A fundamental rights petition has been filed with the Supreme Court, seeking an order directing prison authorities to ensure that Ven. Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thero who is currently serving a prison sentence is presented in court wearing his monastic robe when appearing for other legal proceedings.
The Commissioner General of Prisons, the Secretary to the Ministry of Justice, and the Attorney General have been named as respondents in the petition.
The petitioner requests the Court to issue an order requiring prison authorities to take the necessary steps to ensure that Ven. Gnanasara Thero appears in court clad in his monastic robe, in keeping with his status as a Buddhist monk, whenever he is produced for other legal matters.
The petition was filed by Shanthi Jayathilaka, a retired Air Force officer.