Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara said on Wednesday that a committee has recommended prison rule changes allowing imprisoned Buddhist monks to wear their robes when they leave prison.
Speaking at the Justice Ministry, he said monks could wear robes for court appearances or other purposes, unless the relevant Buddhist chapter or Nikaya directs otherwise.
The committee, appointed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, submitted an interim report after the President held talks with representatives of the three Buddhist Nikayas. The talks followed concern over the removal of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera’s robes after his imprisonment.
The committee also recommended amending Standing Order 356 so prison authorities must notify the Department of Buddhist Affairs when a monk’s robes are removed. The Commissioner of Prisons would have 10 days to act in consultation with the department.
Mr Nanayakkara said similar provisions would apply, with suitable changes, to clergy of other faiths.
The report has been sent to the acting Commissioner General of Prisons with instructions to amend the standing orders. The changes have been recommended but not yet implemented.
