i
The chief prelates of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters have voiced deep concern over defamatory remarks and propaganda linked to the Diyawadana Nilame post, warning that such actions undermine the dignity of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Ubhaya Maha Viharaya, and the Buddhist community.
They emphasized that the Diyawadana Nilame, as the lay custodian of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, holds the foremost lay Buddhist position in the country, respected both nationally and internationally.
Under the Viharagam and Dewalagam Ordinance No. 19 of 1931 on Buddhist Temporalities, the Diyawadana Nilame is elected for a tenure of ten years.
With the current Diyawadana Nilame’s term having ended, arrangements are underway to elect a successor, with multiple candidates, including the incumbent, vying for the post.
The prelates noted that defamatory campaigns by external parties, aimed at advancing their own candidates, have tarnished the image of Buddhist institutions and diminished the standing of the Buddhist community worldwide.
In their joint statement, the Malwathu and Asgiri chief prelates strongly condemned baseless propaganda and divisive behavior, urging all candidates to safeguard the dignity of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the office of the Diyawadana Nilame, the Basnayake Nilame post, and other positions tied to Buddhist shrines.
