Ven. Dhammaloka and Ven Rahula express opposing views on KDU Bill

Ven Rahula attacks the controversial Sir John Kotelawela Defence University Bill while Ven. Dhammaloka looks on (pic courtesy President’s Media) 

Ven. Uduwe Dhammaloka Thera on Sunday (18) flayed those who opposed the controversial Sir John Kotelawela Defence University Bill. The former JHU lawmaker alleged that attempts were being made to derail government efforts to expand the much-needed capacity of Universities to meet the growing demand.

 The Thera said so addressing a gathering at Bodagama, Thanmalwila, where dry rations worth about Rs 20 million were distributed among those affected by the Covid-19 epidemic.

 Ven. Dhammaloka Thera said that Sri Lanka could save a substantial amount of foreign exchange by expanding the capacity of local Universities. The former lawmaker pointed out that today the country was in a major financial crisis and in debt even to Bangladesh. However, Ven Dodampahala Rahula Thera, who addressed the gathering subsequently, warned of dire consequences of the enactment of Sir John Kotelawela Defence University Bill. Ven Rahula emphasized that the ongoing efforts to establish a system outside the existing couldn’t be accepted or tolerated under any circumstances. Ven. Rahula explained the grave danger in the bid to privatise higher education.

The distribution of dry rations was arranged by Dr. Ven Bodagama Chandima, chief incumbent of Kelaniya Manelwatta viharaya. (SF)