“The Government is prepared to stop the conservation work if the Maha Nayaka Theras want it stopped. However, it is up to the Maha Nayakas to decide the fate of this historical site. It is unfortunate if the Cave Temple Complex is to lose this status at a time UNESCO is considering the declaration of several other Sri Lankan sites including Horton Plains as world heritage sites,” Premier Wickremesinghe said.

PM Wickremesinghe said that the UNESCO has informed Sri Lanka to prepare a report regarding the Dambulla Rajamaha Viharaya within 2017.

The Premier also said that he would meet the Asgiriya Maha Nayake Thera next week to explain the matters regarding the issue.

PM Wickremesinghe also said some people attempt to politicize the issue targeting the next election. (CDN)