2026-02-19 / Debate (Continued): Judicature (Amendment) Bill and Poisons, Opium and Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill - Committee and Third Reading
Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan
2026-02-19
Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan highlighted the escalating human-elephant conflict in multiple localities within the Batticaloa district, citing fatal incidents in Valachchenai, Meelavettuvaan, and Siththandi. He called on the Department of Wildlife Conservation to operationalise three already-approved local offices in Batticaloa and ensure adequate staffing to address elephant incursions. Additionally, he raised concerns about paddy farmers' inability to sell their produce at the government-guaranteed price, urging authorities to intervene to ensure farmers receive the stipulated payment.
Please give me one more minute.
Human–elephant conflict has worsened in Vavunatheevu, Kothiyapulai, Mangikattu, Mantheevu, Thumbankeni, Sandiveli, and beyond; in Valachchenai, elephants entered the town and killed two people; in Meelavettuvaan, a mother was killed; last year in Siththandi elephants attacked children. The Department of Wildlife Conservation has approval for three more local offices in Batticaloa; please establish them, appoint adequate staff, and protect people from elephant incursions.
Finally, paddy sales are ongoing; although a guaranteed price is set, farmers struggle to sell at that price. I request the authorities to act so farmers are protected. I conclude. Thank you.