Mahanayake of Asgiriya Chapter of Siyam Nikaya, Most Venerable Galagama Sri Aththadassi Thera, said in a statement that Theravada Bhikkhu Dialogue has been presented to the parliament as a result of a request made by Maha Nayaka Theras.

Chief Prelate stated that goal of the dialogue was not to impose laws on Buddhist monks.

“The bill was a result of a request made by Mahanayakes and Maha Sangha, from the government. This is not a legislation made by government to control monks. This bill was drafted to register Buddhist monks under respective sects. However, several problems have caused because some issues that should be included in the dialogue had been included in the bill. Therefore, Asgiri Maha Sangha Sabha will study the issue further, and expect to present the opinion of Asgiriya sect to the government”, Most Venerable Galagama Sri Aththadassi Thera stressed.