Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka Discovers A Plot – And Also The Proof
Mass Usuf
A fact is something that is proven to be true and is known to be the truth. When it is said that a person is in a state of denial, it would mean that the person knows the fact or truth of something but does not want to accept it. Such irrational behaviour in a person may sound very silly and stupid for an outsider. The reason why he would not accept the fact as it is, is because his thinking and decision-making ability are prejudiced by strong and complex emotions. These emotions can be based on a variety of reasons like idealisation, desire, shame etc.
There are two issues that need to be addressed by this nation at this crucial time. The outcome of which, history will record it either with unforgiving disapprobation or with generous laudation. Firstly, the constitutional absurdity between Article 9 of the Constitution where Buddhism is given the ‘foremost place’ and Article 12 which states about Right to Equality. Secondly, the idea amongst the populace that this is a Sinhala Buddhist country – a notion perpetuated by opportunistic politicians or politicians who are in a state of denial and, by those belonging to religious institutions, who have transformed the noble teachings of Buddha innovating it into a political, cultural and commercial institution. Very, very sadly, far astray from the teachings of Buddha.
Fear And Suspicion
When the absurdity of Article 9 is referred to, it is done with the objective of good constitution making for our country. After all that is the document that will tell the world who we are. In order to allay the fears and suspicions if any, of those who may have difficulties in interpreting and accepting facts in its true sense and living in a state of denial, it is necessary to unequivocally state that this writer is a great respecter of the true teachings of Buddha and, secondly, would never want this great country of ours to be divided.
Why Cannot We?
South Africa, we all know was at one time the most ostracised country in the world. They were in a permanent state of denial vis a vis apartheid. They are different today because they accepted the fact, as the fact. Acknowledged the truth, as the truth and shed their bigotry to understand, accommodate, reconcile and co-exist. In that pursuit, they formulated a new constitution which, today, may be named as the most modern constitution. The Preamble to the Constitution reads:
“We, the people of South Africa,
Recognise the injustices of our past;
