Complaints filed over Dilum Amunugama’s ‘prostitute’ remark about minor witness

• Amunugama claimed the Atamasthanadhipathi Thera was arrested based on a statement by a sex worker.
• Thera was arrested based on a prostitute’s statement.
• Remarks spread rapidly on social media, drawing controversy.

Colombo, May 21 (Daily Mirror) - Complaints have been lodged regarding remarks allegedly made by Dilum Amunugama, the National Organizer of the political movement Sarva Jana Balaya, during a public media conference held yesterday (20), in which a minor girl under state care was reportedly referenced in a manner described as derogatory.

Speaking at a media briefing, Amunugama claimed that, according to information received by the party, the arrest and detention of an Atamasthanadhipathi Thera had been made based on a statement by a sex worker.

“As we heard, the Atamasthanadhipathi Thera has been arrested based on the statement made by a prostitute,” he said.

According to the complaint, a video clip of the statement has since circulated widely on social media, sparking public controversy. 

Officials have raised concerns that public criticism of a child involved in an active judicial proceeding could amount to verbal abuse and may further harm the welfare of the victim.

It is further said that the child is currently under medical supervision and is also receiving protection under the National Child Protection Authority.

In response, authorities have directed the Inspector General of Police and the National Child Protection Authority to conduct an investigation and take appropriate legal action based on existing laws.

Meanwhile, a request has been made to media organizations and social media users to refrain from circulating the video further, in order to protect the privacy and well-being of the child involved.