A Buddhist monk set himself on fire to protest against the slaughter of cattle in Sri Lanka.

According to the Mail Online, the incident took place on Friday and happened near the Temple of Buddha’s Tooth Relic, in the town of Kandy. A police spokesperson, Buddika Siriwardena, claimed the temple holds particular religious significance for Buddhists.

The monk suffered severe burn injuries and was rushed to the Colombo National Hospital, where he is under treatment. Buddhism, the state religion of Sri Lanka, preaches against the killing of any life form.

Friday was a public holiday in Sri Lanka, in honour of the festival of Wesak. This marks the Buddha’s birthday, his enlightenment and death. The occasion is celebrated across all Buddhist countries but there are variations in the traditions and beliefs.

During the festival, meat and shops selling alcohol remain closed.

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