.
The Thero explained that he eventually accepted an invitation to stay at the Kingsbury Hotel, where a medical team visited and provided treatment.
He said the accommodation and medical expenses were covered by different devotees, describing the arrangements as a collective effort to assist a sick monk.
Responding to criticism over former Minister Sarath Weerasekara’s presence at the hotel, the Thero confirmed that Weerasekara had visited him while he was unwell.
“Sarath Weerasekara came to see me when I was sick. Is that prohibited? Does someone need permission to visit me?” he questioned.
He said the former minister had inquired about his health before leaving, rejecting suggestions that the visit was politically motivated
The monk also defended the acceptance of accommodation and other assistance from devotees, saying Buddhist traditions had long recognised donations of food, clothing, buildings, land and other facilities to monks.
He further questioned the alleged release of hotel surveillance footage and personal details relating to his accommodation arrangements.
The Thero claimed that information concerning a subsequent booking at Hilton Residences, including details of the person who made the reservation, had also been circulated.
He described the alleged disclosures as a serious violation of privacy and raised concerns about his personal security.
Referring to the killing of underworld figure Ganemulla Sanjeewa inside a Colombo courtroom, he questioned the safety of individuals when sensitive personal information could be made public.
The monk also criticised those targeting him on social media and accused supporters of the ruling party of attempting to discredit the protest.
Meanwhile, the satyagraha campaign at Viharamahadevi Park was temporarily suspended on October 25 following a communication from the chief prelates of the three main Buddhist chapters, who indicated that they would intervene through discussions with the government regarding Gnanasara Thero’s release.
Balangoda Kassapa Thero said the monks’ immediate objective had been entrusted to the chief prelates and called for a political campaign against the government to begin at the grassroots level. (Newswire)