Operations Launched to Find 'Atapirikara' That Are Not 'Atapirikara'

Sri Lanka's Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has intensified its crackdown on vendors selling religious offerings, known as 'Atapirikara,' and related items. As of August 11, 2026, the authority reported conducting 127 raids nationwide, with legal action taken against those found in violation.

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We have conducted 127 raids related to the sale of Atapirikara and pirikara items so far in 2026 and taken necessary legal action.

The CAA's operations target businesses across the island that sell 'Atapirikara' and associated goods. The objective is to safeguard consumer rights and ensure vendors adhere to legal requirements in their sales. This initiative underscores a commitment to fair trade practices within the religious goods market.

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We conducted special raids targeting trading establishments selling Atapirikara and related pirikara items across the island to protect the rights of consumers and ensure legal compliance in their sale.

During these special operations, authorities uncovered significant irregularities. Common issues included vendors substituting single-ply robes for the required double-ply ones, failing to provide complete sets of the eight essential items, and including goods that did not match the advertised price. More disturbingly, some sets contained damaged aluminum bowls or rusted razors, indicating poor quality control and a disregard for hygiene.

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Under this special program, we have conducted 92 successful raids across the island and taken the necessary legal action.

Hemantha Samarakoon, the chairman of the CAA, stated that 92 successful raids led to legal proceedings. In total, officials confiscated 436 items, including 'Atapirikara' sets, robes, undergarments, waist belts, bowls, and other related religious paraphernalia. These seizures are part of the ongoing effort to rectify malpractices and ensure consumers receive authentic, quality products.

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During the inspections, irregularities such as the inclusion of single-ply robes instead of double-ply robes in some Atapirikara sets, incomplete sets of Atapirikara, changes in included items according to price, and the inclusion of aluminum bowls, dented bowls, and rusted razors were revealed.