Buddhists vs Muslims: Sri Lanka declares emergency after communal clashes

Sri Lanka has declared a state of emergency for 10 days to rein in the spread of communal violence between Buddhists and Muslims. (IANS Photo)

 

Tension has been growing between the two communities in Sri Lanka over the past year, with some hardline Buddhist groups accusing Muslims of forcing people to convert to Islam and vandalising Buddhist archaeological sites. (IANS Photo)

 

Some Buddhist nationalists have also protested against the presence in Sri Lanka of Muslim Rohingya asylum-seekers. (ANI Photo)

 

A Muslim-owned shop was recently set ablaze, further fueling the communal fire. (IANS Photo)

 

The government sent troops and elite police to Kandy to bring the situation under control. (IANS Photo)

 

Tensions though remain high in the island nation. (IANS Photo)

 

The government has promised strong action against anyone found violating law and order. (IANS Photo)