Maha Sangha has inherent right on archaeology sites

Sigiriya group correspondent

The preservation of archaeological sites used to be an inherent right and a privilege of the Maha Sangha, though legal rights have been entrusted to Archaeology Department. When discussing, deciding issues, precautions should be taken to arrive at a consensus, avoiding conflicting situations with the Maha Sangha, said Puravidhya Chakrawarthi, Ven. Ellawala Medananda thera MP.

"I have very often have this idea expressed and also have had discussions with the President and the subject Minister as well", he said.

He was addressing an archaeological preservation workshop at Pidurangala Raja Maha Viharaya in Sigiriya.

Archaeological sites and ancient temples are the properties of the Maha Sangha since the time of our ancient kings.

They are the owners, but the Archaeology Department owes the custodianship. This situation has to be understood, the Thera said.

He said Sri Lanka is a fortunate country where it has an immense stock of archaeological data that could be shown to the world.

"Every inch of the country whether it is a mountain or an abandoned land we find valuable items to archaeology."

This is owing to the fact, that the entire country embraced Buddhism since the advent of Arahat Maha Mahinda thera, he said.

The seminar was organised by the Association of Archaeological Preservation, UNESCO-media organisation, and the Sri Lanka Media Web. Ven. Inamaluwe Sumangala Mahanayake of the Rangiri Dambulla Parshawaya said the identity of a country could be well protected if they commit to preserve its national entities.

"This was well understood by the Maha Sangha. This inherited right of the Maha Sangha, cannot be challenged by anybody", the Thera said.

Ven. Deniyagama Ananda thera, Ven Mavita Somaloka Director of Archaeology Dr. Senarath Dissanayake Central Province Director of Archaeology D. D. Wijepala RO CP IDM Wijebandara also spoke.