Threats to Buddhism not sufficiently addressed by govt. – MP

MP Jayantha Samaraweera, Chairman of Parliamentary Caucus for safeguarding National Heritage, has said that in spite of the Mahanayakes advising the government with regard to the urgent need to take measures to protect Buddhism, those responsible hadn’t taken sufficient measures to address the prelates’ concerns.

Lawmaker Samaraweera said so at a recent sitting of the Parliamentary Caucus where attention was paid to organized attempts to distort Buddhism, cause rift among the Maha Sangha and falsify Sri Lankan history.

Ven Galagama Kusaladhamma, Ven. Pagoda Janithawansha and Ven. Wadduwe Dhammawansha theras appeared before the Parliamentary Caucus for safeguarding National Heritage. In addition, US-based Ven. Missaka Kamalasiri made representations on behalf of the Maha Sangha.

MP Samaraweera said that his group would make recommendations to the government after having received submissions from the Maha Sangha and other interested parties.

The Caucus was told how various persons propagated lies with the intention of undermining Buddhism and the launch of various books and publications meant to harm Buddhism. They underscored the grave and the growing threat posed by those who worked overtime to deceive the public with regard to the origins of Buddhism and traditions and practices maintained over more than 2,500 years.

The Caucus was also told how the deterioration was orchestrated by interested parties and that could even undermine the country’s unitary status unless the government swiftly and decisively addressed the growing problem.