Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for the immediate convening of the Parliamentary Sectoral Oversight Committee on Governance, Justice and Civil Protection to reassess prison regulations regarding the attire worn by Buddhist monks and clergy of other faiths while in state custody.
In a letter dated October 10 addressed to the Committee Chairperson through the Speaker of Parliament, Premadasa raised pressing concerns over the enforcement of the Department of Prisons’ Standing Order No. 550. He highlighted that a significant controversy has emerged regarding the attire mandated for members of the Maha Sangha and other religious leaders while serving prison terms and during transit outside detention facilities.
Criticizing what he described as a failure by the government to intervene promptly and constructively, Premadasa noted that the issue has caused widespread public distress. He emphasized that the Legislature bears an institutional responsibility to evaluate existing rules and introduce appropriate amendments to resolve the tensions surrounding custody protocols.
Key Developments
- Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa formally requested an urgent meeting of the Parliamentary Sectoral Oversight Committee on Governance, Justice and Civil Protection via the Speaker of Parliament on October 10.
- The review centers on concerns surrounding the Department of Prisons’ Standing Order No. 550 regarding attire for the Maha Sangha and other religious clergy in custody and during outside movements.
- Premadasa proposed summoning key institutional representatives to the initial session, including the Ministry of Justice and National Integration, the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, the Department of Prisons, and the Attorney General’s Department.
- Despite not being a committee member, Premadasa formally requested permission to participate in proceedings to submit direct proposals and recommendations.
Citing the national importance and sensitive nature of the controversy, Premadasa stated that he intends to contribute directly to committee deliberations to help formulate actionable recommendations and resolve the matter swiftly.