By Sarath Dissanayake –
Sarath Dissanayake
Author’s Note: This article is dedicated to Tuskers Kavanthissa and Bhathiya, and to all the pachyderms and wildlife that have perished at the hands of their human guardians. May it serve as an urgent appeal to ensure the absolute protection and care of all remaining elephants, domestic animals, and wildlife within their natural habitats.
The Martyrdom of Kavanthissa and the Collapse of Conscience
The horrendous stories detailing the tragic fate, immense suffering, and cruel deaths inflicted upon our pachyderms have come to light in quick succession all too often over the last several years. The recent wave of tragedies surrounding the circumstances leading to the sudden death of Tusker Kavanthissa serves as a heartbreaking focal point of a much larger, darker reality. Kavanthissa was not merely a magnificent animal; he was a living repository of our natural heritage, a rare and irreplaceable national icon. His tragic demise stands as a damning indictment of our collective guilt, a stark manifestation of a lackluster attitude and a systematic lack of care shown towards our wildlife in general, and elephants in particular.
Tuskers Kavanthissa
Across our landscapes, these sensitive and intelligent giants are increasingly placed under unsustainable pressure. Tragically, the very elements of society that should serve as their guardians have instead become their ultimate curse and villains. The state, on its part, has fundamentally failed to live up to its bounden duty to safeguard these majestic creatures. Despite widespread outrage, elephants continue to fall under horrific conditions, with no sign of reprieve from policy makers.
A Continual Voice for the Voiceless
In an extraordinary disclosure that underscores the absolute scale of this ecological warfare, Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi revealed to Parliament on 20th October that a staggering 784 wild elephants have perished across the island from 2023 to date. In the first nine months of 2026 alone, a horrifying 286 wild elephant deaths were reported; a staggering average of literally one elephant carcass scattered across our lands every single day. The primary weapons of this quiet war are as cruel as they are indiscriminate: Hakka Patas (jaw-bombs concealed in food), illegal high-voltage wire tappings, agricultural poisoning, and targeted shootings. With elephant mortality rates hitting an all-time high, this devastating predicament cannot be understated or ignored as a tragic fait accompli.
In fact, this unfolding catastrophe epitomizes the very warnings documented in my previous analyses, namely, “A Wake-up Call on Human-Elephant Conflict and Animal Cruelty” (Daily Financial Times, August 8, 2025) and “The Cost of Coexistence: Navigating Sri Lanka’s Deadly Human-Elephant Conflict” (Colombo Telegraph, August 22, 2026). My relentless advocacy for these magnificent, silent giants remains unwavering, yet our institutional protective systems continue to fail them at every turn, marking what can only be described as a betrayal of the highest degree.
A Hollowed Legacy: The 2,500-Year Contradiction
For nearly 2,500 years, since the Buddha’s Parinirvana in 543 BC, Sri Lanka has proudly positioned itself as the foremost global bastion and center of Theravada Buddhism. We have historically prided ourselves on keeping these sacred, ancient lineages alive. Yet, our long-held traditions have now come under intense global scrutiny, tested and found profoundly wanting. We have allowed our pristine glory to be compromised, leaving defensive, voiceless, protected creatures, which are designated as Endangered on the global IUCN Red List, at the absolute mercy of an ungrateful present.This systemic cruelty exposes a deep, agonizing ethical contradiction within our societal fabric.
For over two millennia, Buddhist countries have looked up to Sri Lanka as a beacon of spiritual purity. The cornerstone of that reputation is the profound practice of Metta (boundless loving-kindness) and Karuna (compassion) toward all living beings; both human and animal alike. To witness the current spate of killings, the severe lack of empathy, and the blatant neglect of our wildlife is to witness the hallowing out of our spiritual core. We have traded genuine, active compassion for empty, ritualistic pride, turning our backs on the very tenets that defined our civilization’s moral greatness.
A Cabinet Minister’s Outburst Backfires and Boomerangs on the Administration
It is precisely within this climate of compromised values that our governance must be scrutinized. In this context, one must confront the alarming reality of a highly controversial parliamentary address delivered by a cabinet minister in 2025, who openly called on farmers to take unchecked, unilateral action against wild animals encroaching on cultivated farmlands. In a reckless abdication of responsibilities, the minister assured farming communities that the government would neither harbor grudges nor hold them legally accountable for acts of cruelty perpetrated in defense of their crops.
The minister’s outburst has completely backfired, boomeranging on the administration and igniting widespread fury among environmentalists, animal welfare organizations, and citizens at large who view it as a blatant betrayal of the state’s progressive mandate. By actively instigating the lawless slaughter of innocent, defensive creatures at the behest of the cabinet minister, the current administration has laid bare its hollow intentions. Condolences or public tears over fallen tuskers ring entirely empty when the state itself acts as the primary abettor of wildlife destruction, validating a dangerous wave of vigilantism that leaves the fate of Sri Lanka’s vanishing elephants exposed to severe systemic vulnerabilities; a concerning shift that suggests a departure from hitherto advocated best practices.
Geopolitical Friction Over Wildlife Diplomacy: Implications & Constraints
This deep ethical contradiction is no longer just an internal crisis; it has spilled over into the international arena, severely fracturing our ties with a fellow Theravada Buddhist nation. Recent reports in the mainstream media reveal a growing, humiliating backlash from Thailand; a country where roughly over 90% of the population practices Buddhism and holds its heritage in high-stead. Driven by the tragic news surrounding our local wildlife, particularly the demise of Tusker Kavanthissa, Thai animal rights activists and authorities are applying immense pressure to recall their remaining gifted elephants from Sri Lankan soil. This stems from a growing international perception that Sri Lanka’s protective systems are failing to shield our prided national icons, a vulnerability that now threatens the safety of those entrusted to us as sacred diplomatic gifts.
This unfortunate chapter mirrors the diplomatic spat of 2023, when public outcry in Bangkok forced the high-profile repatriation of the ailing Thai tusker, Sak Surin (Muthu Raja), who suffered years of neglect and torture at a local temple. Today, history threatens to repeat itself. Activists are picketing the SL Embassy in Bangkok to rescue the remaining tuskers before they meet a similarly tragic fate. For a nation historically revered as ‘Thrice-Blessed,’ to be viewed by our spiritual peers as a place of systemic peril for sacred animals is an unmitigated disgrace to our global standing.
Protocols, Pitfalls, and Paradoxes: The Mihintale Controversy
It is against this fragile geopolitical backdrop that one must read the recent controversy surrounding the visit of Thai Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun to Sri Lanka. The high-powered Thai dignitary arrived to participate as a chief guest in the sacred unveiling and enshrinement of the pinnacle crest jewel at the newly built Mihindu Maha Seya within the historic Mihintale temple premises. However, the event has triggered condemnation from the opposition, castigating the state for an egregious lack of official protocol, formal courtesies, and state-level security to the visiting leader. While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs swiftly issued a clarification trying to downplay the issue by asserting that the Thai dignitary traveled strictly in a private capacity and received all appropriate courtesies, the political firestorm persists. For a new administration, such lapses toward a top leader from a nation with whom we share millennial-long spiritual and civilizational ties risk straining what should otherwise be a sacred pilgrimage.
This perceived protocol oversight unfolds alongside a major bilateral milestone which is envisaged to facilitate a vital economic lifeline for 10,000 Sri Lankans in Thailand. Orchestrated during the visit of FM Vijitha Herath to Thailand barely a fortnight ago, the agreement was envisioned to support and sustain Sri Lanka’s long-term recovery after years of stagnation. It comes in the backdrop of a rather unwarranted paradox; while the state actively seeks to build strategic bridges and foster rapprochement with like-minded allies, these administrative glitches risk casting a shadow over the multi-faceted, long-cherished relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand; a bond historically characterized by mutual respect and a shared heritage across every conceivable sphere of interest. Unless the current authorities execute a careful course correction in handling international relations with our traditional allies, such lapses will continue to highlight a critical need for greater diplomatic finesse.
Beyond the Bureaucracy: Preserving our Diplomatic Legacy
I, for one, have closely followed the current administration with a constructive disposition and a genuinely favorable impression of the Foreign Ministry’s handling of diplomacy. However, for observers who have maintained an optimistic view of the administration’s early commitments to nuanced Asian diplomacy, these haphazard fallouts are somewhat concerning. Current trends suggest a risk of over-shadowing hard-won diplomatic milestones, primarily due to a momentary departure from established protocols and the meticulous attention to detail required in statecraft. The Foreign Ministry’s long held reputation for cultivating deep global friendships and projecting an image of a hospitable, reliable nation now finds its relationships tested by administrative glitches that often arise under the pressure of domestic exigencies. Such delicate controversies portend a new challenge as the country approaches the historic International Buddhist Conference slated for late November and early December, where prominent global Buddhist delegations are expected to convene. To ensure the continuity of our global standing, the highest echelons of power must engage in careful reflection, treading the path of statecraft with cautious humility and a bounden duty to preserve our shared civilizational spirits.
Reconciling Heritage with Humanity: The Call for Course Correction
The current crisis has escalated far beyond a localized environmental issue; it has rapidly transformed into a full-scale national catastrophe that is taking a dangerous turn for the worse. When a society actively demonizes and destroys its most vulnerable keystone species, it signals a broader moral collapse that threatens our collective social fabric. Passive conservation and hollow political slogans will no longer suffice to stem this tide of blood and suffering.
