The Divide

Anuradhapura Sacred City development: Defending Buddhist heritage or stirring religious tensions?

The government’s plan to develop the Anuradhapura Sacred City with Indian financial support drew criticism from opposition politicians, who alleged that Hindu temples would be built, threatening Buddhist heritage. The government denied these claims, stating that the project focuses on improving facilities and preserving the sacred city. Privately-owned Tamil newspaper Virakesari and privately-owned Sinhala newspaper Divaina featured diverging views on the issue.