Colombo, Sept. 25 -- Former Presidents Ranil Wickremesinghe and Mahinda Rajapaksa have expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident at the Na Uyana Monastery in Pansiyagama, Melsiripura, which claimed the lives of seven Buddhist monks.

Issuing statements, the former Presidents said they mourn the loss of the monks, both local and foreign, who perished in the tragedy.

They also extended prayers for the speedy recovery of the monks injured in the incident and currently receiving treatment at the Kurunegala and Polgahawela hospitals.

According to reports, the accident occurred around 9:00 p.m. yesterday (24) while 13 monks were returning to their meditation huts after a religious ceremony at the Puja Bhumiya (offering ground).

Seven ...