Hundreds of Buddhist monks gathered in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, on Friday to protest what they perceive as the government's disrespect towards their religion and its neglect in consulting them on state affairs. The rally was reportedly organized peacefully, without any reports of violence, emphasizing the monks' desire to reclaim a prominent role in governance, as prescribed by longstanding traditions in Sri Lankan Buddhist culture.

Sri Lanka's constitution designates Buddhism as the state religion, although it also guarantees freedom of religion for all citizens. With over 70% of the population identifying as Buddhist, the monks play a significant role in shaping social, cultural, and political discourse. The protest resonates with the growing concerns within the Buddhist community about losing influence in governance and the rising multicultural dynamics with Hindu, Muslim, and Christian minorities present in the country.

During the protest, participants read a letter directed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, urging the government to structure its values around Buddhist principles that date back to ancient India in the 5th century BC. The monks' call for recognition highlights an ongoing discourse around the intertwining of religion and politics in Sri Lanka, reminding the government of its obligation to protect and promote Buddhism as emphasized in the nation’s constitutional framework.