Buddhist monks protest in Colombo for Gnanasara Thera's release

Buddhist monks and civilian supporters have entered the third day of a Satyagraha protest at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo, demanding the release of Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera, the leader of the Bodu Bala Sena organization.

The demonstration began on October 16 following a march from Kandy. Protesters have engaged in chanting pirith—sacred Buddhist prayers—and have vowed to remain at the park until authorities address their demands. Previous attempts to resolve the issue through discussions with the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs failed to reach an acceptable outcome.

Tensions rose during the protest, specifically involving an incident with Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thero. Protesters alleged the monk was assaulted by police, leading to his transport to Colombo National Hospital. However, police spokesperson Assistant Superintendent Fredrick Wootler denied the assault, stating the monk had slipped and fallen. The monk was subsequently discharged from the hospital.