A group of Buddhist monks today surrounded a religious institution in Embilipitiya, alleging that it was engaged in religious conversions under the guise of providing healing services.
The monks, led by Venerable Omalpe Sobhitha Thera, said a complaint had been lodged with the relevant police station yesterday regarding the institution and its activities.
Speaking to police officers who arrived at the scene, the monks said they could not allow the institution to continue operating in the area.
Sobhitha Thera called on police to act in accordance with the Constitution, which gives Buddhism the foremost place in Sri Lanka.
Police officers, however, pointed out that the Constitution also guarantees freedom of religion and the right of individuals to practice a religion of their choice. They warned that preventing people from exercising these rights could amount to a violation of fundamental rights.
Sobhitha Thera also raised concerns about healing practices that allegedly encourage people to seek spiritual cures without obtaining proper medical treatment. He claimed that such practices had contributed to deaths in several parts of the country and referred to cases previously reported in the media.
Police assured the monks that the institution and the allegations made against it would be investigated based on the complaint. They said appropriate action would be taken depending on the findings of the investigation.
The monks also stressed that people seeking spiritual or religious support for illnesses should obtain proper medical advice and treatment rather than rely solely on claims of miraculous cures.
Sobhitha Thera questioned whether the institution had the necessary authorization or qualifications to provide treatment for illnesses. He said Buddhist temples also offer religious practices such as Bodhi Pooja, Pirith and blessings to people seeking spiritual support, while encouraging them to continue with proper medical treatment.
The monks further alleged that organisations involved in such healing activities receive financial assistance from international organisations. They called for these claims and the activities of such institutions to be properly investigated and subjected to appropriate oversight.
Police have indicated that further action will be considered after the investigation into the complaint is completed.
