The All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU) Irakkamam branch has categorically rejected claims that a suspect arrested in connection with the alleged sexual abuse of a 14-year-old girl was a Moulavi, asserting that the accused has no recognised religious qualifications, no formal Arabic education and no affiliation with the country’s premier Islamic religious organisation.

The clarification comes amid growing public concern over reports identifying a 21-year-old resident of Eragama as a Moulavi after he surrendered before court in connection with the alleged offence. The suspect was remanded until June 03, together with another individual accused of aiding and abetting the crime.

In a strongly-worded statement, the ACJU Irakkamam branch said the description of the suspect as a Moulavi was incorrect and misleading.

“The individual concerned has neither studied at a recognised Arabic college nor obtained the qualifications required to be identified as a Moulavi,” the statement said.

The organisation further stressed that the suspect has no connection whatsoever with the ACJU or any of its branches.

The ACJU expressed concern that the erroneous use of the religious title had the potential to misinform the public and unfairly tarnish the reputation of qualified Islamic scholars and religious institutions that have no link to the alleged crime.

Religious leaders pointed out that the title “Moulavi” is traditionally conferred upon individuals who have successfully completed formal Islamic theological studies at recognised institutions and are acknowledged for their religious scholarship.

The controversy arose after reports and social media posts widely referred to the suspect as a Moulavi following his arrest.

The ACJU maintained that the designation was factually inaccurate and called for greater diligence when identifying suspects in criminal investigations.

The organisation urged both law enforcement authorities and media institutions to verify information before assigning religious titles, particularly in sensitive cases involving children and serious criminal allegations.

Meanwhile, investigations into the alleged sexual abuse of the minor are continuing under Police supervision. The suspects remain in remand custody pending further judicial proceedings.

The case has attracted widespread attention across the Eastern Province, with child protection advocates calling for a thorough investigation and swift justice for the victim, while community leaders have appealed for accuracy and responsibility in public reporting to prevent the stigmatisation of religious institutions and scholars unconnected to the alleged offence.

By Ifham Nizam

Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply, Susil Ranasinghe yesterday (02) said that a decision on a water tariff revision would be made on 30 June.

Ranasinghe said so speaking to the media after a ceremony to present appointment letters to newly recruited Management Assistant officers of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board. The Minister said that no decision had yet been made regarding a tariff increase.

The Cabinet has decided that water tariffs will remain unchanged during the first six months of the year.

Sources said that against the backdrop of sharp increase in fuel prices, an upward water tariff revision would be inevitable. Minister Ranasinghe acknowledged that the recent rise in electricity tariffs could have some impact on water supply costs.

In a display of naval tradition, the Sri Lanka Navy formally welcomed the Pakistan Navy Ships ‘PNS Taimur’ and ‘PNS Aslat’, alongside the submarine ‘PNS/M Hangor’, arrived at the Port of Colombo on 01 Jun 26.

The Pakistan naval units made port in Sri Lanka for a goodwill visit as well as replenishment.

The visiting naval assets are commanded by a lineup of naval officers, with Captain Niamat Saeed Khan (‘PNS Taimur’), Captain Nadir Mateen Afridi (‘PNS Aslat’), and Captain Uzair Farooq (‘PNS/M Hangor’).

During their stay in Sri Lanka, the crew members of the visiting ships and submarine are scheduled to tour several key locations across the country.

Concluding the visit, the Pakistan naval units will engage in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Sri Lanka Navy off the west coast.