Monks defy court order as protest over A’pura development plan intensifies

Buddhist monks and laypeople in Anuradhapura continued their peaceful protest, defying a court's order to leave the sacred area. Their leader, Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thera, had been demanding the cancellation of a government notice outlining the proposed development of the historic pilgrimage site. Tensions flared when police tried to stop protesters from building a temporary structure and attempted to arrest a supporter, leading to arrests for two civilians.

The Magistrate's Court had given the protesters 14 days to leave the area around Ruwanweli Maha Seya and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, but the monks and their supporters remained, stating their campaign would continue until the government rescinded the notice. Ven. Kassapa Thera alleged police brutality and accused authorities of mishandling the arrested protesters, despite their injuries.

The dispute revolves around a government gazette proposing to enlarge the sacred area from 28 to 38 square kilometres. The development plan, estimated to cost up to Rs. 8.8 billion, aims to enhance infrastructure, pilgrim facilities, and archaeological conservation. However, some Buddhist clergy and the public fear the expansion could dilute Anuradhapura's religious character, especially if new places of worship arise and religious activities become restricted.

Concerns have also been raised about a protective fence near Ruwanweli Maha Seya and foreign influence on managing the sacred sites. The government maintains the plan is for conservation and enhancement, not alteration, and was developed in consultation with religious leaders. Nevertheless, the mixed reactions among Buddhist monks highlight the clash between heritage conservation, religious sensitivities, and development.