Theravada Kathikavatha Bill contravenes Constitution - SC

The Supreme Court determines that the proposed Theravadi Bhikku Kathikawatha (Registration) Bill contravenes the constitution of Sri Lanka.

Therefore the bill requires approval from two-thirds majority in Parliament and a public referendum in order to be enacted. 

However, the bill can be approved with a normal majority if the sections repugnant to the Constitution are omitted, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said while informing the Parliament regarding the Supreme Court determination today (10). 

The bill was presented by the Minister of Buddhasasana Wijedasa Rajapaksa on 12th January, 2016.

The act proposes to provide for the formulation and registration of Kathikawath in relation to Nikaya or Chapters of Theravadi Bhikkus in Sri Lanka; to provide for every Bhikku to act in compliance with the provisions of the Registered Kathikawath of the Nikaya or Chapter which relates to such Bhikku; to impose punishment on Bhikkus who act in violation of the provisions of any Registered Kathikawath, and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

Theravadi Bhikku Kathikawatha (Registration)