The Basnayake Nilame of the Kataragama Devala, D.P. Kumarage and its Kapuralas have been called for a meeting tomorrow to find a permanent solution to the ongoing conflict among them.
The meeting has been organized by the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs, Nimal Kotawalagedara following the completion of a report by the Ministry of Buddha Sasana regarding the clash between the two parties which occurred on August 22 at the Devala premises.
The two parties will meet in Avissawella tomorrow where it is expected that a special resolution consisting of an official order of duties will be presented to them following discussions.
According to sources, the clash had occurred due to a dispute over the income of the Devala. Traditionally the income of Devala is said to be divided between the two parties where the Kapuralas received the earnings of five months while the Basnayaka Nilame received the income of seven months. According to Ministry sources, both parties will receive new instructions on their official duties and responsibilities when they meet tomorrow, to avoid future conflicts. The two parties clashed over the keys of the Devala on August 22. Due to the clash, the first religious rites of the day were delayed causing unrest among pilgrims and residents of the area.