The Department of Archeology says that it is a punishable offence to alter the existing nature of a statue of archaeological value.
Accordingly, the Archeology Department of Anuradhapura has sent the Assistant Director of Archeology and the Zonal Officer to the sacred site to gather information about the incident.
The department notes that under the Antiquities Ordinance, it is a punishable offence to alter the existing character of an archaeological monument or statue.
The department also mentions that there is a possibility of taking legal action against it.
The Aukana Buddha statue, built during the Anuradhapura era, has a special place among the “Standing Statues” in the country.
History says that King Dhatusena erected this statue in the 5th century AD.
Due to the fact that the folds of the statue’s robe are clearly visible and very delicately carved and its balance, it is considered as a design that shows the uniqueness of the past art of this country.
Today, several photographs showing a group of people working to dress the Aukana Buddha statue, which is worshipped by local and foreign devotees with archaeological value, were circulated on social media.
It was also seen how some people climbed on top of the statue and put up that garment.
