Buddhists have protested against an attempt by Catholics to place a religious statue at a junction in the town of Kalutara.
Monks from the Sihala Ravaya led a large mob and said they will not allow the statue to be erected in the town, according to Colombo Gazette.
Tear gas was fired by police who attempted to bring the “tense situation” under control. Police spokesperson Ajith Rohana said the issue was later resolved.
Local Catholics say they have every right to put up the statue.