The Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi

¶ 01 Sir, before my reply speech, I will very briefly answer a few questions raised, as many have accumulated. Several Opposition Members raised issues about interventions at religious sites in the North—such as building Buddha statues in areas like Mullaitivu, ignoring local authority orders, and issues relating to resettlement. In truth, many of the cited matters occurred years ago. Since we assumed office, we have not undertaken any such interventions.

¶ 02 Several questions were raised about the Tissa Viharaya in Jaffna—there are three Tissa Viharayas visible in the Walikamam North area; especially about the one in Thondamanaru/Thayiddy. Hon. Member, the issues there primarily concern land regularization. The Ministry of Buddhasasana has no power to alienate land. However, we accept that issues in these areas must be examined and resolved with harmony and patience.

¶ 03 A Hon. Member said actions are still taking place that create hostility towards minorities. We must reject that assertion. In this very Budget, we have placed a significant emphasis on Northern development and on fostering harmony among communities. It was also stated that injustices occur during archaeological interventions. Today, at the Presidential Secretariat, the National…