🏛️ Govt. Sets Two-Week Deadline to Revise Prison Rules for Buddhist Monks

• Overview: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake instructed a special committee to propose amendments to the Prisons Ordinance of 1877 within two weeks to update procedures governing imprisoned Buddhist monks, following discussions with the Maha Sangha. • Committee Details: A 5-member panel chaired by Buddhasasana Ministry Secretary Prince Senadheera—including officials from Justice, Public Administration, Buddhist Affairs, and Prisons—held its first meeting on Oct 9 under policy guidance from Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara. • Key Proposals: • Maha Sangha Recommendations: Notify the relevant Nikaya/Chapter when a monk receives a sentence exceeding 3 years. • Robes Provision: Permit monks to be taken outside prison wearing their robes, subject to the relevant Nikaya's approval to maintain transparency and prevent abuse. • Legal Position: President Dissanayake rejected issuing individual orders overriding existing law, emphasizing that formal regulatory amendments must address religious and social sensitivities within a structured legal framework.