Government decides on: Broad development plan for Dambulla sacred area

The government in a media communique under the hand of Director General, Government Information Prof. Ariyarathna Athugala says that President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Prime Minister D. M. Jayaratne and the government had directed their highest attention to the situation which occurred at Dambulla recently and they have taken relevant steps to develop the Dambulla sacred land with a broad development plan that does not cause any prejudice to any party. The full statement:

Government pays its highest attention on the situation which occurred at Dambulla recently.

Sri Lanka is a multi-religious, multi-ethnic country and at the same time a country that maintains a broad social and religious freedom, according to the constitution which affirms the right of every religion to carry out their religious activities.

The Sri Lankan society respects their neighbours as to the constitution, government policies and also traditions prevailing in the country.

Although some groups, that carry extreme ideas or international forces try to create unfavorable situation in the country, the government is highly intended to take the correct decision. The President, Prime Minister and the government pays the highest attention on the situation occurred at Dambulla recently and has taken relevant steps to develop the Dambulla sacred land with a broad development plan that does not cause any prejudice to any party.

As to the decisions made in the discussions with the Prime Minister and discussions among the Mahanayake Theras including Asgiri Chapter and Dambulla Chapter, other religious clergy, politicians, government officers, Security Forces and other relevant parties, it is decided to take necessary further steps.

It is a responsibility and a duty of all the parties to secure the benefits we get through the rapid development which occurred in the country after thirty years of conflict, and prevent conflicts that may occur with these kinds of misunderstandings by taking decisions patiently and responsibly, the statement added.