True course correction demands that we actively bridge the widening chasm between our professed spiritual values and the harsh realities on the ground. While the recent gazetting of the new Animal Welfare Bill introduces long-overdue “duty of care” principles and strict penalties for acts of cruelty, a legislative draft alone cannot halt an iron hook or an explosive trap in the field. Parliament must demonstrate the unyielding political courage to pass this legislation swiftly without allowing special-interest loopholes to dilute its power.
Ultimately, how we navigate this human-elephant crisis will determine the true state of our nation. We must act whole-heartedly, guided by an unwavering conscience, to stand as an unyielding voice for the voiceless. Let us protect these silent giants, allowing them the dignity to thrive peacefully within their own natural habitats, and pray that saner counsel finally prevails before our national icons vanish forever.
“He is not noble who harms living creatures. By having harmlessness towards all living creatures, a man is called noble.” — The Buddha (Dhammapada, Verse 270)
References :-
1.The Cost of Coexistence: Navigating Sri Lanka’s Deadly Human-Elephant Conflict
2. The Cost of Coexistence: Navigating Sri Lanka’s Deadly Human-Elephant Conflict
*The writer is a retired Ambassador and former Foreign Ministry Spokesman. He can be reached at schandrad@hotmail.com
leelagemalli / October 24, 2026
Sarath, Thanks for the article. There are rumours that the elephant Kavanthissa was shot because someone was searching for its tusks, highlighting the lucrative business of ivory trafficking. If people in this country are genuinely concerned about wildlife conservation, why have they failed to demand a lasting national solution to the human-elephant conflict? This long-standing crisis has devastated communities across this small island, yet successive elected governments have failed to find sustainable solutions. The people living in affected areas continue to endure untold suffering, with their stories often unheard by the rest of the nation. Given the promises and rhetoric of the JVP/NPP, one might have expected meaningful progress on this issue within the past two years. Instead, the government appears to resort to “whataboutism” rather than providing convincing answers and practical solutions.
Tbc
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leelagemalli / October 24, 2026
cont.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfbjTK4sRvo&t=69s
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Some ministers have also attracted criticism for their public conduct and statements, raising questions about their commitment to responsible governance. Lal Kantha’s reported behaviour at public gatherings, for instance, has prompted concerns about the standards expected of a minister. Similarly, questions have been raised about Sunil Handunnetti’s alleged telephone harassment of monks who support the construction of reservoirs to protect wildlife. Beyond these controversies, there is much more to question about the government’s performance in wildlife conservation and its response to human-elephant conflict. Many Buddhists expect a stronger commitment to protecting animals and preserving nature. Yet, the public deserves to see that commitment reflected in concrete policies, accountability, and sustainable action—not merely in speeches and promises.
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Sarath / October 24, 2026
LM,
1) Thank you for your thoughts. You have clearly highlighted why successive governments have failed miserably due to their lackluster performance in reining in real perpetrators and their chronic inaction at the policy level, creating a systemic inertia that consistently fails to implement decisive, structural measures against the illicit actors holding our nation’s biodiversity to ransom.
2) While the electorate maintained high expectations for the current administration based on its reformative platform, the lack of substantive, system-level change has unfortunately led to widespread public disillusionment. Ultimately, Sri Lanka’s vulnerable wildlife continues to pay a heavy price for the inaction of policymakers and governance frameworks. Addressing the human-elephant conflict and preventing environmental exploitation requires an immediate shift from political rhetoric to metrics-driven policies that guarantee accountability.
3) I fully endorse your forward-looking vision for a sustainable conservation model that ensures institutional integrity and ecological balance. Your dedication to championing this critical cause is highly appreciated.
Thanks and regards
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old codger / October 24, 2026
“By actively instigating the lawless slaughter of innocent, defensive creatures at the behest of the cabinet minister, the current administration has laid bare its hollow intentions. Condolences or public tears over fallen tuskers ring entirely empty when the state itself acts as the primary abettor of wildlife destruction, “
Well, Sarath, what is YOUR suggestion? Who has votes, elephants or farmers? Let’s go to the beginning.
In Dutch times, elephants were common even around what is now Galle Face. The tea country too was full of elephants, mostly killed off by the British later. The hinterlands had plenty of elephants, which were a valuable export commodity at the time, since tractors hadn’t been invented.
It was DS Senanayake who had the bright idea of settling Southern landless peasants in these areas, once malaria had been controlled.
So, the problem is one of human invasion of elephant territory.
So, what to do? Send all the settlers back to the South? Or popularise birth control among elephants?
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Sarath / October 24, 2026
OC,
1). Thank you for sharing your perspective and for providing that historical context on how land settlement policies initiated this crisis. Your direct and bold stance provides a compelling critique of the political will surrounding this issue.
2).The current situation is one in which our iconic elephants are subjected to step-motherly care. Instead of implementing a well-planned wildlife protection mechanism to halt human encroachment into sanctuaries, the state has abrogated its primary responsibilities, offering little more than lip service while putting these animals in peril.
3). While the government has recently initiated baseline measures, such as officially gazetting key ecological corridors like Hadapanagala and mobilizing military security detachments to track vulnerable tuskers, these new interventions ultimately represent a semblance of action that has come too little, too late for our dwindling wildlife.
4). While balancing the needs of farmers and wildlife is undeniably complex, the long-term failure to consistently execute baseline conservation strategies and enforce existing laws is what truly jeopardizes our remaining elephant population.
5) Resolving this deep-rooted crisis requires moving decisively past temporary political rhetoric toward sustained, metrics-driven enforcement that permanently legally protects and secures their habitats.
Thanks for pushing this vital conversation forward. Regards
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raja H / October 25, 2026
Sri Lankans are such a strange lot. So many people are talking about one elephant killed by a human.
But very few are talking about the 500 humans killed and buried in Chemmani, not by elephants but by humans. Is Buddhist Karuna only for elephants?
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Jit / October 25, 2026
Totally agree Raj! Tamil or Muslim lives are only secondary to elephants in this land full of stupid Sinhala Buddhist extremists. Clearly shows how weirdly the core theories of Buddhism are being understood and prioritized by the ‘sign board’ Buddhists in this country, including the author!!
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Sarath / October 25, 2026
Jit,
1) Thanks for your brief comment. Your comment lacks substance and relies entirely on another commenter’s hypocrisy, falsehoods, and blindsided harangue. Making sweeping assertions out of false narratives grounded in ethnic and racial hatred only highlights the bankrupt nature of your arguments. Trying to turn a national ecological catastrophe and the critical state of our wildlife and citizens’ well-being into an ethnic dispute lacks sound reasoning, logic, and any constructive value, to say the least.
2) Your attempt to reduce a real national issue to a “Sinhala Buddhist” label is not only an insult to all Sri Lankans but also an attempt to hoodwink the intelligent CT readership, as if they can be fooled by your sheer labeling of the country’s Sinhala Buddhists as racists. This line of argument simply exposes a narrative driven by hatred and fallacy rather than verifiable facts. To dismiss the gravity of the human-elephant conflict by mischaracterizing concern for wildlife as extremism distorts a devastating problem that severely impacts rural Sri Lankans across all ethnic and religious communities
(TBC)
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Jit / October 26, 2026
Sarath, Your lengthy stream of feeble, meaningless, and hollow words clearly demonstrates your attempt to dodge the core question. If you genuinely think readers are being fooled by your flowery rhetoric, please accept our deepest sympathies!!
Raj simply asked why so many people lament the death of one elephant, or even a couple of them, yet remain silent about the countless human beings who were tortured and buried under the guise of patriotism. The important question is should we talk more of them or of elephants?? What is your answer? A simple, “yes I do agree” or “No I do not agree” is enough to judge the level your compassion towards the non Buddhist and non Sinhalese people. You can enlighten us further by telling us your candid opinion on long list of SL armed forces kidnapping, torturing and killing (mostly) Tamils during those 30 dark years.
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P.S: Please confine your reply in one comment, under the allowed 200 words…pretty please! Thank you!!
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Sarath / October 26, 2026
Jit,
1) Thanks. At the outset, let me be absolutely clear that it is my prerogative to choose the direction, length, and style of my responses, all of which remain exclusively at my discretion.
2) Secondly, how dare you treat and justify the killings of these magnificent creatures with a pinch of salt, showing a blatant disregard for the fact that these are the country’s iconic tuskers, let alone Tusker Kawanthissa, who was recognized as Asia’s tallest tusker. To play down the staggering loss of 287 elephants in the first nine months of 2026 alone with mere deflective rhetoric—claiming that I remain silent about human rights abuses—makes absolutely no sense.
3) Because the subject of the article is explicitly centered on the plight of elephants and their deadly predicament, no person with an iota of kindness, remorse, or common sense would treat this unfolding crisis so lightly and audaciously. I have addressed your queries with the serious concern they deserve, and I have nothing more to add to your repeated deflections regarding unrelated allegations. That is the bottom line and the stark reality
Trust the above makes sense. Best regards.
