Sri Lanka news: The Colombo Magistrate Court on Thursday (January 9) sentenced a radical Sri Lankan Buddhist monk to nine months in jail for comments he made about Islam in 2016. Colombo Additional Magistrate Pasan Amarasena also imposed a fine of Rs 1,500 on monk Galagoda Athathe Gnanasara (49). In March last year, Gyansara was sentenced to 4 years of rigorous imprisonment by the High Court.
Gyansara was released after five months through the Appeal Court. Bhikshu (who had been leading an anti-Muslim minority campaign since 2012) was charged for comments he made at a press conference held in March 2016. The punishment given to Gyansara today was for not appearing in the court. The High Court said that Gyansara had created religious and communal disharmony through his comments. Gyansara was arrested for contempt of court in 2018, but later got pardon from the President.
Muslim population and social situation in Sri Lanka
The population of Muslims in Sri Lanka is 22 million, which is about 10% of the total population of the country. Islam is the third largest religion in Sri Lanka. Most of the Muslims here speak Tamil language. However, his social and political status often becomes a topic of discussion.
Galagodatta Gnanasara Controversial Buddhist monk
Galagodatte Gnanasara, a prominent Buddhist monk, was sentenced to four years in prison. He is a controversial figure in Sri Lankan politics. Gnanasara is known for his staunch Buddhist views and is considered close to former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
Relationship between Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Gyansara
Former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa appointed Gyansara to head a panel to ensure religious harmony, which was responsible for reforming the country’s legal system. This step has raised many questions regarding his role and influence. Especially among minority communities.
Challenges for Muslims in Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan Muslims often face social and political challenges. Due to the situation of communal tension in the country, concerns have increased regarding the rights and safety of Muslims.
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