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Leading monks deliver epistle to Buddhasasana Ministry 

20 Apr 2021

  • Claims Port City Bill violates Buddhism’s position in Constitution 

  A number of monks, led by Ven. Dr. Omalpe Sobitha Thera have submitted a letter to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs Secretary Prof. Kapila Gunawardana yesterday (19), alleging that certain clauses in the “Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill” affects the position of Buddhism in the Constitution.  The letter had stated that the Bill’s 52nd, 53rd and 73rd clauses challenge Article 09 of the Constitution.  Clauses Numbered 52 and 53 relate to the determination of the grant of exemptions or incentives for the promotion of businesses of strategic importance while Clause No. 73 states that multiple pieces of legislation including the Urban Development Authority Law, No. 41 of 1978 and the Municipal Councils Ordinance (Chapter 252) will not be applicable in the Colombo Port City.  It was earlier reported that the Special Economic Commission on the Colombo Port City would have the authority to grant exemptions under the Betting and Gaming Levy Act, No. 40 of 1988 and the Casino Business (Regulation) Act, No. 17 of 2010.  Article 09 of the Constitution states that Buddhism will be given the foremost place in the country and that it is the duty of the State to protect and foster the Buddha Sasana.  Meanwhile, the five Judge Supreme Court bench appointed to consider the number of petitions filed in the Court challenging the Bill, which commenced hearings yesterday, will be considering them again today (20).


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