Jathika Hela Urumaya MP Ven Athureliye Rathana Thero called all Buddhists to remain calm, exercise restraint and not be swayed by emotion in light of incidents alleged to have taken place in Aluthgama leading to violence in the area. Ven Rathana Thero further told 'The Nation' that it is easy for extremist groups of any kind to play on insecurities, perceived injustices and emotions. The JHU parliamentarian observed that it was precisely by exercising restraint and responding with reason in the face of provocation by the LTTE such as the attack on the Sri Maha Bodhi and the Dalada Maligawa that terrorism was defeated.
He further pointed out that if there was perceived wrongdoing the matter should be referred to the law enforcement authorities, observing that taking the law into the hand can only exacerbate the problem and strengthen extremism.Ven Rathana Thero spoke to The Nation amid continuing unrest following violence in Aluthgama with reports of Muslim establishments being threatened and attacked and also reports of Muslims taking refuge in mosques fearing attack.