Buddhist Monks Launch Protest in Kandy Demanding Gnanasara Thera’s Release

A protest march led by Buddhist monks began at the Sri Dalada Maligawa premises in Kandy on Saturday (October 10), opposing the removal of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera’s Buddhist robes while in prison and calling for his release.

A special religious blessing ceremony was held at the historic Magul Maduwa in Kandy before the march commenced.

Addressing the gathering, Ven. Ulapane Sumangala Thera condemned what he described as arbitrary actions by the government against Gnanasara Thera.

He said Gnanasara Thera had spoken out in defence of the country, the nation and Buddhism, drawing parallels with the historical role of Ven. Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Thera.

The march, which began near the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the statue of Ven. Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Thera, is expected to proceed to the location where Gnanasara Thera is being held.

Ven. Ulapane Sumangala Thera said the campaign would continue until Gnanasara Thera was released and urged the public to join the protest peacefully.