The official duty committee of the inner chamber at the Ratnapura Maha Saman Devalaya has declared their decision to step down from duties starting today. This action comes as a response to what they allege is the illegal and tradition-violating appointment of an acting Basnayake Nilame after the term of the previous Basnayake Nilame expired.
The duty committee has vowed to remain off duty until the newly appointed acting Basnayake Nilame resigns from the position. They argue that the appointment disregards long-standing traditions of the Devalaya and claim it was politically motivated, citing that the appointee is a government-aligned political activist.
Today, a protest took place in front of the Saman Devalaya, with members of the community and religious figures expressing their displeasure. Protesters stated that such actions undermine the sacredness and neutrality of the Devalaya, which serves as a revered spiritual center for devotees across Sri Lanka.
Messages and offerings traditionally directed to God Saman, a key ritual function of the Devalaya, have reportedly been paused in response to the controversy, signaling the gravity of the situation.
The incident has sparked discussions about the influence of political interference in religious and cultural institutions. Critics have called for an impartial investigation into the appointment process to ensure respect for the traditions and sanctity of the Devalaya.
The government has yet to comment on the protests or the allegations regarding the appointment. Meanwhile, the protestors remain firm in their demand for immediate action to rectify the situation.
