In light of the recent killing of a rare leopard by a group of villagers in Ambal Kulam in Kilinochchi, environmental and animal rights activists are calling for legal reforms to ensure the protection of wildlife. According to them, the laws of the land do not act as a deterrent while lack of awareness has also given rise to the killing of rare animals as seen in this incident.
According to Environmentalist and Attorney at Law, Jagath Gunawardena the leopards are strictly protected species among mammals under Section 30(2) of the Flora and Fauna Protection Ordinance.
“Therefore, it is an offence to kill, hurt, hunt or be in possession or custody of leopards,” he said adding the offenders are subject to high fines and /or jail term, which is at the discretion of the courts,” he said.
However, Chairman of the Surakimu Sri Lanka organization and environmental activist Pahiyangala Ananda Sagara thera says the existing laws are not stringent enough.
“According to the Flora and Fauna Protection Act of 2009, the possible penalties for those who kill animals are imprisonment of between two to five years or a fine between Rs. 20 000 - Rs. 50 000 or both” he explains.
According to the thero with punishment is at the discretion of the judge, an offender could even get away by paying a mere fine of Rs. 30 000 despite killing an endangered animal. He suggests the law should, therefore, be reformed immediately to prevent similar incidents in the future. While the group of offenders in this instance could also be charged for common intention under provisions of the penal code and the Cruelty to Animal Ordinance, Gunawardena says adding that however there are also issues of enforcement.
Meanwhile releasing a statement, Minister of Wildlife and Sustainable Development, Sarath Fonseka has assured that action will be taken against those involved in the killing of the leopard immediately.
However speaking to the Sunday Observer, Director General of the Department Chandana Sooriyabandara said no arrests have taken place yet. “The investigation process is continuing,” he said.