Bangalore, July 30, 2013: A forum of Buddhist organisations has taken umbrage over the failure of the Union and Bihar governments in identifying the culprits behind the serial bomb blasts that rocked the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya in Bihar. The forum on Monday demanded that the Union government share the progress of its investigations with the public.

With the aim of condemning the blasts, the forum has also planned a protest rally in the city from Town Hall to the Freedom Park on July 31.

Several Buddhist monks, including Sugathapala Bhantheji of Bodh Gaya, and numerous members from Dalit and other social organisations are to participate in the event.

Addressing presspersons here, Dalit leader B. Gopal said that Bodh Gaya, a sacred place for Buddhists, was also a world heritage site.

“The attack on the Mahabodhi Buddha Mandir has hurt Buddhists as well as all peace loving citizens across the globe. The delay in identifying those responsible for the deed has cast doubts on the seriousness of the Union and State governments in coming out with the truth. Authorities from both governments must make public the status of investigation in order to instil confidence among the public,” he said.

The forum further demanded that the reins of the Mahabodhi Temple Complex administration be transferred to Buddhist monks, besides underscoring the need for robust security at places of worship and heritage monuments across the country

Source: The Hindu, DT. July 30, 2013.