Buddhist monks and civilians staged a demonstration in response to recent attacks at popular Buddhist religious sites and misrepresentation of Buddhism by the international media in Mandalay, on August 6. About 600 demonstrators took part in the protest.
The demonstrators applied for a permission to hold demonstration to the authorities concerned on August 1. Although the permission was not granted, they went ahead with the demonstration.
Monk U Thu Seikta, one of the protesters told Mizzima, “The people of Myanmar are guided by Buddha’s teachings (on non violence). But now we often hear news of riots and have seen some happening. We are sad about it. Therefore, we are demonstrating to make people around the world realize the truth.”
The demonstrator also protested against the TIME magazine article “The Face of Buddhist Terror”. During the demonstration, about 60 policemen and firemen were provided for security. “The president has said that legal demonstrations are allowed after submitting a permit proposal, but the authorities did not approve it. So, should we listen to the President or should we listen to the authorities here? We will follow the lead of monks”, Daw Cho Le, who led the demonstration, told Mizzima.
Zaw Tin Moe, a General Administration Officer of the district, responding to Mizzima's inquiry said, “The reason why we did not grant the permission is because Myanmar has officially objected and protested against the TIME magazine. We are all well aware of it. A demonstration is not required. We also do not want riots to break out.”
The monks and civilians who joined the demonstration stated that they opposed the TIME magazine, terrorist bombings of Buddhist sites, and anyone who tries to interfere in religious teachings. The demonstration started from Yadanabonethar Pagoda compound and ended at Mandalay Maha Myat Muni Pagoda.
