The Chief Incumbent of the Divurumpola Temple in Nigathalawa, Welimada, was arrested by police yesterday for ordering the cutting down of the sacred Bodhi Tree at the temple for wood.

Two people who cut down the tree were also arrested while another individual is to be arrested.

Police protection had to be given to the temple following a tense situation which occurred yesterday at the temple when villagers gathered there to protest at the action of the Chief Incumbent.

According to legend, the Bodhi Tree was located at the site where Sita had jumped into the fire to prove her chastity.