Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for the urgent implementation of a comprehensive national plan to address the growing human-elephant conflict in Sri Lanka. He emphasized that there is broad consensus on the issue and urged the government to act swiftly by utilizing the power of public representation that the opposition holds.
Speaking at a discussion held at the Opposition Leader’s Office under the Citizens’ Voice program, Premadasa urged the government to implement the National Plan 2020. He stressed the importance of a multi-sectoral and multi-institutional approach, calling for the establishment of a Special Presidential Task Force to oversee its execution. He further recommended that the government commit to a timetable and specific timeframe to implement the plan’s provisions.
Premadasa pointed out that the tragic killing of the elephant Bhathiya should serve as a wake-up call to all political parties and the opposition. He noted that such killings have happened before, and that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) would no longer overlook these incidents. Instead, the party will take active steps to ensure the national plan is implemented at ground level.
“The entire opposition must act with unity and common sense. We must learn from the death of Bhathiya. This cannot happen again,” Premadasa stated.
Promoting Wildlife Conservation Through Tourism
The Opposition Leader also advocated for a national platform to educate rural communities about forest conservation and wildlife protection. He proposed integrating wildlife tourism as a means to generate creative income opportunities, particularly for micro, small, and medium-scale entrepreneurs.
According to Premadasa, such efforts would make forest conservation community-centered, community-based, and community-led, ensuring that conservation becomes a part of daily life in rural regions.
A Call to Action in Parliament
Premadasa confirmed that these proposals would be formally presented in Parliament, urging the government to take decisive action to prevent another incident like that of Bhathiya. He also extended an invitation to wildlife enthusiasts to be present in Parliament on the day the proposals are tabled, emphasizing that maximum pressure must be applied to ensure the issue is not met with superficial or temporary solutions.
“Let’s not allow another ‘Bhathiya’ incident. Let’s take meaningful, long-term action,” he concluded.
