The Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs has established the Buddha Sasana Sabha to address challenges posed by individuals and groups whose ideologies and activities are seen as distorting the Buddha Sasana.
The inaugural session of the Council was held yesterday (01) at the Ministry premises under the patronage of the Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, and spearheaded by the Trinitarian Maha Sangha.
The aim of the Sabha is to strengthen collaboration between the Buddhist religious community and the state administration, in line with the expectations of the people.
The Council consists of the General Secretary Theros of 31 sects from the Siam, Amarapura, and Ramanna Nikayas—who carry collective responsibility for the Buddhist community in Sri Lanka—along with four Theros appointed by the Minister and one lay representative.
In addition, lay members include the Secretary to the Ministry, the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs, the private secretaries of the Minister and Deputy Minister, and their coordinating secretaries.
Three committees will function under the Sabha:
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Social Security and Nutrition Committee
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Monastic Education and Dharma Research Committee
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Inter-Religious and National Reconciliation Committee
The first session was chaired by the Chief Registrar of the Malwathu Chapter of the Maha Viharavansika Shyamopali Maha Nikaya, Dr. Venerable Pahamune Sumangala Nayaka Thero. The Chief Registrar of the Sri Lanka Ramanna Nikaya, Venerable Attangane Sasanarathana Maha Nayaka Thero, was appointed as Secretary of the Sabha.
The event was attended by the Chief Registrars of 31 chapters of the Nikayas, along with the Secretary to the Ministry, Prince Senadheera, Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs R.M.G. Senaratne, and other dignitaries.
