Abuse allegations against Atamasthanadhipathi Ven. Pallegama Hemarathana Thero

The police have recorded a statement from the Chief Incumbent of Atamasthana, Ven. Pallegama Hemarathana Thero, regarding an incident of severe sexual abuse of a fifteen-year-old minor girl. Yesterday, a team of Nittambuwa police officers went to Anuradhapura to arrest him and surrounded the temple where he resides. Police sources confirm that the Chief Incumbent of Atamasthana is considered the main suspect in this crime, centered in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, which has generated significant discussion and sorrow in society.

According to information received by the Gampaha Divisional Children and Women's Bureau, this girl was first taken into police custody while staying with a person alleged to be her boyfriend at a lodge in the Nittambuwa area. There, the victim girl revealed to the police that her mother had taken money and, in return, handed her over for abuse to the relevant temple chief as well as another businessman. Based on the girl's statement that she was abused by the said monk and two other individuals on several occasions, the police have reported the facts to the court, and the Anuradhapura Chief Magistrate has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident.

A senior police officer stated that after questioning the relevant monk, a site inspection was also conducted in the area where the crime is said to have occurred. Currently, scientific and site investigations have been completed, and operations to gather further evidence are underway, with facts regarding arrests expected to be reported in upcoming court sessions. Furthermore, the relevant authorities are focused on ensuring the victim girl's safety and providing her with necessary psychological counseling.

The government has given its highest attention to this serious incident, and based on the significant public interest, Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Ms. Saroja Savithri Paulraj, has instructed ministry officials to immediately provide her with a full report on it.