The Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi - Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, the Hon. Member has raised a fair and practical issue. I have previously answered similar questions in this House. These concerns arise in districts such as Kurunegala and Ratnapura as well.

¶ 02 Historically, over centuries, vast properties have been attached to Buddhist sacred places due to traditions and village-level practices. Complexities now arise from long-standing leasing and ad hoc alienations to second, third, and fourth parties, creating difficulties for school admissions, bank mortgages, etc. Therefore, the Government, and our Ministry in particular, have focused on amending the Viharas and Devalagam law. With guidance from the Maha Sangha of all three Nikayas, steps have been initiated to amend Sections 41 and 42; a draft has been sent to the Legal Draftsman. We are also examining the remaining issues. Legal amendments alone are insufficient; we must proceed with guidance from the Maha Sangha and through community consultations respecting local traditions and beliefs. I am already discussing this with the Director-General of the Department of Buddhist Affairs and the State Ministers to find a durable solution.