Catholic priests from the Diocese of Jaffna have strongly condemned the arrest and alleged assault of Swami Velan, head of the Nallur Sivaguru Aadheenam, following unrest during a protest against an allegedly illegal Tissa Viharaya in Thaiyiddy.
Swami Velan was reportedly detained by police during the protest, allegedly assaulted, and transported in a police vehicle before being admitted to hospital. He was later released on bail.
A group of Catholic priests, led by Rev. Fr Jayakumar, Dean of the Kilinochchi Deanery, visited Swami Velan at the Nallur Siva Temple on 29 December, to check on his health. Priests Rev. Fr. Rex Soundara and Rev. Fr. Vimalasekaran Vasanthan were also present.
The clergy condemned what they described as state repression against religious leaders of other faiths, while pointing out that Buddhist monks are reportedly afforded protection. They said such actions threaten religious equality and social harmony.
On 31 December, the Vicar General of Jaffna Diocese, Rev. Fr. Josephthas Jeberatnam, who is also Co-Chair of the Jaffna District Interfaith Council, visited Swami Velan with another council member to express solidarity and inquire into his well-being.
