The Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter rejected suggestions that historically donated temple lands should be redistributed to the public, arguing that income from such lands benefits entire communities regardless of religious affiliation.
The Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter, Most Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Thero, addressed mounting public discussion about temple land ownership during a ceremony at the Rangiri Dambulla Rajamaha Viharaya on Tuesday. He rejected claims that lands granted by ancient kings to temples are used exclusively for Buddhist monks and stated it would be incorrect to redistribute these holdings among the general population.
According to the Chief Prelate, a misunderstanding has developed regarding how temple and monastery lands function within society. He emphasized that revenues generated from temple-owned land support broader community welfare programs that extend beyond the monastic community. These funds reportedly assist local residents, children from economically disadvantaged families, religious educational institutions, and students pursuing traditional Buddhist studies.
During the same event, authorities distributed legal land permits known as 'Urumaya' permits to approximately 800 individuals who have occupied and utilized land belonging to the Rangiri Dambulla Rajamaha Viharaya. The Chief Incumbent of the temple noted that the religious institution had successfully maintained ownership of these properties despite historical government attempts to acquire land under the Waste Lands Ordinance. The Chief Prelate used the occasion to encourage those utilizing temple lands to do so responsibly and contribute toward national development.