It is with interest that I read the article on the relevant subject by professor Desmond Mallikarachchi in The Island on 28 October 2009.

I fail to understand how he could make such a blunder as to name the enlightened one (LORD GAUTHAMA BUDDHA) as one of the offenders against female liberation. Professor Mallikarachchi has successfully delivered that lecture at the GREENWICH COMMUNITY CENTRE LONDON. The LORD BUDDHA sparkles like a diamond among all religious leaders, and to name him as an offender towards women is beyond the comprehension of average men. He is the one and the only leader at that time to stand for the females’ rightful place in society. Here are some of the examples of his acts of mercy and compassion. He gave his wife Yasodara her rightful place in society. He also gave Maha Prajapathi Gothami who raised him as a child, permission to join the priesthood. Patachara, the disorientated woman who had lost her relatives and riches was given relief.

I think professor Mallikarachchi should read and learn more about the enlightened one before he takes the bold step of naming him as an offender against womanhood.