Sri Lankan Parliamentary Committee Raises Concerns Over Chabad Houses

A parliamentary committee in Sri Lanka has raised concerns over the presence of Chabad Houses in the country, citing security concerns. The committee has questioned the policy on these establishments, which are operated by the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, a Jewish organization. The concerns were raised amid reports of suspicious activities and potential security threats. The committee has asked the government to review the policy on Chabad Houses and to ensure that they are not being used for any nefarious activities. The Chabad-Lubavitch movement has a significant presence in Sri Lanka, with several Chabad Houses operating in the country. These establishments provide a range of services, including accommodation, food, and religious facilities, to Jewish travelers and locals. However, there have been concerns raised about the potential for these establishments to be used for espionage or other security-threatening activities. The parliamentary committee has asked the government to investigate these concerns and to take necessary measures to ensure the security of the country. The committee has also asked the government to review the visa policies for foreigners, particularly those from countries with which Sri Lanka does not have diplomatic relations. The government has been asked to ensure that all foreigners, including those visiting Chabad Houses, are properly screened and monitored. The concerns over Chabad Houses have been raised at a time when Sri Lanka is facing a number of security challenges, including the threat of terrorism. The country has been on high alert since the Easter Sunday bombings in 2019, which killed over 250 people. The government has taken a number of measures to improve security, including the establishment of a new counter-terrorism law. However, the concerns over Chabad Houses highlight the need for continued vigilance and monitoring of potential security threats. The parliamentary committee has also asked the government to ensure that all religious establishments, including Chabad Houses, are registered and regulated. This would help to prevent any potential misuse of these establishments for security-threatening activities. The government has been asked to work with the relevant authorities, including the police and intelligence agencies, to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect the country’s security. The concerns over Chabad Houses are not unique to Sri Lanka, as there have been similar concerns raised in other countries. However, the parliamentary committee’s decision to question the policy on Chabad Houses highlights the need for Sri Lanka to be proactive in addressing potential security threats.

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