Buddhist Monks Protest Sri Lanka Chabad House, Allege Cultural Threat from Jewish Community

Buddhist monks and local residents reportedly protested near a newly opened the Chabad House in Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka, amid growing tensions around the facility.

By Sakshi.

New Delhi, August 18: Several Buddhist monks as well as locals reportedly opposed the newly-opened Chabad House, a Jewish community center, in Sri Lanka's Hiriketiya that serves the Jewish and Israeli tourists, travelers, and local visitors. The situation is said to have escalated to a violent encounter as the demonstrators alleged that Jewish people were "destroying the tourism".

A Chabad House is a Jewish community center run by the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, a major branch of Hasidic Judaism. The one in Hiriketiya was opened nearly two weeks ago in the coastal resort town. The place provides kosher food, Shabbat meals and community services for Israeli and Jewish travellers visiting the region.

Rabbi Yossi Gabai, who spoke to The Jerusalem Post, said most local residents welcome the centre, but some people have opposed its presence. He said protesters claim that Jews and Israelis staying in the area are “destroying the tourism.”

A Rabbi is a Jewish religious leader, teacher, and spiritual guide trained to interpret Jewish law and serve the community. He also serves as the director of the relevant Chabad House.

Buddhist monks and local residents were reportedly seen protesting near the facility. The protests called for the Chabad House to leave the area and were monitored by police and local authorities. (Viral on X)

How protest took place

The protest turned violent during Friday evening services when protesters blocked people and workers from approaching the Chabad House and created loud disturbances, said Gabai. According to him, the protestors used firecrackers and drones to disrupt the evening, added the Israeli media.

Israeli traveller David Sarosi backed Rabbi, adding that protesters played loud music and Arabic songs and threw a large rock that broke a window.

Sarosi said the unrest continued on Saturday night, with stones and fireworks being thrown at the building. He also alleged that he was attacked while trying to return to his hotel and later went back inside the Chabad House. Police arrived about 10 minutes later and secured the area.

Allegations on Rabbi

Several social media videos online also alleged the Chabad Rabbi to threaten women with a stick. Gabai dismissed the allegations, adding that a false FIR (First Information Report) has also been filed against him.

Following the disturbances, Gabai said security at the centre had been increased. He added that the Chabad House was in contact with the Foreign Ministry, the consul and local authorities.