Pallegama Hemarathana Thero was arrested on May 9th, 2026 following complaints of alleged sexual assault and abuse of a 15-year old girl occuring in 2022 at an Anuradhapura temple.
This case is deeply disturbing not only because of the alleged violence committed against a child but also because it involves an individual occupying one of the highest positions of religious authorities in the country since Pallegama Hemarathan Thero holds the position of chief prelate and custodian of the Atamastana.
Allegations of sexual violence within institutions of authority such as this compel us to confront all too necessary questions about power, silence, impunity and the barriers that survivors of such violence face in seeking justice.
We, as the Women and Media Collective, have long argued that sexual violence is often enabled by unequal power relations and patriarchal social structures that protect authority and authority figures while rendering women and girls vulnerable and often invisible. We need to question whether institutions and systems in our country are capable of protecting girls, whether survivors can seek justice without fear and barriers, and whether our society is willing to confront such violence even when it occurs within revered religious spaces and structures of authority.
To that end we call for:
- An independent, impartial, and expeditious investigation, free from influence, pressure, or deference arising from the status of the accused;
- The appointment of a senior, child-sensitive legal representative to safeguard the interests and rights of the survivor throughout proceedings;
- Strict protection measures to ensure the child is not subjected to intimidation, retraumatisation, victim blaming, or public exposure;
- All evidence and testimony to be led sensitively and in camera, in line with child protection standards and survivor-centred approaches;
- Comprehensive psychosocial, emotional, and protection support for the child throughout the legal process;
- Active oversight by the Attorney General’s Department, given the gravity and sensitivity of the matter;
- Ongoing engagement by the National Child Protection Authority, National Commission on Women, and Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka to monitor proceedings, support the survivor, and ensure accountability.
Justice requires not merely accountability for alleged crimes but a process that centres the survivor, protects her dignity and safety, and affirms that no institution, tradition, or position of authority is above the rights and safety of women and girls in Sri Lanka.
Read the full statement below: