New legal framework for domesticated elephants takes shape

A new legal framework to regulate domesticated elephants and their participation in cultural events is being formulated by a government-appointed committee, aiming to balance Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, wildlife conservation, and animal welfare.

The committee held its inaugural meeting on Thursday (16) at the Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation Division of the Ministry of Environment.

Convened under the directives of Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi and Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody, the meeting was chaired by Additional Secretary (Policy, Legal Reforms and Parliamentary Affairs) Buwaneka Herath.

During the meeting, members reviewed the existing legal framework governing domesticated elephants and discussed its implementation. The committee also agreed on an initial action plan to draft updated regulations reflecting the government’s policy priorities.

The committee includes representatives from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, National Zoological Gardens Department, Department of Buddhist Affairs, Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Ministry of Environment, along with retired wildlife officials and environmental law experts.

The proposed reforms will include amendments to existing legislation and the introduction of new regulations to establish a comprehensive legal framework governing domesticated elephants used in cultural pageants, according to the Ministry of Environment.

The reforms are intended to preserve Sri Lanka’s cultural traditions whilst strengthening wildlife protection and ensuring animal welfare in line with contemporary needs and international standards, the ministry said.