A group of Buddhist monks who were protesting outside the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo, demanding the release of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera, has arrived at the Ministry of Buddhasasana today (16).

According to reports, the Ministry has provided an opportunity for discussions with the protesting monks, with four representatives participating in the meeting.

The development comes after the monks removed temporary shelters erected near the Presidential Secretariat earlier today, following a court order prohibiting protests at the location.

The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court issued the order after Police raised concerns over the protest being held near the Presidential Secretariat, which is designated as a high-security zone.

Following the order, Police read out and handed over the court directive to the protesters, who subsequently removed the temporary structures near Galle Road.

The protest, titled “Justice for the Robe – Freedom March,” began on October 10 from the premises of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, demanding the release of Gnanasara Thera.

The monks arrived near the Presidential Secretariat on Thursday (15) afternoon, seeking a definite response from the government regarding his release.

They subsequently staged a sit-in protest, remaining at the location overnight.

Meanwhile, Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thera stated that the monks had approached the court to present their grievances but had not received the necessary legal permission or relief.

He further stated that the responsibility for matters relating to the offering of robes lies with the Commissioner of Buddhist Affairs.

Ven. Kassapa Thera said the monks intended to remain near the Ministry of Buddhasasana tonight to pursue the necessary arrangements concerning the matter. (Newswire)

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