Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says more than 30 tuskers are currently at risk in Sri Lanka, disputing the Environment Minister’s claim that only 17 tuskers are facing threats.
Speaking in Parliament today (04), Premadasa said the recent killing of tusker Kawanthissa, followed by another tusker in Kahatagasdigiliya, highlighted the urgent need to strengthen protection measures for the country’s remaining tuskers.
He pointed out that only around 5–10% of male elephants in Sri Lanka have tusks, stressing the importance of introducing a dedicated conservation programme to protect them.
The Opposition Leader proposed establishing a special task force to protect tuskers, similar to specialised wildlife protection units operating in African countries.
He urged the government to bring together wildlife officials, conservationists and other stakeholders to ensure their protection, adding that the Opposition was prepared to extend its support.
Premadasa also called for strict legal action against those responsible for killing tuskers, describing the continued killings as a serious threat to the country’s wildlife.
Raising the matter under Standing Order 27(2), Premadasa further questioned delays in introducing a new National Action Plan to address the human-elephant conflict.
He noted that Cabinet approval had been granted on June 15, 2026, to prepare a new plan after the government determined that the 2020 National Action Plan was insufficient.
However, he pointed out that the three-month deadline announced for presenting the new plan to the President had already passed.
Premadasa also questioned whether Operation Hasthi Sewa, launched on November 2, formed part of the proposed National Action Plan and requested details of the scientific basis for the initiative.
He further called on the government to disclose details of scientific surveys conducted on elephant populations, migration patterns and habitats, along with the funds allocated for elephant conservation under the 2027 Budget.
The Opposition Leader urged the government to take immediate measures to protect the country’s remaining tuskers and address the worsening human-elephant conflict. (Newswire)