Gnanasara Thera alleges inhumane treatment in prison

February 27, 2025 at 2:29 PM

Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) General Secretary Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera claimed he was treated inhumanely while serving his prison sentence.

Gnanasara Thera who was sentenced to nine months of simple imprisonment, was released on bail this week by the Colombo High Court in a case related to the defamation of Islam.

Speaking to media, he alleged that despite doctors recommending a homemade meal daily due to his illness, prison authorities denied his request.

“Was this a government decision or an arbitrary act by prison officials?” he questioned.

He further claimed that inmates in the Prison Hospital were treated unfairly, with medical needs ignored due to pressure from influential figures, including YouTubers. He said prison officials feared being accused of favouritism toward high-profile inmates like himself and Duminda Silva.

“My request is that these inmates at least be given milk powder and sugar to aid their recovery,” he said, adding that now, in the absence of himself and Duminda Silva, the remaining inmates should receive better treatment. (Newswire)