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Jit / October 27, 2026
Thank you for exposing that you care MORE for 287 elephants over hundreds, if not thousands of humans tortured and buried. Yes, I have read so many comments by you on elephant deaths but NOTHING on human massacres! You can correct me by showing just one comment you have made in CT in any article on human massacres that has happened in this land!! Just ONE comment please???
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Sarath / October 27, 2026
Jit,
1). Your petty-minded comment once again exposes a reliance on hollow narratives regarding alleged deaths to which I am not privy. The intelligent CT readership will not be hoodwinked, as the focus of our discussion is completely hijacked and distracted by your blindsided illusions. By continuously harping on these fabrications, you merely highlight your lack of substantive evidence.
2). Since you challenged me to show where I have addressed historical upheavals, please refer to my previous article link:
Sri Lanka At Crossroads Viz-A-Viz Youth: A Clarion Call For Course Correction
This text explicitly documents the tragic post-independence insurgencies that claimed the lives of tens of thousands of youths in their prime.
3). It proves you are completely blinded by a divisive mantra and hell-bound on injecting a racial element solely to deflect attention from an issue of paramount national interest. Transcending ethnic and religious barriers to protect both human lives and wildlife must remain the focus of our collective psyche and is truly the need of the hour.
4). Trust the above clarifies. Regards
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Sarath / October 25, 2026
Jit, (Contd)
3) Official Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) data shows that 287 wild elephants died alongside numerous human fatalities in farming communities during the first nine months of this year alone. This country-wide ecological and humanitarian crisis requires serious structural solutions rather than divisive rhetoric or unverified claims.
4) Sri Lankans who respect the country’s 2,500-year heritage and its foundational Buddhist philosophy understand that true Dhamma values all life universally. True compassion is not selective, nor is it mutually exclusive. Framing a critical environmental challenge as a communal hierarchy serves only to fracture the peace, stability, and unity that the vast majority of Sri Lankans strive to build. Please pitch your arguments based on hard facts rather than fiction in a public discourse that warrants a serious discussion on real issues impacting the country.
5) Trust the above makes sense and to your understanding.
Thanks and regards
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Sarath / October 27, 2026
Jit,
1). Your focus on reducing a complex national issue into a narrow, communal frame demonstrates how completely blindsided you are by a divisive narrative. You and Raja appear to inhabit a cocoon world, constantly chanting the same mantra as if day-dreaming of a reality completely devoid of the country’s real and burning issues.
2). This selective focus is a form of amnesia that is completely unhealthy and deflective to public discourse. I have no panacea for these illusionary ills, which you yourselves must eventually come to terms with.
3). To dismiss a severe country-wide environmental crisis by labeling concern for our vanishing wildlife as “Sinhala Buddhist extremism” is an insult to the intelligence of the CT readership. Given that my article is exclusively on the human-elephant conflict and its devastating ecological and humanitarian consequences for farming communities across the country, trying to force a delusionary ethnic equation into this discourse is completely out of place. It ought to be dealt with under a different thread altogether, as it is an anathema to intelligent readers who are eagerly engaged in a serious discussion on the given subject.
4). Appreciate your understanding and patience. Thanks and regards
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Jit / October 27, 2026
“……Your focus on reducing a complex national issue into a narrow, communal frame….”
So Sarath, killing innocent civilians, including abduction, gang-rape, and brutal murder of school children in Chemmany is just a ‘narrow communal frame’ to you?
It would not surprise to expect this sort of moronic thinking from a political appointee like you, but your inability to distinguish the value of human life with that of an elephant is breathtakingly disappointing coming from one who donned seats in our DPL services. Utterly shocking!! Treating elephant deaths as a national issue while reducing torture and murder of human beings to a narrow concern is not just stupidity, it is morally bankrupt too. Views like this make it painfully clear why our foreign service remains so far behind where it should really belongs to!!
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Sarath / October 27, 2026
Jit,
I am appalled by a few commenters who habitually paint my writing with an ethno-religious label. This thread was meant to discuss the burning human-elephant conflict; a severe national crisis costing both human and wildlife lives.
Yet, it has been deflected into an ethnic- and religious-minded dispute, which is deeply regrettable and unfathomable. We must refrain from applying an ethno-religious brush, giving issues an ethnic or religious spin or twist for the sake of drumming up communal sentiments, which only leads to unnecessary polarization and friction.
It is time to shun such partisan, communal posturing and deflections. Instead, we should promote healthy debate grounded on the merits and substance of an issue, rather than paying lip service to divisive labels.
After all, elephants do not carry an ethnic or religious identity. It is humans who turn them into scapegoats and ethno-religious subjects to suit their own satire, driven by fanatical fallacies and imaginations.
As intelligent readers, we should desist from promoting ethno-religious labels and stooping to such petty-mindedness and cheap tactics, and instead promote a unified Sri Lankan identity at all times.
Over to you. Regards
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Sarath / October 25, 2026
Raja,
1). To reduce an ecological crisis to the loss of “one elephant” completely misrepresents both the gravity of the situation and the data itself. According to official records from the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), 287 wild elephants have perished in the first nine months of this year alone. This is a devastating, country-wide humanitarian and environmental catastrophe impacting rural communities and wildlife, rather than an isolated incident.
2). Furthermore, introducing completely unrelated, unverified claims regarding the mass graves at Chemmani is an attempt to deflect from the current crisis. Drawing false equivalences based on unproven assertions does a grave disservice to intelligent readers and serves only to manipulate public sentiment.
3). True adherence to Buddhist Karuna (compassion) is universal and bound by a total commitment to non-violence and truth. It does not look away from real-world suffering, nor does it seek refuge in deflection. Protecting our island’s vanishing wildlife and addressing the human-elephant conflict is a matter of basic ecology and accountability, not a political or communal dispute.
4).Please bring facts to the debate rather than “fiction and myths” in a discourse warranting a serious public discussion on real issues impacting the country.
Regards
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raja H / October 26, 2026
Mr Sarath,
My comment was not addressed to you, but you seem very upset. As a true Buddhist practising self-awareness, why is that?
I am only saying that many people seem more concerned about animals than about fellow humans.
You say Chemmani is “unverified “? What rubbish, why is Raj Somadeva digging there? Have you never heard of that schoolgirl Krishanthi and her mother raped and murdered in Chemmani. Your comment is completely heartless and insensitive. Would you write such a thing if your own female relatives were involved?
You must be joking when you write “(Buddhism) does not look away from real-world suffering, nor does it seek refuge in deflection”.
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Sarath / October 26, 2026
Raja,
1). Thanks. Your claim that your comment was not addressed to me defies basic common sense and the standard etiquette of public discourse.
2). When a commenter publishes a response on a public forum regarding a specific article, that comment is inherently open to the entire readership and most certainly to the author. You cannot broadcast inflammatory assertions on a public platform and then hide behind a cloak of deflection when the author holds you accountable to facts.
3). Furthermore, your attempt to exploit the tragic case of Krishanthi Kumaraswamy to validate a completely unproven historical claim about 500 hidden bodies at Chemmani is deeply disingenuous. Pointing out that an explosive, politically charged number lacks verified forensic or judicial evidence is a matter of factual accuracy, not heartlessness.
4). True sensitivity does not mean exploiting historical traumas to distort an entirely separate ecological discussion about endangered wildlife.
5). That said, it is disappointing to note that if you choose to engage in public debate on real national issues, you must have the guts and should possess the capacity to face fact-checked replies rather than inventing excuses to avoid them for your convenience.
6). Trust the above clarifies. Thanks
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raja H / October 27, 2026
Mr Sarath the Honourable Eminence,
“That said, it is disappointing to note that if you choose to engage in public debate on real national issues, you must have the guts and should possess the capacity to face fact-checked replies rather than inventing excuses to avoid them for your convenience.”
Since you are now drawing my guts into the discussion, would you show me a fact-checked link to prove that 500 bodies are NOT buried in Chemmani?
If you can’t, please don’t go round in circles with clouds of verbal deflection. If you don’t want to discuss a subject, say so clearly in one sentence.
And also, thank you so much for exposing the limits of your Karuna, Metta, self-awareness etc. Why not call it “Elephant -Buddhism ” ?
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Sarath / October 27, 2026
Raja,
I am appalled by a few commenters who habitually paint my writing with an ethno-religious label. This thread was meant to discuss the burning human-elephant conflict; a severe national crisis costing both human and wildlife lives.
Yet, it has been deflected into an ethnic- and religious-minded dispute, which is deeply regrettable and unfathomable. We must refrain from applying an ethno-religious brush, giving issues an ethnic or religious spin or twist for the sake of drumming up communal sentiments, which only leads to unnecessary polarization and friction.
It is time to shun such partisan, communal posturing and deflections. Instead, we should promote healthy debate grounded on the merits and substance of an issue, rather than paying lip service to divisive labels.
After all, elephants do not carry an ethnic or religious identity. It is humans who turn them into scapegoats and ethno-religious subjects to suit their own satire, driven by fanatical fallacies and imaginations.
As intelligent readers, we should desist from promoting ethno-religious labels and stooping to such petty-mindedness and cheap tactics, and instead promote a unified Sri Lankan identity at all times.
