Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs Gamini Senaratne says steps are being taken to urgently amend the Buddhist Temples, Devalagam and Villages Act to strengthen disciplinary mechanisms relating to members of the Maha Sangha and address misconduct irrespective of rank.
Speaking on the proposed amendments, Senaratne stated that recommendations have been requested from the Registrars of the Maha Sangha Councils representing the three Nikayas, with the report expected within the next few days.
According to the Commissioner General, while disciplinary measures currently exist through the respective Sangha Councils, legal limitations have allowed some monks accused of misconduct to continue public activities while remaining in robes.
To address this issue, authorities are proposing amendments that would introduce a stronger disciplinary framework, including a mechanism similar to a “Sangha Court” to handle violations and disciplinary matters more effectively.
Senaratne stated that extensive discussions have already been held between the Department of Buddhist Affairs and the Attorney General regarding the proposed legal reforms.
“We have already handed over all agreements reached with the Attorney General to the Registrars of the Maha Sangha Sabhas. Based on the observations and recommendations of committees led by the Mahanayake Theros, we are preparing legislation suited to present-day requirements,” he said.
Once recommendations from the registrars are received, the Department of Buddhist Affairs plans to forward the proposed amendments to the Legal Draftsman’s Department for final drafting.
The proposed reforms are aimed at strengthening disciplinary structures within the Buddhist clergy while aligning legal frameworks with current institutional requirements.
