Bimal calls for end to ‘unfair’ criticism of Women’s Affairs Minister

Tuesday, 18 March 2025 03:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Defends Women’s Affairs Minister Saroja Paulraj stating she made no remarks against Islam or its law
Stresses any changes to Islamic laws will be done only after consulting Muslim leaders
Alleges some Muslim politicians using false accusations against Paulraj for political gain ahead of LG polls
Claims certain critics involved in ‘haram businesses’ and trying to stir controversy for electoral advantage

Leader of the House Bimal Rathnayake yesterday urged Muslim leaders to intervene and put an end to what he described as unjustified criticism of Women’s Affairs Minister Saroja Paulraj by certain Muslim politicians.

Speaking in Parliament, Rathnayake defended Paulraj, asserting that she had made no statements regarding Islam or its laws that carried racial or religious implications.

He stressed that any changes to Islamic laws in Sri Lanka would only occur after consultations with Muslim leaders, a position previously outlined by the President and the Government.

“The only message Minister Paulraj conveyed at a recent event was what the Government has always maintained – that discussions with Muslim leaders would precede any legal reforms,” Rathnayake said.

The Leader of the House went on to criticise certain Muslim politicians, accusing them of engaging in ‘haram businesses’ and using false accusations against Paulraj for political gain ahead of the upcoming Local Government (LG) polls.

“Some Muslim politicians who are involved in haram businesses and who lead a life of haram are now accusing Minister Paulraj without reason, just to stir issues ahead of the elections,” he claimed.

Reaffirming the National People’s Power (NPP) Government’s commitment to interfaith unity, Rathnayake warned Muslim politicians against making baseless allegations, stressing that such actions could undermine communal harmony.