LA LOTUS Foundation Calls for the Reversal of Anojan Sivarasa's Death Sentence in Saudi Arabia

LA LOTUS Foundation expresses grave concern over the death sentence imposed upon Anojan Sivarasa, a 24-year-old Sri Lankan national, by a Saudi Arabian appellate court following a Facebook comment considered insulting to the Prophet Muhammad.

According to Amnesty International, Anojan was arrested on July 1, 2026. He was initially sentenced to five years' imprisonment and a fine of three million Saudi riyals. On September 17, 2026, his sentence was increased to death. Amnesty International has also reported that he was denied access to legal counsel until after his initial sentencing.

The Foundation considers the imposition of capital punishment for nonviolent religious expression to be a grave violation of fundamental human rights.

The circumstances of this case also raise questions about the unequal treatment of religious sentiments. Hindu beliefs and deities are frequently subjected to criticism, ridicule and offensive commentary in public discourse. The appropriate response to such expression is not criminal retaliation, and certainly not execution. That principle must apply equally to every religion.

No religion should enjoy protections that come at the expense of another person's right to life.

We are further concerned by allegations surrounding the reporting of Anojan's social media comment to Saudi authorities and reports that he has suffered physical assaults while imprisoned. These matters require independent examination.

We acknowledge the diplomatic and legal efforts reportedly undertaken by the Government of Sri Lanka and urge its authorities to continue pursuing every available measure to secure Anojan's safety and release.

LA LOTUS Foundation calls upon the Saudi Arabian authorities to immediately overturn the death sentence, ensure access to legal counsel and appropriate medical care, and respect internationally recognized protections for freedom of expression and religion.

We also urge international human-rights institutions and civil-society organizations to give this matter their immediate attention.

Religious freedom must protect human dignity, not become a justification for taking human life.

LA LOTUS Foundation stands for the right of every individual to practice, question, discuss and disagree with religious beliefs without facing persecution or disproportionate punishment.