Amend the Vihara and Devalagam Act - Rahula Thero

The Vihara and Devalagam Act must be amended in order to ensure the safety of Buddhism, the founder of the Jathika Namal Uyana, Ven. Vanavasi Rahula Thero says.

The Thero expressed this view while speaking at a press conference held in Dambulla on Tuesday.   

Rahula Thero also took the unusual step of criticizing the Mahanayake Theros for keeping a blind eye to the call of the government to amend the Vihara and Devalagam Act.

“The resources of the temples are being misused,” Thero said. “If there were kings, the people behind these activities would be given the death penalty.”

He also pointed out the Maha Sanga should not turn a blind eye to these matters because they accept privileges.    

Rahula Thero also suggested to bring laws to hold the elections to elect the Chief Prelates every five years.