Man who calls himself Avalokiteshvara needs psychological therapy – Fort Magistrate

By A.J.A. Abeynayake

Colombo Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage told open court on Wednesday (24) that the Judicial Medical Officer for mental health at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) had informed him that Mahinda Kodithuwakku, who calls himself Avalokiteshvara, needed psychological therapy.

Kodithuwakku was arrested for making derogatory statements about Buddhism.

Magistrate Gamage instructed the Prison Superintendent to send Kodithuwakku to a mental health clinic at IMH and to remand him till 07 February.

Kalinga Indatissa, PC appearing for Kodithuwakku, urged the Magistrate to release his client on bail with any conditions, given that there was no reason to keep him in remand custody.

Senior Deputy Solicitor General, Dileepa Peiris told the court that Kodithuwakku needed psychiatric care.

The Magistrate said he would consider granting bail at the next court date.

Indatissa said that Kodithuwakku’s father was willing to be a surety. The Magistrate asked Kodithuwakku’s father how old he was. Kodithuwakku’s father told the court that he was 78. The Magistrate said it was unlikely that such an elderly person could ensure that Kodithuwakku received the necessary treatment.

The magistrate also ordered several banks to furnish account details of some of Kodithuwakku’s followers to the CID.