Therefore, we should not get misled by such conspirators who are acting to create various issues between the Government and the public, emphasized the Prime Minister, at the opening ceremony of Sadaham Medura constructed at Sri Bodhirukkharama Viharaya in Ipalogama, Mahawa at a cost of 11 million rupees, where he was the Chief Guest.
The Prime Minister further said, “Development works for the advancement of Buddhism were done investing a massive amount of money by the Ministry of Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs. President Mahinda Rajapakse has given special attention to develop temples in remote areas. Under this concept, more than nine thousand four hundred temples are being under the supervision of the government.
“A pilgrims rest is being constructed in India where Lord Buddha was born at a cost of Rs.89 million to accommodate Sri Lankan pilgrims. Also the Government has launched many programmes for the development of temples in the country as well as in foreign countries.
“There are 167,000 acres of lands belonging to the temples in our country. Our Government took firm action to safe guard the ownership of lands belonging to temples by temple and Devala Lands Act of 1931 and the amendment made in 2000. Under that, no temple will loose even one inch of land.
“President Mahinda Rajapakse as a true Buddhist and a leader who is guiding the nation on a correct path is rendering invaluable service for the advancement of Buddhism. Under his leadership Buddhism as well as the other religious are secured”, the Prime Minister added.
T.B.Ekanayake, Minister of Cultural and Arts expressing his views, stated that, Temple, Devala and manor lands Act, is very powerful. Possession of the temple or its land where development works are being carried out will not be taken by the Government. The relevant development works can be carried out as per the discretion of the temple on the support of the Government.
During the past 08 months 20 billion rupees of Central Cultural Fund and General Trustee’s Fund were invest for the development of temples. It has been done on the great dedication strength and enthusiasm of Maha Sangha, added Minister T.B.Ekanayake.
A large gathering including Ven.Pathagama Somananda Thera, Sanghanayake, Kurunegala Disawa, Chief Incumbent of historical Payagala Rajamaha Vihara, Ven.Meegammana Sirirathana Thera, Chief Incumbent of Yapahuwa Rajamaha Vihara, Ven.Shasrapathi Ipologama Rathanasara Thera, Chief Incumbent of Ipalogama Shri Bodhirukkarama Vihara, D.B.Herath, Minister of North-West Province, Rohana Medagedara, Chairman of Mahawa Pradeshiya Sabha were present.(KH/SI)
