Chief Prelates urge monks to uphold discipline amid calls for Gnanasara Thera’s release

Sri Lanka Mirror identifies the signatories as the leaders of the Malwathu and Asgiriya chapters, the Sri Lanka Amarapura Nikaya and the Sri Lanka Ramanna Nikaya. Newswire reports that the joint statement was dated October 25.

Newswire says the prelates emphasised monastic discipline and preserving the dignity and respect accorded to the Maha Sangha. Sri Lanka Mirror reports that they called for unity and harmony among monks, resolution of disputes according to the Dhamma and Vinaya, and conduct that would support public confidence. Sri Lanka Mirror also says the statement warned that certain groups were exploiting the protests in ways that could damage the clergy’s reputation locally and internationally.

Newswire reports that monks conducting a satyagraha at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo temporarily suspended it after 10 days. According to Newswire, Ven. Ulapane Sumangala Thera said the decision followed a written communication from the prelates indicating that they were pursuing discussions with the government to secure Ven. Gnanasara Thera’s release.

Sri Lanka Mirror reports that the prelates said they had intervened and started discussions with the government to address the matter through legal means and dialogue.

Written automatically by AI from the outlets’ own reports, and not reviewed by an editor. It can be wrong — the original report is the authority.