UNP warns Animal Welfare Bill could threaten Perahera traditions

The United National Party (UNP) has called for amendments to the proposed Animal Welfare Bill, arguing that its current provisions could adversely affect Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions, particularly the use of domesticated elephants in religious processions such as the Kandy Esala Perahera.

The remarks were made by UNP Chairman and former Minister Vajira Abeywardena at a media briefing, where he proposed exempting Perahera elephants from certain provisions of the Bill while introducing regulations to ensure their welfare. He argued that the proposed law should protect both animal welfare and the country’s long-standing religious and cultural traditions.

The UNP also proposed several amendments, including giving Buddhist religious leaders and the Diyawadana Nilame a role in formulating regulations relating to elephants used in Peraheras, while maintaining parliamentary oversight of such regulations.

Former State Minister Ajith Mannapperuma also criticised the proposed legislation, alleging that it contained hidden objectives that could undermine Sri Lanka’s Buddhist cultural practices. (Newswire)

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