Sri Lanka, May 15 -- The Registrars of the three main Buddhist chapters (Nikayas) in Sri Lanka have requested 23 arrested monks, who are currently in remand custody over allegations of smuggling narcotics from Thailand, to voluntarily disrobe to return to lay life.

Ven. Dr. Medagama Dhammananda Thero, Registrar of the Asgiriya Chapter, made this statement while attending a religious ceremony held yesterday (15) to confer the title of Sanghakirthi Sri Saranankara Devarakkhitha to Ven. Mahaoya Jinarathana Thero and appointment as Chief Sanghanayaka of Wellassa, Bintenna, and the Eastern Province.

The Thero further stated that the individuals were requested to voluntarily leave their robes, with an assurance that they would be permitted to...