Three monks, including Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thero, have commenced a fast-unto-death this morning (11). It is reported that the hunger strike was launched near the Ruwanweli Seya.

Key Points

  • Three monks including Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thero began a fast-unto-death this morning (11).
  • The protest is being carried out demanding the suspension of the Anuradhapura sacred area development project and a presidential pardon for Ven. Gnanasara Thero.
  • A satyagraha campaign had also been held in front of the Ruwanweli Seya previously based on the same demands.

Reasons for the fast

The monks took this step citing two demands: the suspension of the Anuradhapura sacred area development project and the granting of a presidential pardon to Ven. Gnanasara Thero.

A satyagraha had been underway near the Ruwanweli Seya over the past few days over these demands, during which the three monks, including Ven. Kassapa Thero, joined the fast-unto-death.