Over to you. Regards
/
leelagemalli / October 25, 2026
R,
That is certainly true. However, Sri Lankans are predominantly Sinhala Buddhists, and neither Buddhism nor its clergy and laity are immune to wrongdoing. Some politicians cling to religion, animal welfare, and traditional attire like koholla guliya (jackfruit gum) when elections approach, exploiting public sentiment to mislead voters. Despite their self-proclaimed superiority in literacy, political awareness remains alarmingly low across sections of society. Many form opinions based solely on YouTube headlines, arguing emotionally while ignoring facts. Even educated professionals seem unwilling to objectively assess the JVP-NPP government’s performance, with some blindly supporting another three years despite its apparent lack of tangible achievements.
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leelagemalli / October 24, 2026
The way local sri Lankans express love and care can be unique, yet the growing number of stray dogs raises serious questions about our compassion and responsibility. Whenever I return home, I am confronted by stray dogs desperately seeking food. While many people struggle with poverty, others spend lavishly on expensive pets, often to impress friends and colleagues, portraying themselves as animal lovers. True compassion, however, goes beyond appearances. Despite proudly identifying as Sinhala Buddhists, many seem to have lost sight of mindfulness and empathy. These values should be nurtured across all generations. I also worry about the younger generation’s growing dependence on technology, declining respect for elders, and apparent disregard for social responsibility. Reckless driving, inadequate enforcement of traffic laws, and accidents involving both people and animals remain serious concerns. Have we made any meaningful progress over the past two years? Despite political changes and promises, many problems persist. Economic growth alone cannot uplift a nation without compassion, discipline, accountability, and respect for all living beings. Sri Lanka needs stronger law enforcement and a genuine cultural shift towards mindfulness and responsibility. Only then can we move forward with dignity and hope.
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nimal fernando / October 25, 2026
As always ……….. it’s all AKD’s fault!
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Bring back Ranil …… he can stand on Wajira Abeywardana’s shoulders ………. and make all the male elephants effeminate: Royal College tradition/style.
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Problem nipped in the bud ……… everyone as happy as Larry ……….. and Sarath.
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Sarath / October 25, 2026
NF,
1). Thanks for joining the conversation.
2). Yet your comment reduces a serious national crisis to a series of sensational fallacies, relying on political satire, myths, and hearsay rather than hard facts. Attempting to draw external political figures into this conversation is simply preposterous and serves only to build a narrative on false pretenses. The intelligent CT readership cannot be hoodwinked by fiction that avoids the reality of the situation.
3) Official Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) data shows that 287 wild elephants died alongside numerous human fatalities in farming communities during the first nine months of this year alone. This country-wide ecological and humanitarian catastrophe impacts citizens across all communities and demands serious structural solutions, not divisive political rhetoric or deflective humor.
4). Suffice it to note, the intelligent CT readership would invariably welcome commenters pitching their arguments and discussion points based on verifiable facts rather than fiction in a public discourse that warrants a serious discussion on real issues impacting the country.
5) Trust the above helps and clarifies
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Jit / October 25, 2026
Your narratives are quite skewed, and biased Sarath!
“…..public tears over fallen tuskers ring entirely empty when the state itself acts as the primary abettor of wildlife destruction…..”
But you don’t mutter a word about pansale lokuhamuduruvo when an elephant dies after prolonged torture – just whisking off by adding “….who suffered years of neglect and torture at a local temple…..”
Dont you find the Buddhist priests the main culprits of elephant deaths, torture and harassment happening under their custody, before you jump to blame the government which do not have funds to employ Sherlock Holmes to protect each and every elephant in the wilderness when low life brutes are after their tuskers or shoot to protect their corn fields?
And your logic on Thai DPM visit to Mihintale (quoted from the opposition!!) is really shocking! Reading this, one has to wonder how you ever did your DPL job!!
Dont you know according to Vienna Convention “….. during a personal holiday, immunity is often reduced or unavailable, and host states need not treat foreign leaders as internationally protected persons…….”? This is more so valid as she had no known security issues whatsoever!
/
Sarath / October 25, 2026
1/2,
Jit,
1). Appreciate your joining the thread for the second time, which goes on to show your heightened interest and enthusiasm in issues impacting the nation, along with your candid comments, though they appear completely out of context and defy logic, reasoning, and common sense.
2). As already replied above to your initial comment on this thread, it is nothing but fair that intelligent CT readership demands from Commenters to pitch their arguments based on verifiable facts rather than personal attacks or selective readings. Confronting real facts and hard realities on the ground is the need of the hour, rather than turning a blind eye and relying on half-baked or completely false narratives.
3). To suggest that animal cruelty is ignored based on where it occurs misrepresents a consistently held stance. My focus has always been an unyielding opposition to animal cruelty in all forms—whether it involves wild elephants facing encroachment or captive animals suffering trauma and neglect, regardless of ownership or institution. Systemic accountability means addressing the root of the problem everywhere, rather than using a national crisis to score divisive points.
(TBC)
/
Sarath / October 25, 2026
2/2, (Contd)
Jit,
4). Regarding your reference to the Vienna Convention and the visiting foreign dignitary, your interpretation misses the broader diplomatic context. While the strict text of the Convention delineates formal immunities for private travel, international relations operate equally on reciprocity, courtesy, and goodwill. When a high-ranking state official visits a country with deep historical and religious ties, providing appropriate hospitality and administrative facilitation is a standard diplomatic practice to prevent unnecessary geopolitical friction and protect bilateral relations. Needless to note, turning a standard matter of international courtesy into a domestic political dispute ignores how foundational diplomacy actually functions.
5). Trust the above clarifies and to your understanding. Thanks and regards
/
Jit / October 26, 2026
My response to your comment at the top end of the comments section applies mostly to these two comments too, so I’d only do a short response to your illusions about DPL coverage on Thai DPM. So you feel very comfortable twisting DPL rules too, just like our good old politicians did, to please every foreign dignitary on their private visits? Why should SL worry “….to prevent unnecessary geopolitical friction…” if we strictly follow the Convention rules and etiquette? Thai DPM must have been fully aware of those protocols, so why you and the Opposition are making such a fuss is beyond any rational thinking!
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
Jit,
Your insistence on reducing the visit of Thai DPM to a rigid textbook reading of routine protocols completely misses a fundamental pillar of international relations: “the principle of reciprocity and strategic goodwill”. Foreign policy operates dynamically on the mutual respect and traditional hospitality shared between friendly nations.
Thailand’s DPM also holds the Minister of Commerce portfolio, and her faith-driven journey was a gesture of immense personal generosity, gifting a sacred pinnacle valued at LKR 170 million out of her own family wealth to the historic Mihindu Maha Seya.
Treating a dignitary of this stature, bringing an unprecedented gift to our cultural and spiritual heritage with the due decorum and etiquette she deserves is indeed the need of the hour, rather than viewing her merely as a routine private traveler from a holistic perspective.
After all, Sri Lanka has prided itself for centuries on being a courteous and hospitable nation. When a top leader of an ally with whom we share millennial-long civilizational links extends such extraordinary goodwill, the state is obligated to respond with elevated protocol courtesies. Doing so practices sound diplomacy that honors our traditions and secures long-term bilateral goodwill.
Trust the above makes sense. Thanks
/
Jit / October 27, 2026
Not at all Sarath – your version to justify giving state security and DPL protocols on a private visit of a foreign dignitary does NOT make ANY sense! Go back to Vienna Convention and read it, because you have not understood a word of it but trying to politicize the real contents. My concern actually is, how you glorify a ‘sacred pinnacle’ and value the gift, and demand ‘protection’ for Thai DPM going against Vienna Protocol! It is nothing less than the extent of village upasakamma’s behaviour with ‘ane sadu…sadu’ mentality, which is really shocking to have come from a so called Buddhist scholar! Your past writings on Buddhism highlight the correct understanding of real Buddhism and following Buddhas philosophical teachings, aint it? So how come you are so engrossed with useless ආමිස පූජා based පිළිම වැඳීම් (stupa worshipping) over ප්රතිපත්ති පූජා or understanding the core philosophies of Gauthama Buddha?
/
Sarath / October 27, 2026
Jit,
1). Your insistence on lecturing a career diplomat on international etiquette completely misses the point. For the record, I am intimately privy to these guidelines, having spent 32 years in the Sri Lanka Foreign Service (SLFS), including serving two consecutive terms totaling four years in the Protocol Division.
2). Your layman’s interpretation completely fails to comprehend the nuances of protocol principles and the practical application of the basis of reciprocity during bilateral engagements with friendly nations.
3). Furthermore, I vehemently denounce your cheap attempt to paint me with a political brush. I have no political affiliations, nor am I the least bit interested in them. Taking umbrage behind blindsided political posturing and cooked-up labeling only highlights your own ignorance.
4). Furthermore, your dismissive characterization of the sacred pinnacle enshrinement as useless Amisa Pooja completely misinterprets my position. True Dhamma does not demand selective blindness toward deep-rooted civilizational links or acts of profound spiritual generosity.
5). To help bridge the gap in your understanding, I highly recommend reading basic protocol manuals along with the practical commentaries on the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Trust the above clarifies the matter.
