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Alleged theft of historical artefacts: HRCSL begins hearing
View(s):The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has begun a hearing on a complaint lodged by activist Deeman Ananda alleging a cover-up of the theft of historical artefacts from Sigiriya and the Dalada Maligawa in Kandy.
Mr. Ananda claims that an official of the Dalada Maligawa was involved in melting down 1,800 kilograms of gold from a karanduwa belonging to the Maligawa. He also alleges that a group of people engaged in an archaeological dig in Sigiriya had removed a priceless golden bed uncovered during excavations. Mr. Ananda claims the police turned a deaf ear to his complaints and that he had to subsequently drop the matter after he and his family received death threats.
He also charges that those behind the alleged thefts and cover-up were responsible for the murder of a Buddhist monk who spoke out against these acts.
Accordingly, the HRCSL has directed all relevant parties to be present on 29 September when the case is to be taken up again for hearing.