Colombo Chief Magistrate Mr. Prasanna Alwis ordered the release on bail of the individual known as "Vishwa Buddha" from Ratnapura, who had been remanded on charges of insulting Buddhism. The magistrate's decision was based on the assertion that charges under the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) could not be sustained against the suspect.

Chief Magistrate Alwis, while acknowledging the limitations of the ICCPR charges, highlighted that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) retains the authority to investigate the case under Section 290 of the Penal Code. This provision of the Penal Code pertains to the offense of public nuisance and affords the CID an avenue to pursue legal action.

The released suspect, identified as "Vishwa Buddha," was granted bail upon the submission of two sureties, each amounting to 5 lakh rupees. The magistrate's decision raises questions about the legal grounds on which the suspect was initially apprehended and charged under the ICCPR, an international covenant that protects civil and political rights.

The court proceedings revealed that while the ICCPR charges may not be applicable, the suspect remains subject to investigation under local criminal statutes.