• Kandy DIG says foreign diplomats to undergo spl. screening procedures while limited no. of monks to be granted spl. access
• 3 entry/2 exit queues established; devotees advised against ‘pirikara’; video surveillance continuing  

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) for the Kandy and Matale Districts, Sudath Masinghe said that no special queues will be arranged for very important persons (VIPs) or very VIPs (VVIPs) during the upcoming exposition of the Tooth Relic, which is scheduled to begin today (18) at the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth relic) in Kandy.

He made these remarks during a special press briefing held yesterday (17), focusing on security arrangements for devotees and traffic management during the event.

Masinghe stated that while there will be no priority access for VIPs, a limited number of Buddhist monks will be granted special access and security within the Temple. 

Additionally, foreign diplomats attending as dignitaries will undergo special screening procedures. He further noted that they will be given the opportunity to venerate the Relic prior to the formal commencement of the exposition.

Emphasising the prioritisation of worshippers, Masinghe said that approximately 98% of the arrangements are dedicated to ensuring a smooth and respectful experience for the devotees. He added that those attending the early morning ‘Kiri Ahara Puja (milk food offering)’ will be able to participate in the religious observances without interruption.

However, he stressed that all devotees must vacate the Temple premises by 10.30 a.m.

To streamline movement, three entry queues and two exit queues will be established. He also cautioned that bringing ‘Pirikara (offerings or religious items)’ may lead to delays and inconvenience for other devotees.

Meanwhile, Masinghe stated that video surveillance will be in place along the queues to ensure orderly conduct and to prevent unauthorised access, assuring that “there is no room for anyone to sneak in.”

The special exposition of the Relic will take place at the Sri Dalada Maligawa from 3-5.30 p.m. today. Thereafter, it will continue daily for 10 days, from 12 noon to 5.30 p.m.