By Harendra de Silva –

Vidyajyothi Prof. Harendra de Silva

We should expect a situation similar to the well-documented occurrences in the Catholic Church in the West. Some may consider this to be mainly due to celibacy in both religions. However, it is not the only factor. The phenomenon of “samaneras” (novice monks) being abused in “pirivenas” (monastic )—similar to altar and choir boys in the Catholic Church—triggers an intergenerational, vicious cycle of pedophilia. Although there may be many willing adult women with various agendas, children are less demanding, more amenable, and more obedient, making them easier to control, especially considering the institutional wealth these entities command.

Although this issue is rampant everywhere and must be stopped, the bashing of the Sangha and Dhamma by certain YouTubers is driven mainly by financial gain and does not address the real issue. While the problem needs to be tackled, and public sensitization and awareness are necessary, sensationalism must stop. Now, “enough is enough.”

The reluctance of public figures, including politicians, to address this issue is disheartening. However, whatever is stated must remain neutral and not be politicized for personal gain or to bash opponents. We must also realize that the powerbase of governance relies heavily on religious institutions that wield an enormous amount of power, creating a mutually beneficial relationship. It is high time that politicians decide to cut this cord of mutual dependence. This dynamic is not confined to Sri Lanka alone; in India, the power of the Right Wing Nationalist government pivots around Hindu nationalists, and in the majority-Christian USA, although Right Wing Nationalist (MAGA) Evangelical Christians such as late Charlie Kirk or Pete Hegseth appear to hold control on the surface, ultimate influence is determined by the financial power of AIPAC.

What we must do now must be planned judiciously.

I believe that:

It is the responsibility of the government to address this issue. Although the President, at the request of the Mahanayakas, is to take steps to amend the 1931 Vihara and Devalagam Act and re-establish a “Dharmadhikaranaya” with the authority to handle disciplinary matters concerning Buddhist monks, the government should not pass total responsibility onto the Sangha (pass the buck) to resolve the matter. Patchwork solutions will only resurface from time to time or cause the issue to sink deeper into secrecy. There must be a strategic plan to address the varied aspects of the entire problem, and the government should take full responsibility for forming a task force of professionals who have a genuine interest in bringing the issue under control, rather than sweeping it under the carpet. I addition we should learn measures take by other countries including the Church.

The Sangha may proceed with utilizing the “Vinaya Pitaka” (monastic code) to formulate strategies for prevention and discipline, collaborating with lay experts and academics under the guidance of professionals.

Some aspects that need to be addressed include:

The age of child ordination

The age of ordination for children must be addressed both as a matter of government policy and as a principle by the Sangha. One of the main reasons for ordination is poverty, including single parents with large families. This must be specifically addressed by the central and provincial governments and affiliated institutions, because impoverished children are prone to abuse even within their own homes, and ordination is not the solution.

The next reason for ordination is the belief in astrological predictions regarding malefic periods or negative effects on oneself or family members. The Sangha and professionals must strategize on how to address these beliefs. Other reasons for child ordination must be researched and addressed.

Self-monitoring by the Sasanaya

Self-monitoring by the “Sasanaya” is crucial to prevent offenses, and the power to disrobe should be granted to a Sangha committee that includes knowledgeable laypersons. Ideally, there should be no divisions among nikayas (monastic orders), and the same official rules should be accepted by all nikayas without any delay in decision-making. The Sangha committee should be thoroughly vetted before and during their appointment. In other words, the members of the Sangha must adhere to a strict code of conduct monitored by “non-offenders.” However, how can “non-offenders” be identified?

Equal application of penal law

The penal law should apply to everyone equally, irrespective of whether they are in robes or not. Although Penal Code (Amendment) Act No. 22 of 1995 introduced crucial, positive changes, there are many aspects that need further amendment, including the severe aspects of sentencing (Draconian) and, more importantly, changes to introduce precise definitions of offenses.

*Vidyajothi Prof. Harendra De Silva. Emeritus professor of Paediatrics, Founder Chairman National Child Protection Authority (NCPA)