A fresh textbook controversy has erupted in Parliament, raising questions about religious symbolism, curriculum oversight, and accountability in Sri Lanka’s education system.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa told Parliament that another serious error has been identified in a Buddhism subject textbook, where the Ashoka Chakra has allegedly been used instead of the Dharmachakra. He stated that the Dharmachakra featured in the book does not correspond to the symbol traditionally used in the state emblem, describing the issue as a significant mistake that requires urgent correction.
Addressing lawmakers, Sajith Premadasa urged the Education Minister to take immediate steps to rectify the error, stressing that inaccuracies in religious education material can cause confusion and undermine cultural understanding among students. He framed the issue as part of a wider concern over textbook quality and editorial oversight in the national curriculum.
Responding to the allegation, Education Minister and Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya rejected claims of wrongdoing. She informed Parliament that the Dharmachakra used in the Buddhism textbook had been formally approved by the Ministry of Buddhist Affairs, along with its advisory board on Buddhist matters. According to the Prime Minister, the symbol was reviewed through established procedures before being included in the textbook.
She further explained that during her recent discussions with the Mahanayake Theras, the senior Buddhist clergy confirmed that the Dharmachakra appearing in the Buddhism book is the approved and acceptable version. The Prime Minister emphasized that official religious authorities had endorsed the symbol, and therefore the government does not view it as an error.
The exchange has intensified debate over textbook content, religious symbols in education, and the role of oversight bodies, as Parliament continues to scrutinize recent curriculum-related controversies.
