The head of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka has said he will boycott all government functions over the Christmas period, in protest over the arrest of a nun over child trafficking allegations.
Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith said last week’s police raid on a children’s home, founded by Mother Theresa, was carried out without proof.
"Our response to this is to stay away from any state functions or state-organised event in the month of December," the cardinal told reporters in Colombo.
"They (police) are now trying to fabricate a story."
Cardinal Ranjith denied allegations the home was being used to sell babies of unwed mothers.
Police spokesman, SP Ajith Rohana told BBC Sandeshaya that at least two underage pregnant women were found in the convent and it was a legal requirement to inform authorities.
The Church has also accused Sri Lankan media of stoking public anger gainst them.