Proposed Sharia University will not be approved in Batticaloa: Ranil Wickremesinghe

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesighe has asserted that the proposed Sharia University will not be approved in Batticaloa. Mr. Wickremesighe said the government cannot approve Sharia Universities in Sri Lanka and will only approve degree awarding institutions.

He also said that measures will be taken to bring all Madrasa schools under the purview of the Ministry of Education. 

His comments came as there is widespread opposition to the university in wake of Easter Sunday attacks which killed over 250 people including 45 foreigners.

Meanwhile, Sri lankan army chief has requested parents to send their children to school saying the security had



been ensured in the country. Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake  said although special security measures had been taken at schools to commence the second term, most parents did not send their children to school due to rumours. 

He said that providing security to schools was the priority of police and the tri-forces. The army chief said all steps have been taken to provide security to schools and requested parents to send their children without any fear. His statement came as one month has passed since the Easter Sunday attacks on hotels and churches in Sri lanka. Few programmes are being organized today in remembrance of those who lost their lives.