/
Jit / October 28, 2026
It is so tiring to read your yarns and provide replies so this will be my last. The most annoying part of your replies is absolute deflection addressing the core questions people ask you. Eg. I said you write tons about elephants but not a word about humans buried in Chemmani. For you, all those internationally proved allegations about Chemmani are ‘just unverified’ stories! I asked you to produce any comment you posted on any other human massacres in this land. Silence! You do not have a backbone to say that there had been so many human massacres in this land by both Sinhalese and Tamil politicians. Your pussy footing on such topics clearly shows that you are just a political appointee. Who could ever get in to SLFS without political push since 1970s in this country? Particularly without Hameed’s endorsement the time you joined? Go in front of a mirror and look straight into your eyes and ask that question! Your defense on ආමිස පූජා is just as hilarious and shows which side of a religion you adore!! No need to reply, not an iota of how I picture you would change.
/
Sarath / October 28, 2026
Jit,
1). I have already made my position clear on this matter. As I noted in my earlier comment, this specific thread is meant to discuss the human-elephant conflict and its far-reaching, appalling consequences; not anything else.
2). We have already debated well and truly enough on the three-decade-old conflict that raged in the North and East, causing untold suffering and misery to people transcending all ethnic, religious, and cultural divides, including Tamils, Sinhalese, Muslims, and others. We can certainly revisit that history when a more appropriate opportunity arises.
3). For now, let us dedicate this thread to the voiceless wildlife who have paid an enormous price for the greed and carvings of their human guardians, and focus on this timely issue of concern to all.
4). This is simply not the right space to keep repeating a mantra based on unverified claims and hearsay.
5). Let us agree to disagree once and for all.
Thanks and regards
/
leelagemalli / October 26, 2026
Saying that any questioning is “beyond rational thinking” is itself questionable. As I understand from media reports, leaders of both the visiting and host countries are briefed on relevant protocols. Sri Lankans face serious challenges both nationally and internationally, making the maintenance of diplomatic relations essential to addressing future threats and unforeseen issues. Thailand understands this well, yet unfortunately, the government in power appears to lack even the basic understanding of how to manage international relations responsibly.
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
LM,
1). Thank you for your insightful response and for sharing your constructive, thought-provoking views on this matter of national interest. You have been forthright on the necessity of a sound, responsible approach to diplomacy and IA.
2). That said, navigating diplomacy with like-minded, friendly nations requires a sophisticated understanding that extends far beyond a rigid adherence to legalistic minimums. Maintaining robust bilateral relations built on mutual respect, strategic interests, and the time-honored principle of reciprocity is absolutely essential for Sri Lanka to effectively manage future threats and unforeseen geopolitical challenges.
3). Your observations make absolute sense, that fostering these shared interests for mutual benefit is fundamental to responsible statecraft.
4) Greatly appreciate you adding such vital clarity to the discourse.
After all Great Minds Think Alike. Regards
/
leelagemalli / October 26, 2026
My anger is that so-called rational thinkers turn a blind eye to thuggery and repeated parliamentary lies. Vijitha Herath should not be a minister when more capable alternatives exist. AKD has proved to be one of the weakest and most inexperienced presidents, delivering little while promises and lies pile up. With public confidence declining and gas queues returning, systemic change seems distant. If this continues, AKD risks following Gotabaya’s path. The nation will eventually face the consequences. Good riddance to bad rubbish.
/
Sarath / October 25, 2026
Jit,
1. Ref. para 4 of your comment above – “Dont you find the Buddhist priests the main culprits of elephant deaths, torture and harassment happening under their custody…”
2. In my two previous articles on this thread (linked below), I have already laid bare my utter revulsion and the inherent cruelty of using elephants in temple processions, explicitly citing it as a violation of basic ethics and the core sanctity of Buddhist teachings of Metta and Karuna toward all living beings.
3. As such, how dare you make such a baseless assertion, which completely defies any logic or reasoned candor, and serves only to prove the complete hollowness of your utterances and insinuations. These points have been eloquently alluded to therein in no uncertain terms.
• The Cost of Coexistence: Navigating Sri Lanka’s Deadly Human-Elephant Conflict
• A Wake-up Call on Human–Elephant Conflict and Animal Cruelty
4. Make no mistake, it is incumbent upon commenters to get their facts checked and verified before publishing remarks on public platforms. Failing to do so only exposes an empty rhetoric and a reliance on blanket, sweeping statements regarding serious matters of public interest and concern.
5. Thanks and regards
/
Jit / October 26, 2026
No, you haven’t addressed what I pointed out! Where are the links Sarath? I am so excited to see you flak any Buddhist priest for any wrongdoing!!
FYI, I only made references on your leniency towards SB priests, slippery slop attitudes to avoid any criticism on popular Buddhism, your lack of empathy towards Tamils or Muslims, turning your eyes away from mass massacres done by (a very few) in the forces etc. Please do not deflect or wave the ‘personal attack’ card when someone points out flaws in your arguments. I didnt talk about your personal life, did I?
Your ignorance and lack of respect to Vienna Convention protocols are actually more shocking than disappointing when considering your ex-DPL status!
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
1/2,
Jit,
See below my reference to monks and temples in the articles as follows:
A). The Cost of Coexistence: Navigating Sri Lanka’s Deadly Human-Elephant
Conflict – CT of 22. 08. 2026 under the following sub-sections.
1). “High-Level Committee to Safeguard Captive Elephants”
Elephant suffering in Sri Lanka is not confined to the wild; it extends directly into cultural and religious institutions. The exploitation and psychological trauma endured by these animals during pageants (Peraheras) have long been a source of national concern, often met with institutional silence. In a direct response to this crisis, a specialized ministerial committee held its inaugural meeting on July 16, 2026, to construct a new legal framework for domesticated elephants . (read in full) ……….
2) “Moral Imperative: Stop Animal Cruelty (Wake-up Call)”
The plight of Sri Lanka’s wildlife exposes a deep ethical contradiction within our societal fabric. Elephants continue to suffer from systemic human cruelty, demanding that we act as an unyielding voice for the voiceless. This paradox is felt most acutely during major religious festivals where elephants endure immense stress, despite the Buddha’s core teachings of non-violence, compassion, and loving-kindness (Metta) toward all living beings…(read in full) …………
(TBC)
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
2/2, (Contd)
Jit,
B). Wake-up call on human-elephant conflict and animal cruelty – DFT of 08.08.2025 under the following sub-sections.
1). “Role of religious leaders and civil society”
It is commonplace that elephants have been widely used in Buddhist festivals and religious rituals every nook and corner with scant regard to health, wellbeing and safety of pachyderm – often considered sacred in all by name. On the contrary, one could question the very purpose of parading elephants in processions and taking advantage of their presence at temples in celebration of spirituality and sanctity in the name of Buddhism. Paradoxically, Buddhist monks who advocate compassion, non-violence and loving kindness to all beings, are yet to practice what they preach specially at a time when unimaginable horror, trauma and suffering have been inflicted upon elephants at-will, with no mercy, remorse and respect whatsoever which is sickening.. As a Buddhist, I feel ashamed and guilty of my past inaction in support of elephants, given the increased risks and dangers they face on daily basis both in captivity and in the wild.
Trust the above is self-explanatory and speaks for themselves.
Thanks and regards.
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
Jit,
1). Besides my reply on the reference links requested in your comment, let me take the liberty of responding to your other queries.
2). I firmly reject your fabricated term “Sinhala Buddhist priests.” In the Buddhist dispensation, there are only Buddhist priests; introducing divisive ethnic labels into a sacred institution is factually incorrect and disrespectful.
3). Furthermore, your sweeping accusation that I lack empathy toward Tamils and Muslims is entirely hollow. My personal and professional circles transcend communal boundaries, and I take serious exception to your branding my commentary with an ethnic label.
4). Your assertion that I turn a blind eye to massacres by individuals within the forces is another groundless claim regarding matters to which I am not privy; I cannot accept allegations devoid of merit.
5). Finally, your characterization of my reasoning as “ignorant” regarding the Vienna Convention is deeply prejudicial. Having served as a career diplomat, I am intimately familiar with its strictures. Pointing out that international relations operate on reciprocal courtesy rather than rigid legalism is not ignorance, it is the reality of statecraft.
6) That said, your repeated deflections only expose the sheer hypocrisy of your arguments. Trust this helps. Regards
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
Jit,
Though I have provided actual texts and excerpts of the articles requested by you, regret that I have not given links for the two articles referred to in my comments posted above.
Please find the article links below for your ready reference.
1). “Wake-up call on human-elephant conflict and animal cruelty” in the Daily
Financial Times of 08.08.2025
(https://www.ft.lk/opinion/Wake-up-call-on-human-elephant-conflict-and-
animal-cruelty/14-780039 )
2. “The Cost of Coexistence: Navigating Sri Lanka’s Deadly Human-Elephant
Conflict” in the Colombo Telegraph of 22. 08. 2026
(https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/the-cost-of-coexistence-
navigating-sri-lankas-deadly-human-elephant-conflict/ )
Trust the above suffices. Regards .
/
SJ / October 25, 2026
CT editor
Would you have mercy on humanity and make the word limit 200 for the first comment, 100 for the first follow up, 50 for the next, 25 for the the one after, and 12, 6, 3, 2, 1 and 0, 0, 0, 0….. in succession for the rest?
