- Authorities & stakeholders call for holistic measures to address cultural sensitivities & tech. misuse & safeguard critical expression
In a recent development addressing cultural sensitivities and technological misuse, the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs has responded to mounting concerns over an artificial intelligence (AI) generated video circulating on social media platforms.
The video in question allegedly distorts the Karaniya Metta Sutta from the Pali Canon, combining its verses with visuals from a techno music concert. This juxtaposition has ignited widespread debate and prompted formal complaints from the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs to both the Police and the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL). As investigations commence amidst acknowledged practical challenges, stakeholders emphasise the need for holistic approaches beyond legal measures to safeguard religious integrity and foster societal harmony amid evolving digital landscapes.
The Ministry stated last week that it had received numerous complaints regarding an AI generated video clip that allegedly distorts the said Sutta. This video, which pairs visuals from a techno music concert with audio of the particular Sutta, has been extensively shared on platforms such as Facebook and TikTok.
Following the incident, the Police announced that investigations have commenced into the alleged distortion, acknowledging that there may be practical challenges in conducting such an investigation. When contacted by The Daily Morning for an update, Police Media Spokesperson and Deputy Inspector General of Police, Nihal Thalduwa confirmed that the Computer Crime Investigation Division (CCID) has initiated an inquiry into the matter. He added that the CCID has requested social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook to remove the relevant video as part of their investigation. He also pointed out several practical challenges that could arise during such investigations.
“There are no legal provisions specifying how a Buddhist verse or sutra should be recited, whether with or without music. Additionally, while we can request the removal of the video from social media platforms, it is uncertain whether the Companies in question will comply. They may also take into account the viewpoints of other Buddhist countries regarding such matters,” he explained.
In this context, it is evident that addressing each of these incidents through Police investigations alone is insufficient to prevent such occurrences. Various parties, including Buddhist monks, have emphasised the necessity of adopting a broader approach. They suggest that the root causes of these issues need to be tackled through comprehensive measures that go beyond mere legal action. This includes fostering a culture of respect and understanding among different religious groups, enhancing education about religious tolerance, and implementing robust policies that discourage the misuse of technology to distort religious texts.
When contacted by The Daily Morning, Secretary of the Supreme Sangha Council at the Asgiri Maha Viharaya Ven. Dr. Medagama Dhammananda Thera alleged that there is an extensive movement against Buddhism, with incidents like the recent controversy being just one aspect of it. “There have been tele-dramas produced, various programmes organised by the media, and discussions held with individuals who distort the dharma on mainstream media. We can also see that all this is organised with a political background,” he claimed.
Emphasising the difficulty in addressing each incident individually, he noted that they have repeatedly informed the relevant authorities, including the Ministry in question, to take comprehensive action against this movement. “The authorities are often very slow in implementing measures for these issues. Several recent incidents have demonstrated their lack of interest. This issue can't be resolved just by lodging complaints with the Police and asking for investigations,” he further opined.
Dr. Dhammananda also addressed the ongoing issues related to Buddhism-related publications, pointing out that a piece of Legislation titled the ‘Buddhist Publications Regulatory Bill’ had been prepared in the recent past. However, he lamented that the relevant authorities have so far failed to enact it.
“This Bill covers everything from book printing to media-related work. It is comprehensive and designed to regulate the dissemination of Buddhist teachings and ensure that they are not misrepresented or distorted.” Despite the thorough preparation and necessity of the Bill, Dhammananda Thera indicated that those connected to these distortions are actively blocking its progress.
“When these legislations are proposed, they are suppressed using various topics such as the freedom of expression and speech. These arguments are often leveraged by those with a vested interest in preventing the regulation of content related to Buddhism,” he observed.
Commenting on this issue, a Government teacher who teaches Buddhism, M. Jayawardana emphasised the significant responsibility that both public and religious leaders have with regard to respecting all religions. He elaborated that many religious conflicts could be avoided if this fundamental principle of mutual respect was adhered to.
“Over the past, we have observed not only ordinary people but also religious leaders engaging in behaviour that insults other religions. This kind of behaviour has been linked to major disasters, such as the Easter Sunday terror attacks,” He explained that the repercussions of disrespecting other religions extend beyond immediate conflicts, contributing to a climate of intolerance and mistrust that can later escalate into violence and social unrest.
“When individuals, especially those in influential positions, demonstrate disrespect towards other faiths, it sets a dangerous precedent. It normalises intolerance and can incite animosity among communities. The solution is quite simple: act with respect for one's own religion as well as those of others, and avoid discrimination. By doing so, we create a culture of mutual respect and acceptance.” Jayawardana further suggested that educational institutions and religious organisations play a pivotal role in promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding.
An information technology (IT) graduate, S. Nawanjana emphasised the importance of educating people about the responsible use of technologies like AI. “While there is much discussion about introducing AI into the school curriculum, there is a lack of information on how these technologies should be used responsibly.” He elaborated that the integration of AI into educational systems should go hand in hand with teaching ethical guidelines and best practices for its use.
“Users need to understand not just the capabilities of AI but also the potential ethical dilemmas and legal implications that come with its misuse. This foundational knowledge is crucial to prevent incidents like the recent incident (the alleged distortion of this Sutta).” He further suggested that the recent incident might have been an experiment conducted by someone without the intention to insult Buddhism. “It is possible that the individual involved did not foresee the cultural and religious implications of their actions. This highlights the gap in awareness about the broader impacts of technological experimentation.”
To address these issues, Nawanjana proposed the development of comprehensive training programmes and public awareness campaigns. He said that there is a need for initiatives that inform the people about both the positive applications of AI and the potential risks, adding that such a dual approach will help in cultivating a more informed and conscientious user base. He also stressed the importance of a strong legal framework to manage and mitigate technological offences.
“Legislation must evolve to keep pace with technological advancements. We need laws that clearly define acceptable and unacceptable uses of AI, along with penalties for violations. This will provide a deterrent against misuse and offer a clear path for legal recourse when necessary.”
When contacted, attorney Sanjaya Wilson Jayasekera said that he strongly advises against lodging complaints against individuals who express critical views on religions and various other matters. Instead, he said that democratic environments should naturally determine the acceptance or rejection of such opinions.
“Those who appreciate a particular expression will support it, while dissenters can voice their criticisms through social media and other platforms, as already practised. In many countries, critical creations are viewed as valuable contributions to societal progress. State intervention to suppress specific forms of expression triggers broader suppression mechanisms and fosters societal divisions, potentially leading to a hazardous environment. Legal provisions should only be invoked if expressions incite violence; otherwise, allowing an open discourse poses no inherent threat of violence.”
Speaking to The Daily Morning, the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs, R.M.P. Rathnayake highlighted that religions are not governed by statutory legislation but are deeply rooted in societal norms and traditions. He underscored the cultural and spiritual significance of religious practices and rituals, for instance, the chanting of Suttas in the Buddhist tradition. According to him, these rituals are conducted reverently, following established customs, and are performed without musical accompaniment – a practice upheld for millennia.
He expressed concern over any distortions of these traditions, emphasising that such incidents prompt immediate attention and action from the relevant authorities. He clarified that in cases like the recent one, where there are allegations of distortion, his office promptly informs and urges the Police to investigate. Acknowledging potential practical challenges in conducting such investigations, Rathnayake assured that they would cooperate fully with the law enforcement to address any difficulties encountered.
When contacted, the Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Vidura Wickramanayaka said that the Ministry is currently looking into the possibility of enacting the Buddhist Publications Regulatory Bill.