The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has nullified a former presidential pardon for the controversial monk Galagodaatte Gnanasara, mandating him to fulfill the rest of a six-year incarceration initially given in 2018. This decision relates to intimidation charges involving Sanya Eknaligoda, whose husband, political cartoonist Prageeth Eknaligoda, vanished in 2010.

Background of the Case

Galagodaatte Gnanasara previously disrupted court proceedings, advocating for military personnel implicated in the disappearance of Eknaligoda. This led to his conviction for contempt of court and intimidation. Although sentenced to six years, Gnanasara served only a fraction before receiving a pardon from President Maithripala Sirisena.

Eknaligoda’s Disappearance

Prageeth Eknaligoda was known for his revealing cartoons addressing media freedom and political dynamics, often critiquing influential figures, such as former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. His disappearance occurred amid rising tensions following the civil war’s conclusion, during which the Tamil Tigers were defeated.

Legal and Social Implications

The Supreme Court’s ruling is particularly significant in Sri Lanka, where punitive measures against Buddhist monks are unusual. Gnanasara, who heads the Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) or “Buddhist Power Force,” has been a substantial supporter of the Rajapaksa family and embodies a broader discourse on nationalism in the country.

Adding to his legal woes, Gnanasara faced another conviction in 2025, this time for promoting religious discord, which led to a separate prison term. His actions and the subsequent pardoning have sparked debates on religious figures’ accountability and judiciary’s role in Sri Lanka.

Sanya Eknaligoda continues to fight for justice for her missing husband, criticizing the authorities for their insufficient inquiry into the case. The recent court decision could reassert public trust in legal processes, urging transparency in addressing unresolved cases from the civil conflict era.

Photo by James Coleman on Unsplash