No levy from pilgrims, PM orders

Prime Minister D M Jayaratne called for an immediate withdrawal of a decision taken by the Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs Ministry secretary to levy a charge from pilgrims and pilgrimage organizers to India.

The secretary had taken a decision to levy a charge of Rs 2,500 from pilgrims and pilgrimage organizers for each tour, without the knowledge of the Prime Minister, who is also the minister- in - charge of Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs.

The Premier called for an immediate halt to the collection of monies, after he was informed about the decision by pilgrimage organizers to India, Prime Minister's media sources said.

The Prime Minister had also informed them that the secretary had taken the decision without his knowledge.

Prime Minister Jayaratne yesterday stressed that as the minister in charge of the subject, he could ensure that there would be no efforts to impose any charges from pilgrims or pilgrimage organizers to India.