Archaeology Dept. Not happy with move by Sithulpauwa Chief monk
Ven. Metaramba Hemarathana Thera says he placed Buddha statues within the historic cave temple to stop youth from misbehaving
The Archaeology Department has objected to a move by the chief incumbent of the Sithulpauwa Raja Maha Viharaya to place Buddha statues inside the ancient cave temple, a heritage site, without seeking the Department's permission.
Ven. Metaramba Hemarathana Thera explaining the reason behind the move, said, he did it to protect the site from misbehaving youth whom he hoped would act with more reverence on seeing Buddha statues within the cave temple.
He said, many intoxicated youth who go on trips to the Yala National park visit the ancient cave temple and indulge in graffiti on the cave walls and taking inappropriate pictures.
The Thera said he had written to officials several times but since no action had been taken, he thought he would act.
However, Archaeology Department Director General Dr B. P. Mandawala said the Department should have been informed of such a move as it is an archaelogical reserve and comes under the Department's purview.
He said if any illegal activity occurred in such places the Department has to take legal action against miscreants.
However Mr. Mandawala also pointed out that the Department was facing staff shortage with the current workforce being 1,917 when it should be 2,400.
He said they had only 500 securityguards although they should have 3,000, adding that the Department was allocated Rs 430 million last year, but only received only Rs 66 million. Mr. Mandawala said they have requested Rs 700 million from the 2018 budget. Text and pix by Janath de silva