A startling incident involving the removal of multiple archaeology signboards in Batticaloa has triggered a firm response from the government, as the Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs vows legal action and hints at a deeper political motive.
Minister Hiniduma Sunil Senevi announced that a group had deliberately removed directional signboards erected by the Archaeology Department at several heritage sites in the Batticaloa district. In a strong statement, he said the Department began placing these boards on November 3, 2025, as part of a long-standing national program, not as a sudden or controversial move.
The Minister explained that the signboards were installed legally as public property to guide visitors to important archaeology sites. He added that reports have surfaced from four separate locations where the boards were taken down and removed, prompting immediate concern.
The Archaeology Department has already lodged two official complaints with the Valaichchenai and Kokkadicholai Police Stations. According to the Minister, Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala was notified of the situation, after which he instructed police officers to carry out a full investigation and take action against those responsible for tampering with state property.
The Minister emphasised that safeguarding archaeology sites is a core responsibility of the government, and that responsibility is entrusted to the Archaeology Department. He clarified that the Department does not require permission from Local Government institutions to install these boards. He also stated that local residents have not objected to the signboards at any point, suggesting that outside political forces may be influencing the removal.
He further stressed that the removal appears intentional and aligned with a political motive rather than a community concern. The Minister reassured the public that the government will not tolerate such acts and will ensure accountability for all those involved.
The controversy has sparked rising tension in the area, as authorities work to protect Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage while investigating what appears to be an organised attempt to undermine archaeological preservation.
