Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has called for an explanation from State Minister Ranjan Ramanayake on recent controversial remarks the latter made on alleged sexual abuse within Buddhist temples.

Ramanayake made several controversial remarks about Buddhist monks and alleged sexual abuse in temples during an online talk show last week.

Writing a letter to the State Minister, the Prime Minister has directed Ramanayake to submit his explanation before July 21.

Wickremesinghe has also severely condemned Ramanayake's statement recalling that his family maintained close ties with many prominent Buddhist temples for many decades.

The Prime Minister's latter has also made it clear that Ramanayake's statements do not represent the viewpoints of the government or the United National Party.