‘Constitution grants freedom of worship’

Member of Parliament A H M Azwer said the Sri Lankan constitution was clear that, Buddhism was the religion of the majority and Article 9 of the Constitution stated: “The Republic of Sri Lanka shall give to Buddhism the foremost place and accordingly it shall be the duty of the State to protect and foster the Buddha Sasana, while assuring to all religions the rights granted by Articles 10 and 14 (1) (e).

Article 14 (e) of the Constitution, expressly states: “the freedom, either by himself or in association with others and either in public or in private, to manifest his religion or belief in worship, observance, practice and teaching.”

MP Azwer, was speaking as chief guest at the opening ceremony of the Computer Lab II at Isha-Athul Islam Home for the Orphans at Dharga Town. Alhaj M Z M Badiudeen JP presided. Dr M Harris Z Deen of UK was Guest of Honour.

There was an attempt lately, masterminded by some elements to interfere with the Muslim Madrasas. Madrasas are centres where Muslim children are taught the Holy Quran and lessons on Muslim prayers. One is inter-connected with the other and cannot be separated.

‘Madrasas existed from time immemorial and are duly registered under the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs.

‘To interfere with the existence of Madrasas would be tantamount to a violation of the fundamental rights of the Muslim community. It is an insignificant few who try to disturb the peace, and such attempts should be nipped in the bud, so that all religions in the country will have the freedom to follow and practice his or her religion.

He said the nomenclature, ‘Home for the Orphans’ should be changed to ‘Centres for the Care of Children’, so that the children in homes would feel equal and honoured with the rest of the children in institutions.

M S M Aslam, MP M M M Amjad, Member, WPC, Haleem A Azeez, Secretary of the Home, Shonike Omer and several others participated.