President Rajapakse has vowed to safeguard the right of every citizen to manifest his religion. He referred to the measures taken to bring about religious renaissance by amalgamating all Ministries allocated for religions.The President made these references giving instructions to the Committee concerned on expediting re-construction of the Lumbini Sri Lanka Vihare and the Dutugemunu Rest Room in India.

A discussion between the President and Committee members took place at Temple Trees yesterday. The work had not been completed although the reconstruction was started 15 years ago.

The President stressed the need to accelerate re-construction of the rest room for the convenience of Sri Lankan devotees undertaking pilgrimages to India. He instructed Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris to submit a report in this respect.

The estimated cost of re-construction of the Lumbini Vihare is 67 million rupees. The Dutugemunu Holiday Resort will cost 17 million rupees.

The President said nod was given to grant 20 million rupees for initial work. Presidential Advisor on Religious Affairs the Ven. Getamanne Gunananda thera, Minister Felix Perera and Deputy Minister Neomal Perera were present at this discussion.

(Courtesy : ITN Sri Lanka )