The Army-sponsored new structures at Kurundi Temple at Kurunthurmalai archaeological site in Mullaitivu have been found to be in contravention of a previous court order.
The Mullaitivu magistrate yesterday (31) took up a related petition, in which the Buddhist temple’s construction is challenged by Hindus who worship a Sivam Kovil there.
Lawyer for the petitioners, V.S. Dhananjayan, said the magistrate delivered his ruling following a recent on-site inspection to determine if any new constructions had taken place there.
Submissions to the effect that an order issued in June 2022 has been violated were accepted by the magistrate.
Following the hearing, Dhananjayan and several politicians told the media the court found the director general of archaeology to be at fault of not performing his duties properly.
At previous hearings, the petitioners submitted proofs such as photographs to show that new constructions had taken place and asked the magistrate to make an inspection again.
The on-site inspection took place on 04 July.
President’s assurance
President's assurance to Anunayaka of the Asgiri Chapter, Most Venerable Anamaduwe Dhammadassi Thera
Meanwhile, president Ranil Wickremesinghe has assured that instructions have been given to deal with the Kurunthurmalai matter as per provisions in the archaeology act.
While in Kandy to call on the chief prelates of the Malwatte and Asgiriya chapters, the president said tensions had arisen at Kurunthurmalai after the entry of outsiders.
In another development, Chief Sangha Nayake of north and the east Ven. Siyambalagaswewa Wimalasara Thera has told the media that archaeological sites should not be given to the care of Buddhist monks.
All outstanding issues will be resolved if the archaeology department takes over such sites, he said.
Chief incumbent of Nagadeepa Purana Rajamaha Vihara, Ven. Nawandagala Padumakittitissa Thera said newly-arriving monks are creating trouble in the north and said part of the blame should go to the Army as well.
