A tense atmosphere engulfed Parliament as Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MPs staged a protest, demanding the release of eight individuals arrested during religious observances at the Vedukkunaarimalai Athi Lingeswarar Shrine on Maha Sivarathri night.
The MPs, emphasizing the detainees' innocence, urged authorities to intervene, citing false allegations by Archaeology Department officials.
Deputy Speaker Ajith Rajapakshe assured a review of the matter, while Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa emphasized the right to religious freedom.
Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapaksha underscored the government's non-intervention stance, citing ongoing court proceedings, promising thorough investigation and legal proceedings. "We cannot release people arrested by the police and produced before court. They should be released only by the court," he stated. The issue remains a focal point of parliamentary deliberations amidst calls for justice and procedural adherence.