Tissa vihara long lasting controversy
Tensions continue to mount in Jaffna’s Thayiddy area, following the controversial inauguration of an illegally constructed pavilion within the Tissa Vihara, a Buddhist temple built on privately owned Tamil land.
The ceremony was presided over by the Northern Province Deputy Inspector General of Police, Thanabala.
Tissa vihara long lasting controversy
The Tissa Vihara itself stands on lands that were unlawfully seized from Tamil owners, despite prolonged protests and ongoing legal challenges demanding the dismantling of the structure and the restoration of land rights. Local landowners have consistently opposed the temple's presence, citing the lack of legal authority for its construction and the disregard for rightful ownership.
Despite these concerns, and in defiance of proper legal procedures, the vihara administration—with the backing of the Sri Lankan military—constructed a new monastery within the disputed premises. The structure was built without obtaining any formal approval and was inaugurated with full ceremony.
The presence of DIG Thanabala at the inauguration is seen as a symbol of state complicity in ongoing land appropriation efforts.
Tissa vihara long lasting controversy
Meanwhile, Tamil land rights activists and local residents protesting the illegal seizure of their land have faced intimidation and legal persecution. Reports indicate that the Sri Lankan police have continued to target protesters, filing legal cases under harsh laws that deny bail, effectively suppressing dissent and silencing opposition.
In response to growing concerns over police conduct, complaints were submitted to the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka nearly 18 months ago. The commission has now officially opened an investigation into the role of law enforcement in enabling the illegal activities surrounding the Tissa Vihara.
This incident reflects a broader pattern of state-backed land appropriation and militarisation in the North-East, where Buddhist structures are increasingly being established on Tamil land, often with the support of the military and law enforcement authorities.