Minister K.D. Lalkantha of the Land and Agricultural Reform Movement has come under fire for his recent statement suggesting that farmers have the right to take any action against wild animals that damage crops. Critics argue that his remarks incite illegal activity among farmers.
In a public response, environmental activist Sajeewa Chamikara highlighted the potential consequences of the minister’s statement. He emphasized that such remarks could mislead farmers into violating established wildlife protection laws. Chamikara, who has previously collaborated with the National People’s Power Party and participated in political discussions, issued a detailed statement condemning the minister’s position.
Full Statement Issued by Sajeewa Chamikara
Minister Lalkantha Encourages Farmers to Violate Wildlife Laws
Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation, K.D. Lalkantha, stated in Parliament that there are no legal restrictions on farmers taking action against wild animals damaging their crops on private farmland. This assertion is both misleading and illegal. By making such statements in the legislature, Minister Lalkantha undermines the government’s commitment to creating a law-abiding, progressive society as outlined in the policy document A Rich Country, A Beautiful Life.
The current government was entrusted with legislative power to overcome corruption and build a better future, not to violate agreements made with the people. The minister’s statement betrays this trust by encouraging actions that contradict the principles of the rule of law.
Violation of the Wildlife Protection Ordinance
The Wildlife and Flora Protection Ordinance No. 02 of 1937, last amended in 2022, explicitly prohibits actions such as using poison, explosives, or intoxicants to kill wild animals. It also forbids luring or deceiving animals with artificial light, food, or other substances for capture. Possessing animals killed or captured through such methods is equally unlawful.
Violators face penalties ranging from fines of Rs. 15,000–30,000 to imprisonment for one to two years. Furthermore, under Section 59 of the Act, anyone abetting or attempting to commit these offenses is subject to the same punishment.
Minister Lalkantha’s suggestion that wild animals can be treated like other crop pests directly contradicts these laws. His remarks not only misguide farmers but also expose them to potential legal repercussions. Ignorance of the law, as the minister should know, is no excuse.
Factors Driving Wildlife onto Farmland
It is widely acknowledged that wild animals damaging crops is a real issue. However, these conflicts often stem from human activities, including:
- Destruction and Fragmentation of Ecosystems: Development projects, settlements, and monoculture plantations disrupt natural habitats.
- Invasive Species: Non-native plants, such as giant sedge and fireweed, invade habitats, further displacing wildlife.
- Loss of Predators: Fragmented habitats reduce populations of natural predators, leading to overpopulation of species like wild boars and peacocks.
Unprotected Wildlife and Their Regulation
Under the Wildlife Protection Ordinance, certain mammals and birds are designated as “unprotected” due to their impact on agriculture. These include animals such as the wild boar and birds like the Colombo crow. However, even unprotected species cannot be controlled through chemicals, traps, or baits. Only licensed firearms may be used, and this requires adherence to strict legal guidelines.
Proposed Amendments to Wildlife Laws
There is a growing call to revise the Wildlife Protection Ordinance to better address modern challenges. Suggestions include removing certain animals, like the grey marten and rabbit, from the list of unprotected species. Such changes would ensure that wildlife conservation efforts align with agricultural needs and legal standards.
Minister Lalkantha’s comments highlight the need for responsible leadership and informed policymaking. Encouraging illegal activities not only jeopardizes the rule of law but also hinders long-term solutions to human-wildlife conflict.
