All concerned parties including the Buddhist and Muslim clergy have agreed to amicably resolve the issues that led to Saturday night’s attack in Grandpass, where a newly built Muslim praying Centre was damaged.

The parties had decided to develop the old Mosque and remove the newly built prayer centre, sources said.

The decision has been taken following a meeting held at the Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs Ministry, Colombo 02.

The meeting was attended by JHU General Secretary Champika Ranawaka, Western Province governor Alavi Maulana, Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Minister Rishad Badhiutheen, Minister Rauff Hakeem, Inspector General of Police N.K. Illangakoon and Buddhist and Muslim Clergy.

Speaking after the meeting, JHU General Secretary Champika Ranawaka told reporters that the government and authorities would help to develop the old mosque.

Parties had also agreed to remove a Bo tree that was near the mosque.

Western Province governor Alavi Maulana said an outside gang had attacked an old mosque in Grandpas area making a threat to the harmony between the communities in the area. (YP & LSP) Pix by Kushan Pathiraja