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
Dear CT Editor,
1. SJ’s suggestion is overly restrictive and diminishes an author’s ability to respond effectively.
2. When addressing a subject as complex and significant as “A Nation’s Treatment Of Animals Foretells Its Own Perilous State,” readers deserve clear, fact-checked, and comprehensive answers. Because individual comments on CT are strictly capped at 200 words, delivering the necessary depth and historical accuracy frequently requires multiple consecutive installments. This is the simple logic behind why my responses comprise a large portion of the thread.
3. Furthermore, I make it a point to thoroughly address critical feedback rather than choosing selective silence. What ultimately matters is not the raw number of posts shared, but whether the quality of the answers is substantive, rational, and directly addresses the reader’s perspective.
4. Trust the above clarifies and justifies my side of the story. Thanks & regards
/
leelagemalli / October 26, 2026
Sarath,
CT commenters are not used to authors responding to every comment.CT author, Vipula W started this practice, and now you have followed suit. Perhaps this is why some regular commenters feel that your responses take up more space than their comments. I personally don’t find it absurd, as I don’t read every comment, especially those from NPP supporters. We all have our biases; that’s human nature. CT will decide how best to respond to the feedback received.
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
LM,
1) Thank you for your candid and balanced observations regarding the unfolding discussion on commentary space. While I understand that some regular commenters find the practice of an author responding to feedback unfamiliar, attempting to impose artificial word caps or boundaries on expression directly defies logic and palpable reasoning.
2) Freedom of expression, free speech, and unstifled media ethics are fundamental freedoms enshrined in both the UN Charter and the SL Constitution. These rights are guaranteed to all, completely devoid of any bias, color, beliefs, geographical boundaries, or man-made restrictions. Platforms like the CT thrive precisely because they protect these principles. Fortuitously, there are no administrative restrictions whatsoever on this thread, as it remains a beautifully “free-for-all” forum.
3) Furthermore, unlike those who choose a path of selective silence, I maintain the healthy habit of thoroughly answering all critical comments whenever deemed necessary. What ultimately matters is not the raw quantity of posts shared, but whether the quality of the answers is reasonable, sensible, and substantively addresses the reader’s standpoint. True journalism and intellectual discourse require depth, and I will continue to honor that standard by engaging directly with our readers.
4) Appreciate your speaking the truth. Regards
/
Ajith / October 26, 2026
“SJ’s suggestion is overly restrictive and diminishes an author’s ability to respond effectively.”
Are you sure about it? Restictions are necessary when the limits go over limits because you always try to evade or cover the truth. I think it is not about your article length but it is about your comments. You can justify but that is not always accepted by others. Are yu afraid of thr truth?
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
Dear Ajith,
1) I am appalled by your sinister attempts on imposing word restrictions on an author – which fundamentally contradicts the principles of open discourse and free media. Freedom of expression and the right to articulate one’s opinion are basic fundamental rights that cannot be truncated to suit individual preferences.
2) It is entirely hypocritical to see commenters who position themselves as human rights advocates actively attempting to restrict an author’s right to free expression. Taking cover behind human rights slogans while attempting to stifle an author’s voice exposes your hallow rhetoric and the empty nature of your activism.
3) Platform guidelines are managed exclusively by the CT administration, not individual commenters. The length, style, and depth of my responses remain entirely my prerogative as an author. I have never dictated how others should comment, what style they should use, or what their word counts should be.
4) Unpacking complex realities and exposing manufactured fallacies requires rigorous, detailed text. Those who are truly unafraid of the truth should welcome exhaustive, fact-checked clarity rather than demanding forced silence through artificial constraints.
5) Trust the above clarifies.
/
Ajith / October 27, 2026
Poor attempt to justify your humanity with only Elephants ignoring other animals.
/
Sarath / October 28, 2026
Ajith,
I am appalled by your comment.
Read the title of the article “A Nation’s Treatment Of Animals Foretells Its Own Perilous State” which clearly justifies as to why the ‘plight of the elephants’ has been given the the foremost attention in the article while the ‘wildlife’ in general too is focused in the piece. That’s the rationale behind the “elephants” are being given the highest attention.
Thanks for your attention and understanding.
/
SJ / October 26, 2026
OK
Let us settle for a compromise:
210 for the first comment, 110 for the first follow up, 60 for the next, 30 for the the one after, and 15, 10, 5, 3, 2 and 1, 1, 1, 1….. in succession for the rest?
Deal?
/
Sarath / October 27, 2026
SJ,
1. Thanks. It’s pity that your latest ad-hoc compromise regarding sliding word limits is entirely arbitrary and lacks any sound logical grounding. The CT administration has already established a clear, rational formula with a definitive 200-word cap per comment.
2. Tinkering with these guidelines based on the whims and fancies of a few commenters makes little sense, as platform rules are the exclusive discretion of the CT administration and nobody else.
3. Introducing these restrictive, convoluted caps would invariably prevent both authors and readers from fully exercising their freedom of expression and free speech. These fundamental rights are enshrined universally under the UN CHARTER and guaranteed to all citizens under the CONSTITUTION OF SRI LANKA.
4. Truncating comprehensive analysis into forced, descending increments is a direct violation of basic communicative liberties. Unpacking complex national issues requires depth, and stifling it only degrades the quality of public discourse.
5. Let us maintain the current status quo rather than risking our constitutionally guaranteed freedoms for the sake of artificial constraints.
6. Let us stay put and work for the benefit of all.
Thanks and regards.
/
SJ / October 27, 2026
S
The trouble is that I cannot respond to BS in kind.
/
Sarath / October 28, 2026
SJ,
Fighting fire with fire only works if you both have matches.
Anyway, have your way anyway.
/
old codger / October 26, 2026
SJ
“Would you have mercy on humanity “
😂😂
Well, would you have mercy on a poor just-retired human, who needs a docile forum to talk as much as he did while he was a Spokesman?
/
Sarath / October 26, 2026
Dear OC,
1) Thanks. Your attempts to restrict my commentary with schoolboy humor show in no uncertain terms that you are simply unable to engage with hard facts. When confronted with fact-checked statistics and structured arguments, you choose to deflect rather than challenge the substance of the discussion. This futile attempt to stifle an author’s voice exposes the sheer hypocrisy and double standards of pseudo-human rights defenders like yourself.
2) For all your grandstanding about rights and freedoms, your immediate impulse to restrict free speech the moment a narrative challenges you exposes your true character and modus operandi. Taking cover behind selective activism while actively trying to censor comprehensive dialogue reveals the utter emptiness of your rhetoric.
3). My career history is a matter of proud public record, and my prerogative to write thoroughly remains entirely my own. The intelligent readers of this platform see right through your sinister attempts to suppress fact-checked clarity. Those who cannot survive an honest, unstructured debate will naturally cry for artificial word limits to save them from the truth.
4) Trust the above clarifies. Regards
/
old codger / October 27, 2026
Sarath,
Where have I said that CT must restrict your ability to reply? Point it out, please.
What I wrote is IN SUPPORT of giving YOU space to talk as much as you want.
It’s not my fault that despite your expertise in English verbiage (even unto 400 words) your comprehension is wanting.
/
Sarath / October 27, 2026
Dear OC,
1). Thanks a million for the clarification.
2). I regret the oversight and any misunderstanding on my part regarding your previous comment. It is refreshing to see a reader who has the guts and backbone to call a spade a spade, and I sincerely appreciate you standing up for an author’s space to engage freely.
3). HATS OFF TO YOU FOR YOUR OPENNESS AND FAIR-MINDED SOLIDARITY IN A THREAD WHERE SUCH OBJECTIVITY IS RARE AND HARD TO COME BY.
4). After all, the true measure of a GOOD SAMARITAN IS HIS OPENNESS AND BACKBONE.
5). Thanks. With warm regards,
Sarath
/
SJ / October 26, 2026
I am sure that his grandchildren or great grandchildren under 10 years of age will have plenty of time for him.
If he hasn’t any, he can hire kids from his neighbourhood for a small bribe of sweets.
/
Sarath / October 27, 2026
Dear SJ,
1). Your latest comment relies on cheap theatrics and personal deflections that have absolutely no place in an intellectual discourse. Attempting to play out a personal vendetta under the full glare of a public forum is simply unhelpful and completely unworthy of the intelligent CT readership, which expects arguments grounded in substance and mutual respect.
2). A public blog dedicated to serious national issues should not be reduced to a stage for trivial maneuvers or character insinuation. I suggest desisting from these irrelevant tactics and shifting the focus back to the actual subject at hand.
3). Thanks for your attention and understanding. Regards
/
SJ / October 27, 2026
Intellectual discourse requires intellectually honest comments.
Where that lacks, one does the next best, and has a good laugh.
/
Sarath / October 28, 2026
Laughter is definitely the best medicine for bad arguments. Anyway, have your way anyway.
/
old codger / October 27, 2026
Sarath,
“I sincerely appreciate you standing up for an author’s space to engage freely.”
Thank you, but I also stand for the rights of commenters such as myself or SJ to say what we want openly. You see, that’s why we frequent CT, not the Daily News or the Forign Ministry website.As an author, you have the right to remain silent if you wish (many do), but you have no right to question the motives of people like Jit or Raja. But even if you keep silent, people will dissect YOUR motives. So, be frank. Don’t pretend to be an arahat. Nobody is.😁
After all, there is no purpose in us being Great Minds if we don’t read each other’s thoughts.
