The Mahanayake Theros of Sri Lanka’s three main Buddhist monastic orders—the Siyam Nikaya, Amarapura Nikaya, and Ramanna Nikaya—have issued a joint statement strongly condemning illegal activities carried out by individuals posing as Buddhist monks.
The Chief Prelates criticised the actions of so-called “monk impersonators” who, they said, have misused the saffron robe to transport drugs, bringing disrepute to the longstanding and respected role of the Buddhist clergy in Sri Lanka.
In their statement, the Mahanayake Theros described the acts as anti-Sasana, anti-social, and illegal, emphasising that those involved have abused the trust and reverence traditionally afforded to monks in Sri Lankan society.
They stressed that all individuals found responsible for such actions must be brought to justice and punished according to the law.
The Theros also highlighted the urgent need to establish a proper mechanism to investigate such incidents and expel individuals who misuse monastic identity for unlawful purposes. They called for prompt intervention by state authorities to introduce necessary legal provisions to address the issue.
Accordingly, the relevant Nikayas have pledged to conduct their own inquiries into those involved and to take steps to remove such individuals from the monastic order.
The statement further urged security forces to carry out swift investigations into drug networks and distributors allegedly targeting young monks and encouraging them to engage in illegal activities.
In addition, the Mahanayake Theros called on Buddhist teachers to closely monitor young monks and take appropriate action if any are found to be involved in activities that harm the Sasana.
