The Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) has urged the Sri Lankan Defence Ministry to immediately suspend any processes related to issuing firearms intended to harm or kill wild elephants. In a formal letter addressed to Additional Secretary P.D. Indika L. Wijegunawardhana, the CEJ emphasized the critical need to protect the country’s endangered elephant population.
The environmental group expressed concern that such firearms could escalate human-wildlife conflict and undermine conservation efforts. CEJ advocates for non-lethal and sustainable methods to manage interactions between communities and elephants, aiming to preserve biodiversity while ensuring public safety.
This move reflects heightened awareness and activism around wildlife protection in Sri Lanka, as authorities balance development and conservation priorities. The CEJ’s call highlights the importance of safeguarding vulnerable species and adhering to international environmental standards.
The Defence Ministry has yet to issue an official response to the demand.
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