Neglecting the priority status granted to Buddhism by the Constitution represents a violation of the country's supreme law.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks while attending a ceremony in Neluwa held to confer a Sanghanayaka title upon Venerable Pelawatte Chandima Thera.
The former president noted that during the drafting of the 1972 Constitution, J.R. Jayawardena requested the inclusion of Buddhism based on the commitment made by King George in 1815 to protect the faith.
He cited historical examples, such as Queen Victoria's intervention to prevent the removal of the Kalutara Bodhi, which led to the Vihara Dewala Gam Act.
This legislation ensures that property belonging to temples remains under their exclusive ownership, including gold and offerings.
Wickremesinghe emphasised that anyone sworn in to uphold the Constitution must protect these provisions, as any violation undermines the nation's sovereignty.
He asserted that political parties are registered under the premise of defending the Constitution and have a duty to join the clergy in its protection.
He concluded by informing the senior clergy that laypeople are currently discussing necessary actions should these constitutional protections be removed or ignored.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks while attending a ceremony in Neluwa held to confer a Sanghanayaka title upon Venerable Pelawatte Chandima Thera.
The former president noted that during the drafting of the 1972 Constitution, J.R. Jayawardena requested the inclusion of Buddhism based on the commitment made by King George in 1815 to protect the faith.
He cited historical examples, such as Queen Victoria's intervention to prevent the removal of the Kalutara Bodhi, which led to the Vihara Dewala Gam Act.
This legislation ensures that property belonging to temples remains under their exclusive ownership, including gold and offerings.
Wickremesinghe emphasised that anyone sworn in to uphold the Constitution must protect these provisions, as any violation undermines the nation's sovereignty.
He asserted that political parties are registered under the premise of defending the Constitution and have a duty to join the clergy in its protection.
He concluded by informing the senior clergy that laypeople are currently discussing necessary actions should these constitutional protections be removed or ignored.