/
Sarath / October 28, 2026
OC,
1.Thank you for your candor. I completely agree with you; the real value of a space like CT is that everyone, both authors and commenters, has the freedom to speak openly and share their thoughts.
2. Hearing out all viewpoints is essential, and I am fully on board with that score.
My primary interest is always to see us move past surface-level readings or cherry-picked points so we can dive deep into the actual merits and substance of the arguments. When we focus on the core substance rather than speculating on motives, the dialogue becomes truly meaningful.
3. I sincerely appreciate your forward-looking judgment and the broader perspective you’ve brought to this thread. It brings a much-needed sense of balance and order to the discussion.
4. Thanks and regards
/
SJ / October 26, 2026
oc
I think that we are on territory that is too parched for a crop of humor.
/
leelagemalli / October 27, 2026
OC,let me draw you attention to this. I wonder how SM would have reacted to AKD’s performance had he lived longer. Perhaps he would have regretted ever witnessing such disappointing politics, never imagining that AKD would act like MaRa. Little has been achieved for the benefit of the masses, and the promised wonders remain elusive. Some claimed that Sri Lanka was sitting on a gold mine and that its debts would be peanuts compared with the foreign exchange earnings from mineral wealth, supposedly rivaling Zimbabwe’s gold mines. Sadly, people appear to have bought these blatant lies, only to face disappointment. All things considered, Sri Lanka’s future looks darker than expected. The next elected government will inherit the enormous task of clearing up the mess left by the NPP-led groups. That will not be easy, especially given the JVP’s growing presence in regional bodies, which could allow its influence and divisive politics to persist even after a possible electoral defeat in 2029.
/
Jit / October 27, 2026
LM, For goodness’ sake, leave SM alone in his grave! You castigated him almost daily, lambasted virtually every comment he made, and attacked his support for the NPP at every opportunity. He was deeply hurt by your uncivilized attacks (need I quote them?), and he expressed his frustration with your choice of nasty words on more than one occasion in CT columns. He died a hurt man, and even now you are trying to attack his firm belief in the NPP by twisting the facts. I dare say that, had he been alive today, he would have been immensely proud of what the NPP has achieved so far!
/
old codger / October 27, 2026
LM,
Sinhala Man was very impulsive. He hated past governments, so he believed the next prophet who appeared. I remember him even going to the NPP HQ in Pelawatta. He would have been highly disappointed if he was around now.
/
leelagemalli / October 27, 2026
OC, thank you.
I knew what he had been doing, and I genuinely believe that he supported the JVP out of sincere, perhaps naive, conviction. Through personal contacts, I was also aware of the health issues he had been facing over the years. For so-called rational thinkers to blame me for his death is simply beyond bearing. I have remained relatively quiet, but I fear the dangers ahead for our country. I expect genuine NPP supporters, led by AKD, to come forward and explain what they have actually achieved over the past two years. In his recent NDTV India interview, Chathuranga Abeysinghe claimed that corruption is now impossible, despite serious questions surrounding the reported USD 2.5 million financial loss.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Zzrx6dW5R4
The public deserves transparency and accountability. I fear the NPP government’s conduct is damaging Sri Lanka’s international reputation. I had hoped Dr Amarasooriya would deliver tangible results, but her performance has fallen far short of expectations.
/
Singar A. Velan / October 26, 2026
Monotonically decreasing word count, a jolly good suggestion, what? My preference for the sequence would be: 128, 64, 32, 16, 8, 4, 2, 1 with the last word reserved as “good bye”, or some rude version of it.
/
Sarath / October 27, 2026
SA Velan,
1). Thanks. Your endorsement of a monotonically decreasing word count formula, wrapped in light-hearted sarcasm, relies on the same restrictive premise that hampers open discourse. While the mathematical precision of your sequence is amusing, applying such arbitrary constraints to a public forum is entirely unhelpful from an author’s standpoint.
2). A serious discussion involving complex national crises requires explanatory depth, not artificial caps that systematically stifle detailed dialogue. The Colombo Telegraph administration has already established a clear, logical, and definite 200-word limit per comment. Introducing ad-hoc rules to force brevity only prevents readers and authors from fully exercising their freedom of expression and free speech. Let us maintain the established guidelines rather than resorting to superficial limits that compromise substantive exchange.
3). Thanks for your attention and understanding
/
old codger / October 27, 2026
SAV,
128, 64,……..
I smell a computer programmer.
/
Singar A. Velan / October 27, 2026
Ah, maybe a king with a chessboard progressivly doubling grains placed on squares??
/
SJ / October 27, 2026
SAV
I couldn’t agree less
Unfortunately I stared with 200 and approximately halved at every step.
/
LankaScot / October 27, 2026
Hello Singar A. Velan,
I think you have just shown that CT has a Binary set of Commenters.
Best regards
/
Lester / October 28, 2026
*{|Sn|}
/
Lester / October 28, 2026
Well done, Velan.
Modify the sequence a bit.
S₀={t:t was a Tamil terrorist alive in 2009}.
Then |Sn|= {10000, 5000, 1000, 100, 10, 1…}.
This is a monotonically decreasing sequence that models how fast Gotha was able to decimate the rats…
Remember, if the sequence is also bounded below, it converges to the infimum.
Infimum = axe chop to Fat Pig.
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Sarath / October 27, 2026
Dear Readers (Raja, Jit)
1) I am appalled by a few commenters who habitually paint my writing with an ethno-religious label. This thread was meant to discuss the burning human-elephant conflict; a severe national crisis costing both human and wildlife lives.
2) Yet, it has been deflected into an ethnic- and religious-minded dispute, which is deeply regrettable and unfathomable. We must refrain from applying an ethno-religious brush, giving issues an ethnic or religious spin or twist for the sake of drumming up communal sentiments, which only leads to unnecessary polarization and friction.
3) It is time to shun such partisan, ethno-religious posturing and deflections. Instead, we should promote healthy debate grounded on the merits and substance of an issue, rather than paying lip service to divisive labels.
4) After all, elephants do not carry an ethnic or religious identity. It is humans who turn them into scapegoats and ethno-religious subjects to suit their own satire, driven by fanatical fallacies and imaginations.
5) As intelligent readers, we should desist from promoting ethno-religious labels and stooping to such petty-mindedness and cheap antics, and instead promote a unified Sri Lankan identity at all times. Over to you.
Sincerely, with best regards.
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leelagemalli / October 27, 2026
Hello Sarath,
Public discourse suffers when we mistake former ambassadors for the unquestioning voices of the governments that appointed them. Diplomats represent their governments while in office, but that does not automatically make them complicit in every policy or administrative failure.
In my view, there is a meaningful difference between those who maintained professional independence and those who openly crossed the line into political advocacy. Unless evidence proves otherwise, personal attacks against former diplomats are unfair. Criticism should be based on their documented actions, not assumptions, labels, or political loyalties. We must learn to distinguish professional duty from personal complicity.
Tbc
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
Dear LM,
Thank you for your comment and for sharing your candid perspective on the many issues impacting the country’s status quo. I sincerely appreciate your deep interest, enthusiasm, and the broader views you have presented regarding our forward march and real progress. Your insights add valuable depth to this discussion.
Thanks and regards
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leelagemalli / October 27, 2026
cont.
Similarly, my comments on Sri Lankan governments have never been driven by loyalty to the UNP, SLFP, or any other political party. I have acknowledged positive achievements wherever I saw them, while remaining critical of failures. It is my right to recognise the achievements of the Ranil Wickremesinghe-led administration, which, despite significant resistance, helped steer Sri Lanka away from a severe economic crisis. Greece took years to recover from its economic turmoil, whereas Sri Lanka made substantial progress towards stabilisation within roughly two years. Food inflation, which had soared to around 70%, fell dramatically, even reaching negative territory in some periods. International experts recognised the country’s recovery, yet many Sri Lankans appeared unwilling to acknowledge these achievements. Reports of Wickremesinghe’s serious heart problems make his efforts, despite personal health challenges, even more worthy of consideration. Whether one supported him politically or not, these achievements deserve an objective assessment rather than dismissal driven by hatred or political rivalry.
Tbc
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leelagemalli / October 27, 2026
cont.
Today, I believe the NPP government’s record must be judged by the same standards. After 27 months under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, citizens have every right to demand tangible improvements in their daily lives, alongside transparency, accountability, and sound economic management. My opposition to political violence applies equally to all groups, regardless of ideology or historical background. Sri Lanka needs evidence-based debate, not blind allegiance, hatred, or personal attacks. Buddhist values of compassion, tolerance, and restraint should guide our public discourse. Our duty is not to defend political camps but to assess every government fairly and hold it accountable for its impact on ordinary citizens. Period!
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
Dear LM,
1. Thank you for continuing to add such valuable depth to the conversation. I completely agree with your emphasis on the need for objective, evidence-based debate rather than assessments driven by political rivalry or blind allegiance.
