The concessionary one-month visa facility that allowed Sri Lankan pilgrims to visit Buddhist sacred sites in India has been discontinued, according to the Overseas Buddhist Tour Organizers Association. General Secretary Mahendra Halloluwa announced the suspension at a media briefing in Borella, stating that the long-standing arrangement is no longer in effect. Pilgrimage operators report significant disruptions to their itineraries and financial losses as a result. The development affects thousands of devotees who regularly travel to India for religious purposes. No official reason has been provided by Indian authorities for the change.
Article source: srilankamirror.com | Image credit: Reuters
