Government Urged to Reconsider Bhikkhu Ordinance Bill to Maintain Unity Among Monks: National Movement for a Just Society
01-Nov-2026.
The National Movement for a Just Society has urged the Government to reconsider the Bhikkhu Ordinance Bill, which was prepared earlier with the objective of maintaining unity among Buddhist monks.
This position was expressed in a statement issued yesterday and signed by the Chairman of the National Movement for a Just Society, the Chief Sanghanayake of the North Western Province and Chief Incumbent of Tissawa Rajamaha Viharaya, the Venerable Mugunuwatavana Siddhartha Thera, and former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya.
The statement further said:
"There is a profound relationship between religion and humanity. Religion plays an important role in giving meaning to life, providing moral guidance, offering inner strength during times of suffering, and fostering compassion and social harmony.
"Throughout Sri Lanka's history, kings and the Maha Sangha have contributed to maintaining social peace, justice and moral values. The resolution of the conflict between King Dutugemunu and Prince Tissa is one such example.
"However, divisions have now emerged within the Buddhist clergy and in their relationship with the general public. The use of Buddhism for political purposes and the withdrawal of people from temples due to the inappropriate conduct of certain monks are matters of concern. This could increase the risk of young people becoming vulnerable to social ills, including drug abuse.
"The Government, Opposition, public and Maha Sangha must work together to safeguard unity within the Sangha. The Bhikkhu Ordinance Bill prepared by previous governments must be reconsidered. It has already received judicial approval.
"Statements that incite hostility between Sinhala and Muslim communities must be prevented. The present Government should implement the 'Diyawanna Declaration' proposed by the Parliamentary Select Committee in 2019. It has received unanimous agreement in Parliament and the support of religious leaders.
"Religious leaders, responsible institutions and the Government must work together to nip ethnic hatred and extremist ideologies in the bud. Warning signs of conflict must not be ignored. Timely dialogue and responsible action to address such issues are essential for lasting peace in the country.
"Lessons must be learnt from the country's historical experiences, including the ethnic riots of 1958 and 1977, Black July, the civil war, the youth unrest of 1971 and 1987–1989, the Easter Sunday attacks and the protests triggered by the economic crisis. Solutions must be found before conflicts escalate. Priority must be given to reconciliation and peaceful coexistence rather than hostility towards other ethnic communities.
"Allegations concerning the independence of the judiciary, political interference and institutional shortcomings must be investigated independently. Delays in court proceedings and shortages of resources must also be addressed. The right to fairly criticise the courts must be protected, while improper interference in the judiciary must be prevented.
"The law must be applied equally to those in power and the general public. The right to information, transparency and accountability must be guaranteed. The rule of law and national reconciliation are essential for economic progress and attracting foreign investment.
"For the sake of future generations, the Government, Opposition and all communities must unite to build a just, united and prosperous country. Otherwise, the divisions and failures of the present generation will become a burden on future generations.
"This is a fundamental requirement for the country's future."
