16 June 2023 09:47 am Views - 156
By Yohan Perera
President Ranil Wickremesinghe is to appoint a committee to determine whether Kurundi Viharaya of Mullaitivu and Thiriyaya Viharaya of Trincomalee historically owned 2,000 and 3,000 acres respectively, sources close to President’s office said.
President intends to find out as to how the two Viharas could own land more than Mahavihara which has been historically considered as the foremost Centre of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
President is of the opinion that it is essential to find out as to why the two Viharas need lands which come under the Department of Forestry, Department of Lands etc.
It is reported that the task force on Archaeological affairs appointed by former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has recommended the release of lands to Kurundi Viharaya and Thiriyaya Viharaya.
The committee which is to be appointed will be given the task of finding historical evidence with regard to land owned by Kurundi and Thiriyaya Viharaya. The President is expected to appoint the Committee before leaving for Europe on June 17.