Tension near Ruwanweliseya as monks attempt hunger strike

Reports say a tense situation arose near the Ruwanweliseya in Anuradhapura after police moved in and removed Buddhist monks and several others who attempted to begin a hunger strike there.

The Ruwanweliseya is one of the most revered Buddhist stupas in the country and a regular gathering point for religious observances and public demonstrations. The attempted fast drew a crowd to the sacred area before police intervened.

Despite the police intervention, reports say the monks are attempting to continue their protest. The reason for the planned hunger strike and the demands behind it were not immediately clear from the reports.

Police have not yet issued a detailed statement on the removal, and it was not known whether anyone was detained. Further developments are awaited as the situation around the site remains unsettled.

Anuradhapura, an ancient capital, draws large numbers of pilgrims, and any disturbance near its sacred sites tends to attract wide public attention. Authorities are expected to monitor the site through the day.