The inclusion of sacred religious sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa, Kandy) and the prominent Nallur Kandaswamy Hindu Kovil Jaffna, in the background of the new Sri Lankan passport pages has sparked considerable criticism from religious devotees.
Many feel the decision to feature these images, subjected to routine stamps by Immigration Officers, is disrespectful to the sanctity of these revered locations.
Critics question the rationale behind selecting such imagery, considering that passports are typically glanced at briefly by Immigration Officers. The choice has left many wondering why sacred sites were used when only a limited audience would see them in passing.
Furthermore, frequent travelers and airline personnel have expressed frustration over the passport’s new 48-page limit, reduced from the previous 64 pages. With pages filling up rapidly, the downsized design has only fueled concerns, raising questions about the priorities of officials responsible for the passport’s design and practical usability.
