Opposition Leader Writes to President on Prison Clothing Rules for Clergy

13-Oct-2026

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has written to the Speaker of Parliament requesting the immediate convening of the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Governance, Justice and Civil Protection to address disputes concerning the clothing worn by members of the Maha Sangha and other religious clergy held in prison.

He has also called for a review of the relevant Standing Orders.

In his letter, Premadasa stated that Standing Order No. 550 of the Department of Prisons, which governs the clothing to be worn by Buddhist monks and other religious clergy while in custody and when being taken outside prison premises, had become the subject of considerable debate and controversy.

He said the Government's failure to resolve the issue promptly had caused serious concern among the public.

Premadasa maintained that Parliament was responsible for reviewing the relevant Standing Orders and recommending any necessary amendments. He therefore urged the Speaker to convene the appropriate Sectoral Oversight Committee without delay.

He further requested that representatives of the Ministry of Justice and National Integration, the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, the Department of Prisons, the Attorney General's Department and all other relevant parties be invited to the committee's inaugural meeting.

Although he is not an ordinary member of the committee, Premadasa said he wished to participate actively in the meeting and present his proposals and views, given the national importance of the issue. He requested permission to do so.