Buddha Sasana report deplores conversion
By Nilika de Silva
Arresting attempts at conversion and punishing those fraudulently wearing bhikku robes are among a host of recommendations proposed by the Presidential Commission on the Buddha Sasana.

The Commission last week handed over to President Kumaratunga its report comprising recommendations to protect Buddhism in the country. "Taking into account the fact that the majority of Sri Lankans have been Buddhists and that this country's identity is based on Buddhist culture and values, steps should be taken to control moves being made to change the ratio of Buddhists to those of other religions in the country," the Presidential Commission report stated. The report further recommended that tough punishment should be meted out to persons who fraudulently wear the bhikku garb.

Other recommendations included monitoring the building of new temples and changing the present system of appointing chief incumbents of temples. "A board comprising priests should be appointed by the Uththarithara Sangha Sabha to investigate and make decisions regarding the building of new temples," the report stated.

The Sanghadikarana Act should be replaced by the proposed Kathikavath Act being introduced to Parliament and given legal powers. Furthermore decisions taken according to the Kathika-vatha (Buddhist system of rules) should not be challenged in any court, it stated.

Minister of Buddha Sasana, W.J.M. Lokubandara told The Sunday Times, "We have already submitted a Cabinet paper and want to get Cabinet approval to proceed with implementing the recommendations."

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