President condemns explosions in Bodh Gaya

Monday, 8 July 2013 00:59 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Mahinda Rajapaksa has condemned the explosions that took place in Bodh Gaya shrine in Bihar, India, yesterday. Following is the full text of President’s statement. It is with deep sadness that I condemn the explosions within the hallowed precincts of the most venerated and sacred Bodh Gaya shrine in Bihar in India.

Undoubtedly, it is one of the holiest shrines highly respected and venerated not only by Buddhists throughout the world, but by all peace loving human beings. Sri Lanka has undergone similar tragedies when the most venerated and sacred Temple of the Tooth and Sri Maha Bodhi were mercilessly attacked by terrorists, some years ago. The people and the Government of Sri Lanka will extend their fullest support to the people and the Government of India in this hour of great tragedy. We also wish speedy recovery to those who were injured due to these blasts and offer prayers for quick restoration of normalcy of this most venerated shrine in order that Buddhists and other pilgrims are able to perform their religious observances as in the past. Respect for all religions and places of worship and veneration is a must if we are desirous of creating a society that values peace and harmony. Acts of sabotage, destruction and vandalism against any religious place of worship must be totally condemned, and all peace loving human beings of all faiths must hold hands together to root out any acts against religions and places of worship and veneration.