2. Your point about evaluating the achievements and challenges of any administration; whether looking back at the stabilization efforts during the economic crisis or holding the current NPP government accountable; is very well taken. Upholding these fair standards while letting values of tolerance and restraint guide our public discourse is exactly what brings real substance to this space.
3. Thank you again for sharing your candid and thoughtful analysis.
Great minds have that most in common. Regards
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raja H / October 27, 2026
Mr. Sarath,
I don’t understand why you are so “apalled” by commenters like Jit who talk about your ignoring human deaths over those of elephants.
#is time to shun such partisan, ethno-religious posturing and deflections. Instead, we should promote healthy debate #
Well, can you deny that you mentioned only LTTE terrorism? Why don’t you come clean and say that there was no terrorism by the government? Come on, say it.
On the other hand, if you want a healthy real debate, head over to the current article by Jehan Perera, on the subject of Chemmani, (which you described as unproven and baseless), and leave a comment. Jehan will not stop you commenting. Go on, or are you afraid of doing it, Mr. Sarath?
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
Dear Raja,
1. Thank you for your comment. Healthy public debate thrives when we focus entirely on the substance and verified merits of an argument, rather than resorting to assumptions, labels, or personal deflections.
2. My focus remains on encouraging an objective, evidence-based dialogue that moves away from partisan posturing. Every topic has its own specific context, and addressing one particular aspect of a multi-faceted history does not equate to ignoring or dismissing others. True balance in a forum like this comes from evaluating documented facts calmly, rather than questioning personal motives or courage.
3. I welcome open discussions that uphold these fair standards and bring real substance to the space.
4. Hope our paths will cross one day. Thanks and regards
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SJ / October 27, 2026
How careless of me!
The 3 x 1 s****d comment is scattered on the page.
I am a little disappointed with the CT gatekeepers.
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
SJ,
1. Thank you for your being reasonable and sensible enough at last, and for taking your proposal of word capping onto a new dimension.
2. This approach certainly sounds much better than the ORIGINAL CUT THROAT VERSION. Your perspective always adds a sharp and unique layer to the discussion.
Thanks and regards,
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Lester / October 28, 2026
Sarath:
You refer to the CT readership as “enlightened” and “esteemed.” If this were a court of law, and we were on opposite sides, I would pose the following as Exhibit A:
Naman / October 27, 2026
1
0
Singhalese did not produce a Suicide Bombers because they lacked a worthy cause to do it.
After 30 years of hashing through LTTE propaganda, this statement stands out. Another one I remember is Koneswari’s “area.” Apparently the “army” planted a grenade in the bottom of a lady. A totally rubbish allegation (from TamilNet propaganda), but the “enlightened” and “esteemed” readership you refer to would easily for all it. The user known as “Scot” for example, firmly believes the LTTE should have their own cemeteries, complete with Tiger emblems.
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
Dear Lester,
1).Good to see you joining the thread after being silent for a while. Thank you for sharing your perspective and highlighting these specific examples.
2). When I refer to an enlightened and esteemed readership, I am speaking to the collective capacity of the community to engage in critical thinking, rigorous debate, and independent evaluation of the diverse views presented here. A vibrant forum naturally hosts a wide spectrum of opinions, historical interpretations, and strongly held beliefs, some of which will inevitably clash or rely on different sources of information.
3). My intent is not to validate every individual claim or comment, but rather to acknowledge the value of a space where these complex histories can be openly discussed. Appreciating the readership’s engagement does not mean expecting uniform agreement on deeply sensitive historical events.
Thanks and regards
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SJ / October 27, 2026
I was appalled to three entries listed beginning “**** I am appalled by”.
The rest was identical I guess.
I was delighted to note that only one is placed on record and that someone at CT making proper use of his stuff upstairs.
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
SJ,
1.Thank you for your comment. The three identical entries appeared because Jit, Raja, and another commenter all took issue with my article simply because it did not toe their specific line of thinking on the unverified claims surrounding the Chemmani Graves. I felt it necessary to share my response directly with each one of them to address their points individually.
2. Trust your illusion has subsided now. You seem to be just glancing at the thread curiously to find “who shared what” without looking at the actual substance, which sounds hilarious.
3. Anyway, have your way anyway.
Thanks and regards
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SJ / October 27, 2026
I was appalled to see three entries listed beginning “**** I am appalled by”
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
SJ,
That happened because Jit, Raja, and another commenter all had issues with my article for not toeing their line of thinking on the Chemmani Graves. I had to share that response thrice to address each of them directly on their individual comments.
Trust your illusion has subsided now. You seem to be just glancing at the thread curiously to find “who shared what” without looking at the substance, which sounds hilarious.
Regards
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SJ / October 28, 2026
Strange that people do not find it stupidly offensive to see one willfully post a fairly long comment thrice
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
SJ,
1). I noticed your recent post. If that was directed at me, I would appreciate it if we could speak directly rather than through public posts.
2). As I already responded and revealed, the multiple comments were necessitated in response to comments shared by three commenters who posted offensive remarks against me for not toeing their line on unverified allegations regarding the Chemmani grave. There was no intent to spam.
3). Let’s keep our communication straightforward. Regards
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Sarath / October 27, 2026
Dear CT Readers
1). This article is dedicated to Tuskers Kavanthissa (16th October 2026), and Bhathiya (15th July 2025
(at https://www.ft.lk/opinion/Wake-up-call-on-human-elephant-conflict-and-animal-cruelty/14-
780039), and to all the pachyderms and wildlife that have perished at the hands of their human
guardians.
2). May it serve as an urgent appeal to ensure the absolute protection and care of all remaining
elephants, domestic animals, and wildlife within their natural habitats.
Thanks and regards
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leelagemalli / October 28, 2026
Hello Sarath, let me add the following paras, even if it is not about your current article. I think it is timeworthy.
Sri Lanka Must Wake Up: Let Us Unite Against Rising Police Brutality Under the NPP Government
–
Let us, as a nation, unite to expose and confront the alarming allegations of police brutality and abuses of power emerging under the NPP leadership. We cannot remain silent while public trust in law enforcement is shaken by reports of violence and deaths in police custody. This is a time for collective action, public scrutiny and an uncompromising demand for justice.
Tbc
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
LM,
Thanks a lot for sharing your candid analysis on yet another important matter doing the rounds of late.
Let’s keep the conversation going for the benefit of all.
Regards
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leelagemalli / October 28, 2026
cont.
I could hardly believe my eyes when I heard that a man had died in police custody, reportedly after being brutally assaulted. He was allegedly arrested with a small quantity of drugs. If the police, entrusted with protecting the public, become perpetrators of violence, who will protect ordinary citizens? The NPP came to power under AKD, promising a political revolution and solutions within six months. More than two years later, what do we see? Endless rhetoric, excuses and ministers busy boasting rather than delivering. Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe may celebrate the government’s achievements, but the public has every right to ask: where are the results?
Tbc
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leelagemalli / October 28, 2026
cont.
Wake up, Sri Lanka!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQrtZksVdOs
How long will the majority remain asleep while people struggle with recurring gas and fuel shortages, allegations of police brutality and leaders who appear increasingly disconnected from ordinary citizens? Is this the transformation we were promised, or merely the old political culture wearing a new disguise? AKD and his ministers must be judged by their actions, not their speeches or online propaganda. Sri Lanka needs accountability, competent leadership and justice—not political theatrics. Anyone guilty of violence or abuse of power must face the full force of the law. A nation cannot be rescued by slogans; it must be awakened by its people.
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
Dear LM,
1). Thank you for your highly passionate and candid comment. You have sharply highlighted the critical challenges facing the country’s status quo, from daily struggles to the deep structural changes needed for true accountability and justice.
2). I completely agree that the country badly needs unity, peace, honesty, and justice to move forward now more than ever before. Real transformation cannot be achieved by slogans or political theatrics alone; it requires a collective commitment to fair standards and systemic integrity. Let’s join hands in unity and diversity for the sake of all citizens to build the stable, transparent, and progressive future we all deserve.
3). Thank you once again for sharing your valuable perspective and encouraging this necessary civic awareness on the thread.
4). Thanks and regards
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Tambuttegama Burampi / October 28, 2026
Leela,
Why are you complaining? You don’t even live here! There isn’t any LPG, but haven’t you noticed that the price of gas has tripled in Germany,? You are the ones who should be rioting, no?
I suppose when it gets too cold or expensive in Germany, you can vacation here, no?
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Sarath / October 28, 2026
Dear CT Readers
1). Thank you all for joining in, sharing your valuable inputs, and presenting your perspectives on the status-quo of the Human-Elephant Conflict, which remains a severe bane on the country’s farming communities and wildlife in general, and elephants in particular.
2). I want to emphasize the critical need to make collective, evidence-based efforts to deal with this pressing issue. We must move forward with caution, ensuring that our conservation strategies and community protections are handled with the utmost care, sensitivity, and foresight. After all, lives—be they of humans or elephants—matter most, and finding a sustainable coexistence requires balanced, deeply considered solutions rather than hasty reactions.
3). Rather than allowing public discourse to be divided by surface-level friction, we must channel our energy toward constructive actions based on substance, merit, and a shared commitment to justice. Let’s do our utmost to join hands in unity and diversity to make lives better for all in the name of humanity.
4). Thanks and regards,
/