News Today: Full probe into eight billion rupees misappropriated at Central Cultural Fund

Buddhasasana and Religious Affairs Deputy Minister Gamagedara Dissanayake revealed yesterday that more than eight billion rupees misappropriated at Central Cultural Fund (CCF) may have been used without the official approval of its Board of Governors.

The Minister announced that a special committee has been appointed to probe the alleged misuse of funds at the CCF. He further stressed that once the final report is submitted, strict legal action will be taken against those found guilty, regardless of their position or influence.

Back in July, the Government appointed a three-member committee headed by retired High Court Judge Pradeep Jayathilake to conduct a detailed investigation into possible fraud and corruption within the fund.

Serious allegations have been raised over financial irregularities, particularly in the provision of financial support to religious institutions and activities between 2017 and 2020. These irregularities reportedly point towards a large-scale misuse of public resources meant for cultural and religious preservation.

In response to growing public concern, the matter was discussed at the 223rd Board of Governors meeting of the CCF, held last May. At the meeting, it was unanimously decided that an independent probe should be launched.

Accordingly, the Cabinet approved a proposal submitted by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya to appoint a three-member investigation team. This decision highlights the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of national cultural funds.

The public now awaits the committee’s findings, which could potentially expose one of the biggest financial scandals involving the Central Cultural Fund in recent years.