Satyagraha Campaign Demanding Gnanasara Thero’s Release Suspended

COLOMBO (News 1st) -

The Satyagraha campaign demanding the immediate release of Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero, who is serving a prison sentence after being found guilty of contempt of court, was suspended today (25).

The protesters left the site at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo a short while ago after the decision was announced.

The protest had continued despite an order issued by Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama directing the participating Buddhist clergy and others to vacate the premises.

Venerable Ulapane Sumangala Thero announced this evening that the Satyagraha campaign would be temporarily suspended.

Speaking to the media, Venerable Balangoda Kassapa Thero said the decision followed a notice informing the protesters that the Mahanayake Theros would intervene and communicate with the government regarding the release of Gnanasara Thero.

He said the notice had also requested the protesters to temporarily suspend the campaign.

“This means that the Mahanayake Theros are taking responsibility for this. That brings us a sense of relief. This also means that we can now return to our temples and resume our religious activities,” Venerable Balangoda Kassapa Thero said.

He added that the protesters would abide by the decision of the Mahanayake Theros, whom he described as guardians and guides of the Buddhist community.

The campaign was suspended following the Sambuddha Pooja held on Vap Full Moon Poya Day.