Colombo court imposes restrictions on Gnanasara Thera protests

The Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court has issued several restrictions regarding protests demanding the release of Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) General Secretary, Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera. According to the Sri Lanka Police, protesters are prohibited from obstructing roads, walking paths, or public spaces surrounding Viharamahadevi Park and the Prime Minister’s Office.

The court order specifically covers areas including F. R. Senanayake Mawatha, Lipton Circus, Soysa Circus, Dharmapala Mawatha, Kannangara Mawatha, Green Path Road, and Flower Road. Protesters are also forbidden from damaging public or private property.

Separately, the Ministry of Buddha Sasana confirmed that Gnanasara Thero will not appear in court on October 23 wearing religious robes, as previously planned under revised prison orders. This follows a notification from the court stating that his presence in robes was not necessary for that specific day.